ES920 piano is a new addition to the Kawai family and was made publicly available for retailers in the US in February 2024. The Kawai ES920 is now a supermodel in the ES line of portable pianos. It features 88 keys in slab style and the piano is also extremely lightweight to be moved inside the home. These slab-style digital pianos are popular among amateurs mainly because they are easy to play and are available at a comfortable price as well. Though the piano is competitively priced, it still has several beautiful features on par with acoustic pianos and they are also portable and lightweight with built-in speakers.
Table of Contents
Kawai ES920 Review
| Features | Rating |
| Performance and sounds | 9.1 |
| Connectivity | 8.8 |
| Build Quality | 9.1 |
| Value for money | 9.2 |
Note: Kawai ES920 features in our list of best digital pianos for classical pianists.
Highlights of the Kawai ES920 digital piano
- The keyboard of this piano features 88 keys with graded weighted hammers, triple sensor key action, let-off simulation, and counterweights.
- It is compatible with an F-10H pedal unit with half-pedal support
- The piano samples follow harmonic imaging with 88-key stereo sampling
- The piano sounds can enjoy a maximum polyphony of 256 notes.
- There are 38 additional sounds in this piano with 6 types of reverbs.
- There are two 8 x 12 cm speakers in the piano
- The power output from this piano is about 40 watts.
- There is a special attachment for headphones.
- There is an OLED display in this piano with a resolution of 128 x 64 pixels.
- There is also a detachable music rest that is also transparent on this piano.
- This piano is available in two finishes, namely black and white.
- There are 25 sound demo songs and 5 main demo songs with a total memory to store about 90,000 notes.
A detailed review of the Kawai ES920 digital piano
The Kawai ES920 is one of the best digital pianos in the $2000 price range and it is available with a range of features. Though the piano is competitively priced, it still comes with a range of features and it is a value for the money spent.
1. The external design features of the piano
The new Kawai ES920 digital piano has an exceptional look and it is redesigned with a contemporary look. The piano features an elegant and stylish design and features rounded edges, compared with its previous model. The surface and the control panel of this piano are extremely smooth and will be quite appealing to the eye and the users. The sliders and the buttons on this piano feature a nice feel, which is something that we cannot find in an expensive piano.
The piano comes with an optional stand and a pedal system with which we can connect the triple pedal unit. Kawai has also significantly reduced the weight of the piano and has made this piano extremely performance-friendly. The lightweight feel of this piano is attributed to the plastic construction of the Kawai ES920.
One feature that has a scope for improvement in the Kawai ES920 is the OLED display of the pianos. The display is quite basic and it is still functional. The piano is available in both black and white finishes. The music rest sits high on top of the piano and makes it easy to read music as we play. The bottom of the music rest is angled, so we can hold the music sheets securely, mitigating the risk of the sheet slipping or falling.
2. The keys on the piano
The key bed is one of the best features of the Kawai ES920 digital piano and it features a complete set of 88 fully weighted keys with an authentic responsive hammer-action keyboard. Kawai has also simulated its keys with its trademark ebony and ivory keytops. This gives a highly textured feel on top of the keys, to prevent the fingers from slipping while playing music. The keys of this piano are designed to absorb as much sweat on the fingers as possible and are thus very easy to clean.
The responsive hammer III action keyboard of the Kawai ES920 piano is built with sensor technology, which is by far the best in the industry. The keys are capable of simulating the sounds of the real acoustic piano and offer a bit of resistance like a grand piano to help with an authentic piano-playing experience.
The sensor technology of the piano keys allows the keys to move quickly with a slight gracefulness in their response. This makes the piano playing experience fluid-like and adapts to different playing styles. The key action on this piano is quite easy on the hands and it allows for longer playing time with minimal fatigue.
3. Sounds of the piano
The Kawai ES920 has the best tones in the market, similar to the most sophisticated acoustic pianos in the world. The sound chip in this piano is authentic compared to other digital pianos in this price range. The Kawai ES920 has a very decent sound quality across the board and it makes use of harmonic imaging technology to enhance the ability of the piano to articulate the natural resonances in every music note, similar to the acoustic pianos.
There are also several additional tonal elements in this piano, such as hammer noise, string resonance, cabinet resonance, etc. This digital piano also captures the tones of the SK-EX concert grand piano and the studio grand piano sounds perfect.
An additional sound feature in this digital piano is a graphic equalizer slider that we can use to change the tone of the piano. It also gives controls on how we would control the sounds of the digital piano.
The new graphic EQ system of this digital piano has four separate sliders that allow you to instantly change the frequency of the piano sounds.
The piano also carries a split keyboard function and a virtual technician function, that we can use to edit and adjust sounds according to preference. The sounds of the piano get amplified with two powerful 8 x 12 cm speakers, with a combined power output of 40 watts.
4. Other features of the piano
Creating music and recording the same in the Kawai ES920 offers an awesome experience. The piano features 38 instrument sounds and 100 drum rhythm patterns and thus we can create an entire band with this digital piano at hand. The special effects in this piano are also improvised. Its reverb-echo settings help with lush piano sounds and the recording feature of this piano is pretty cool as well. The recording feature in this piano is also a great plus point.
