The Kawai ES520 is a digital piano that has caught the attention of many music enthusiasts. It’s known for its quality sound and advanced features.
If you’re considering a digital piano, the Kawai ES520 might be on your radar. This model promises a great balance between performance and price. With its realistic key action and rich sound, it appeals to both beginners and experienced players.
In this review, we’ll explore what makes the Kawai ES520 stand out. We’ll cover its design, sound quality, and user-friendly features. Whether you’re a seasoned pianist or just starting, this review will help you decide if the Kawai ES520 is the right choice for you. Let’s dive in and discover what this digital piano has to offer.
Design And Build Quality
When choosing a digital piano, the design and build quality can make or break your experience. The Kawai ES520 stands out with its sleek design and robust construction. Let’s dive into the details of its physical appearance and material quality.
Physical Appearance
The Kawai ES520 boasts a modern and elegant design that fits seamlessly into any home setting. Its sleek lines and minimalist aesthetic make it visually appealing.
At first glance, you notice its clean and uncluttered layout. The control panel is intuitive, making it easy to navigate without feeling overwhelmed.
Its slim profile is perfect for small spaces. You won’t struggle to find a spot for this piano, no matter the room size.
Material Quality
Material quality is where the Kawai ES520 truly shines. The keys are made from premium materials that mimic the feel of an acoustic piano.
You can feel the durability in every press. The weighted keys provide a realistic touch, enhancing your playing experience.
Its sturdy construction ensures longevity. You can trust that this piano will withstand years of use without showing signs of wear.
Have you ever found yourself questioning the durability of your musical instruments? With the Kawai ES520, those worries are a thing of the past. The combination of aesthetic appeal and high-quality materials makes it a standout choice.
Keyboard Features
The Kawai ES520 stands out with its impressive keyboard features. These features make it a favorite among both beginners and experienced players. Let’s dive into the key aspects that define its unique keyboard experience.
Key Action
The key action of the Kawai ES520 replicates the feel of an acoustic piano. The Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHCII) technology offers a realistic touch. Each key press feels natural and fluid. The weighted keys enhance the playing experience, providing excellent balance and control.
Touch Sensitivity
The touch sensitivity of the Kawai ES520 caters to various playing styles. It allows players to adjust the sensitivity settings to match their preferences. Whether you play softly or with force, the keyboard responds accurately. This feature helps in expressing dynamics and nuances in your performance.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is a key feature that many look for in a digital piano. The Kawai ES520 delivers on this front. It offers rich tones and clear sound. Let’s explore the details.
Tone Options
The Kawai ES520 offers a variety of tones. You can choose from 34 different sounds. These include grand piano, electric piano, organs, and more. Each tone is sampled from high-quality instruments. This gives you a realistic sound experience. You can switch tones easily. This makes it ideal for various music styles. Whether you play classical or jazz, the ES520 has a tone for you.
Speaker Performance
The built-in speakers of the Kawai ES520 are impressive. They provide clear and balanced sound. The speakers are powerful enough for small performances. You don’t need external speakers for home practice. The sound is rich, with good bass and crisp highs. You can also adjust the volume easily. This ensures you get the best sound at any level. Even at high volumes, the sound remains clear and distortion-free.
Functionality
The Kawai ES520 digital piano is designed with versatile functionality. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced players. The piano offers a range of features that enhance the playing experience. Let’s dive into its connectivity options and additional features.
Connectivity Options
The Kawai ES520 includes various connectivity options. You can connect it to different devices easily. It has Bluetooth MIDI and audio. This allows wireless connection to tablets, smartphones, and computers. You can also use the USB ports for wired connections. These options provide flexibility in using the piano with apps and software.
Additional Features
The piano comes with many additional features. It has a built-in metronome, which helps maintain timing. The dual and split modes allow combining sounds and playing different voices. Its recording function lets you capture performances. You can also use the lesson function for guided practice. These features make the Kawai ES520 a versatile choice for any pianist.
