Kawai KDP120

An excellent introduction to the quality of Kawai's digital pianos

 The KDP120 is the latest addition to Kawai's highly respected range of award-winning home instruments. It seamlessly combines authentic keyboard action with weighted keys and realistic grand piano sounds, all in an attractive and exceptionally affordable package.

With its 88 keys featuring graduated weighting, the KDP120's keyboard reacts in a similar way to a traditional acoustic action. The resonant tones of a concert grand piano are skilfully captured, promising to both inspire and leave a lasting impression. What's more, the instrument offers Bluetooth® connectivity, built-in teaching tracks and a convenient song-recording function, making the KDP120 an optimal choice for beginners embarking on their musical journey or seasoned musicians looking for a second piano for silent practice sessions with headphones.

Characteristics of the piano

• New Responsive Hammer Compact II keyboard action with 3 sensors 
• Shigeru Kawai SK-EX grand piano sounds, full 88-key sampling
• Supported by the latest PianoRemote and PiaBookPlayer iOS/Android applications from Kawai
• Convenient Bluetooth® MIDI and USB-MIDI connectivity
• Built-in Burgmüller, Czerny, Beyer et Alfred etudes and song lessons.
• Enhanced SHS headphone sound with headphone type settings
• Powerful 40W stereo amplifier and speaker system
• Compact cabinet design available in three attractive finishes

Realistic grand piano sounds

The KDP120 digital piano features the magnificent sound of the highly renowned Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano. Each of the 88 notes of this exceptional instrument has been meticulously recorded, analyzed, and faithfully reproduced using Harmonic Imaging technology, delivering a rich and expressive sound.

Built-in Bluetooth® connectivity

The KDP120's built-in Bluetooth MIDI connection allows the digital piano to communicate with a compatible smartphone or tablet. Once paired, it's possible to control the instrument using the Kawai PianoRemote app or expand its capabilities through a wide range of music-related applications.

Authentic mechanism

The Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHCII) keyboard action of the KDP120 has been developed to replicate the specific touch of a grand piano. Its springless mechanism, sturdy construction, and precise hammer detection system provide a smooth, natural, and highly authentic playing experience.

In addition to weighted hammers, the RHCII mechanism is equipped with Kawai's latest triple-sensor key detection system. This additional third sensor enhances responsiveness during repeated strikes of the same keys, allowing for smooth and realistic trills, similar to an acoustic grand piano.

Specifications

Weight & dimensions

Differences between the KDP75 and KDP120

The GX-1 BLAK Classic Grand Series offers the professional pianist a superb range of tonal expressiveness, as well as a level of elegance and craftsmanship unmatched for a piano of its size. Slightly smaller than the traditional "classical" grand, but larger than a baby grand, it fits perfectly into any smaller home or studio without sacrificing performance.

Touch

Millennium III Upright Action

The Millennium III Upright's action features components made from ABS-Carbon, a composite material created by infusing carbon fiber into our famous ABS Styran. ABS-Carbon is incredibly strong and rigid, enabling the creation of lighter action parts without compromising strength. The result is a more powerful, faster action offering greater control and stability than conventional all-wood actions. 

Elongated fingerboards made of fir

Fir is the ideal key material - light, yet extremely strong for its weight. It responds with minimal bending and exceptional consistency, conveying every subtle nuance of the pianist's interpretation while remaining stable through years of intensive use. The length of each key has been extended to facilitate playing and offer a more uniform response from the front to the back of the playing surface. The key shanks are also designed with a slightly higher profile for maximum rigidity and increased power.

Tone

NEOTEX key surfaces

Our exclusive NEOTEX key surface, made from cellulose fibers, offers a smooth, unobtrusive texture similar to natural ivory and ebony, as well as a semi-porous silica-filled surface to absorb natural oils and hand perspiration. Because NEOTEX is used for both black and white keys, key feel is consistent across the entire keyboard. NEOTEX resists cracking and fading over years of use, and is also resistant to static electricity, helping to prevent the build-up of unwanted dust. The result is a beautiful, durable key surface offering exceptional playability.

Rigid foundation for key travel

The hammer rail is the "backbone" of the piano's action. GX Series hammer rails are made of durable extruded aluminum with our exclusive double-beam design for added strength and stability. Both the hammer rail and wippens rail are permanently locked in place to preserve the careful tolerances of the action design and ensure consistent touch response throughout the life of the piano.

The entire surface of the hammer rail is finely notched to hold each hammer flange securely in place, ensuring optimum hammer alignment. The surface-mounted hammer flanges are made of PBT resin, allowing the action screws to remain tight without shrinking or swelling. All these meticulous design features form the rigid foundation of the GX series, guaranteeing precise key travel over time.

