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Choosing a premium digital piano can feel overwhelming, especially when two instruments share so much in common. The Kawai CA701 and Kawai CA901 sit at the top of Kawai’s celebrated Concert Artist line, and both offer an incredibly realistic playing experience. They share the same piano engine, the same wooden key action, and the same expressive control that has made Kawai the leader in digital piano design.

Ca901

At Worldwide Piano, we help players every day decide which model truly fits their home, their space, and their musical goals. If you are trying to choose between the CA701 and the CA901, here is a clear and thoughtful comparison that can guide your decision.

Shared Strengths: Where the CA701 and CA901 Are Identical

Although the CA701 and CA901 sit at different price points, most of the essential playing features are exactly the same.

Authentic Wooden Key Action

Both models use Kawai’s Grand Feel III wooden key action. All eighty eight keys are made of solid wood with long pivot lengths and a graded hammer design that closely mirrors Kawai’s acoustic grands. The keys include ivory and ebony textured surfaces, triple sensors, and let off simulation. In everyday playing, the touch of the CA701 and CA901 feels nearly identical.

Concert Quality Piano Tone

Each model includes the SK EX Rendering engine with multi channel sampling of the Shigeru Kawai SK EX concert grand. You can choose both the Concert and Competition versions of the piano. They also include the Harmonic Imaging XL engine with a full range of additional pianos, including the EX concert grand, SK 5, and K 60.

Polyphony is the same, the pedal system is the same, and both offer a deep level of editing through Virtual Piano Artisan. Whether you are voicing individual keys or adjusting resonance and damper behavior, you have the same tools on either model.

Modern Technology and Connectivity

Both pianos offer the five inch color touch screen in the left cheek block, Bluetooth audio and MIDI, a multitrack recorder, USB audio, and Kawai’s companion apps. If you enjoy layering sounds, recording ideas, or practicing with built in lesson material, both instruments give you the same platform.

In short, the core piano experience is identical. The real differences come from how the piano fills the room and how the cabinet interacts with the sound.

Where the CA901 Steps Ahead

A More Acoustic Sound in the Room

The biggest difference between the CA701 and the CA901 is the speaker system.

The CA701 uses a powerful six speaker design with one hundred ten watts of output. It already fills a room beautifully and offers plenty of presence for home practice and small gatherings.

The CA901 adds Kawai’s TwinDrive soundboard speaker system, which transforms the experience. Instead of sending sound only through speakers, the CA901 uses a real wooden soundboard with transducers that make the cabinet resonate. The piano feels alive, almost like a small acoustic upright. It offers more depth, more warmth, and more natural projection, especially at medium and higher volumes.

If you often play for family or guests, the CA901 provides a noticeably more immersive and expressive sound.

A More Traditional Cabinet Presence

The CA701 has a modern digital piano look with a wide, adjustable music desk. It is elegant and contemporary.

The CA901 takes on a more classic upright character. The fixed music desk, soft fall fallboard, and integrated soundboard design make it look and feel more like a real acoustic piano. Many customers prefer the CA901 because it becomes a centerpiece of the room.

Who Should Choose the CA701

The CA701 is ideal if:

You play mostly with headphones or at moderate volume. You want the best value without losing any of the core piano features. You prefer an adjustable music rest for composing or reading large scores. You want a powerful digital piano that still fits easily in most spaces.

For many players, the CA701 delivers everything they need at a friendlier price.

Who Should Choose the CA901

The CA901 is the better choice if:

You want the most realistic acoustic presence possible in a digital piano. You often play for others and want the sound to bloom naturally in the room. You prefer a traditional upright style cabinet that feels more like an acoustic instrument. You want the top model for long term enjoyment.

Many advanced players and lifelong pianists choose the CA901 for its richer projection and more organic feel.

Final Thoughts

The Kawai CA701 and Kawai CA901 are two of the finest digital pianos available today. Since they share the same touch, tone engine, and technology, the decision comes down to how much you value acoustic like projection and cabinet resonance.

The CA701 gives you nearly all of the experience at a more accessible price.

The CA901 offers the most authentic acoustic feel and sound in the room.

If you are still unsure, visit Worldwide Piano in New Jersey and experience both models side by side. The right piano is the one that inspires you every time you sit down to play.

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Yamaha 3hs vs. kawai nv12

If you love the feel and projection of a grand but need the control and convenience of a digital instrument, two names jump to the top of the list: Yamaha’s AvantGrand N3X and Kawai’s new Novus NV12. Both are serious, flagship hybrids. The difference is that the NV12 crosses the line from an excellent digital experience into a truly grand-piano experience, thanks to three core advantages: a real wooden soundboard driven by multiple transducers, Kawai’s full Millennium III Hybrid grand action, and a true damper mechanism that completes the front-to-back feel of an acoustic action. 

1) Soundboard and projection: real wood vs resonator panel

Yamaha equips the N3X with a four-channel speaker array and a flat-panel “Soundboard Resonator” under the music desk. It adds pleasant vibration and helps sound bloom toward the player, and Yamaha’s Tactile Response System enhances physical feedback. It is convincing, but it is still a resonator panel paired to speakers rather than a full wooden soundboard that carries the instrument’s voice into the room. 

