Kawai CN Series Digital Pianos

With authentic touch, beautiful sound, inspiring features and renowned quality, the Kawai CN Series has become the new standard in digital piano value and performance.

 

Complementing the instruments’ excellent Responsive Hammer III keyboard action and impressive Progressive Harmonic Imaging piano sound, the new CN Series also offers a strong selection of digital piano features that further enhance one’s musical enjoyment.

 

In addition to standard USB and MIDI ports, the new CN Series also boast integrated Bluetooth® MIDI technology, allowing the digital piano to communicate with supported smart devices wirelessly.

■  Class-leading Responsive Hammer III keyboard action
■  Ivory Touch key surfaces, triple sensor, let-off, counterweights
■  Progressive Harmonic Imaging sound with 88-key sampling
■  Shigeru Kawai SK-EX & Kawai EX concert grand piano sounds
■  Powerful four speaker, 40 W output system

■  Integrated Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology
■  MP3/WAV/SMF playback, record, and overdub to USB
■  Built-in classical etudes and Alfred lesson books
■  Spatial Headphone Sound for enhanced depth and realism
■  Attractive, modern cabinet with cheekblock control panel

The Touch of a Grand Piano: Responsive Hammer III keyboard action

The CN series class-leading Responsive Hammer III keyboard action recreates the supreme touch of an acoustic grand piano, with its realistic movement and rigid, springless design providing a smooth and natural piano playing experience. The instrument’s triple-sensor key detection system enhances responsiveness and accuracy, while structural reinforcements throughout the action assembly help to minimise noise and key wobble during staccato and fortissimo passages.

The weight of the keyboard is appropriately graded to mirror the heavier bass hammers and lighter treble hammers of an acoustic piano, while let-off simulation recreates the subtle ‘notch’ sensation felt when softly playing the keys of a grand piano. These important characteristics allow discerning pianists to practise their expanding repertoire with confidence, and ensure that there are no unpleasant surprises when called upon to perform using the finest acoustic grand pianos.

Authentic 88-key Counterweights

 

In addition to grade-weighted hammers, the Responsive Hammer III keyboard action also features counterweights embedded within each black and white key.

 

As with an acoustic piano, these finely balanced weights help to lighten the touch of the keyboard during pianissimo passages, while adding a feel of greater substance when playing with force.

Triple sensor key detection

 

The Responsive Hammer III keyboard action utilises an accurate triple-sensor key detection system for enhanced playing realism.

 

The added third sensor improves responsiveness when playing the same key repeatedly, and unlike conventional two sensor keyboard actions found in many digital pianos, allows the sound of a single note to be gradually ‘layered’ without the previous tone being lost.

 

In addition, Kawai’s action technology also monitors the speed at which each key is lifted, influencing the release character of piano sounds, and providing a greater range of expression between staccato and legato playing.

Ivory Touch key surfaces

 

The impressive CN37 features Kawai’s highly regarded Ivory Touch key surfaces as standard. This finely textured material gently absorbs fingertip perspiration and oils to assist playing control, and possesses a natural, matte finish that is smooth but not slippery.

 

Furthermore, this moisture is absorbed without dirt or grease permeating the surface, allowing the keytops to be wiped clean easily using just a damp cloth.

Let-off Simulation

 

As the most authentic digital piano keyboard action in its class, Responsive Hammer III even reproduces the ‘let-off’ characteristic of acoustic piano actions.

 

This subtle ‘notch’ sensation can be felt when playing the keys of a grand piano very gently, and may be used by experienced pianists to aid control when playing pianissimo passages.

The Sound of a Grand Piano: Two world-class instruments

Earning a reputation as the ‘premier pianos of Japan’, Shigeru Kawai instruments grace the stages of concert halls and musical institutions throughout the world, and are prized for their outstanding tonal clarity and exceptional dynamic range.

 

The CN series capture the magnificent tone of the flagship Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano. This peerless instrument is hand-built by Master Piano Artisans at the Shigeru Kawai Piano Research Laboratory in Ryuyo, Japan, and widely regarded as one of the finest instruments in its class.

 

In addition, the CN series also feature the distinctive sound of Kawai’s highly acclaimed EX concert grand piano, which has been selected by professional pianists in such prestigious events as the Chopin, Tchaikovsky, and Rubinstein international piano competitions, among others.

 

Both the SK-EX and EX are faithfully reproduced with full 88-key sampling using advanced Harmonic Imaging™ sound technology, to establish a new standard in digital piano tonal quality, and allow musicians to appreciate the contrasting properties of each.

Full 88-key stereo piano sampling

 

The rich, expressive sound of the SK-EX and EX concert grand pianos is at the heart of the CN series, with all eighty-eight keys of these world-class instruments painstakingly recorded, meticulously analysed, and accurately reproduced as high-fidelity digital waveforms.