Solid spruce conical soundboard

The soundboard is the heart of a piano. Its role is to transform the vibrations of the piano strings into a rich, resonant sound. Kawai uses only solid quarter-grain spruce for the K series soundboards. Each soundboard is strategically tapered to maximize its tonal capacity. Only those that meet or exceed our strict quality standards are selected for use in our professional upright pianos.

Hybrid inner border (Rim Konsei Katagi)

The exclusive Konsei Katagi rim leverages different hardwoods to achieve the ideal sonic balance. For the inner rim, finely porous hardwoods are used to provide superior brilliance and projection of the high-frequency range of the sound spectrum. These are layered with wider-pore hardwoods that offer warmth and fullness to the sound. The synergy of structurally divergent hardwoods produces a powerful and pleasingly rounded sound, which is the hallmark of Shigeru Kawai grand pianos.

Vertically laminated bridge

The bridge performs the essential task of transferring the vibrations from the strings to the soundboard. GX series bass bridges are made from the highest quality hard maple or beech. Treble bridges are vertically laminated with 13 layers of maple and mogno for maximum strength and optimal sound energy transfer.

Specifications

Weight & dimensions

The characteristics of the piano

■ Industry-leading Grand Feel III wood-key keyboard
■ Ivory & Ebony Touch key surfaces, 3 sensors, let-off, counterweights
■ Exclusive new SK-EX Competition Grand piano sounds
■ High-end audio processing and amplification technologies
■ High-performance speaker system with TwinDrive soundboard
■ Latest Bluetooth® MIDI and Audio wireless connectivity
■ Modern 5" LCD touchscreen integrated into the cheek block
■ MP3/WAV/SMF playback, recording, and overdubbing via USB
■ Spatial headphone sound for increased depth and realism
■ Contemporary design of vertical speaker with Soft Fall panel

The touch

Grand piano touch: Grand Feel III wooden keyboard mechanism
Incorporating many well-established principles associated with acoustic pianos, the Grand Feel III keyboard action used in the CA901 combines materials, movements, and realistic mechanisms to recreate the exceptional touch of the finest grand concert pianos.

The eighty-eight black and white keys are made entirely from long pieces of wood, with finely textured surfaces similar to ivory and ebony, which absorb moisture and facilitate control. Each wooden key pivots smoothly on a balancing axis - the ends rise and fall to reproduce the familiar "pendulum" motion of acoustic piano action. When the key is pressed, the back of the key rises, triggering a graduated-weight hammer to strike a pressure switch. The force applied to this switch is then measured, and the corresponding note is played with authentic tonal character and volume.

Extra-long key length, extra-long pivot length

In addition to extended, all-wood keys, Grand Feel keyboards also feature one of the longest key swivel lengths, equivalent to that of a Kawai grand piano.
This pivot length balances the weight of touch between the front and back of each key, resulting in greater fluidity and expressive control, while minimizing the need to readjust technique when using an acoustic grand piano.

Speaker system

The flagship model in the Concert Artist series, the CA901 features a powerful hybrid driver configuration that combines premium drivers with Kawai's acclaimed soundboard driver technology for crystal-clear highs and warm, resonant bass.
High-quality speakers
In addition to first-rate audio processing and amplification hardware, the CA901 also features a high-quality speaker system developed by audio specialists. High-quality drivers have been selected for their flat frequency response and ultra-low distortion characteristics, guaranteeing the most accurate reproduction possible of the original Shigeru Kawai SK-EX grand piano, while diffuser panels help to disperse sound more evenly.
The two top-mounted speakers project mid-range frequencies with clarity and expand the perceived depth of sound to recreate the length of a grand piano. In addition, two front speakers and two tweeters positioned behind the top panel give a sense of proximity and presence to the musician, and allow the authentic resonances generated by the SK-EX Rendering sound engine to shimmer and sparkle like an acoustic instrument.

TwinDrive speaker system

Complementing the high-quality drivers, the CA901 also incorporates the latest version of Kawai's highly acclaimed speaker system. This unique audio technology exploits the rich harmonic qualities of wood by using transducers to channel sound energy onto a large soundboard, to produce a more natural, organic sound. Long wooden ribs firmly attached to the soundboard further expand the frequency range and volume of the resonant sound, resulting in a remarkably authentic playing experience that immerses the performer and faithfully reproduces the sound ambience of an acoustic piano.

The TwinDrive system represents the third generation of Kawai's soundboard technology and features an improved primary transducer, redesigned to deliver more power and volume.
In addition, a secondary transducer, mounted towards the treble end of the instrument, extends the tonal range produced by the soundboard beyond the existing low frequencies, allowing the mid-bass and even the mid-high frequencies to benefit from the warm acoustic properties of wood.