Kawai’s NV12 replaces traditional cone speakers with the PentaDrive soundboard system. Five dedicated transducers energize a large wooden soundboard so the piano projects like an acoustic grand, with deep, room-filling resonance and a natural sense of space. This is not a cosmetic plate. It is a genuine soundboard designed to radiate the instrument’s tone. The result is bigger body, more acoustic-style projection, and a far more realistic player experience for you and for listeners across the room. 

2) The action: Millennium III Hybrid with a real damper mechanism

Both instruments use a true grand-piano action rather than a plastic keybed. Yamaha calls the N3X’s mechanism a Specialized Grand Piano Action and captures key and hammer motion with optical sensors. It feels good and is highly controllable, but it does not include an actual damper system; pedaled damping and key-off behavior are modeled. 

The Kawai NV12 goes further. It uses Kawai’s Millennium III Hybrid grand action and, critically, a real damper mechanism. That means you get the front-to-back elements of an acoustic action, including true damper leverage and timing as you pedal and release. Repetition, half-pedaling, and key-off are not just numbers in a sound engine. They are behaviors produced by physical parts that mirror an acoustic grand. In practice, trills sit cleaner, half-pedal shading is more predictable, and soft landings at the top of phrases feel like they do on a fine concert instrument. 

3) Tone engine and room feel

Yamaha’s multi-speaker system and resonator produce clear, present tone at the bench, and the N3X is admired for consistency and immediacy. Still, the sound disperses like a premium digital through speakers rather than like a grand soundboard into the room. 

Kawai’s NV12 soundboard behaves like an acoustic radiator. Because the whole board speaks, the room hears a coherent instrument rather than discrete speaker sources. That coherence matters when you open the top, play into a space, or record with a pair of room mics. The cabinet itself is designed as a grand-inspired shell with an opening top board to let the soundboard breathe, which further supports the acoustic projection you expect from a grand. 

4) Pedals, control, and nuance

Both pianos offer three pedals with half-pedal capability and fine sensor resolution. Where the NV12 pulls ahead is not in the spec sheet numbers but in how the pedals interact with a real damper mechanism and a full grand action. Pianists feel the change in resistance and hear the more natural envelope on key-off. That makes pedaled legato, flutter pedaling, and quiet releases at very low dynamic levels more natural on the Kawai. 

5) Physical presence and build

The N3X is substantial and beautifully finished in a compact, grand-style body. It weighs about 199 kg and fits easily in home studios and teaching spaces. 

The NV12 is unapologetically grand in presence, with a deeper curved cabinet, opening top, and a large soundboard assembly. It tips the scales around 173 kg, which underscores just how much of its sound making is handled by the board rather than heavy speaker arrays. For many players, that “it feels like a real instrument in the room” effect is worth the footprint. 

6) Bottom line: where the NV12 wins

Acoustic projection: real wooden soundboard driven by five transducers versus a resonator panel and speakers. The NV12 fills the room like a grand.  Action completeness: Millennium III Hybrid grand action with a real damper mechanism, so you get authentic front-and-back action behavior that digital modeling cannot fully reproduce.  Pedal realism: physical damper interaction makes half-pedaling and key-off color more convincing at the fingertips and the ear.  Grand cabinet acoustics: opening top and grand-inspired shell support true soundboard radiation. 

When the Yamaha N3X still makes sense

If you prioritize a slightly smaller footprint, love Yamaha’s voicing, and want a refined hybrid with strong onboard monitoring and tactile feedback at the bench, the N3X remains a proven choice. Its TRS and Spatial Acoustic system deliver a satisfying, consistent playing experience, especially in practice rooms or near-field settings. 

Why serious pianists will prefer the Kawai NV12

The NV12 erases the last digital barrier for many players. The soundboard projects like an acoustic grand. The action includes the damper system that completes the tactile loop between your hands, the pedal, and the tone. Put simply, the NV12 behaves less like a digital with add-ons and more like a grand piano that happens to be quiet, flexible, and always in tune. 

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Kawai K-500 AURES vs Yamaha Silent U3: The Superior “Anytime Piano”

Musicians often look for a piano that delivers authentic acoustic performance while allowing for quiet practice, recording, and modern connectivity at any time of day. The Yamaha U3 Silent model is a popular choice in that space, but the Kawai K-500 AURES offers a more advanced and versatile solution. With a world-class acoustic foundation and integrated hybrid technology, it stands out as the most complete “anytime piano” available today.

Kawai K-500 AURES

A Richer Acoustic Foundation

The K-500 AURES starts with one of Kawai’s top professional upright designs. Its 51-inch cabinet provides long strings and a large tapered soundboard, giving the instrument

  • Deep bass response
  • Singing treble tone
  • Warm, controlled mid-range

Kawai’s Millennium III action uses carbon-infused parts that resist humidity and improve speed and durability. Many players describe the feel as more responsive and controllable across quiet and expressive passages.

The Yamaha U3 is respected, but the K-500 offers greater tonal warmth and stability, which matters for real daily practice and serious playing.

The Advantage: Three Modes in One Piano

The Silent U3 offers two play modes:

  1. Standard acoustic
  2. Headphone silent mode

The Kawai K-500 AURES offers three:

ModeExperienceWhat Makes It Better
AcousticFull upright resonanceExcellent tone and action control
Silent HeadphonesSK-EX concert grand engineRich, dynamic response for quiet practice
Hybrid Soundboard PlaybackDigital sound played through the soundboardNatural room sound with adjustable volume — without headphones

This hybrid soundboard technology gives you quiet practice that still feels like performing, not isolating. You can rehearse softly in the room, teach at low volume, or practice late at night comfortably.

