If you’re looking for a digital piano, we’ve got just what you need. Yamaha, Kawai or both? Which would be better for you to learn on – a piano made by these popular brands is what we will decide in this article. Both have their own unique features that could suit your needs depending on which one suits them most.
What is a Kawai Digital Piano?
For those who want to experience playing on an acoustic piano, but don’t have the space for one or are just not Lighting tall enough – there’s now a solution. The Kawai digital pianos use advanced technology and create realistic sounds that feel just like playing with real wood chips in your hands. Many of Kawai’s digital pianos come with built-in features such as lessons, metronome, and recording capabilities. Kawai also offers a wide range of digital pianos for different budgets and needs. [1]
What is a Yamaha Digital Piano?
A Yamaha digital piano is an electronic musical instrument that replicates the sound of a traditional acoustic piano. These pianos use digital technology to generate their sound, which is then amplified through speakers. Yamaha digital pianos come in all shapes and sizes, from mini models you can carry around to larger ones that feel more like traditional pianos. Yamaha also offers a line of digital home keyboards, which are designed for beginner and intermediate players. [2]
Yamaha vs. Kawai Digital Piano
So, which brand is better? Kawai or Yamaha? The answer depends on your needs and preferences. The Yamaha portable digital pianos are great for taking with you on the go. However, if authentic piano playing experience is what’s desired then Kawai might be a better choice. Ultimately, the best digital piano for you is the one that meets your needs and budget.
Construction
When it comes to choosing a digital piano, there are many factors to consider. But two of the most important brands on the market are Yamaha and Kawai. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the difference between Yamaha and Kawai digital pianos, and help you choose the right instrument for you. Kawai is a Japanese piano manufacturer with over 90 years of experience. In the last few years, they have become one of the leading manufacturers of digital pianos. Yamaha has been a leading manufacturer of musical instruments since 1912. They have expanded their line to include digital pianos, which are some of the best around.
Tone and touch quality
Kawai and Yamaha are two of the most popular brands on the market, known for their excellent sound and feel. But which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll compare Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos side-by-side, looking at factors like tone quality, touch response, features, and price. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which brand is right for your needs.Kawai digital pianos are known for their authentic sound quality. Kawai’s Grand Feel Compact II action gives you the feel of a grand piano, while the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX and EX concert grand pianos are among the most realistic-sounding digital pianos on the market. Yamaha digital pianos are not only versatile but also well-known. The Yamaha CP series offers a wide range of sounds and styles to choose from, while the Yamaha Arius YDP line is designed to give you a realistic grand piano experience. If you’re looking for a digital piano with authentic grand piano sound and feel, Kawai is the way to go. If you want a versatile instrument that can mimic a wide range of sounds, Yamaha is your best bet.
Improved stability
Yamaha has updated the sound engine and action in the P-125 to offer improved stability and performance. The GHS keyboard is designed to offer a similar touch to an acoustic piano, with heavier keys in the lower range and lighter keys in the higher octaves. This makes it easier to play for extended periods of time and reduces fatigue. The sound engine has also been updated to the latest version of Yamaha’s Pure CF Sound Engine. This offers a more realistic and natural piano sound, as well as 64-note polyphony. The P-125 also comes with a selection of Connection content apps that offer a range of features and functions. The apps include Piano Diary, which lets you track your progress and set goals, as well as NoteStar, which allows you to learn songs by following the sheet music on your device’s screen.The P-125 is available in black or white finishes.
Action
For the beginning student, both Yamaha and Kawai offer entry-level digital pianos that are perfect for learning the basics. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable instrument to last you through your musical journey, either brand will serve you well. However, if you’re looking for more features and advanced capabilities, Kawai may be the better choice. With its superior sound quality, build quality, and features, Kawai’s digital pianos offer more value for the money. Yamaha is one of the most trusted names in musical instruments, and their digital pianos are no exception. Yamaha has been making pianos for over a century, and their experience shows in the quality of their instruments. Kawai is a relative newcomer to the piano world, but they have quickly made a name for themselves as a manufacturer of high-quality pianos. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which characteristics to look for in a digital piano and if Yamaha or Kawai better suits your needs.
