Harmonic Imaging

Kawai’s highly acclaimed sound technology is called Harmonic Imaging™. Simply put, Harmonic Imaging is a blend of technology and techniques aimed at producing the most realistic recreation of Kawai's 9-foot concert grand piano possible.

88-Key Sampling

Each key of a piano has its own unique tonal characteristics. Some have only one string, others two and still others three, for instance. There are also differences in hammer felt shape and density. These and other factors create subtle differences in tone from one note to the next. By sampling and recreating each key individually (rather than “stretching” a smaller number of samples) the unique tonal character of each note is preserved.

Current Kawai models using HI ES110, KDP70, KDP110

Kawai’s Progressive Harmonic Imaging (PHI) with 88-key sampling uses a larger tonal “database” than regular Harmonic Imaging to provide greater tonal details throughout the dynamic range.

Current Kawai models using PHI ES520, CN29, CN39, CA49, CA59, DG30

Harmonic Imaging XL

Kawai has rolled out Harmonic Imaging XL with 88-key sampling. Standing for “extra-long”, HI-XL extends the length of the critical attack portion of the sound by up to 120%, articulating the characteristics of each note more clearly and organically.

Current Kawai models using XL (Hi-XL) ES920, CA79, CA99, NV5, NV10

More Than One Piano Sound

A musician’s preference for the sound of a piano is highly subjective. Much of it depends upon personal taste. The type of music to be played is also a factor. For this reason, most Kawai digital pianos offer more than one type of acoustic piano sound.

On models featuring 88-key sampling, Concert Grand 1 is a well-rounded EX Concert Grand recorded in the standard fashion for classical and jazz music. On many models there is Concert Grand 2, which will be the original Harmonic Imaging Concert Grand sound. It has a very different character from Concert Grand 1.

Many upper models also feature a “Pop Piano” sound. Like the others, this is also an EX Concert Piano, but the recording methods and equipment were those used on many famous pop and rock piano recordings done in Los Angeles area recording studios. New Concert Artist instruments also feature a new upright piano sound, perfect for music that needs a more intimate piano sound.

So, whether your favorite piano sound turns out to be the acclaimed original Harmonic Imaging sound or one of its new counterparts, it will be one of tremendous realism and expression, worthy of the most demanding piano enthusiast.