Beautiful, elegant piano with a great sound and designed with a lot of careful thought. Likewise, the video is awesome, clear, concise explanations, nice language and professional camera work. It has helped me choose my piano, the Kawai MP11 SE. Thanks!
Thank you so much, Tony. I bought 2 pianos from Bonners! The MP11SE and the ES110. Your info on Touchweight explained why I've been having difficulty for years, but not any more. All the best to you.
Great demo! I purchased one of these on the strength of your review a while back thank you. I got mine from a store in Leicester as your stores are a little too far from me. I have to say that I'm not disappointed, the piano sounds are fantastic and the action and feel are remarkable. I use a couple of iloud monitors for my setup. Thanks again for helping me make this choice. (Dean from Derby)
Wonderful video, very nicely put together and presented. I am blown away by the acoustic and electric piano sounds. The instrument is so elegant looking. I want one of these!
Just love each and everyone of your reviews ! wish you play more........ You are amazingly talented ! Thank you so much indeed like you english man would say !😁🇨🇦 Merci!
Great job Tony! It was good to be able to hear the SK-EX and EX side-by-side. The new Shigeru piano sounds are a big improvement over the older EX. I like the appearance of this SE model too - from some angles it has a Yamaha CP80 vibe about it.
If it helps anyone on here, I have the MP-10 and it is hands down the best action and sound I have ever experienced with a digital piano aside from the AvantGrand which is obviously a different beast. The abilty to adjust the tonal and touch characteristics is amazing. I would say the MP 10 action can feel a bit heavy, especially compared to say a Yamaha CP5, but the touch/sound ratio is very adjustable. If the MP 11 takes all this even further then it's got to be good.
It is a great instrument with a lot more voices, but the feature of the MP 11SE is the action. I initially thought I wanted the 7 because the Leslie organs are so much fun. But, the new action on the MP11SE is what sold me given my goals re acoustic piano. The MP7SE is cheaper than the 11!!! G9 for it!
I own the Kawai ES8 for over two years now. It has the same piano samples and the same engine as the MP11SE does. The samples are great. I still enjoy them playing the piano everyday for 20-30 minutes by average. I wish I would have bought the MP11 for the better keys, additional sounds and better sound adjustment. However, my ES8 is also a lovely piano.
But my question is, what pa you would choose!? There are no inbuild speakers so you have to have good solution for this womderful sampled piano. Otherwise it sounds shitty everytime
"What pa you would chose..." for what environment? a tiny studio? a large living room? a large stage??? And of course any instrument would sound bad through bad speakers!
I was too but i can no longer trust Yamaha. Long story short Tyross 5 has very small dynamic range. Its not worth for 6500 USD. Literally they are tying your hands. All I wanted was a good piano sound, sadly I didn't know Kawai makes Stage Pianos. Funny thing is they've released it in 2014.
I just sold my Korg Kronos 88 (I mainly used it for piano playing and there are much better DPs for the money). Just sold my Yamaha MOXF8 (hated it from day one. Again I was hoping for a good portable DP). Just sold my Casio PX-5S even though I liked it quite a bit. I'm left with a Casio PX-560, a Yamaha 76-note Tyros 5, and half a dozen synths. I was hoping to only have the Tyros in my living room but even for occasional piano/electric piano playing, the Tyros is horrible. I saw many reviews on the MP11se and want it as my next home DP. I would use it primarily for piano, EP and may keep the Tyros around for its rhythms & other sounds. I'm able to buy a new MP11se for $2100 + tax.
Hey, just a question... one of the things I made great use of, with Roland RD 800 and 700 nx.. was that I would send the balanced to the FOH.. but also at the same time run 1/4 inch unbalanced, to my powered montitors beside me. And I always loved that capability, because it was the perfect self monitor do you know if this is possible on the Kawai MPSe?
Tony, I'm intrigued with your overhand run at 3:02. E minor 9?? Left (cross-over hand) playing the 9th. I wish I knew what your right hand was playing. Sounds and looks great.
Great review. Many thanks. I am on the cusp of retirement and will be investing. I was worried that you have to get additional speakers. What would you recommend? Thank you.
I'm not totally a fan of Kawai keyboards (actually prefer what Casio is doing with their latest gear) BUT these are the most realistic sounding STRINGS I've ever heard on an electronic keyboard; 8:16 Generally, on most keyboards, something is always wrong with the attack. Here I can almost sense the bow on the strings. Well done Kawai.
Awesome video, lovely machine. Have you played on the Kawai VPC1, and if so would you say the key action is similar? I know the pivot point in the MP11SE is pushed further back, and longer wooden keys, but do these translate into a very noticeable difference when playing? Would you say the VPC1 also feels like a grand piano? Thanks!
hi tony! first of all, I want to tell you this is by far the best review of the mp11se I've seen. unfortunately I live on the wrong side of the Channel, otherwise I'd buy my next piano in your shop with no doubt... now, my question: supposing budget is not a problem and that my next piano will stay forever at home (so weight is not an issue either), would you recommend buying a kawai mp11se or a Yamaha cvp-709? I'm especially interested on action (must be as close to an acoustic grand piano as possible) and piano sounds (rhythms, synths, other voices are a welcome plus that won't make my decision). I'm replacing a German grand piano, approximately 5'8" in length, which is too old to tune anymore and would need another extensive refurbish (I don't want to go thru, as it's not a valuable instrument --1st big refurbish was 30 years ago, when I bought it). I thank you in advance if you'll have the time to answer me.