Head to head comparison
Kawai and Yamaha are two of the most popular digital piano brands on the market. Both offer a wide range of products, from entry-level to professional models. So, which one is the right choice for you? In this article, we’ll pit Kawai against Yamaha in a head-to-head comparison. We’ll compare and contrast their entry-level, mid-range, and high-end digital pianos to help you decide which brand is right for you.
Kawai vs Yamaha: Entry-level models
Kawai’s entry-level model is the ES110, while Yamaha’s is the P125. Both are great choices for beginner and intermediate players.The ES110 is a digital piano that you can take with you anywhere; it only weighs 25 pounds. It has 88 weighted keys, built-in speakers, and 192-note polyphony. Although it is portable, the P125 digital piano weighs 30 pounds. It has the same number of keys and polyphony as the ES110, but its speakers are slightly smaller.
Kawai vs Yamaha: Mid-range models
Kawai’s mid-range model is the MP11SE, while Yamaha’s is the CP88. The semi-weighted digital piano with 88 keys and 256 note polyphony is a great choice for those who want an upright instrument, but don’t have the space. There’s no need to worry about speakers either because this baby comes equipped. The CP88 is a digital piano that has 88 keys and 256 note polyphony. It offers two headphone jacks, but no speakers to distract you from your music making.
Kawai vs Yamaha: High-end models
Kawai’s high-end model is the GL30, while Yamaha’s is the CLP-995. The GL30 is a grand piano that has 88 keys and 256-note polyphony. It has four speakers and a subwoofer, and it also has an audio output so you can connect it to external speakers. The CLP-995 is a digital piano that has 88 keys and 256-note polyphony. It has two headphone jacks, MIDI connectivity, and built-in speakers. [3]
Price
Of course, one of the most important factors in choosing a digital piano is price. Kawai and Yamaha both offer a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Kawai’s entry-level model, the ES110, starts at around $600, while Yamaha’s cheapest option is the P-45, which retails for around $400. At the other end of the spectrum, Kawai’s top-of-the-line model, the LX10, costs around $4000, while Yamaha’s most expensive option is the CF4 Conservatory Collection, which retails for over $6000.So, which brand is more expensive? Overall, Yamaha tends to be slightly cheaper than Kawai, though there are exceptions at both the low and high end.
Pros and Cons Kawai and Yamaha Digital Piano
Kawai and Yamaha are both famous for manufacturing high-quality digital pianos. In terms of looks, both brands offer a sleek and modern design that will complement any home decor.
So, what are the main differences between Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos? Let’s take a closer look:
Kawai Digital Pianos
Pros:
- Kawai digital pianos are reliable and long-lasting.
- Kawai digital pianos utilize cutting-edge sampling technologies to produce rich, realistic tones.
- Kawai offers a wide range of digital pianos to suit any budget.
Cons:
- Some models of Kawai digital piano can be quite expensive.
- The user interface on some Kawai digital pianos can be confusing to use.
Yamaha Digital Pianos
Pros:
- Yamaha is a very reputable company and has been making quality products for many years.
- Yamaha is known for its excellent digital pianos, which are lauded for their sound quality.
- Yamaha digital pianos have a wide variety of features to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect piano for your needs.
Cons:
- Yamaha digital pianos can be quite expensive.
- Some Yamaha digital pianos can be quite heavy, making them difficult to move around.
However, before you make your decision, be aware of these key differences. The first thing to know about Kawai digital pianos is that they’re built exceptionally well. Yamaha digital pianos, on the other hand, are known for their excellent sound quality. Finally, the user interface on some Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos can be confusing to use. [4]
Kawai vs. Yamaha Digital Piano: An In-Depth Comparison
Explore the comprehensive comparison between Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos, including sound quality, key action, notable features, and price range, in this detailed table.
Sound Quality | Key Action | Notable Features | Price Range |
---|---|---|---|
Kawai | Rich, warm sound quality with Harmonic Imaging technology | Notable features include Grand Feel key action, USB audio recording | Varies by model, mid-range to high-end options |
Yamaha | High-quality sound with Pure CF or CFX sampling | Notable features include GH/GH3 key action, Smart Pianist app | Wide range, budget-friendly to high-end models available |
Explanation of the Table:
- Sound Quality: Describes the sound quality of digital pianos from each brand.