Comparison between the CA701 and CA901

Weight & dimensions

Touch

Millennium III Upright Action

Extended Key Length

Tone

Solid spruce conical soundboard

The hammers

Mahogany wood core and double felt hammers secured with T-shaped staples.

Weight & dimensions

ES920 characteristics

• Highly authentic Responsive Hammer III keyboard action

• Ivory Touch key surfaces, triple sensor, let-off, counterweights

• Harmonic Imaging XL sound engine with 88-key sampling

• Shigeru Kawai SK-EX, SK-5, and Kawai EX grand piano sounds

• Top-of-the-range amplification equipment, powerful 40 W loudspeaker system

• Built-in Bluetooth® technology for wireless MIDI and audio connectivity

• MP3/WAV file playback, recording, and duplication on USB memory

• 4-band EQ faders, rhythm section accompaniment with 100 styles

• Spatial Headphone Sound for increased depth and realism

• Modern and lightweight housing with matching stand and triple pedal unit

The touch of a grand piano: Responsive Hammer Compact III keyboard mechanism.

The ES920's Responsive Hammer III keyboard action recreates the supreme touch of a quality acoustic grand piano, with its realistic motion and rigid, springless design, for a smooth, natural playing experience. The instrument's three-sensor hammer sensing system enhances responsiveness and precision, while structural reinforcements throughout the action help minimize noise and key oscillation during staccato and fortissimo passages.
The keyboard's weight is adapted to reflect the heavier bass hammers and lighter treble hammers of an acoustic piano, while the release simulation recreates the subtle notching sensation felt when playing softly on the keys of a grand piano. These important features enable demanding pianists to practice expanding their repertoire with confidence, and ensure there are no unpleasant surprises when it comes to playing the very best acoustic grand pianos.

The sound of three world-class instruments

Renowned as "Japan's first pianos", Shigeru Kawai instruments grace the stages of concert halls and musical institutions around the world, and are appreciated for their exceptional tonal clarity and dynamic range.
The ES920 captures the magnificent sound of two Shigeru Kawai instruments, the flagship SK-EX Concert and the medium-sized SK-5 Studio grand piano, allowing musicians to appreciate the contrasting properties of each.
What's more, the ES920 also offers the distinctive sound of Kawai's EX concert grand piano, which has been frequently selected by professional pianists at such prestigious events as the Chopin, Tchaikovsky and Rubinstein International Piano Competitions, among others.
All three instruments are faithfully reproduced with full 88-key sampling using exclusive Harmonic Imaging™ sound technology, to set a new standard in digital piano tonal quality.

Technical specifications

Resonance and sonic clarity that fill the room
The ES920's impressive 40 W output system uses speaker cabinets that produce a rich, extended sound capable of rivaling much larger digital console pianos. This design results in a compact, portable instrument capable of wowing medium-sized audiences without the need for additional amplification.

Integrated Bluetooth® MIDI and Audio wireless connectivity
In addition to standard USB and MIDI sockets for connection to computers or other instruments, the ES920 also features integrated Bluetooth® MIDI and audio technologies, enabling the instrument to communicate wirelessly with supported smart devices.
Once the instrument is paired with a phone, tablet or laptop, ES920 owners can enjoy a wide variety of exciting music applications that enhance their learning and playing experience, or stream the sound of songs and videos directly through the instrument's powerful speaker system, without the need for additional cables.

Weight & dimensions

Discover the next revolution in acoustic piano resonance. AURES AR2 upright and grand piano instruments combine specially developed acoustic mute features with leading digital technologies and an advanced soundboard speaker system. Pianists can enjoy the pleasure of playing a traditional acoustic piano, while taking advantage of selectable instrument sounds, Bluetooth connectivity and adjustable sound level control.

Specifications of the AURES models

■ Based on professional Kawai upright/grand acoustic pianos
■ Advanced acoustic muting systems for silent play
■ Unique soundboard loudspeaker system developed with MPAs amplifiers
■ High-level multi-channel digital piano sound with SK-EX Rendering
■ Flexible Virtual Technician function with 21 adjustable parameters
■ High-end audio processing and amplification technology for headphones
■ Integrated Bluetooth® MIDI and Audio wireless connectivity
■ Dedicated PianoRemote app for control on iOS and Android platforms.

Touch

The GP Touch muting system (exclusively available for the GP type of piano)

The latest AURES AR2 grand pianos feature Kawai's all-new GP Touch mute system. This technology features a vastly improved hammer stop rail system, capable of precisely stopping the action's hammer motion immediately before it strikes the strings, without the need for special adjustments to escapement position or timing.

This unique design allows pianists to play AURES AR2 grand pianos with the same level of effortless fluidity as their standard acoustic counterparts, whether in normal or muted playing mode, while enjoying a wide range of practical and inspiring digital features.

