It's that time of year again, with the National Association of Music Merchants show due to take place in California, from 23rd to 26th January. As always, NAMM showcases a plethora of new and exciting products, so we've decided to create a rolling story, which we will update as and when new gear is announced.
This is the place to be if you want a comprehensive round-up of all the new NAMM gear for 2014, so check below for information and videos on the most exciting releases. Alternatively, you can CLICK HERE to view a list of new products in our online shop.
Roland's RD series of stage pianos have been used by performing artists for over 25 years and now, Roland have announced their latest RD creation, the RD-800.
The RD-800 features an updated look, feel and improved sounds. The keyboard makes use of Roland's latest hammer-action design and it comes packed with a selection of acoustic and electric piano sounds, organs, synth presets and more.
The Nord Stage 2 digital stage piano has been a firm favourite of Musical Director and keyboard player for Robbie Williams, Paul Beard, for a while now and having heard it during a rehearsal session, Sean Barry (keyboard player for Olly Murs) went out and bought his own! In this short interview, both Paul and Sean talk about why they fell in love with the Nord Stage 2 for their live performances, citing features such as the Nord Piano Library, the sound, visual feedback and effects as key reasons for why they use it.
Released in January this year, Biffy Clyro's 'Opposites' went on to become their first number one album, and what followed was naturally a huge tour, which saw the Scottish rock band play at Radio 1's Big Weekend, Coachella Festival 2013 and they've even headlined at the O2 arena in London. With them every step of the way were no less than four Nord Stage 2 HA88 stage pianos, chosen for their exceptional build quality and pristine sound.
Richard 'Gambler' Ingram was the man chosen to accompany Biffy on their tour as their keyboardist and in this brief interview, he explains why the Stage 2 HA88 was the natural keyboard of choice. CLICK HERE to read the interview.