Kawai ES120 88-key Digital Piano or Kawai CX102 Digital Piano? Which Kawai Model to Buy
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The kawai es120 88 key digital piano vs cx102 digital piano comparison highlights two distinct approaches to home keyboards. Both models offer 88 weighted keys and Bluetooth connectivity for modern devices. The ES120 arrives as a complete bundle with a stand, bench, and triple pedals, making it an all-in-one solution. The CX102 focuses on premium sound quality with Shigeru Kawai technology and app support. You must decide between a ready-to-play package and a dedicated instrument with advanced features.
Key differences
| Aspect | Kawai ES120 88-Key Digital Piano Bundle | Kawai CX102 Digital Piano |
|---|---|---|
| Included Accessories | Stand, bench, and triple pedal included | Not listed |
| Sound Engine | Standard | Shigeru Kawai SK-EX with Harmonic Imaging |
| Number of Preset Tones | 25 | 17 |
| Polyphony | Not listed | 192-note |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Audio and MIDI, USB-MIDI | Bluetooth MIDI and USB-MIDI |
| Key Action | Responsive Hammer Compact | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Kawai ES120 88-Key Digital Piano Bundle if
- You want a complete setup with stand, bench, and pedals included
- You need Bluetooth Audio streaming for playback through built-in speakers
- You prefer a larger library of 25 preset tones
Choose Kawai CX102 Digital Piano if
- You prioritize premium Shigeru Kawai concert grand sound samples
- You need high 192-note polyphony for complex classical pieces
- You want to use PianoRemote or PiaBookPlayer apps for lessons
Verdict: The ES120 bundle is the practical choice for beginners who need a fully furnished keyboard station immediately. The CX102 suits serious players who value superior sound engine technology and app integration over included furniture. Your decision depends on whether you need the stand and bench or the premium audio features.
ES120 Bundle vs CX102 Specs
Included accessories
The Kawai ES120 is sold as a comprehensive bundle. It includes a furniture-style stand, a triple pedal unit with damper, soft, and sostenuto pedals, and an adjustable bench. This setup provides everything needed for immediate play. The Kawai CX102 is listed as a standalone digital piano. The data does not mention any included stand, pedals, or bench. You must purchase these accessories separately if you want a complete playing station. The ES120 offers immediate convenience and a ready-to-play configuration out of the box. The CX102 requires additional planning and purchases to achieve a similar setup.
Preset tones
Sound variety differs between the two models. The Kawai ES120 provides 25 preset tones. This includes a range of acoustic and electric instruments. The Kawai CX102 offers 17 preset tones. It includes electric pianos, organs, strings, harpsichord, and bass sounds. The ES120 gives you more options to explore different styles. The CX102 focuses on core piano sounds with a selection of accompanying instruments. If you frequently switch between different instrument types, the ES120 has a wider palette. If you primarily focus on piano, the CX102 sounds are sufficient.
Sound engine
The Kawai CX102 features Harmonic Imaging technology. It samples the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano. This engine aims for high fidelity and realistic resonance. The ES120 does not specify its sound engine in the provided data. We cannot confirm if it uses Harmonic Imaging or a different library. The CX102 explicitly highlights its concert grand sampling. This suggests a focus on premium acoustic piano reproduction. The ES120 likely offers a standard high-quality sound, but the specific technology is not detailed. For purists seeking specific grand piano character, the CX102 specification is clearer.
Polyphony
Polyphony determines how many notes can sound simultaneously. The Kawai CX102 supports 192-note polyphony. This is a high capacity that prevents note dropouts during complex passages. The ES120 data does not list its polyphony count. We cannot verify if it matches or falls short of 192 notes. High polyphony is essential for advanced repertoire and heavy pedal use. The CX102 specification ensures robust performance for demanding music. The ES120 may be sufficient for casual playing, but the lack of data makes comparison difficult. The CX102 wins this round due to its explicitly stated high capacity.
Connectivity
Both pianos offer modern connectivity options. The Kawai ES120 supports Bluetooth Audio and Bluetooth MIDI. It also includes USB-MIDI. This allows wireless music streaming and app control. The Kawai CX102 supports USB-MIDI and Bluetooth MIDI. It does not mention Bluetooth Audio for streaming music. The ES120 is more versatile for wireless listening. You can stream audio from your phone to the piano speakers. The CX102 requires wired connections for audio input. For users who value wireless convenience for both control and listening, the ES120 has the advantage.
Which Kawai Digital Piano Fits Your Needs
Beginners needing a complete setup immediately
The ES120 bundle includes a furniture-style stand, triple pedal unit with sostenuto, and an adjustable bench. You get the Responsive Hammer Compact action and 25 preset tones. Bluetooth Audio and MIDI allow easy connection to devices. This all-in-one package eliminates the need to purchase separate accessories for your home practice space.
Advanced players seeking concert grand sound quality
The CX102 features the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano sound using Harmonic Imaging technology. It offers 192-note polyphony for complex pieces. You also get 17 high-quality preset tones. This model prioritizes authentic tonal depth and dynamic range over bundled accessories, making it ideal for serious musicians focused on performance sound.
Students using lesson and recording features
The CX102 includes built-in metronome, recorder, and lesson functions. Dual, Split, and Four Hands modes facilitate collaborative practice. Support for PianoRemote and PiaBookPlayer apps enhances learning. While it lacks the stand bundle, its specialized educational tools and 17 preset tones provide a focused environment for structured study and skill development.