 

Recording each key individually in this way – as opposed to stretching the same tone over several different notes – preserves the grand pianos’ unique harmonic character, and guarantees that the sound heard when playing any one of the CN37 series weighted keys is a faithful representation of the original acoustic source.

Harmonic Imaging technology

 

When playing a fine piano, the amount of pressure applied to the keyboard affects not only the volume of the sound produced, but also the unique tonal character of each note. Therefore, in order to construct a realistic acoustic portrait of each grand piano, not only is each key recorded individually, but also at a wide variety of different volumes, ranging from gentle pianissimo to thunderous fortissimo.

 

The CN series offers a highly detailed acoustic portrait, employing Kawai’s proprietary Harmonic Imaging sound technology to ensure smooth tonal transitions across the keyboard and throughout the entire dynamic range.

Personalised piano adjustments

 

The knowledge and skill of an experienced piano technician is essential to bring out the best of a fine acoustic piano. In addition to tuning each note, the technician also performs numerous regulation and voicing adjustments that allow the instrument to truly sing.

 

The CN series powerful Virtual Technician function simulates these refinements digitally, allowing discerning musicians to shape aspects of the selected piano’s character to suit their personal preferences.

 

Perform touch weight and voicing adjustments, regulate hammer and key release noises, and fine-tune string, damper, and cabinet resonances. It is even possible to adjust the precise tuning, volume, and character of individual notes – all in real-time.

Powerful Effects & Reverb

 

The CN series powerful digital effects engine enhances the instrument’s superior core sounds, applying additional layers of detail and realism that bring performances to life.

 

Studio-quality reverb allows pianists to position themselves within one of six acoustic environments, ranging from a small practise room to an inspirational grand cathedral.

Superior 4-speaker output system

 

Unrivalled in their price range, the CN series features an advanced 4-speaker output system designed to reproduce the harmonic spectrum of an acoustic piano.

 

Lower-range frequencies are delivered through the underside of the instrument, while mid and high frequencies are projected outward via top-mounted speakers, resulting in an expansive tone that closely mirrors the sound projection of a grand piano.

The Variety of a Digital Piano: Convenience & Flexibility

Complementing the instrument’s class-leading Responsive Hammer III keyboard action and Progressive Harmonic Imaging piano sounds, the CN series also offers a strong selection of digital piano features that further enhance one’s musical enjoyment.

 

Wireless Bluetooth® connectivity, USB audio record/playback, Dual, Split, and Four Hands keyboard modes, and a rich assortment of instrumental voices add greater variety to players’ performances, while the convenient metronome function and integrated lessons ensure that regular practise is both productive and engaging for aspiring pianists.

Integrated Bluetooth® connectivity

In addition to standard USB and MIDI ports, the CN series also boast integrated Bluetooth MIDI technology, allowing the digital piano to communicate with supported smart devices wirelessly.

 

Once paired with a phone, tablet, or laptop, CN series owners can easily expand the instrument’s functionality with a wide range of education, performance, and scoring apps. A dedicated Kawai Virtual Technician control app is also freely available, providing an enjoyable way to learn about and adjust various acoustic piano characteristics from an attractive touch interface, without the need for additional adaptors or cables.

Rich sound selection

 

Supplementing the beautiful acoustic piano voices, the CN series also features an excellent selection of additional sounds, ranging from electric pianos and drawbar or church organs, to strings, human choirs, and synth pads, including a full palette of GM2 compatible instrument and drumkits.

 

The Dual playing mode also allows two different sounds, such as grand piano and strings, to be layered together, while the Split and Four Hands modes divide the keyboard into two independent sections.

 

The latter feature is particularly useful in learning environments, allowing teacher and student (or student and student) to play together at the same time using a single instrument.

Flexible USB connectivity

The CN series is equipped with modern USB connectors that not only allow the instrument to be connected to a computer for MIDI use, but also to load and save data to USB memory devices directly.

 

This latter USB to Device functionality allows favourite instrument registrations, and memorable recorder songs stored within internal memory to be safely preserved on USB flash drives, or for 16-track standard MIDI files (SMF) to be recorded, played back, and enjoyed using the instrument’s superb Progressive Harmonic Imaging sounds.

MP3/WAV Playback & Record

 

USB memory devices can also be used to play back MP3 or WAV audio files, allowing musicians to learn the chords or melody for a new piece, or to simply play along with their favourite songs.

 

It is even possible to record and overdub entire performances directly as MP3 or WAV audio files for emailing to family and friends, or casual listening away from the piano.

Grand Feel Pedal System

Reinforcing the CN Series’ reputation as the most realistic digital pianos in their price range is Kawai’s Grand Feel Pedal System. This unique feature accurately replicates the position and individual weighting of the damper, soft, and sostenuto pedals of a Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano to further enhance the CN37’s acoustic piano-like authenticity.

