Month: January 2025

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Discover Roland Pianos at Hickies Music Store

At Hickies Music Store, we’re delighted to be Reading’s official Roland Piano Store. Whether you’re just starting your musical journey or you’re a seasoned pianist, our showroom provides a perfect opportunity to experience Roland’s wide range of digital pianos first-hand. Roland has led digital piano innovation for decades, combining advanced technologies like SuperNATURAL sound modelling and Piano Reality to deliver remarkably realistic acoustic piano experiences, enhanced with modern connectivity.

The Roland Piano Range – Find Your Perfect Match

We proudly stock a variety of Roland piano series, each tailored to different lifestyles and musical needs. Our expert team is always available in-store or online to provide personal advice, arrange delivery and setup, or offer after-sales support.

DP Series – Stylish, Space-Saving Digital Pianos

The DP Series is perfect for those looking for quality sound in a sleek, compact design. The flagship DP-603 packs an impressive 80-watt Acoustic Projection speaker system and authentic PHA-50 wooden-core keyboard into a slim cabinet just 31cm deep. Ideal for stylish homes and apartments where space matters, these pianos offer beautiful sound and feel without compromise.

FP Series – Versatile Portability for All Occasions

The FP Series is designed to suit the needs of musicians who want portability without sacrificing quality. From the FP-10 through to the powerful FP-90X, these models offer impressive sound systems, robust construction, and extensive connectivity options, making them perfect for practice, recording, and performing. Whether at home, in the studio, or on stage, the FP Series delivers versatile, professional-quality sound.

GO Series – Perfect for Beginners and Young Musicians

Roland’s GO Series offers accessible, lightweight, and portable instruments designed for beginners, students, and musicians on the move. The GO:PIANO models provide a simple yet high-quality piano experience, while the GO:KEYS models offer over a thousand exciting sounds and a fun Loop Mix feature to encourage creativity. Battery-powered and compact, the GO Series makes learning and playing enjoyable anywhere you go.

GP Series – Elegant Digital Grand Pianos

The GP Series blends the elegance and grandeur of a traditional grand piano with advanced digital technology. Ranging from the compact GP-3 to the majestic GP-9M, these pianos feature Roland’s Piano Reality Projection sound system, providing immersive 360-degree audio experiences. Perfect as centrepieces in homes, venues, and hotels, the GP Series offers striking visuals and unmatched acoustic realism.

HP Series – Ideal for Growing Pianists and Families

The HP Series is cherished by families and students who desire the authentic look and feel of an upright piano with digital convenience. The HP702 and HP704 models feature sophisticated designs, realistic key actions, and powerful sound systems. The HP704 in particular, with its hybrid PHA-50 keyboard and enhanced Acoustic Projection speakers, is especially popular for ambitious students needing a space-efficient piano that grows with their skill level.

LX Series – Luxurious, Premium Upright Pianos

The LX Series offers Roland’s flagship upright piano experience, showcasing incredible depth, clarity, and realism. With models such as the LX705, LX706, and the premium LX708, this series features advanced Hybrid Grand keyboards, extensive customization via the Piano Designer, and powerful multi-speaker Acoustic Projection systems. The LX708 even includes a grand-style lid and eight-speaker arrangement, creating an immersive playing experience that brings concert-quality sound into your home.

RP Series – Accessible, Reliable Practice Instruments

Perfect for beginners and advancing learners, the RP Series focuses on ease of use, reliability, and educational features. The RP107 and RP701 models offer intuitive interfaces, Twin-Piano duet mode, and Bluetooth connectivity for interactive lessons and enjoyable practice sessions. The inclusion of Roland’s 3D-Ambience headphone output ensures silent practice feels natural and comfortable, perfect for extended playing sessions.

Visit & Explore

Nothing compares to experiencing these pianos in person. Visit Hickies Music Store to try out any Roland piano, talk with our knowledgeable team, and arrange convenient delivery, professional setup, and flexible financing options. Already own a Roland? Ask about our upgrade program and extended warranty services.

Discover your musical potential at Hickies Music Store – where tradition meets innovation.

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Ibanez RGA742FM-TGF: A Game-Changer for 7-String Fans

If you’re on the hunt for a sleek, high-performance 7-string guitar that ticks all the boxes without breaking the bank, the Ibanez RGA742FM-TGF might just be your next favourite axe. Let’s talk about why this guitar deserves a spot in your rig.

Design That Screams Style

First impressions? The Transparent Gray Flat (TGF) finish paired with a flamed maple top is an absolute stunner. This guitar doesn’t just look pro; it feels premium, too. The contouring of the RGA742FM’s body makes it super comfortable whether you’re riffing hard on stage or practising for hours at home.

Built for Speed and Comfort

The Wizard II 3pc Maple neck is classic Ibanez. Thin, fast, and designed to handle the most intricate runs and shreddy solos with ease. It’s a dream for guitarists who demand precision and speed, and the 400mmR radius ensures smooth playability up and down the fretboard.

Speaking of the fretboard, the Jatoba wood not only looks gorgeous with its reddish hue but also delivers a tone that’s balanced, with a pronounced midrange and sparkling highs.

Quantum Pickups for Maximum Versatility

When it comes to pickups, Ibanez didn’t hold back. The Quantum 7 pickups (both bridge and neck) are designed to handle everything you throw at them. Whether you’re after crushing riffs, articulate cleans, or tight high-gain leads, these pickups deliver. The bass response is quick and responsive, perfect for tight, staccato riffs, while the high end cuts through the mix beautifully.

Solid Hardware = Rock-Solid Performance

The F107 bridge is simple, effective, and reliable. String spacing at 10.5mm ensures optimal comfort for picking and strumming. Plus, the black hardware perfectly complements the sleek aesthetic of the guitar.

Key Specs at a Glance:

  • Scale Length: 25.5”
  • Frets: 24 Jumbo
  • Factory Tuning: 1E, 2B, 3G, 4D, 5A, 6E, 7B
  • Strings: D’Addario® EXL110-7 (.010–.059 gauge)

Who Is This Guitar For?

The RGA742FM is perfect for metalheads, prog enthusiasts, and any guitarist looking to explore extended range. Its playability and tonal versatility make it suitable for everything from intricate solos to bone-crushing chugs. Whether you’re just stepping into the world of 7-string guitars or you’re a seasoned pro, this guitar will feel right at home in your hands.

Don’t Just Take Our Word for It – Watch This Demo!

We’ve got an exclusive video that shows the RGA742FM in action. Check it out on our YouTube channel to hear the tones and see what this guitar can really do.

Ready to add the Ibanez RGA742FM-TGF to your collection? Swing by the shop or order online today. Trust us – this guitar is a game-changer.