Silent Practice That Inspires

Silent mode on the K-500 AURES captures the nuance of key and hammer motion, allowing expressive control through headphones. You get Kawai’s premium SK-EX concert grand sound engine, adjustable resonance, and voicing settings that keep practice musical and rewarding.

Instead of feeling like a compromise, quiet practice becomes a pleasure.

Designed for Modern Musicians

With built-in Bluetooth MIDI and audio, USB, and traditional MIDI, the K-500 AURES makes it simple to:

  • Play along with apps and recordings
  • Stream audio through the soundboard
  • Layer orchestral voices and pads
  • Practice to a metronome in the room
  • Record ideas instantly
  • Teach at controlled volumes

With the Silent U3, similar results often require external speakers or extra equipment.

When Quiet Playing Still Needs to Feel Real

Headphones are useful, but not always ideal for long practice sessions. The AURES soundboard system lets you play quietly while still hearing the piano breathe into space. Pedaling, voicing, and tone shaping all feel more natural compared to headphone-only systems.

This gives the K-500 AURES a real-world advantage for student-teacher environments and dedicated practice spaces.

Best Fit for:

  • Players practicing morning or late night
  • Families and shared living spaces
  • Teachers and students
  • Recording musicians and creators
  • Anyone wanting digital flexibility without sacrificing acoustic quality

Conclusion

The Yamaha Silent U3 is a fine instrument, but the Kawai K-500 AURES redefines the anytime piano category. With richer acoustic tone, advanced action engineering, and true hybrid soundboard technology, it lets you play acoustic, silent, and hybrid modes naturally and musically.

For players who want modern flexibility without compromise, the K-500 AURES is the superior choice.

Ready to Experience the Difference?

Worldwide Piano in Edison, NJ is one of the premier Kawai dealers in the region.
We welcome you to visit our showroom and play the K-500 AURES in person.

Call or visit:
804 US Highway 1, Edison, NJ 08817
(732) 777-7381
worldwidepianostores.com

We will gladly set up a side-by-side comparison with a Yamaha Silent U3 so you can feel and hear the difference yourself.

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When people shop for an upright, especially a Yamaha or Kawai, the conversation almost always turns into, “Every piano is different.” That is true, but in a showroom context it can get overstated. If you are comparing mass produced uprights from top Japanese makers, the bigger difference you will hear after delivery is often not piano to piano, it is showroom acoustics versus your home acoustics.

Piano Buyer puts it bluntly: if your new piano does not sound the same at home as it did in the store, the cause may be the room, not the instrument, and not every “tone problem” should be solved by voicing the piano. 

Why the showroom sounds so different

A showroom is basically a controlled listening environment, even when it does not look like a recording studio.

Bigger volume of air often means a sound that feels more open and less “in your face.” Different surface materials change what frequencies bounce back at you. Glass, drywall, hardwood, tile, and big open walls can make a piano feel brighter. Carpet, heavy curtains, and overstuffed furniture can make it feel softer or duller. Reflection patterns matter. Where the reflections come from and how quickly they return changes clarity, attack, and perceived sustain.

Piano Buyer also points out that many people treat rooms the wrong way by just trying to “dead” the space, and recommends thinking in terms of a balance of absorption and diffusion so the room does not turn dull in some ranges and boomy in others. 

In other words, your room is a huge part of the instrument.

Why piano to piano differences are smaller with Yamaha and Kawai uprights

With mass produced uprights from Yamaha and Kawai, you are not dealing with a small workshop where each instrument can drift widely. These companies build to tight specs, and that consistency reduces the spread from one piano to the next, especially within the same model line.

Kawai is a great example of this design philosophy in the action. Their Millennium III action uses ABS carbon composites, which Kawai describes as a carbon fiber infused material that allows parts to be lighter and stronger, improving speed and consistency.  That kind of engineering is aimed at repeatable feel and long term stability across production runs.

Yamaha’s vertical actions are also designed for consistent performance at scale, and while technicians debate materials and specific parts, the bigger real world experience for most buyers is that modern Yamaha uprights generally feel predictably “Yamaha” within a model family. The variation you notice day to day is usually the room and the humidity more than the manufacturing.

The practical takeaway

If you are comparing a Yamaha U series to another Yamaha U series, or a Kawai K series to another Kawai K series, yes there are differences. But if you move either piano from a treated showroom into a lively living room with hardwood floors and big windows, it can sound like a completely different instrument overnight.

So instead of obsessing over microscopic differences between two similar uprights, it is often smarter to ask:

Where will the piano sit in the house How reflective is that space How stable is the humidity What can we do to help the room support the sound you liked in the showroom

Simple ways to make the home sound closer to the showroom

You do not need a full acoustic remodel. Small changes move the needle fast.

Placement: Don’t jam the back of the upright tight to the wall. A little breathing room can change bass and projection. Soft versus hard balance: If your room is bright and echoey, add a rug, a fabric couch, or a few soft surfaces. If your room is too dead, consider reducing heavy absorption and adding diffusion like bookshelves. Treat the first reflections: If the piano sits next to a big flat wall, that wall can throw harsh reflections right back at you. Humidity control: Stable humidity helps the piano stay stable, and a stable piano sounds more like itself.