- Key Action: Highlights the key action technology used in their instruments.
- Notable Features: Showcases standout features or technologies present in their digital pianos.
- Price Range: Provides an overview of the price range, from budget-friendly to high-end options.
Understanding these detailed differences between Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos will aid you in selecting the ideal instrument based on your musical preferences and budget:
Kawai: Kawai digital pianos offer rich, warm sound quality through their Harmonic Imaging technology. Notable features include Grand Feel key action for a realistic playing experience and USB audio recording. Kawai provides a range of models with pricing varying from mid-range to high-end options.
Yamaha: Yamaha digital pianos provide high-quality sound using Pure CF or CFX sampling. Notable features include GH/GH3 key action and the Smart Pianist app. Yamaha offers a wide range of models with options spanning from budget-friendly to high-end instruments.
Whether you’re a professional pianist or a beginner, understanding these detailed differences will help you choose the digital piano that aligns perfectly with your musical aspirations and budget.
FAQ
Is Kawai digital piano better than Yamaha?
The answer to this question largely depends on what you’re looking for in a digital piano. Both Kawai and Yamaha offer high-quality instruments that are suitable for both beginner and experienced players alike. However, before you make your final decision, there are some key differences between the two brands that you should take into consideration. Yamaha digital pianos are usually less expensive than Kawai digital pianos. However, they offer a wider range of features and tend to be more user-friendly. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line digital piano that offers a high degree of customization, Kawai is likely the better choice.Yamaha digital pianos are more affordable and offer a much simpler interface when compared to other brands. If you’re just starting out or are on a budget, Yamaha may be the better option.
Which is the best brand for digital piano?
Digital pianos are becoming increasingly popular, and Kawai and Yamaha are two of the most sought-after brands. While both offer great products, there are some important differences to consider when choosing the right one for you. Yamaha digital pianos boast amazing sound quality. They use advanced sampling technologies to create realistic piano sounds that are lifelike and expressive. Yamaha digital pianos come in different levels of sophistication, from those with only a handful of features to the top-of-the-line models with hundreds of distinct voices and accompaniment styles. Kawai digital pianos boast an Ivory Touch hammer action keyboard, which is advanced for its class. This gives the keys a realistic weight and feel, making it easier to play with expression. Kawai digital pianos also have a wide range of features, including grand piano simulations and USB connectivity. When choosing a digital piano, it’s important to consider your needs and what you’re looking for in an instrument. If you’re primarily interested in sound quality, then Yamaha is the better option. However, if you’re looking for a more realistic playing experience, then Kawai is the better choice. Whichever brand you choose, you’re sure to get a great digital piano that will suit your needs.
What is the most realistic sounding digital piano?
The answer to this question is not as simple as it might initially seem. There are a few different factors that go into making a digital piano sound realistic, and each one contributes a different element to the overall sound. In general, however, the Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos are both considered to be among the most realistic sounding in the industry.
Are Kawai pianos good quality?
Kawai is a Japanese company that has been manufacturing pianos for over 80 years. In that time, they have built up a reputation for quality craftsmanship and innovative design. Kawai pianos are used by professional musicians all over the world, and their instruments have won numerous awards. Kawai offers a wide range of digital pianos, from entry-level models to professional stage pianos. Kawai digital pianos are widely popular for their authentic sound and feel, making them an ideal choice for novice players as well as experienced performers.
How long do Kawai digital pianos last?
Your Kawai digital piano can last for many years with proper care. The lifespan of your instrument depends on how often you use it and take good care of it, but there are some things that will make sure its life is as long or even longer than yours.
Is Kawai owned by Yamaha?
Kawai is not owned by Yamaha, but the two companies have had a close relationship for many years. Kawai was founded in 1927, and Yamaha began working with them in 1955. The two companies have collaborated on several projects over the years, most notably the development of the GX-1 synthesizer.