Unlike conventional mute systems that stop the hammer rod at a single position, the AURES AR2's GP Touch mute system places the stop rail at various points along the keyboard, as close as possible to the hammers, guaranteeing a firm, precise stop just before the hammers strike the strings. Due to the GP Touch mute system's firm, precise stopping capabilities, it is no longer necessary to regulate a shallow escape point for the action. As a result, pianists can enjoy exactly the same grand piano touch in both normal and muted playing modes.

Integrated hammer detection system

The precise movements of the hammers on the AURES AR2 pianos are measured using Kawai's Integrated Hammer Sensing System (IHSS), which utilizes high-resolution non-contact optical sensors to provide superior accuracy compared to traditional key-based sensor systems. This technology ensures precise and reliable hammer detection for a more authentic playing experience.

This more advanced approach more faithfully reproduces the mechanical movement of upright and grand piano actions, allowing the full range of dynamics to be expressed by the instrument's powerful digital piano sound engine with natural fluidity.

The sound

Grand concert piano Shigeru Kawai SK-EX

The Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert piano was conceived as the next step in the evolution of the art of piano playing. Earning a reputation as "Japan's premier piano", it graces the stages of concert halls and musical institutions around the world, receiving universal acclaim for its exceptional clarity and dynamic range. The SK-EX has been a frequent choice of professional pianists at prestigious events such as the Chopin, Tchaikovsky and Rubinstein International Piano Competitions. With its magnificent tone and incredibly responsive touch, the SK-EX can best be described in one word - unsurpassed.

The flagship digital piano sound engine

AURES AR2 instruments feature Kawai's latest digital piano sound technologies from the highly regarded Concert Artist and Novus product lines. When playing with headphones or with the AURES mode active, pianists can enjoy the magnificent sound of the flagship Shigeru Kawai SK-EX full grand concert piano, beautifully reproduced thanks to the advanced SK-EX Rendering sound engine.

Multi-channel sampling

The SK-EX Rendering engine uses multi-channel sampling to capture the sound from various points of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano. This sophisticated sampling technique helps recreate the full and nuanced acoustic characteristics of the instrument, providing a highly realistic and expressive piano playing experience.

This modern technique not only makes it possible to record and reproduce a wider range of tonal characteristics, but also enhances the connection felt between the keyboard and the piano sound, resulting in a more lively and authentic response to changes in dynamics.

Complete resonance modeling

This naturally expressive Shigeru Kawai sound is further enhanced by resonance algorithms that model the complex tonal interactions produced by the strings and various other parts of an acoustic piano.

The SK-EX Rendering produces resonances for the sustain pedal and all 88 keys progressively, allowing the sound of the AURES AR2 digital piano to behave exactly like an acoustic piano. This progressive resonance modeling adds to the realism and authenticity of the playing experience, making it feel as if you are playing a traditional acoustic piano.

Speaker system on the soundboard

In addition to soundproofing and digital sound features, AURES AR2 instruments are also equipped with the latest version of Kawai's advanced soundboard speaker system. This innovative technology uses four high-performance transducers strategically placed on the solid spruce soundboard of the upright or grand piano. These transducers route the sound generated digitally by the AURES AR2 instrument through the large wooden soundboard, resulting in a natural acoustic tone that is more extended than that produced by traditional cone speakers.

Pianists can take advantage of the flexibility and convenience offered by a digital piano, such as the ability to select a wide range of different instrument sounds, record and replay their performance, or freely adjust the volume level to avoid disturbing their loved ones - all while continuing to play with the exceptional Millennium III upright or grand piano keyboard actions of the AURES AR2.

The hammers

Mahogany wood core and double felt hammers secured with T-shaped staples.

Mahogany hammerblocks are lightweight and extremely responsive. Found only on the finest pianos, mahogany is used for the hammer moldings on the entire range of K-Series professional upright pianos. All K-Series hammers are stapled in a T-shape to preserve their shape, and feature an additional inner layer of felt to support the creation of exceptional sound.

Partial (Upper) Duplex Scale

Partial (Upper) Duplex Scale

Partial (Upper) Duplex Scale" is a sophisticated feature built into the piano's design to enhance harmonics in the treble range, infusing the tone with brilliance and richness. By allowing specific harmonics to resonate freely and interact with the vibrating main part of the strings, this technology optimizes the harmonic series, delivering a more vibrant, resonant sound. High notes retain their clarity and purity while being enriched with a luxurious warmth, offering pianists a wider palette of tonal colors to explore and express their artistry. This extraordinary addition elevates the piano musical experience, captivating listeners with its expressive and spellbinding qualities.

Weight & dimensions