Bottom line

Yes, each piano has its own personality. But with mass produced uprights from Yamaha and Kawai, the “personality shift” most people experience after purchase is usually the room. If you want your piano to sound like it did in the store, treat the room like part of the instrument, because it is

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Worldwide Piano

Buying a Piano

Buying a piano is more than a purchase—it’s an investment in your family’s future, creativity, and musical growth. At Worldwide Piano, we believe every buyer deserves to be equipped with the right information. If you’re new to piano ownership, here are key things to keep in mind before you make your decision.

Can I Trust the Internet for Piano Advice?

The internet offers a wealth of information, but not all of it is reliable. Forums and reviews are often filled with mixed opinions or outdated facts. Your best resource? A reputable local piano retailer like Worldwide Piano. We work directly with manufacturers, understand the instruments inside and out, and care about building long-term relationships with our customers. Our reputation depends on your satisfaction.

Should the Piano Be Unboxed in My Home?

No. A high-quality acoustic piano should never be unboxed in your living room. Pianos travel long distances from the factory to your home, and it’s crucial that they are inspected and prepped by professionals. At Worldwide Piano, each instrument is carefully unboxed, inspected, and cleaned by a certified technician before it arrives at your door. This ensures it’s delivered in perfect playing condition.

What About Serial Numbers?

Many people ask if the serial number of a piano matters. The answer: not really, at least for new pianos. Serial numbers help determine the date of manufacture, but they are assigned early in the production process—long before a piano is finished, shipped, and warehoused. Quality, condition, and preparation are far more important than the serial number itself.

Do I Need a Written Warranty?

You may receive a written warranty when purchasing a new piano, but it’s not required to receive warranty service. Plus most major manufacturers have moved to posting their warranty terms online. All you need to keep is your bill of sale—this serves as your proof of purchase and warranty activation.

What’s the Difference Between a Full and Limited Warranty?

In the United States, all new pianos come with either a full or limited warranty:

Full Warranty: The warranty follows the piano. This means the piano is covered throughout the full warranty period, even if it’s resold. Limited Warranty: This is only valid for the original purchaser and does not transfer if the piano changes hands.

Worldwide Piano can help you understand exactly what type of warranty your piano carries and what it means for you.

Why Invest in a Quality Piano?

Learning Piano is Key!

A great piano isn’t just a beautiful piece of furniture—it’s a long-term educational tool. Children who learn to play piano benefit in many ways:

Higher test scores Improved math and language skills Stronger hand-eye coordination Fine motor skill development Greater self-confidence A lifelong hobby they’ll treasure

Unlike cars or appliances, a well-built piano is crafted to last generations. That’s why it’s important to work with a retailer who can also provide ongoing service, tuning, and lessons—like us.

Worldwide Piano is Here to Help

Whether you’re buying your first piano or upgrading an older instrument, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Visit our showroom, ask questions, and experience the difference a trusted local piano expert can make.

👉 Explore our selection or get in touch: www.worldwidepianostores.com

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Kawai DG30 vs. Roland GP3: Which Digital Baby Grand Piano Is Better for Your Home?

If you’re searching for the perfect digital baby grand piano to elevate your living space and playing experience, two names likely on your radar are the Kawai DG30 and the Roland GP3. Both of these instruments pack impressive features into compact, elegant baby grand designs—but when it comes to authentic touch, sound quality, and long-term value, the Kawai DG30 stands out as the superior choice.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences and explain why more pianists and music educators are choosing the Kawai DG30 digital grand piano for their homes, studios, and performance spaces.

1. Keyboard Action: Kawai’s RHIII vs. Roland’s PHA-4

The feel of the keys is one of the most important parts of any digital piano.

Kawai DG30 uses the acclaimed Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) keyboard action with triple-sensor detection, let-off simulation, and Ivory Touch key surfaces. It closely replicates the feel of a high-end acoustic grand piano, giving you precise control and expressive response. Roland GP3 features Roland’s PHA-4 Standard keyboard action, which is good for beginners but lacks the realism advanced players often seek.

Why this matters: Whether you’re practicing scales, playing expressive classical pieces, or accompanying vocalists, the Kawai DG30’s keyboard gives a more natural and professional feel—a critical factor for developing proper technique and musicality.

2. Sound Engine: Realistic Sampling vs. Digital Modeling

Kawai DG30 uses Progressive Harmonic Imaging (PHI) with full 88-key sampling from Kawai’s world-class SK-EX Concert Grand. This results in a warm, nuanced tone that evolves naturally with your dynamics and touch. Roland GP3 uses SuperNATURAL piano modeling, a digital approach that generates sound on-the-fly. While clear and clean, it can sound more synthetic compared to Kawai’s sampled realism.

Verdict: The Kawai DG30 sounds more like a real grand piano, especially in expressive genres like classical, jazz, and ballads.

3. Built-in Speaker System: Bigger Sound, Better Projection

Kawai DG30 includes a 4-speaker, 40W stereo sound system that disperses sound both upward and downward—just like a real acoustic grand. It creates a full, rich atmosphere, even in larger rooms. Roland GP3 features a 2-speaker, 22W system, which can sound thinner and less immersive, especially at higher volumes.

If you want your music to fill the room with warm, resonant tone, the Kawai DG30 delivers the experience of a true grand piano.

4. Elegant Cabinet Design with Polished Ebony Finish

Both models feature space-saving baby grand silhouettes, but the Kawai DG30 offers a more luxurious look with polished ebony finish, refined trim, and chrome hardware. It feels like a high-end instrument, not just a digital keyboard in a grand-shaped case.