The piano has a MIDI recording feature as well, to help record the left and right portions of the piano separately. We can also record all accompanying music individually, such as the base of the drums, and can save songs as MP3 or WAV file formats as well. The piano also holds wireless Bluetooth and MIDI connectivity features as well.
Pros & Cons of the Kawai ES920
Pros
- This is an excellent portable digital piano with a damper pedal and half-pedal support.
- The piano features a music rest and an AC power adapter with a responsive hammer-action keyboard.
- The piano offers acoustic piano sounds and upgraded virtual technician parameters.
- The piano renders an enhanced touch curve setting with 10 selectable presets.
Cons
- The speakers of this piano are not of great quality.
- The OLED screen display is this piano is very basic.
- It doesn’t come with a stand or bench.
Alternatives of Kawai ES920
These are the best alternatives to Kawai ES920 Digital Piano.
| Preview | Product | |
|---|---|---|
 | Yamaha P515 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano, Black | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Roland, Premium Portable Piano, 88-Key (FP-90-BK), FP-90 | Check Price on Amazon |
Pianos Similar To Kawai ES920
1. Kawai KDP120 Digital Home Piano
A superb musical instrument that offers top-tier performance and beautiful sound quality is the Kawai KDP120 Digital Home Piano. Although the piano is intended for home use, it has several features that are comparable to those found on instruments of a higher caliber. The KDP120 is available in a high-end rosewood finish, which gives any space it is put in a touch of elegance. The KDP120’s snappy hammer action keyboard is one of its primary characteristics. The weighted movement of the keyboard, which is responsive to touch, is intended to mimic that of an acoustic piano.
This allows for a wide range of dynamics to be used in the music, from gentle and delicate to loud and strong. Moreover, the keyboard has 88 full-sized keys, allowing users to play a variety of musical genres. The instrument sounds more like a genuine piano thanks to this technology, which creates a sound that is full of harmonics and overtones. The versatility of the KDP120 is another benefit. The instrument has many characteristics that make it simple to use and modify.
- 88-key Digital Home Piano with Responsive Hammer Compact II Action
- Built-in Alfred Piano Lessons - Premium Rosewood
- Harmonic Imaging Sound Engine
For instance, it contains a dual mode that enables the simultaneous playing of two separate voices, such as piano and strings. Also, it contains a built-in metronome and a variety of voices, including choir, electric piano, strings, organ, and grand piano. Convenience is another consideration in the design of the KDP120. The instrument is a lovely addition to any home thanks to the fine rosewood finish, which gives it a touch of sophistication and beauty.
The Kawai KDP120 Digital Home Piano is a wonderful instrument that offers outstanding performance and beautiful sound quality, to sum it up. Anybody looking for a top-notch digital piano for home usage will find its snappy hammer action keyboard, cutting-edge sound technology, versatility, convenience, and premium rosewood finish to be a terrific choice.
2. Kawai CA49 88-Key Grand Feel Compact Digital Piano
A high-end musical instrument that offers great performance and sound quality is the Kawai CA49 88-Key Grand Feel Compact Digital Piano. Although this piano is intended for household use, professional players could also benefit from its cutting-edge features and sophisticated appearance. The CA49 adds a sense of sophistication to any space and is offered in a high-end satin black finish. It also includes a matching bench.
The Grand Feel Compact keyboard motion of the CA49 is one of its most noteworthy features. The keyboard has a weighted action that responds to touch in order to simulate the feel of a real grand piano. This makes it possible to play a wide variety of musical styles since it allows for a wide range of dynamics, from gentle and delicate to loud and strong. The keyboard also has 88 full-sized keys, allowing you to easily play a variety of musical styles. Kawai’s Harmonic Imaging technology, which uses digital sampling to capture the complex, the nuanced sound of an acoustic piano, is also a component of the CA49.
The instrument sounds more like a genuine piano thanks to this technology, which creates a sound that is full of harmonics and overtones. The piano also includes a variety of cutting-edge sound innovations, such as Virtual Technician, which enables the user to alter the sound of the instrument to their tastes. The CA49 is a stunning addition to any house thanks to its premium satin black finish, which gives the instrument a touch of sophistication and elegance. The athlete can sit for long amounts of time without feeling uncomfortable thanks to the matching bench’s ergonomic design. The Kawai CA49 88-Key Grand Feel Compact Digital Piano with Bench is an excellent instrument that offers remarkable performance and sound quality, in conclusion.
3. Kawai CA49 Rosewood
A magnificent musical instrument that offers outstanding performance and sound quality is the Kawai CA49 88-Key Grand Feel Compact Digital Piano with Bench in Premium Rosewood. While being made for domestic use, this piano has high-tech features and a sophisticated appearance that is comparable to those found in instruments of a professional caliber. It is a lovely addition to any house thanks to the fine rosewood finish, which gives any space it is placed in a touch of sophistication and warmth. The Grand Feel Compact keyboard action of the CA49 is one of its most notable qualities.