The products compared
Kawai ES120 88-Key Digital Piano Bundle
Best for: Complete furniture-style piano setup
- Number of Keys
- 88
- Key Action
- Responsive Hammer Compact
- Preset Tones
- 25
- Pedal Type
- Triple pedal
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth Audio/MIDI, USB-MIDI
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Kawai ES120 88-Key Digital Piano Bundle Affiliate link
The Kawai ES120 is an 88-key digital piano featuring the Responsive Hammer Compact action. It includes 25 preset tones and built-in speakers. Connectivity options include Bluetooth Audio/MIDI and USB-MIDI. This model comes with a furniture-style stand, triple pedal assembly, and bench. It suits players who want a complete setup with spatial headphone sound.
Pros
- 88 weighted keys with Responsive Hammer Compact action
- Includes furniture-style stand, triple pedal, and bench
- Bluetooth Audio and MIDI connectivity
- Built-in speakers with Spatial Headphone Sound
Cons
- Only 25 preset tones available
- No mention of Bluetooth for app control
- Weight listed as 1 pound, likely incomplete
Good fit if
- You want a complete package with stand and pedals
- You need Bluetooth Audio for listening to music
- You prefer a furniture-style setup
Skip if
- You need more than 25 sounds
- You require app control via Bluetooth
- You are looking for a portable unit without a stand
Verdict: Kawai ES120 88-Key Digital Piano offers a full setup with stand and pedals. It fits players who value Bluetooth Audio and a furniture-style base.
Kawai CX102 Digital Piano
Best for: Compact spaces and app users
- Sound Engine
- Harmonic Imaging
- Preset Tones
- 17
- Connectivity
- USB-MIDI, Bluetooth MIDI
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 62.5 × 25.2 × 15.4 inches
View on Amazon: Kawai CX102 Digital Piano Affiliate link
The Kawai CX102 offers Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano sound via Harmonic Imaging technology. It features 192-note polyphony and 17 preset tones. You get USB-MIDI and Bluetooth MIDI connectivity, along with support for PianoRemote and PiaBookPlayer apps. Built-in metronome, recorder, and lesson functions aid practice. Its compact dimensions of 62.5 by 25.2 by 15.4 inches fit smaller spaces.
Pros
- 192-note polyphony for complex passages
- Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano sound
- Bluetooth MIDI and USB-MIDI connectivity
- Support for PianoRemote and PiaBookPlayer apps
Cons
- Fewer preset tones than competitors
- No built-in speakers mentioned in data
- Smaller footprint may limit stability
Good fit if
- You need high polyphony for advanced pieces
- You want app control for practice
- You prefer Shigeru Kawai sound engine
Skip if
- You require built-in speakers
- You need more than 17 tones
- You want a larger console style
Verdict: Kawai CX102 Digital Piano suits players who prioritize polyphony and app integration over speaker inclusion. It is ideal for those with limited space who value Shigeru Kawai sound quality.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Kawai ES120 88-Key Digital Piano Bundle | Kawai CX102 Digital Piano |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Keys | 88 | not stated |
| Key Action | Responsive Hammer Compact | not stated |
| Sound Engine | not stated | Harmonic Imaging |
| Preset Tones | 25 | 17 |
| Pedal Type | Triple pedal | not stated |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Audio/MIDI, USB-MIDI | USB-MIDI, Bluetooth MIDI |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Special Features | Built-In Speakers | not stated |
| Dimensions | 0.1 × 0.1 × 0.1 inches | 62.5 × 25.2 × 15.4 inches |
| Weight | 1 pounds | not stated |
| Model | RM | CX102B |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Kawai ES120 come with a stand and pedals?
Yes, the ES120 bundle includes a furniture-style stand and a triple pedal unit. This setup provides a complete playing experience right out of the box. You get damper, soft, and sostenuto pedals along with an adjustable bench, making it ready for immediate use without needing extra purchases.
Is the Kawai CX102 more compact than the ES120?
The CX102 is designed for compact spaces. It measures 62.5 inches in length, 25.2 inches in width, and 15.4 inches in height. This footprint allows it to fit easily into smaller rooms or apartments where a larger furniture-style stand might not be practical or desired.
What is the difference in pedal options between these models?
The ES120 bundle features a triple pedal unit with damper, soft, and sostenuto functions. The CX102 data does not list included pedals. You may need to purchase pedals separately for the CX102 if you require full functionality, whereas the ES120 includes them in the package.
Which model has built-in speakers?
The ES120 bundle includes built-in speakers as a special feature. This allows you to play without external audio equipment. The CX102 specifications do not explicitly mention built-in speakers in the provided data, so you should verify if external speakers or headphones are required for this model.
Can I use Bluetooth with the Kawai CX102?
Yes, the CX102 supports Bluetooth connectivity for modern devices. This feature enables wireless integration with apps and other equipment. It suits players who prioritize app interaction and digital connectivity, making it a strong choice for those who want to use their digital piano with smartphones or tablets.
Does the ES120 include a bench?
Yes, the ES120 bundle comes with an adjustable bench. This ensures you have proper seating for practice immediately. Combined with the stand and pedals, the bundle provides a complete setup. You do not need to source additional furniture items to start playing on this digital piano right away.
Which piano is better for limited space?
The CX102 is better for limited space due to its compact dimensions. It measures 62.5 inches long and 25.2 inches wide. The ES120 requires a furniture-style stand, which takes up more floor area. If you have a small room, the CX102 offers a more space-efficient solution.
Are both models available in black?
Yes, both the ES120 and CX102 are available in black. The ES120 bundle is listed with a black finish. The CX102 is also described as black. This color option provides a classic look that fits well with various home decor styles and interior design preferences for your music setup.