What makes the Kawai CA901 different from the CA501?

The CA901 is the flagship model featuring the TwinDrive soundboard system, which uses a real wooden soundboard to project sound. The CA501 is a mid-range alternative that lacks this specific soundboard technology and the advanced speaker configuration of the 901.

What is the TwinDrive soundboard system?

The TwinDrive system is a unique speaker technology that channels audio vibrations into a real wooden soundboard. This allows the digital piano to produce a richer, more natural tone that mimics the resonance of an acoustic instrument.

Does the CA901 have a touchscreen?

Yes, the CA901 features a high-resolution LCD touchscreen for controlling sounds and settings. The latest model specifically uses a matte, non-reflective display to improve visibility in bright environments.

What finish is available for this specific model?

This specific version of the Kawai CA901 comes in a Satin Black finish. Other models in the market may offer different aesthetics like Polished White or Light Oak, such as those found in the Roland range.

Is the Kawai CA901 suitable for professional recording?

Yes, the CA901 features advanced recording technology and high-fidelity piano voices, including a new extra piano voice. These improvements make it a highly capable tool for capturing high-quality digital performances.

How does the sound of the CA901 compare to the Roland HP704?

While both are high-quality digital pianos, the CA901 uses a physical soundboard for resonance, whereas the Roland HP704 relies on its internal speaker array and modeling technology. The Kawai is generally positioned as a more premium, flagship-tier instrument.

Can I use headphones with the Kawai CA901?

Yes, like all standard digital pianos, the CA901 supports headphone use for silent practice. The advanced sound engine ensures that the high-quality piano samples are preserved even when listening through headphones.

What kind of piano voices are included?

The CA901 includes multiple piano voices, including Kawai's latest grand piano samples. It features an additional piano voice compared to previous models, providing more variety for different musical styles.

How has the cabinet design changed from previous versions?

The CA901 features subtle improvements to the cabinet design to enhance its aesthetic appeal. These changes maintain a classic upright appearance while incorporating modern refinements in the Satin Black finish.

Is the LCD screen distracting while playing?

Kawai has addressed potential distractions by using a matte, non-reflective display on the CA901. This reduces glare and reflections, allowing the screen to blend more seamlessly into the instrument's design.

How does the CA901 compare to the Kawai CN301?

The CN301 is an entry-level to mid-range model, whereas the CA901 is the top-of-the-range flagship. The CA901 offers superior key action, a real wooden soundboard, and more advanced sound sampling technology.

What is the typical price for a Kawai CA901?

The typical price for the Kawai CA901 in Satin Black is approximately £3,253. This reflects its status as a premium, flagship digital piano with specialized soundboard technology.

Gear article

Kawai CA901 Digital Piano

The Kawai CA901 is the flagship model in Kawai's Concert Artist series, designed to offer an authentic acoustic experience through advanced digital technology. It features a unique wooden soundboard speaker system and the latest 'SK-EX Competition Grand' piano sounds, retailing at approximately £3,253.

See live prices

Overview and History

The Kawai CA901 represents the pinnacle of Kawai's digital piano engineering, succeeding previous iterations in the Concert Artist line with a focus on tactile and auditory realism. As the top-of-the-range model, it is designed for serious students and professionals who require the nuances of a grand piano within a digital format. The CA901 introduces several iterative improvements over its predecessors, including refined cabinet aesthetics and upgraded internal software for a more intuitive user experience.

Soundboard and Speaker Technology

A defining feature of the CA901 is the TwinDrive soundboard speaker system. Unlike traditional digital pianos that rely solely on standard cone speakers, the CA901 channels sound energy into a genuine wooden soundboard located at the rear of the cabinet. This system allows the instrument to vibrate and project sound in a manner similar to an acoustic piano, resulting in a richer, more organic resonance and a physical presence that standard speakers struggle to replicate.

Roland DP603 Digital Piano Polished White

Key Features and Improvements

The CA901 includes a variety of technical enhancements designed for modern usability:

Advanced Sound Engine: Features an extra piano voice and improved recording technology for higher fidelity.
Anti-glare Display: The built-in LCD touchscreen has been upgraded to a matte, non-reflective finish, making it easier to read under bright stage or home lighting.
Software Optimisation: Refined software improves the navigation of smart features and sound customisation.
Cabinet Design: Subtle refinements to the Satin Black cabinet provide a contemporary yet classic upright profile.

User Suitability and Comparisons

This instrument is primarily suited for pianists who do not wish to compromise on the 'feel' of a real piano, particularly those transitioning between digital practice and acoustic performance. Within the Kawai range, it offers a more comprehensive sound system than the mid-range CA501 or the entry-level CN301. When compared to alternatives such as the Roland HP704 or the compact DP603, the CA901 distinguishes itself through its physical soundboard and flagship-grade piano samples. For those seeking a more budget-conscious or entry-level experience, models like the Roland RP701 or Casio AP-300 serve as alternative considerations.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What makes the Kawai CA901 different from the CA501?: The CA901 is the flagship model featuring the TwinDrive soundboard system, which uses a real wooden soundboard to project sound. The CA501 is a mid-range alternative that lacks this specific soundboard technology and the advanced speaker configuration of the 901.
What is the TwinDrive soundboard system?: The TwinDrive system is a unique speaker technology that channels audio vibrations into a real wooden soundboard. This allows the digital piano to produce a richer, more natural tone that mimics the resonance of an acoustic instrument.
Does the CA901 have a touchscreen?: Yes, the CA901 features a high-resolution LCD touchscreen for controlling sounds and settings. The latest model specifically uses a matte, non-reflective display to improve visibility in bright environments.
What finish is available for this specific model?: This specific version of the Kawai CA901 comes in a Satin Black finish. Other models in the market may offer different aesthetics like Polished White or Light Oak, such as those found in the Roland range.
Is the Kawai CA901 suitable for professional recording?: Yes, the CA901 features advanced recording technology and high-fidelity piano voices, including a new extra piano voice. These improvements make it a highly capable tool for capturing high-quality digital performances.
How does the sound of the CA901 compare to the Roland HP704?: While both are high-quality digital pianos, the CA901 uses a physical soundboard for resonance, whereas the Roland HP704 relies on its internal speaker array and modeling technology. The Kawai is generally positioned as a more premium, flagship-tier instrument.
Can I use headphones with the Kawai CA901?: Yes, like all standard digital pianos, the CA901 supports headphone use for silent practice. The advanced sound engine ensures that the high-quality piano samples are preserved even when listening through headphones.
What kind of piano voices are included?: The CA901 includes multiple piano voices, including Kawai's latest grand piano samples. It features an additional piano voice compared to previous models, providing more variety for different musical styles.
How has the cabinet design changed from previous versions?: The CA901 features subtle improvements to the cabinet design to enhance its aesthetic appeal. These changes maintain a classic upright appearance while incorporating modern refinements in the Satin Black finish.
Is the LCD screen distracting while playing?: Kawai has addressed potential distractions by using a matte, non-reflective display on the CA901. This reduces glare and reflections, allowing the screen to blend more seamlessly into the instrument's design.
How does the CA901 compare to the Kawai CN301?: The CN301 is an entry-level to mid-range model, whereas the CA901 is the top-of-the-range flagship. The CA901 offers superior key action, a real wooden soundboard, and more advanced sound sampling technology.
What is the typical price for a Kawai CA901?: The typical price for the Kawai CA901 in Satin Black is approximately £3,253. This reflects its status as a premium, flagship digital piano with specialized soundboard technology.