User Experience
The user experience with the Kawai ES520 is a delightful journey, especially for both beginners and seasoned pianists. This digital piano aims to create an environment where every interaction feels intuitive and rewarding. Let’s dive into some key aspects of user experience: ease of use and the learning curve.
Ease Of Use
From the moment you turn on the Kawai ES520, you notice its user-friendly design. The interface is straightforward and clean. Buttons are clearly labeled, and the menu system is simple to navigate.
Imagine you’re eager to play your favorite song. You can quickly select the desired sound and adjust settings without fuss. The piano’s layout ensures you spend more time playing and less time figuring out controls.
Moreover, the Kawai ES520 offers a variety of sounds and settings at your fingertips. Each sound is easily accessible, allowing you to experiment with different tones effortlessly. Whether you’re switching from a grand piano to an electric piano, the transition is seamless.
Learning Curve
Starting with the Kawai ES520 doesn’t feel overwhelming. Even if you’re new to digital pianos, the learning curve is gentle. The piano’s design supports gradual learning, making it perfect for beginners.
Imagine you’re learning to play for the first time. The ES520 offers built-in lessons and tutorials to guide you. These resources are invaluable, helping you grasp the basics without needing additional materials.
For intermediate players looking to refine their skills, the ES520 provides advanced features and settings. You can explore different techniques and sounds at your own pace, making the learning process enjoyable and tailored to your needs.
What’s your experience with digital pianos? Do you find them easy to navigate, or do you often struggle with the controls? The Kawai ES520 aims to make your musical journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Credit: kawaius.com
Comparisons
Comparing the Kawai ES520 with other digital pianos helps potential buyers make informed decisions. This section breaks down how the Kawai ES520 stacks up against its competitors and lists the pros and cons.
Vs. Competitors
The Kawai ES520 holds its ground against popular brands. Yamaha and Roland have strong reputations. The ES520 offers unique features. Its Responsive Hammer Compact II keyboard action provides a realistic feel. Competitors may use different actions, but the ES520’s touch is exceptional.
Sound quality is another highlight. The Harmonic Imaging technology creates rich tones. Some competitors use different sound engines. These may not match the depth of the ES520’s sound. Yamaha’s Pure CF Sound Engine is strong, but the ES520’s resonance stands out.
The ES520 excels in connectivity options. It includes Bluetooth MIDI and audio. This feature is rare among its competitors. Roland’s similar models lack Bluetooth audio capabilities. The ES520 provides a seamless connection to devices, enhancing the user experience.
Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Excellent keyboard action
- Rich sound quality
- Bluetooth MIDI and audio
- Lightweight and portable
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited built-in sounds
- Higher price point
- No built-in recording feature
The Kawai ES520’s advantages are clear. Its realistic touch and rich tones make it a favorite. Bluetooth connectivity adds modern convenience. Some drawbacks exist. The limited sound options may disappoint some users. Its price is higher than some competitors. Lack of a built-in recording feature could be a downside for some.

Credit: azpianoreviews.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between Es520 And 920?
The ES520 is a mid-range digital piano with fewer features. The ES920 offers advanced features, better sound, and more connectivity options.
Is Kawai As Good As Yamaha?
Both Kawai and Yamaha produce high-quality pianos. Kawai is known for its rich, warm tones. Yamaha offers bright, clear sounds. Preference depends on individual taste.
What Is The Key Action On The Kawai Es520?
The Kawai ES520 features the Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHCII) key action. It offers a realistic and smooth playing experience.
Are Kawai Pianos Made In China?
Some Kawai pianos are made in China. Models from the K Series and GX Series are manufactured in Japan.
Conclusion
The Kawai ES520 stands out in its class. It offers great sound and feel. This digital piano is perfect for beginners and pros alike. Its features and design impress many users. You get quality without breaking the bank. Overall, it’s a solid choice for any music lover.
Give the Kawai ES520 a try. You might find it just what you need. Happy playing!