Kawai CX202 Review: A Great Step Up
Looking for a digital piano that’s better than entry-level but doesn’t empty your wallet? The Kawai CX202 could be your answer. We’ve tried it here at Bonners Music and reckon it’s a solid contender for anyone thinking of upgrading from a basic keyboard or taking their playing seriously for the first time.
First Impressions
If you’ve got your eye on a digital piano but don’t want to settle for something basic, the Kawai CX202 is right up our street - and probably yours, too.
We’ve spent some quality time with this one at Bonners Music and can honestly say it’s a brilliant all-rounder for advancing players or anyone moving up from starter keyboards. It doesn’t feel cheap, either. The keys are nicely weighted and have a proper three-sensor system, so you get the control and accuracy you want for more expressive playing. Plus, Kawai’s brought in their clever tech from the fancier CN range to make everything feel that bit more realistic and refined -quieter touches, improved cushioning, and a keyboard that’s heavier down in the bass and lighter at the top, just how an acoustic should be.
Sound and Voices
But let’s talk sound. The main piano voice uses samples from the Shigeru Kawai SKX Concert Grand, and it’s beautiful. There are other SKX options, too - if you want something jazzier or more mellow, you just switch the sound and you’re good to go.
Don’t fancy a piano sound? No worries - the CX202 gives you 17 voices from classic electric pianos and organs to strings and vibraphone. If you’re into layering, it lets you stack sounds for a richer tone, split the keyboard for bass in the left and piano in the right, or even use “four hands” mode if you’re sharing the keyboard with someone else for a lesson or duet.
Tech and Learning Features
The tech features are really handy, especially if you’re keen to personalise your set-up or you like using learning apps. The CX202 teams up wirelessly with the Kawai Piano Remote app, so you can mess about with settings or pick your sounds straight from your phone or tablet. You also get Bluetooth MIDI and audio, a chunky 40-watt speaker system for playing along with online tracks, and options for plugging in via USB. Plus, there’s an onboard recorder, metronome, and a bunch of well-known lesson tunes, which is ideal if you’re learning at home.
Style, Build and Size
Practicality-wise, the piano is compact enough to fit in smaller spaces, so it won’t take over your front room or bedroom. You’ve got a choice of stylish finishes, a sliding key cover, and solid construction so it feels more like proper furniture than a cheap plastic box.
Final Thoughts
There you have it: the Kawai CX202 keeps things simple but smart, sounds great, feels fantastic to play, and doesn’t need you to be a tech wizard. Check it out - especially if you’re ready for something a bit more serious, but don’t want to turn your spare room into a piano showroom.
Trying Out the Kawai CX202
If you’re thinking of upgrading from a previous keyboard, Bonners offers a great part-exchange scheme. Just fill in the form on the website and we'll get back to you quickly with a quote.
Or, if you want to get hands-on, pop into one of the Bonners showrooms in Eastbourne, Reigate, Milton Keynes or new Newcastle .There’s plenty of parking and all locations are easy to reach – just give us a ring before travelling to check stock.
Watch Tony's Full-Length Buyers' Guide Video
Hear and see the Kawai CX202 in action in Tony's in-depth buyers' guide video. With plenty of playing, detailed feature guides and top tips to get the best from this exceptional digital piano.
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