Superior headphone experience

 

The CN series Spatial Headphone Sound (SHS) technology enhances the depth and realism of the instrument’s sound when listening through headphones or earphones. The player can select one of three different acoustic presets that adjust the spatial positioning of the sound, while also helping to reduce auditory fatigue when using earphones or headphones for extended periods of time.

 

In addition, it also allows players to select a variety of headphone types (Open, Semi-open, Closed, In-Ear, Canal, etc.) for an optimised listening experience.

Built-in lesson function

 

The CN series convenient lesson function allows aspiring pianists to learn piano with classical Czerny, Burgmüller, Beyer, Bach, and Beethoven etudes, or a collection of songs from the popular Alfred’s Basic, Adult, and Premier course books.

 

With a strong emphasis on acoustic piano realism, the CN series also features traditional finger exercises, scales, and warm-up drills, and includes companion books for all classical scores to further aid one’s piano development.

Grand performance within a modern, premium cabinet

The CN series modern cabinet incorporates a curved leg design, with minimalist toe blocks for additional stability. Its flat fascia and tall upper board give the instrument a traditional, upright piano-like quality, while the extruded side panels contribute to a premium appearance than belies the CN series affordable price.

Broad, adjustable music rest

 

The CN series broad music rest is engineered to accommodate the most ambitious musical works, with a high-quality surface and attractive round design.

 

As with a grand piano, the viewing angle of the instrument’s music rest can be adjusted to suit the performer’s playing position, or laid flat for convenience when notating scores or sketching musical ideas.

Cabinet Finishes

The CN series are available in three attractive cabinet finishes: Premium Rosewood, Premium Satin Black, and Premium Satin White, allowing musicians to coordinate their piano with a range of modern interiors.

See the CN Series models

Combining the acclaimed Responsive Hammer III keyboard action and stunning SK-EX, SK-5, and EX grand piano sounds, with a powerful 4 speaker delivery system, Bluetooth® MIDI and Audio connectivity, useful USB audio features, and support for the latest apps, the CN301 delivers impressive specifications at an unbeatable price.

  • Class-leading Responsive Hammer III keyboard action
  • Ivory Touch key surfaces, triple sensor, let-off, counterweights
  • Progressive Harmonic Imaging sound with 88-key sampling
  • Shigeru Kawai SK-EX & Kawai EX concert grand piano sounds
  • High quality amplification, four speaker 40W delivery system
  • Integrated Bluetooth® MIDI and Audio wireless technology
  • MP3/WAV/SMF playback, record, and overdub to USB
  • Built-in classical etudes and Alfred lesson books
  • Spatial Headphone Sound for enhanced depth and realism
  • Attractive cabinet with cheekblock control panel and OLED display
  • 2 year warranty

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Featuring the Responsive Hammer III keyboard action with 88-key counterweights, stunning SK-EX and EX concert grand piano sounds, and a high quality audio delivery system, the piano-focused CN201 offers best-in-class touch & tone, Bluetooth® MIDI and Audio connectivity, and built-in lesson and recorder functions within a compact, elegant cabinet.

  • Improved Responsive Hammer III keyboard action
  • Ivory Touch key surfaces, triple sensor, let-off, counterweights
  • Progressive Harmonic Imaging sound with 88-key sampling
  • Shigeru Kawai SK-EX & Kawai EX concert grand piano sounds
  • High quality audio processing and amplification hardware
  • Integrated Bluetooth® MIDI and Audio wireless technology
  • Built-in classical etudes and Alfred lesson books
  • Spatial Headphone Sound for enhanced depth and realism
  • Cheekblock control panel with high resolution OLED display
  • Attractive, modern cabinet available in three wood finishes
  • 2 year warranty

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Featuring the Responsive Hammer III keyboard action with 88-key counterweights, stunning SK-EX and EX concert grand piano sounds, and a high quality audio delivery system, the piano-focused CN29 offers best-in-class touch & tone, Bluetooth® connectivity, and built-in lesson and recorder functions within a compact, elegant cabinet.

  • NEW: Motherboard developed in partnership with Onkyo for improved tonal clarity
  • NEW: Speaker system developed by Onkyo, delivering superior sound
  • NEW: Updated control panel layout with modern OLED graphic display
  • Progressive Harmonic Imaging Sound Technology w/88-Note piano sampling
  • Class-leading Responsive Hammer III keyboard action
  • Ivory touch key surfaces, let-off, triple sensor, counterweights
  • 19 exceptional instrument sounds
  • Bluetooth® MIDI
  • Built-in classical etudes, Chopin waltzes and Alfred lessons books
  • Grand Feel Pedal System
  • Modernized key cover appearance
  • Premium rosewood finish
  • 2 year warranty

*Specifications are subject to change without notice.