What digital piano do professionals use?
If you’re looking for a digital piano that is used by professionals, then you’ll want to consider Kawai and Yamaha. Both brands offer high-quality instruments that are popular among pianists of all levels. However, there are some key differences between these two brands that you should be aware of before making your purchase.Kawai is a Japanese manufacturer of digital pianos, noted for their natural sound and grand piano action. Yamaha digital pianos, on the other hand, are known for their versatility and portability.
Where are Kawai digital pianos made?
Digital pianos manufactured by Kawai are based in Hamamatsu, Japan. Kawai has been making musical instruments since 1927, and they have a long history of craftsmanship and quality. Kawai is also one of the few piano manufacturers that still make their own actions, which are an important part of a piano’s feel and touch.
What piano should a beginner buy?
When you are a beginner, you may not know what type of piano to buy. There are two main types of digital pianos: the Kawai and the Yamaha. The benefits and drawbacks of each type will be discussed below. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two types of digital pianos, so that you can make an informed decision on which one to buy. Kawai digital pianos are adored for their natural sound and sensation. They use advanced digital technology to recreate the sound and feel of a real acoustic piano. Kawai digital pianos are also very portable, making them ideal for traveling musicians. However, they are generally more expensive than Yamaha digital pianos.
Yamaha digital pianos are also very realistic and portable. However, they tend to be less expensive than Kawai digital pianos. Yamaha digital pianos also have a wider variety of features, such as the ability to create your own custom sounds.
What are the key differences between Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos?
Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos have distinctions in terms of sound quality, key action, design, and technology. Kawai digital pianos are recognized for their harmonious and authentic piano sound, responsive key action, and innovative technologies. Yamaha digital pianos, on the other hand, offer a wide range of models known for their clear and balanced sound, durable construction, and user-friendly features.
Which brand, Kawai or Yamaha, is generally considered better for digital pianos?
Determining whether Kawai or Yamaha is better for digital pianos depends on individual preferences and specific requirements. Both brands have a strong reputation in the industry and produce high-quality instruments. To make the best choice, consider factors such as sound quality, key action, features, and budget, and try out models from both brands to determine which one aligns with your musical goals.
How do Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos compare in terms of sound quality and realism?
Both Kawai and Yamaha produce digital pianos with excellent sound quality and authenticity. Kawai is known for its rich and expressive piano sound, often praised for its harmonic qualities. Yamaha is renowned for producing clear and well-balanced piano tones. The choice between them may come down to personal preference and the particular qualities you seek in a piano sound.
What factors should I consider when choosing between a Kawai and Yamaha digital piano?
Several factors should be considered when choosing between a Kawai and Yamaha digital piano, including your budget, playing style, desired key action, additional features, and your personal taste in sound. It’s important to audition models from both brands and select the one that resonates with your musical goals and playing preferences.
Do Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos cater to specific musical genres or applications?
Both Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos are versatile and can be used across various musical genres and applications, including classical, jazz, pop, and more. However, certain models from each brand may be better suited for specific purposes, such as professional performance, studio recording, or educational use. Your choice should be based on your intended use and musical style.
Can advanced pianists benefit from using either a Kawai or Yamaha digital piano?
Yes, advanced pianists can benefit from using digital pianos from both Kawai and Yamaha. Both brands offer high-quality instruments with advanced features, realistic key action, and excellent sound quality. The choice between them may be influenced by individual preferences and specific requirements for practice, performance, and recording.
Useful Video: Kawai CA99 – Digitalpiano der Oberklasse im Test
Conclusion
Digital pianos are a great way to get started in playing the piano, or to supplement your existing acoustic piano. Kawai and Yamaha are two of the most popular brands on the market, known for their quality instruments and cutting-edge technology. But which one is right for you?
To help you make your decision, we’ve put together a complete guide to Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos, including answers to common questions, product reviews, and helpful tips on the difference between the two brands.
By reading this guide, you should now have a greater understanding of the key differences between Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos. With this new-found knowledge, feel confident in choosing the right piano for your needs. Thank you for reading!
