What is the primary keyboard action used in the Kawai CN201?

The CN201 uses the Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) action system. This system includes an upgraded structural design and new cushioning materials for better stability and quieter operation.

Which concert grand piano is sampled for the CN201?

The instrument features high-quality sampling of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano. This provides a professional-grade acoustic tone for the user.

What is the purpose of the Low Volume Balance feature?

The Low Volume Balance feature ensures that the player retains full expressive capabilities when the volume is turned down. It adjusts the piano's characteristics so that subtle nuances remain audible at lower decibels.

How does Spatial Headphone Sound (SHS) benefit the player?

SHS improves the realism and depth of the piano sound when using headphones. It creates a more immersive listening experience and helps prevent ear fatigue during long silent practice sessions.

What improvements were made to the CN201's hardware compared to previous models?

Kawai upgraded the speaker hardware to improve sound projection and clarity. Additionally, the internal structure of the keyboard action was revised to reduce mechanical noise.

Is the Kawai CN201 suitable for advanced students?

Yes, the CN201 is designed for both practice and performance. Its RHIII action and authentic sound engine make it a strong choice for students progressing toward higher grades.

What is the typical price range for a Kawai CN201?

The Kawai CN201 typically retails for approximately £1,285 in the UK market. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and specific finish.

How does the CN201 compare to the Kawai CN301?

The CN201 is the more streamlined model in the series, while the CN301 typically offers additional sounds, more powerful speakers, and expanded connectivity options. Both share the core RHIII action.

Does the CN201 come in different colours?

While this specific profile focuses on the White finish, the CN series is generally available in multiple finishes, such as Satin Black, to suit different home decors.

How does the CN201 differ from the Roland RP701?

The CN201 uses Kawai's RHIII action and SK-EX sampling, whereas the Roland RP701 uses Roland's PHA-4 Standard action and SuperNATURAL sound engine. The choice between them usually depends on a player's preference for touch and tonal character.

Can the CN201 be used for silent practice?

Yes, the CN201 is highly optimized for silent practice. It features dedicated headphone jacks and the Spatial Headphone Sound setting to maintain audio quality through headphones.

Is the CN201 a portable digital piano?

No, the CN201 is a console-style digital piano with a fixed cabinet and integrated pedals. It is designed to be a permanent piece of furniture in a home or studio rather than a portable stage piano.

Gear article

Kawai CN201 Digital Piano

The Kawai CN201 is a mid-range digital piano designed to replicate the touch and tone of a professional concert grand. It features the Responsive Hammer III action system and high-fidelity sampling of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano.

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Overview

The Kawai CN201 is a contemporary digital piano that focuses on providing an authentic acoustic experience within a compact, home-friendly cabinet. As an evolution in the CN series, it emphasises improvements in mechanical stability and tonal clarity. It is positioned as a high-performance instrument for students and experienced players who require a realistic touch and high-quality sound output without the footprint of an acoustic upright.

Keyboard Action and Feel

A primary feature of the CN201 is the Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) action system. This mechanical design has been upgraded with improved structural components and new cushioning materials. These enhancements are intended to provide greater key stability while significantly reducing the physical noise of the action during play. The result is a tactile response that closely mimics the weight and resistance found in a traditional grand piano keyboard.

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Sound Generation and Hardware

The CN201 utilizes digital sampling from the flagship Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano. To deliver this sound effectively, Kawai has upgraded the speaker hardware within the unit. The instrument also includes specialized processing features:

Low Volume Balance: This feature adjusts the piano's frequency response and expression levels so that the nuances of a performance are maintained even when playing at low output levels.
Spatial Headphone Sound (SHS): A setting designed to enhance the depth and realism of the piano tone when using headphones, reducing ear fatigue during silent practice sessions.

Market Comparison

Within the Kawai range, the CN201 serves as a more accessible alternative to the higher-specification CN301 or the wooden-key CA (Concert Artist) series, such as the CA501 and CA901. When compared to other brands, it competes with the Roland RP701 and DP603, as well as the Casio AP-300. While the Roland models often focus on SuperNATURAL modelling, the Kawai CN201 is frequently selected for its specific RHIII action and the character of the Shigeru Kawai samples.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary keyboard action used in the Kawai CN201?: The CN201 uses the Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) action system. This system includes an upgraded structural design and new cushioning materials for better stability and quieter operation.
Which concert grand piano is sampled for the CN201?: The instrument features high-quality sampling of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano. This provides a professional-grade acoustic tone for the user.
What is the purpose of the Low Volume Balance feature?: The Low Volume Balance feature ensures that the player retains full expressive capabilities when the volume is turned down. It adjusts the piano's characteristics so that subtle nuances remain audible at lower decibels.
How does Spatial Headphone Sound (SHS) benefit the player?: SHS improves the realism and depth of the piano sound when using headphones. It creates a more immersive listening experience and helps prevent ear fatigue during long silent practice sessions.
What improvements were made to the CN201's hardware compared to previous models?: Kawai upgraded the speaker hardware to improve sound projection and clarity. Additionally, the internal structure of the keyboard action was revised to reduce mechanical noise.
Is the Kawai CN201 suitable for advanced students?: Yes, the CN201 is designed for both practice and performance. Its RHIII action and authentic sound engine make it a strong choice for students progressing toward higher grades.
What is the typical price range for a Kawai CN201?: The Kawai CN201 typically retails for approximately £1,285 in the UK market. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and specific finish.
How does the CN201 compare to the Kawai CN301?: The CN201 is the more streamlined model in the series, while the CN301 typically offers additional sounds, more powerful speakers, and expanded connectivity options. Both share the core RHIII action.
Does the CN201 come in different colours?: While this specific profile focuses on the White finish, the CN series is generally available in multiple finishes, such as Satin Black, to suit different home decors.
How does the CN201 differ from the Roland RP701?: The CN201 uses Kawai's RHIII action and SK-EX sampling, whereas the Roland RP701 uses Roland's PHA-4 Standard action and SuperNATURAL sound engine. The choice between them usually depends on a player's preference for touch and tonal character.
Can the CN201 be used for silent practice?: Yes, the CN201 is highly optimized for silent practice. It features dedicated headphone jacks and the Spatial Headphone Sound setting to maintain audio quality through headphones.
Is the CN201 a portable digital piano?: No, the CN201 is a console-style digital piano with a fixed cabinet and integrated pedals. It is designed to be a permanent piece of furniture in a home or studio rather than a portable stage piano.