Kawai Digital Pianos

About Kawai

Kawai is a Japanese piano manufacturer founded by Koichi Kawai in Hamamatsu in 1927. Originally established as the Kawai Musical Instrument Research Laboratory, the company developed around Koichi Kawai’s ambition to build high-quality pianos. Its approach combines established piano craftsmanship with new materials and manufacturing methods, leading to developments such as aluminium action rails and the use of ABS composites and carbon fibre in acoustic piano actions. Kawai expanded into digital instruments during the 1980s and later introduced some of the industry’s first digital pianos with real wooden keys. Today, the company continues to develop acoustic and digital instruments under its ‘Crafting Inspiration’ philosophy.

Kawai digital pianos range from portable instruments to more traditional furniture-style designs. The Kawai ES120 Digital Stage Piano combines a lightweight body with Responsive Hammer Compact action, built-in speakers, and dedicated line outputs, making it suitable for home practice and live performance. The Kawai CN201 Digital Piano offers a more permanent home setup, with Responsive Hammer III action providing graded weighting, triple-sensor key detection, and let-off simulation. Its sound engine uses individual samples of all 88 keys from their flagship piano, the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand, while Bluetooth MIDI and Audio provide convenient wireless connectivity.

Kawai’s digital pianos reflect the company’s wider understanding of acoustic piano touch and tone. By combining this heritage with its continuing development of keyboard actions, sound technology, and digital features, the brand has established a distinct approach to recreating the piano-playing experience electronically.

FAQs

What are the top 5 digital piano brands?

The top 5 digital piano brands are often considered to be Kawai, Roland, Yamaha, Casio, and Rhodes. Each produces instruments across different price points, with options ranging from portable beginner models to advanced stage and home pianos. The best brand will depend on your preferred keyboard feel, sound, features, and budget.

How to choose a good digital piano?

How to choose a good digital piano depends on your playing needs, available space, and budget. A weighted, hammer action piano with 88 keys will provide the closest feel to an acoustic piano, while the sound and speaker system should respond clearly across different dynamics. Connectivity, pedals, portability, and cabinet design may also influence your choice.

Is it better to buy a digital piano or keyboard?

Whether it is better to buy a digital piano or keyboard depends on how and where you plan to play. A digital piano is generally better for learning traditional piano technique because it usually has weighted keys and acoustic-inspired pedals. A keyboard is typically lighter and more portable, with a broader selection of instrument sounds and accompaniment features.