References:
- https://www.cmuse.org/kawai-vs-yamaha-digital-piano/
- https://takelessons.com/blog/best-piano-brands
- https://www.sagemusic.co/which-piano-is-better-yamaha-or-kawai/
- https://digitalpianojudge.com/kawai-vs-yamaha-digital-piano/
As an amateur pianist on a budget, I’ve done extensive research trying to decide between buying a Kawai or Yamaha digital piano. The Kawai ES110 attracted me initially given its impressive piano sound sampling and built-in classical music library to play along to for under $700. However, when I tested it in person the keys felt too springy and lightweight for my preference coming from an acoustic piano background. In contrast, the Yamaha P125 I tried had a heavier Graded Hammer Standard key action which felt pleasantly realistic to me. The grand piano sound tone felt more resonant as well compared to the Kawai. Portability isn’t my main concern so I didn’t mind the slightly heavier build. While the effects and sounds weren’t as robust, the Yamaha piano sound itself met my needs well for a comparable price point.
After growing up learning on upright pianos, I purchased a Yamaha P115 digital piano last year. While it served me well initially, I struggled to effectively utilize the controller knobs for modulation or sustain. Session recording capabilities were also limited for understanding my growth over time. Craving an upgrade with more functionality, I began researching Kawai instruments which are known for exemplary action and sounds. However the CA49 model I tested had keys that felt too wooden and rigid for my preferences coming from Yamaha’s graded hammer action. Though the Kawai sound library was impressive, adjusting to the new key action would mean retraining my muscle memory. Weighing feel over features, I ultimately kept my Yamaha and supplemented via MIDI controller instead.
As a lifelong pianist starting to teach lessons from home, I invested significant time deciding between the Kawai KDP110 and Yamaha YDP144 digital pianos. The card reader feature on the Kawai to load classical pieces intrigued me as a teaching tool for students. Additionally I appreciated the built in Alfred’s lesson content. However, the stereo optimizer and pure CF sampled grand piano sound on the Yamaha ultimately won me over instead along with slightly heavier keys. Having strong sound resonance and an authentic key weight enabled me to skillfully demonstrate techniques on it much like an acoustic grand. The lessons I can supplement via my own methods whereas I felt limited trying to demonstrate nuances on the Kawai with action that felt too light.
With a son beginning piano lessons, I set out to purchase a worthy yet affordable digital piano for home practice between his weekly lessons. As a pianist myself, I knew I wanted fully weighted keys so I focused my attention on the Kawai ES110 and Yamaha P125 models. Out of the box I immediately noticed richer tone resonance on the Yamaha. However the Kawai key action featured letting off felt closer to an acoustic grand. Split preferences between features left me torn deciding which would better benefit a beginner student. I ended up choosing the Yamaha given the superior sound quality to train his ear along with a sustain pedal included in box for vital skill building. Time will tell if it was the right call!
When our upright piano needed a very costly repair, I reluctantly shifted my search to affordable digital replacements. As an experienced pianist myself, I tested the Kawai ES110 and Yamaha P125 keyboards back to back at a local music shop. The harmonic imaging sound sampling simply felt more crisp and crystal clear on the Yamaha to my seasoned ears. Similarly, I preferred the graded hammer action weighted keys for authentic feel over the ES110. Having said that, the ES110 key action surpassed my expectations at the sub $700 price tag and could still serve beginners or hobbyists well. But sacrificing sound depth was a concession I wasn’t willing to make as a pianist recording my own albums at home. The Yamaha won out for good reason.
Years ago I inherited a charming but outrageously out of tune antique upright piano that I couldn’t bear to part with when moving apartments. Rather than pay steep technician costs trying to salvage it, I invested in a quality digital replacement. At the forefront of my search were renowned brands Kawai and Yamaha for their proven track records. The CN29 model by Kawai boasted beautiful exotic wood aesthetics that suited my decor well along with ample sound layers. However, I felt the lower keys had a heavier touch discordant with the upper register making dynamic play uneven. Conversely, the Yamaha YDP165 had slightly less verb but delivered consistent Graded Hammer 3 action across 88 keys enabling smooth playability that suited my classical preferences best.
