Keyboard and Touch

The key feature that sets the CA401 apart from the majority of other digital pianos is the Grand Feel Compact (GF Compact) wooden-key keyboard action. This mechanism has been specifically developed to reproduce the touch characteristics of Kawai's industry-leading Grand Feel keyboard systems in a more compact form.

Long wooden key sticks are used for all 88 white and black keys, utilizing the "seesaw" mechanism that acoustic grand pianos have employed for centuries. The extended key pivot point ensures a more consistent touch weight when playing the back of the keyboard. This detail makes the CA401 the most realistic digital piano in its price class.

The Ivory Touch key surface absorbs moisture to prevent finger slippage. Bass region counterweights lighten the balance during pianissimo passages. The triple sensor increases responsiveness for rapid trills and repeated notes. Meanwhile, the let-off simulation perfectly mimics the "notch" sensation felt by a slowly depressed key—a feature available only in high-quality digital pianos.

Sound Quality

At the heart of the CA401 is the SK-EX Competition Grand, the sound of Kawai's latest generation SK-EX-L instruments. These instruments have achieved great success in recent years at the Chopin, Hamamatsu, and Sendai international piano competitions. With excellent tonal clarity and a distinct, powerful attack character, this piano sound has been recorded specifically from the performer's perspective—meaning it reproduces the sound heard from the pianist's seat as accurately as possible.

Kawai's Progressive Harmonic Imaging technology records each of the 88 keys separately across a wide dynamic range. Additionally, the CA401 offers the distinct tonal character of the Kawai EX concert grand. Both instruments have been reproduced with full 88-key stereo sampling.

The CA401's 4-speaker sound system projects low frequencies from the bottom, while mid and high frequencies are directed through front-facing speakers. The 40W output power creates a rich, resonant sound field in medium-sized rooms.

Functions and Connectivity

The CA401 offers wireless smartphone/tablet connectivity via Bluetooth® MIDI (v5.0) and Audio (v5.1) technology. Through the PianoRemote app, it is possible to change sounds and adjust parameters. The Virtual Technician (via PianoRemote) provides 18 parameters that digitally simulate the voicing, touch, and pedal adjustments made by a piano technician. Smart Mode offers 10 ready-made presets.

The internal lesson function includes Burgmüller, Czerny, Beyer, Chopin waltzes, and Alfred Basic Piano courses. Right/left-hand practice, metronome, and tempo adjustment are available. Dual and Four Hands modes allow for teacher-student collaborative playing. The 19 available sounds include variations such as jazz, pop, organ, strings, and choir.

Design

The rounded top board, tapered legs, and minimalist support blocks of the CA401's modern cabinet give the instrument an elegant, authoritative appearance. With a depth of 48.5 cm, the CA401 is relatively compact for a wooden-key instrument. Beneath the wide, 3-angle adjustable music rest are score support pins, ensuring that thick sheet music scores do not flip closed quickly. The OLED display panel provides direct access to all functions. Premium Rosewood, Premium Satin Black, and Premium Satin White color options are available.

Technical Specifications