Keyboard and Touch

The CA501's Grand Feel Compact (GF Compact) wooden-key action is based on the same technology as the CA401: long wooden key sticks for all 88 white and black keys, the acoustic grand piano "seesaw" mechanism, and an extended key pivot point. This system is identical to that of the CA401—both models share the same premium keyboard feel, while the CA501 excels with its superior sound system, sound technology, and functionality.

The Ivory Touch key surface, triple sensor system, let-off simulation, and bass region counterweights are retained from the CA401. Together, these features make the CA501 the most realistic digital piano in its price class, allowing for the full development of finger technique learned on an acoustic grand piano.

Sound Quality

The feature that most fundamentally distinguishes the CA501 from the CA401 is the Harmonic Imaging XL (HI-XL) technology. Making full use of expanded sample memory, this system increases the sample length by up to 120% for the attack—the most critical part of a piano sound (the moment the finger strikes the key). The result: the natural resonance and harmonic richness of every note are heard more clearly, giving the instrument an organic, lively tonal quality.

The CA501 reproduces three world-class concert grands: the next-generation SK-EX Competition Grand (recorded from the SK-EX-L competition pianos, from the player's position, with a powerful attack character), the mid-sized SK-5 studio grand, and the classic Kawai EX concert grand. There are 45 sounds available, including jazz, pop, modern variations, upright piano, organ, and string instruments.

One of the CA501's strongest advantages is its 100W output power—2.5 times more powerful than the 401's 40W. The four-speaker system distributes low frequencies from the bottom, while the 360° dispersion speakers at the top spread mid/high frequencies in all directions. The result is a comprehensive, expansive tone that mimics the immersive sound field surrounding a grand piano, even in large rooms.

Functions and Connectivity

The CA501 possesses the same powerful functional capabilities as the CN301. The USB to Device function allows you to record your performance in MP3 or WAV format to a USB flash drive and listen to it later. With the overdubbing function, it is also possible to add layers to your performance, or play MIDI files (SMF) downloaded from the internet directly from the CA501.

The Virtual Technician, with 21 parameters (including individual Voicing, Tuning, and Key Volume for all 88 keys), allows for precise adjustments tailored to the pianist's preference. Line In/Out (6.3 mm) jacks are convenient for connecting with studio equipment. The lesson function includes the most extensive library, featuring Burgmüller, Czerny 30 and 100, Beyer, Bach Inventions, Sonatinen, Chopin Waltzes, and Alfred Basic/Adult/Premier courses. 100 rhythm patterns, a 10-song recorder (2 tracks), and ~90,000-note memory are also included with the CA501.

Design

The flat front and tall upper board of the CA501 give the seated pianist the immediate sensation of a grand piano. The placement of the metallic KAWAI logo on the lid, combined with the interplay of light reflecting off the pianist's hand movements, gives the instrument special aesthetic depth. The wide music rest includes score holding pins and can be adjusted to 3 angles. The left-hand panel with its OLED screen provides direct access to all functions without needing complex button combinations. Available in Premium Rosewood, Premium Satin Black, and Premium Satin White finishes.

Technical Specifications