This makes the DG30 not only a musical centerpiece—but a stunning piece of furniture that adds elegance to any room.

5. Realistic Pedals and Modern Connectivity

The Kawai DG30 includes a traditional 3-pedal grand piano setup with half-pedaling and damper resonance, making it ideal for classical repertoire and expressive playing. Both the DG30 and GP3 offer Bluetooth MIDI, USB, and audio in/out options, but Kawai’s attention to realistic pedal action sets it apart.

Final Thoughts: Why the Kawai DG30 Is the Smarter Choice

While the Roland GP3 is a capable entry-level digital grand, the Kawai DG30 outperforms it in every critical category: feel, sound, power, design, and overall realism. It’s built for pianists who want the experience of a real grand piano with the convenience of a digital instrument.

If you’re serious about piano and want an instrument that inspires you to play more often and express yourself more deeply, the Kawai DG30 is hands-down the better investment.

Shop the Kawai DG30 at Worldwide Piano

Ready to experience the DG30 for yourself? At Worldwide Piano, we carry the Kawai DG30 in polished ebony and offer in-store demos, expert advice, and financing options to help you bring the perfect piano home.

Call us today or stop by our showroom to compare the Kawai DG30 and Roland GP3 side-by-side—and hear the difference for yourself.

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Kawai Pianos VS. Yamaha Pianos

Kawai baby grand piano

When it comes to choosing a high-quality piano, two names frequently come up: Kawai and Yamaha. While both brands have a long-standing reputation for craftsmanship and innovation, Kawai pianos consistently outperform Yamaha in terms of action technology, tonal quality, and dynamic control.

At Worldwide Piano, we have spent years studying the differences between these two brands, and we confidently recommend Kawai as the superior choice for serious musicians, teachers, and students alike. Whether you’re looking for a new or used Kawai piano, our expert team can help you find the perfect match.

Kawai Piano Vs. Yamaha Pianos and Kawai’s Technical Superiority

One of the most significant reasons to choose Kawai over Yamaha is the advanced technology found in Kawai’s piano actions.

Kawai’s Millennium III Action – A Revolution in Piano Design

  • Kawai’s Millennium III action is made from ABS-Carbon, a material that is stronger and lighter than wood, resulting in:
    • Faster key repetition
    • Greater durability (resistant to humidity and temperature changes)
    • More consistent performance over time
  • Yamaha, on the other hand, still relies on traditional wooden action parts, which are prone to swelling or shrinking with changes in climate, leading to inconsistencies in touch and responsiveness.

Kawai’s Longer Keysticks for Better Dynamic Control

Another major advantage of Kawai pianos is their longer keysticks, which allow for more precise control over dynamics and a greater range of expressive playing. Yamaha’s keysticks are shorter, making it harder to achieve the same level of nuance and sensitivity in performance.

Superior Sound: The Warm, Expressive Tone of Kawai Pianos

While Yamaha pianos are often described as having a bright, percussive sound, Kawai pianos are known for their warm, rich, and complex tonal character. This makes them a preferred choice for classical, jazz, and contemporary musicians who seek a more expressive and dynamic instrument.

  • Kawai pianos feature solid spruce soundboards of the highest quality, which significantly enhance resonance and tonal depth.
  • Unlike Yamaha and other manufacturers, Kawai uses tapered soundboards in all of its high-quality pianos, including uprights and grands. This design allows the soundboard to vibrate more freely, producing a broader tonal palette and greater dynamic range, giving pianists more control over expression.

Why Steinway Chose Kawai – But Kawai Held Back Its Best Innovations

Kawai’s tonal superiority is one of the key reasons Steinway & Sons selected Kawai to build their Boston line of pianos. Many Boston pianos are found in conservatories and prestigious music institutions, showcasing Kawai’s craftsmanship.

However, Kawai does not share its latest technological advancements with Steinway, since Steinway remains a competitor. As a result:

  • Boston pianos do not feature Kawai’s Millennium III action, which means they lack the superior responsiveness and durability of a true Kawai piano.
  • Boston pianos also do not have Kawai’s longer keysticks, limiting their dynamic control and expressive capabilities.

So while Boston pianos may carry the Steinway name, they are not built with the full performance capabilities of an authentic Kawai.

Why Worldwide Piano is the Best Place to Buy a Kawai Piano

Piano Stores NJ
Pianos for Sale

At Worldwide Piano, we take pride in helping musicians find the perfect piano, and we are one of the most trusted dealers of new and used Kawai pianos. Here’s why you should buy your Kawai piano from us:

1. Expert Knowledge & Unmatched Customer Service

  • We don’t just sell pianos—we understand them.
  • Our expert team provides detailed comparisons to help you choose the best piano for your needs.

2. The Best Selection of Kawai Pianos

  • We carry a wide range of brand-new Kawai pianos, as well as high-quality used models, all at unbeatable prices.
  • Every used Kawai piano is carefully inspected, tuned, and restored to pristine condition.

3. Exclusive Dealer Offers & Financing Options

  • We offer flexible financing plans to make owning a world-class Kawai piano more accessible.
  • Special dealer discounts you won’t find anywhere else.

4. Nationwide Shipping & Delivery

  • No matter where you are, we can safely deliver your Kawai piano directly to your home.

5. A Trusted Source for Institutions & Professionals

  • We have placed Kawai pianos in schools, universities, concert halls, and private studios worldwide.