As an intermediate level pianist not yet ready to invest thousands into a premium grand, I thoroughly tested Yamaha and Kawai digital piano models as affordable compromises for my home studio. The CA59 Kawai model admittedly impressed me with its grand feel wooden keys and impressive harmonic imagining capturing nuances well. However without the soundboard resonators found on Yamaha’s CLP line, it simply couldn’t deliver the same rich tone I yearn for as a classical pianist recording covers. Conversely while Yamaha CLP key actions couldn’t replicate wooden texture, they provided weight transitions seamlessly matching my precise playing needs. Prioritizing sound depth over all else as a hobbyist recording artist steered my purchase decision.
As an adult beginner pianist on a budget, I weighed pros and cons of the Kawai ES110 versus Yamaha P125 keyboards thoroughly before deciding. The Bluetooth MIDI capabilities on the ES110 intrigued me to potentially record or play along with songs wirelessly. However, when testing key actions side by side, I found the Yamaha graded hammer standards more reminiscent of acoustic pianos I learned on early on. The heavier touch enabled better finger development and technique which took priority as a novice. While the Kawai boasted great value, the Yamaha quality and name brand reputation gave me peace of mind for just $50 more.
With a daughter demonstrating promising musical aptitude, we invested in a digital piano for home practice between lessons rather than an acoustic to allow late night playing. The Yamaha YDP144 Arius model impressed me with its matte finish and understated elegance suiting any decor. However the CF sampled Kawai sounded richer to my untrained ears. My daughter disagreed, noting the Yamaha keys enabled more control over dynamics ideal for classical pieces she enjoys most. I also noted cheaper pedal construction on the Kawai model in comparison. Considering her skilled progression and love for piano, spending a bit more on the Yamaha to nurture her talent made perfect sense.
Ready to upgrade from my Yamaha P115 to allow recording piano lesson demos for students, I tested the Kawai ES8 expecting to be wowed as a professional teacher. However, the grand piano sound samples seemed overproduced and artificial losing nuance in comparison to Yamaha CFX found on the P255. Similarly while the ES8 action felt nicely weighted, dynamic contrast came easier on the Yamaha making it better suit the classical repertoire I teach most. With impressive built in rhythm section accompaniments, the P255 enabled playability identical to my acoustic grand without breaking the bank further, making it the sensible choice. Sometimes you really can’t improve on a trusted brand!
In the market for a portable digital piano to gig with my jazz trio on a budget, I anticipated preferring the Kawai ES110 for its extensive sound library needed to cover varied song styles. However, with inconsistent key weighting between treble and bass sections, achieving tonal control proved frustratingly impossible for dynamic styling. The Yamaha P125 by comparison delivered remarkably balanced graded hammer action across all registers in line with far more expensive portables. And while the stock sounds felt basic in comparison, editing tools allowed tailoring suitable piano and EPs I can tweak further via outboard gear. Considering the keys would make or break live shows, the Yamaha won my dollars.
With childhood nostalgia for family piano singalongs but apartment living space at a minimum, I sought a worthy digital piano option to enable future gatherings. The Kawai CN27 stood out immediately promising realistic wooden graded hammer feel. However song arrangement options were quite limited for group playing versatility. In stark contrast, the Yamaha YDP165 delivered seamless and balanced key action with 360 degree acoustic presence to fill a room. But most of all the performance assistant settings shone allowing customized arrangements catering to all skill levels and play styles. A worthwhile tradeoff enabling beautiful harmonizing exactly as I had envisioned!
Seeking out a digital piano replacement for my aging Yamaha Clavinova, I anticipated thoroughly enjoying the Kawai CA Series Grand Feel Compact action the most. Surprisingly, their wooden keys felt heavier and required more effort depressing than Yamaha’s reconstructed variations – making intricate trilling and faster arpeggios more fatiguing. By comparison, the Yamaha CLP effortlessly allowed rapid repetitive playing with more moderate weight transitions across registers in better accordance with my classical preferences. And while I loved the CN Series sounds paired with virtual technician, their AvantGrand models provided stunning realism unmatched elsewhere. In the end, why mess with what works?