The keyboard has a weighted action that responds to touch in order to simulate the feel of a real grand piano. This makes it possible to play a wide variety of musical styles since it allows for a wide range of dynamics, from gentle and delicate to loud and strong. Also, the keyboard has 88 full-sized keys, allowing you to perform a variety of music with ease. Kawai’s Harmonic Imaging technology, which uses advanced sampling to capture the complex, the nuanced sound of an acoustic piano, is also a component of the CA49. The instrument sounds more like a genuine piano thanks to this technology, which creates a sound that is full of harmonics and overtones.
The piano also includes a variety of cutting-edge sound innovations, such as Virtual Technician, which enables the user to alter the sound of the instrument to their tastes. Convenience is another consideration in the design of the CA49. It has a built-in music stand, making it simple to read sheet music while performing. Also, it contains a headphone port, enabling quiet practice without disturbing others in the space. The piano also has an integrated lesson feature, which is excellent for novices who want to learn how to play.
The CA49’s superior rosewood finish gives it a touch of warmth and elegance, making it a beautiful addition to any house. The athlete can sit for long amounts of time without feeling uncomfortable thanks to the matching bench’s ergonomic design.
4. Kawai KDP75 Digital Home Piano
The Responsive Hammer Compact II keyboard action of the KDP75 is one of its most noteworthy characteristics. The keyboard has a weighted action that responds to touch in order to simulate the feel of a real grand piano. This makes it possible to play a wide variety of musical styles since it allows for a wide range of dynamics, from gentle and delicate to loud and strong. The keyboard also has 88 full-sized keys, allowing you to easily play a variety of musical styles.
Kawai’s Harmonic Imaging technology, which uses digital sampling to capture the complex, the nuanced sound of an acoustic piano, is also a component of the KDP75. This makes it possible to play a wide variety of musical styles since it allows for a wide range of dynamics, from gentle and delicate to loud and strong. The keyboard also has 88 full-sized keys, allowing you to easily play a variety of musical styles. Kawai’s Harmonic Imaging technology, which includes electronic sampling to mimic the complex, nuanced sound of an acoustic piano, is also a component of the KDP75.
- 88-key Digital Home Piano with Responsive Hammer Compact Action
- Built-in Alfred Piano Lessons - Embossed White
- Harmonic Imaging Sound Engine
The instrument sounds more like a genuine piano thanks to this technology, which creates a sound that is full of harmonics and overtones. The piano also includes a variety of cutting-edge sound innovations, such as Virtual Technician, which enables the user to alter the sound of the instrument to their tastes. The KDP75’s embossed white finish gives it a hint of modernity and class, making it a lovely addition to any house. The piano’s modern, sleek style fits nicely with any home design and is ideal for contemporary living rooms.
The KDP75 is also made to be small, which makes it simple to transfer and store. Anybody looking for a top-notch digital piano for home usage will find its Responsive Hammer Compact II keyboard action, cutting-edge sound technology, convenience, and embossed white finish to be a terrific choice. With its exceptional sound quality and cutting-edge design, the KDP75 is bound to delight musicians of all skill levels.
Conclusion
Kawai pianos are renowned for being dependable and trustworthy instruments. With a long history of creating high-caliber instruments, Kawai is a reputable piano maker. Only the best materials and components are used in the construction of Kawai pianos, which are also built to exacting standards. The stringent testing techniques used by Kawai to ensure that each and every piano that exits their factory satisfies their high standards of excellence are a clear indication of their dedication to quality. They are renowned for their superb craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to innovation.
For the past nine years running, Kawai has won the coveted MMR Dealers’ Choice Award for Acoustic Piano Line of the Year, among other honors and awards for their pianos. Kawai pianos are very popular at music schools and universities around the world and are used by many famous pianists. Overall, they are a fantastic option for anyone looking for a high-quality piano that will give them years of musical expression and enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What Kind Of Pianos Does Kawai Produce?
Kawai manufactures a variety of pianos, including upright, grand, and digital pianos. They also make hybrid pianos, which integrate digital and acoustic technology.
2. Kawai Pianos Are Good For Beginners?
Certainly, Kawai makes pianos that can accommodate players of all skill levels, even beginners. For individuals who are just beginning out, their digital pianos frequently have built-in lesson functions and other educational resources.
3. What Country Produces Kawai Pianos?
Since the business was established there in Japan in 1927, Kawai pianos are built there. The pianos made by Kawai are renowned for their dependability and lifespan and are acknowledged for being high-quality instruments.
4. What Range Of Prices Do Kawai Pianos Fall Into?
From a few thousand dollars for their entry-level digital pianos to several thousand dollars for their top-of-the-line grand pianos, Kawai pianos are priced. A Kawai piano’s cost varies according to the piano’s size, style, and features.
5. How Is A Kawai Piano Maintained?
They must be maintained frequently to stay in good shape. This covers routine maintenance such as cleaning and tuning as well as sporadic repairs and modifications. Kawai advises having a skilled technician do maintenance at least once each year.
6. How Durable Are Kawai Pianos?
As Kawai is recognized for making sturdy, long-lasting pianos, many of its pieces are handed down as family heirlooms from one generation to the next.