The Verdict: Kawai Over Yamaha Every Time

While Yamaha pianos have their place in the market, Kawai pianos offer superior craftsmanship, advanced action technology, and a more expressive, dynamic sound. Whether you’re a beginner, a professional pianist, or a music educator, a Kawai piano will provide greater longevity and performance than its Yamaha counterpart.

And when it comes to buying the best Kawai piano, there is no better place than Worldwide Piano. We are committed to helping you find the perfect instrument for your musical journey.

Explore Kawai Pianos Today

Check out some great videos and pictures of Kawai pianos in action:

🔗 Kawai Official Videos

🔗 Worldwide Piano’s Selection of Kawai Pianos

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Yamaha uprights have a reputation for reliability, and many of them keep making music for decades. But when you are shopping used, the real question is not “Will it work,” it is “Will it work well, and will it stay that way without turning into a repair project.”

Larry Fine’s well known rule of thumb often lands around 20 to 25 years as a practical cutoff for buyers who want to reduce risk. That guidance lines up with what many technicians see in the field: as a piano gets past a couple decades, the odds of wear and climate related problems climb, even if the piano still looks clean.

First, what is the realistic lifespan of an acoustic piano?

Piano Buyer notes that an “average piano under average conditions” is often said to last about 40 to 50 years, with huge variation depending on use and environment.  That does not mean a 40 year old Yamaha is automatically bad. It means the instrument is moving into the age range where bigger issues are simply more likely.

So why do Fine and other experienced voices push buyers toward younger pianos anyway?

Why you usually want to buy a younger Yamaha upright

1) Action wear adds up, and it is what you feel every day

The action is a system of felt, wood, cloth, and moving parts. Over time, felt compresses, bushings loosen, regulation drifts, and friction increases. The piano might tune fine, but it can feel uneven, sluggish, or harder to control dynamically. This is one of the most common reasons older uprights disappoint players even when they “seem okay” at a quick test.

2) Humidity history matters more than brand, and time multiplies the risk

Pianos are mostly wood, and humidity swings cause wood parts to swell and shrink. The Piano Technicians Guild explains that these changes affect tuning stability and touch, and that extreme swings can eventually cause cracks and glue joint failures. 

The longer a piano has existed, the more seasons it has endured, and the more chances it has had to spend a few years in a rough environment like a damp basement, a dry winter living room with strong heat, or a space without climate control. One bad stretch can leave permanent instability.

3) “It holds a tune” becomes less guaranteed as the piano ages

Even if an older upright can be tuned today, it may not hold tuning as well if its wood structure has been stressed by humidity cycles. PTG ties humidity changes directly to tuning stability problems.  For many buyers, tuning frustration is the thing that turns a bargain into regret.

4) The economics usually favor younger instruments

Piano Buyer encourages many families, if financially able, to consider good quality new pianos or better used pianos no more than about 15 years old, and notes that if an older piano is chosen, it should be a higher quality instrument and restored to like new condition.  That is the money point: older can be fine, but the price needs to reflect the higher likelihood of meaningful work.

A practical age guideline for Yamaha uprights

Here is a sensible way to think about it:

Under 25 years old: Usually the safest zone for most buyers, which is why Fine’s 20 to 25 year guidance is popular. 25 to 40 years old: Can still be a great Yamaha if it was well maintained and kept in stable humidity, but you should assume it may need more service, like regulation, voicing, and action parts. Over 40 years old: Not automatically too old, but you are buying condition, service history, and inspection results, not the Yamaha name on the fallboard.

Two quick tips before you buy

Confirm the age by serial number

Yamaha explains where to find the serial number on vertical pianos and provides tools for determining age and market information. 

Always get a technician inspection

Piano Buyer recommends using an inspection checklist as a preliminary step, then hiring a technician for a thorough evaluation.  This matters most once you are shopping older than about 20 to 25 years.

Bottom line

A Yamaha upright is not “too old” at a specific birthday. It is too old when the piano’s age puts it in a higher risk category and the price does not account for likely wear, humidity history, and future service costs. That is why buyers tend to do better, and sleep better, when they choose a younger used Yamaha, especially if they want a stable, responsive instrument without surprises.

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How to Choose a Piano?

How to Choose a Piano for the Beginning Student

So, you finally decided to buy a piano. How important is sound quality to you? Where will you place the piano in your home? How much space do you have? How much will you have to spend to get a good piano? What’s the best piano for you and your family? These are some questions you should ask yourself when choosing your piano.

A beginning piano student needs a good instrument.

Think about it. If you want your child to play soccer, would you send them out on the field in a pair of cheap flip-flops? Or would you make sure your child had a good pair of shoes? Shoes, of course! On the other hand, does your child need professional-quality $100 soccer cleats? Maybe not on the first day.

As a parent you want to make sure your child has what they need to learn, grow & enjoy learning the piano. However, you’re probably not ready to go out and buy a grand piano. Most parents find themselves battling to strike a balance between the best instrument to buy to start a child’s musical education and how much they’ll have to spend to do that. We will show you how to choose a piano that’s right for you. We hope this article will help you feel confident moving forward with a piano instrument of your choice. 

To help you choose the best piano for your child (and your budget!) let’s talk about how to choose a piano for a beginning student.

