What is the typical price for a Kawai CN301?

The Kawai CN301 in Satin Black is typically priced around GBP 1504, though pricing may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional taxes.

What keyboard action does the CN301 use?

The CN301 uses the Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) action, which features graded hammers, counterweights, and let-off simulation for an authentic feel.

Is the CN301 suitable for professional pianists?

Yes, its authentic keyboard action and high-fidelity sound engine make it suitable for various skill levels, including professionals and students.

What is the Virtual Technician feature?

The Virtual Technician allows users to customise specific acoustic piano characteristics, such as voicing, resonance, and mechanical noises, to their preference.

Where is the control panel located on the CN301?

The control panel is located on the side cheekblock and features a high-resolution OLED display for easy navigation of settings.

Does the CN301 include built-in lessons?

Yes, the digital piano comes with a variety of built-in lesson songs to assist students in their musical development.

Can I record my performances on the Kawai CN301?

The CN301 features a built-in recorder and USB connectivity, allowing you to record and save your performances digitally.

How does the CN301 compare to the Kawai CA series?

While the CN301 uses the plastic-key RHIII action, the CA series (like the CA501 and CA901) features wooden-key Grand Feel actions for even greater realism.

What kind of speakers does the CN301 have?

The CN301 is equipped with a high-quality speaker system designed to provide clear, balanced sound across the entire frequency range.

Is the Kawai CN301 available in other finishes?

While this specific model is Satin Black, the CN301 series is generally manufactured in various finishes to suit different home decors.

Gear article

Kawai CN301 Digital Piano

The Kawai CN301 is a premium digital piano that combines high-fidelity Progressive Harmonic Imaging sound technology with the acclaimed Responsive Hammer III keyboard action. Designed for home, educational, and religious settings, it reproduces the tonal characteristics of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX and Kawai EX concert grand pianos.

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History and Background

The CN301 is part of Kawai's long-running CN series, which serves as the manufacturer's mid-range line of home digital pianos. It was developed to bridge the gap between entry-level instruments and the high-end Concert Artist (CA) series. By incorporating technologies previously reserved for flagship models, such as the Shigeru Kawai piano samples and the RHIII action, Kawai positioned the CN301 as a versatile instrument suitable for domestic practice and institutional use in schools and churches.

Keyboard Action and Playability

At the core of the CN301 is the Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) keyboard action. This mechanism is designed to replicate the feel of an acoustic grand piano through several key features:

Graded Weighting: The hammers are heavier in the bass and lighter in the treble, mirroring the physical properties of an acoustic instrument.
Counterweights: These help to balance the key stroke, providing a more fluid feel during pianissimo passages.
Let-Off Simulation: Reproduces the subtle 'notch' felt when playing the keys of a grand piano very softly.
Triple-Sensor Detection: Enhances responsiveness for rapid note repetition.

Sound Character and Technology

The CN301 features the sounds of two world-class instruments: the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX and the Kawai EX concert grand pianos. These samples are captured using Kawai’s Progressive Harmonic Imaging technology, which ensures smooth tonal transitions across the dynamic range. The audio is delivered through a high-quality speaker system, and the instrument includes a Virtual Technician feature, allowing users to adjust parameters such as string resonance, damper noise, and hammer fallback noise to suit their personal preferences.

Features and Connectivity

Interface navigation is managed via a cheekblock control panel featuring a high-resolution OLED display. Modern connectivity is a highlight, with integrated Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio allowing for wireless communication with smart devices. This enables users to stream music through the piano's speakers or use teaching apps. The instrument also includes built-in lesson songs from popular methods, a USB recorder, and dual headphone jacks with Spatial Headphone Sound (SHS) technology for enhanced realism during private practice.

Target Audience and Comparison

The Kawai CN301 is geared toward a broad spectrum of users, from beginning students to professional pianists requiring a reliable practice tool. Within the Kawai range, it serves as a more affordable alternative to the CA501 and CA901, which feature wooden-key actions. When compared to industry alternatives such as the Roland HP704, Roland RP701, or Casio AP-300, the CN301 is often selected for its specific RHIII key action and the unique tonal profile of the Shigeru Kawai concert grand.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the typical price for a Kawai CN301?: The Kawai CN301 in Satin Black is typically priced around GBP 1504, though pricing may vary slightly depending on the retailer and regional taxes.
What keyboard action does the CN301 use?: The CN301 uses the Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) action, which features graded hammers, counterweights, and let-off simulation for an authentic feel.
What piano sounds are included in the CN301?: The instrument features high-quality samples of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX and Kawai EX concert grand pianos, captured with Progressive Harmonic Imaging.
Does the CN301 have Bluetooth connectivity?: Yes, the CN301 includes integrated Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio, allowing for wireless connection to tablets, smartphones, and computers.
Is the CN301 suitable for professional pianists?: Yes, its authentic keyboard action and high-fidelity sound engine make it suitable for various skill levels, including professionals and students.
What is the Virtual Technician feature?: The Virtual Technician allows users to customise specific acoustic piano characteristics, such as voicing, resonance, and mechanical noises, to their preference.
Where is the control panel located on the CN301?: The control panel is located on the side cheekblock and features a high-resolution OLED display for easy navigation of settings.
Does the CN301 include built-in lessons?: Yes, the digital piano comes with a variety of built-in lesson songs to assist students in their musical development.
Can I record my performances on the Kawai CN301?: The CN301 features a built-in recorder and USB connectivity, allowing you to record and save your performances digitally.
How does the CN301 compare to the Kawai CA series?: While the CN301 uses the plastic-key RHIII action, the CA series (like the CA501 and CA901) features wooden-key Grand Feel actions for even greater realism.
What kind of speakers does the CN301 have?: The CN301 is equipped with a high-quality speaker system designed to provide clear, balanced sound across the entire frequency range.
Is the Kawai CN301 available in other finishes?: While this specific model is Satin Black, the CN301 series is generally manufactured in various finishes to suit different home decors.