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Roland

Roland GO:KEYS 3 Review - Is This Your Next Portable Music Partner?

Last updated:

December 20, 2024

By Mark Stewie

Mark Stewie is basically the Chandler Bing of event tech—no one’s totally sure what he does, but he crushes it! He works for his uncle’s company, setting up sound systems and lighting, always chasing the newest gear to level up events. He’s always learning, tweaking, and fixing things on the spot, making sure every event goes off with a bang

The Roland GO 3 Music Creation Keyboard is compact, versatile, and packed with features for its size. It’s designed to make music creation accessible to beginners while still offering enough depth for more experienced users. While it’s a solid choice, some have noted its less-than-perfect key action and the lack of a music rest. Finding a keyboard that ticks every box is like finding a drummer who can keep time and doesn’t steal your fries—rare, but not impossible.

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Top features at a glance

Why it's great?

A portable powerhouse for music creation on the go.

Key Features

ZEN-Core Engine with 1000+ sounds, Auto-Accompaniment with 200 styles, Bluetooth Audio/MIDI Support

Price

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Who should get the Roland GO:KEYS 3?

If you’re a beginner looking to dive into the world of music creation or an intermediate musician seeking a portable companion for songwriting and live performances, the Roland GO:KEYS 3 is worth considering. Its user-friendly interface and Bluetooth connectivity make it ideal for those who want to experiment with sounds without the hassle of wires. It’s also a great choice for educators who need a lightweight keyboard for teaching or casual players who want to jam at home or on the road.

What makes the Roland GO:KEYS 3 special?

Versatile Sound Engine: The ZEN-Core engine is like having a mini orchestra at your fingertips. With over 1000 sounds, you can go from classical piano to funky synths faster than you can say “keytar.” This wide sound palette is perfect for musicians who want to explore different genres without hauling around multiple instruments.

Bluetooth Connectivity: Gone are the days of tripping over cables like a clumsy roadie. The GO:KEYS 3’s Bluetooth audio/MIDI support lets you connect wirelessly to your devices for seamless music streaming and song creation. It’s a nifty feature for modern musicians who like to keep things tidy and tech-savvy.

Portable Design: Weighing just 4.5 kg, this keyboard is as portable as your favorite travel mug. Its slim profile means you can easily tuck it under your arm and head to your next gig or practice session. It’s a dream come true for musicians on the move.

User-Friendly Interface: The layout is intuitive, making it easy for beginners to dive in and start playing. With controls that are straightforward and accessible, you won’t need a degree in rocket science to figure out how to use this keyboard. It’s like having a built-in tutor guiding you through your musical journey.

Customizable Features: For those who like to tinker, the GO:KEYS 3 offers a range of user-editable presets and styles. The onboard effects can be adjusted to suit your taste, allowing you to craft a sound that’s uniquely yours. It’s a fantastic feature for musicians who love to personalize their gear.

Pros

Portable Design

Lightweight and easy to transport, perfect for gigs and practice sessions on the go.

Versatile Sound Engine

Offers a wide range of sounds, from pianos to synths, suitable for various musical styles.

User-Friendly Interface

Intuitive controls make it accessible for beginners and experienced players alike.

Cons

Key Action

Some users find the key action too stiff, which can impact playability for complex pieces.

Battery Life

Consumes batteries quickly, limiting portability unless you have spares or use a power adapter.

Lack of Accessories

Missing a music rest, which is a standard accessory for most keyboards.

Why you should trust this review?

With years of experience in audio and visual gear, I’ve seen it all—from terrible speakers to amazing keyboards. My goal is to help you avoid costly mistakes by giving you the full picture before you buy. I bought the Roland GO 3 for my 10 niece, and she picked it up easily. It’s simple to use, even for beginners, making it a great choice.

FAQ

Can I use the GO:KEYS 3 without a power outlet?

Yes, it’s battery-powered, but be prepared with extras as it tends to consume them quickly.

Is this keyboard suitable for teaching?

Yes, its lightweight and user-friendly design make it a great choice for educators.

Does it come with a sustain pedal?

No, a sustain pedal is not included, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if required.

Final verdict: Should you buy the Roland GO:KEYS 3?

The Roland GO:KEYS 3 is a solid choice for beginners and intermediate musicians who value portability and versatility. While it has its quirks—like the stiff key action and rapid battery consumption—its array of features and user-friendly design make it a worthy contender in its price range. However, if you’re a seasoned pianist seeking a more authentic playing experience, you might want to explore the GO:KEYS 5 or other alternatives with traditional MIDI ports and enhanced sound quality.