The Three Types of Keyboard Instruments:

There are three basic categories of keyboard instruments. The largest and most expensive, (and also the best when it comes to developing piano skills,) are the Acoustic pianos. There are also many good Digital and Hybrid pianos, which are smaller and less expensive that do a decent job of mimicking the sound and feel of an acoustic instrument. A third category, the electronic Keyboard, is the least expensive option, but may not have the right touch to develop playing ability and finger strength for a beginning pianist, or enough keys to play a wide range of music. (Most level 1B books begin to use the upper and lower octaves as well as introduce pedaling at which point they have already outgrown the use of their keyboard.) 

How to Choose a Piano – Acoustic Pianos:

Choose an Acoustic Piano

The sooner a student has the opportunity to practice on an acoustic piano, the better. 

Quality acoustic pianos produce sounds from natural materials offering the highest level of responsiveness, resistance and a range of dynamics. Subsequently, the beautiful tone & color created by an acoustic piano not even the nicest digital pianos can match. The sooner a student has the opportunity to practice on an acoustic instrument with a nuanced musical responsiveness, the more musically they can play. True, acoustic pianos are expensive. The typical price range for a quality acoustic upright (also called “vertical”) piano is $4,000 to $8,000. If you want a grand or baby grand piano, expect to pay $6,000 to $10,000 or more. 

***Buyers Note: The Hallet and Davis, Baldwin, Kawai or Seiler lines are a few favorites within the musical community. There are other good brands such as  Yamaha, Samick, & Young Chang. 

Where should I buy a Piano? 

Not only should you know how to choose a piano. You must also make sure you shop with a reputable piano store. These piano stores can offer you follow up support and warranty services which private sellers cannot. A private seller says a piano “just needs a tuning” when in fact the piano is not suitable. An acoustic piano in poor condition isn’t always easy to spot! This will only cause frustration and hinder the progress of a beginning student.

A private seller is not qualified to make the determination of what a piano needs or determine condition. Often Buyers bring home a piano only to be told by the tuner that it cannot be tuned! In most cases it will need major repairs to critical components to even function! The poor customers are left with no recourse, unable to recoup their time and money. This is a common and disappointing situation to find yourself in. If you don’t know your jewels, know your Jeweler! 

How to Choose a Piano of the Digital Or Hybrid variety? 

Digital pianos can closely simulate the playing experience of an acoustic piano pretty well, especially as technology improves. They feature an imitation hammer action and some imitation wooden keys. This gives you a more realistic feeling that closely simulates playing an acoustic piano. Digital pianos don’t require tuning and offer the convenience and flexibility of headphones for silent practicing.

Sound is either synthetic or sampled (sampled being preferred). These sounds will offer an array of piano and instrumental sounds in addition to recorded songs. Digital pianos always have a full 88key keyboard, three pedals, and a substantial case for stability while playing. (unlike X-stands which wobble). Consequently you won’t be limited to what music you can play on a full digital piano. 

Choose a Hybrid Piano

How to choose a piano of the digital variety? You must find the one that most closely mimics the acoustic piano. Hybrids are closest to acoustic pianos. This is due to authentic hammer actions (vs. semi hammer in digitals,) true wooden keys and upgraded speakers. Hybrid pianos offer a playing experience that’s virtually indistinguishable from acoustic pianos. It’s a substantial upgrade from a digital.

***Buyers Note: The Kawai and Casio-Bechstein Celviano hybrids are the most well respected options in digitals within the musical community. These are the choice instruments of teachers and composers whose musical needs include exceptional response and playability.

The quality and ease of midi and computer integration plus bluetooth capabilities also make them a favorite. Yamaha was once a widely popular digital/hybrid brand, however, in recent years Kawai has been preferred in most professional comparisons. Digitals start around 2,000 while Hybrids start around 4,000 and up. (Some dealers offer a one year trade up policy should you decide to upgrade to an acoustic in the future. Be sure to ask and select these dealers!)

Should I buy a Keyboard?

A full-size keyboard has 88 keys, spanning seven octaves and three extra notes. If you want an enjoyable keyboard experience, don’t go for less than this. Anything less than 88 keys you will find yourself regularly hitting upper or lower limits unable to play most music.  

***Buyers Note: We recommend The Privia PSX1000 ($750.00) with its 88 keys, optional case and full pedals. This is one of the most affordable keyboards still suitable for learning purposes. See videos online!

Summary: 

As we learned above, Acoustic pianos are preferred. They are the most desirable option but also the most expensive. When an acoustic piano is not possible, you may consider other keyboard instruments such as Hybrids, Digitals and Keyboards. Hybrids are preferred as they use exactly the same moving parts as a grand piano. Thus, they create a nearly indistinguishable playing experience to an acoustic grand.

Digitals don’t have the same physical parts as a real piano or a hybrid. They use various techniques to recreate the heavier touch and responsiveness with imitation components. Keyboards simulate key responsiveness without the use of any action components. Therefore they are the least desirable for learning purposes but they do offer the most compact and affordable solution. 

What is a Piano Action?

Hammer action- The highest quality and most expensive. Each key moves a mechanical hammer, giving an almost identical feel to an acoustic piano.

Weighted- Weights built into keys, similar feel to a real piano. Ok for first instrument.

Semi-weighted- Combines spring-loaded action with weights attached to the keys. Some dynamic range lost. Not ideal for first instrument. 

Unweighted- (aka “synth action”) Typically molded plastic keys creating resistance with springs. The cheapest option. Least desirable for learning.

Article by Aislyn Magrys

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It doesn’t matter if You play the piano casually or are a concert pianist, these Amazing facts pertain to all who study and play the piano.

  1. PIANISTS USE THEIR BRAIN MORE EFFECTIVELY AND EFFICIENTLY

In order to properly play the piano, players and potential piano players will have to memorize the sound of all 88-keys and learn how to mix and match sounds to create beautiful sounding music.

Not only that, but they have to learn to use both hands independently and this takes great brain power and concentration.

This strengthens the frontal lobe thereby improving its overall efficiency. According to a number of studies carried out during the history of the piano, scientists have concluded that pianists develop superior problem solving, reasoning, decision making, and communication skills.

FUN FACT: Claudio Arrau rose to fame as a child prodigy and learned to read music before he could read actual words.

  1. PIANISTS ARE ABLE TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES BETTER THAN NON-PIANO PLAYERS

It is a widely accepted fact that music is an art and it is a medium through which many people are able to express themselves. Playing the piano is one way in which many people do that.

Some studies suggest that individuals who play the piano are able to “turn off” or suppress the part of the brain responsible for producing stereotypical answers. As a result, their true self is able to shine through.

FUN FACT: Arthur Rubinstein, a world-famous pianist, had a reputation for being a “grand storyteller” both on and off the piano and was fluent in eight languages: English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish

  1. PIANISTS ARE ABLE TO MULTITASK BETTER THAN NON-PIANO PLAYERS

As mentioned before, pianists are able to use their brains more effectively than non-piano players. As a result, they are able to multitask better than most non-piano players.

This is because playing the piano requires you to perform many small tasks simultaneously in order to create musical masterpieces.

When you see a Louis Lortie or a Yuja Wang going ham on a Steinway Grand Piano they aren’t just clicking keys. No sir! There are a bunch of small tasks all occurring at the same time.

So while playing the keys and pedaling, Mr. Lortie is interpreting a music sheet and keeping time.

During his performance, he also has to maintain his posture and control his breathing, while forming chords and following pitch. Still, think it’s easy? How about the pressure of having thousands of eyes and ears staring at you and listening keenly to every note. Think again!

FUN FACT: A piano can have over 10,000 moving parts

  1. PIANISTS ARE LIKELY TO BE MORE CREATIVE THAN YOU!

In order to be named among the greats in terms of the piano, pianists are forced to think outside of the box every day to stand out amongst the millions of wanna-be Beethovens, Chopins, and Ashkenazys.

According to research carried out by researchers at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, pianists develop divergent thinking abilities which allow them to come up with solutions to complex problems.

This is because playing the piano bridges the gap between the left and right hemispheres of the brain which enhances problem-solving abilities and as a result, creativity.

FUN FACT: In the past, only people who were rich such as royals and aristocrats could afford to have pianos in their home. These pianos were very bulky and could not be moved very easily. Nowadays, pianos come in many sizes and have become more affordable.

Click this link for a review of some of the most affordable pianos available today:

  1. PIANISTS ARE GENERALLY HAPPIER 

Don’t get this point misconstrued. Playing the piano does not make you happy or cure mental illnesses.

However, it has been observed that individuals who play the piano are generally happier than those who do not. At a young age, playing the piano builds children’s self-esteem, confidence and social skills.

They are more likely to thrive in school and in social spaces. This is great news for guys who wish to impress their peers and especially the ladies.

People who begin playing the piano at a later stage in their life have admitted to feeling less depressed and tired. Playing the piano has also lessened their anxiety and stress and has given them newfound feelings of independence.

Because playing the piano improves cognitive functions and dexterity, doctors who prescribe unconventional treatments recommend playing the piano to people who suffer from dementia, stroke and PTSD.

FUN FACT: Famous pianist Ludwig van Beethoven composed many of what has been considered his greatest compositions while partially deaf!

  1. PIANISTS HAVE ENHANCED NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS!

Though some pianists can play the piano for hours and can successfully operate as a “one-man/woman act”, there is something almost magical about combining the sounds of the piano with other instruments. Pianos have a place in bands, orchestras, studios, theatre, etc and in order to properly collaborate with other instruments and pianos, the pianist will need to communicate with the other players both verbally and non-verbally. As a result, non-verbal communication skills improve naturally over time both on and off the piano.

FUN FACT: Sergei Rachmaninoff had hands that were so large they spanned 12 keys! As a result, one of his pieces, Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto n.3 is considered one of the hardest classical pieces to play and many of the most talented pianists will not even bother to attempt it.

  1. PEOPLE WHO PLAY THE PIANO ARE MORE DISCIPLINED

At some point in your life, you may have heard that the piano is one of the hardest instruments to master.

Unfortunately, this causes many people to shy away from learning to play. It may take several weeks to even learn a new song and you will mess up many times when you are practicing.

But, if you determined to learn, the reward is not only learning to play the song but you will increase your patience and perseverance. More importantly, you will become more disciplined.

FUN FACT: Pianos were originally made of ivory until around the 1970’s when the harvesting of ivory was proven to have a severe environmental impact. Although keys are commonly made of plastic and resin nowadays, many people still refer to playing the piano as “tickling the ivories”.

Has your mind been blown yet? There are many other interesting and amazing facts about the piano and people who play the piano that was not mentioned above. What mind-blowing facts have you discovered?

Be sure to share them with your friends and family so that they’ll want to join the piano-loving family!