Hi Gianni! Thank you for the comment! If the action is really important to you and you are used to a German Grand Piano then it may be worth having a look at the Casio Celviano Grand Hybrid? They have collaborated with C.Bechstein to make a truly authentic Grand Piano action. If you were after something with a heavier action, then have a look at the Yamaha CLP685, or the Avantgrande N1. If you prefer a lighter action, then have a look at the Kawai CS11 or CA98? . I would highly recommend trying all the models side by side (which you are able to do in our showrooms). Choosing a digital piano is much easier when you can try all the possible models under one roof!
Hi... new suscribe here, i liked very much this review, one question, would you recomend me this digital piano of im using it just only for piano practice?
Sir, I have only one question about this instrument. How good is it with handling tremolo on one key? I had Yamaha P-65, it was good enough for studying pieces, but all of a sudden I bought Kawai ES8, which sounded great but its mechanical part disappointed me in some respect. I expected to get a perfect touch after all of the praises to this instrument, but..oh, well. I'm just wondering if this is an issue with this particular Kawai's model or this is a common flaw of all electronic pianos Thank you. PS As I remember, the P-65 keyboard was more loose, but more responsive..
Great demo thanks Tony! I have two questions if I may ask: Is this piano still the best version you can buy or have Kawai brought out anything newer? Also can you tell me the name of the first piece of music you play in your video? Many thanks!
Man!! I was looking @ the viscount legend piano. Great piano! But the Kawai sounds awesome! The electric pianos sounds more refined to my ears; especially with the effects engaged. Prices are similar. My only gripe is the controls are on the top instead on the keyboard side like the Viscount. And I heard the weight is almost 100-150lbs. So for a stage piano (for me) no way. I’ll take the Yamaha xf8 in that case; leave the kawai @ home. Other than that great piano!😌🎶🎹👍🏾
Hi, the MP11SE is my first choice for my next digital piano. Its weight and bulk however are not ideal for stage use, so I would be using it mainly in my home studio. One of my concerns is finding a nice stand for it, ideal for stability as well as looks (my home studio is in my living room). And although I've searching extensively on the Web, I've not found anything that I find satisfactory except the very expensive Roland KS-V8. From your video the stand you're using seems pretty decent, but I can't tell what brand or model it is: could you please tell me? And could you also tell me what other options you would recommend? Thanks in advance for the info, kind regards, Roberto
Yes, I'd also like to know which stand was used for this video. The German K&M table stands also have a good reputation for build quality and stability.
I'm very impressed by your professionality, Tony. Usually when I post a question I'm lucky to get a reply at all, and even in that case it's mostly over 2 months later...your promptness is such a breathe of fresh air. Many thanks, I really appreciate it! I hadn't considered the Yamaha L7B before because I thought it wouldn't be wide enough for the MP11SE. And your video proves the contrary. Of course a full length stand like the Yamaha LG800 would be even better (in terms of looks in particular), but unfortunately it costs 50% more. So I'll probably go for the L7B based on your video and recommendation. Thanks again, cheers!
lifehack: just use 2 cheap 24" (60 cm) folding stools, one at each end. they support up to 200 lbs each so it's more than enough. you can find them for $10 online or at any walmart or target in the US. that's what i use for my mp11se. :D
How does the action on the MP11 compare with the Nord Grand 88 key? Kawai and Nord partnered on the Nord. I know that the Nord does not have the wooden keys but us is it somewhat similar?
The Nord Grand is a nice instrument but as far as actions are concerned, it doesn't come close to that of the MP11se. Of course the Korg doesn't weigh as much either!
In Kawai's line up of actions, the one on the MP11 is higher up than the one on the Nord Grand 88. And it's true, if you play them side by side, the MP11 action is clearly better.
An authorized Kawai and Yamaha dealer in my area (Southern CA) gave me a quote of $2180 + tax for a brand new MP11se (before any negotiating on my part). No sales tax if you're outside of CA but there will be a small shipping cost. If 2 other people are interested, I can get an even better price for all three of us.
Are the sounds on the MP11SE good enough to be used for professional performances and recordings? It's famous for its action, but you never seem to see it at gigs, at least not to the degree that you see Yamama, Nord, Roland, etc.
@@NyakzOTSD I bought the MP7, which is lighter. It's only to compose at home, so I didn't mind the weight. But there was a six months waiting for the MP11. And I'm a lousy pianist.
The changes, from memory, are the new optical triple pedal (which you cannot use with the older MP11 as it can only connect to the dedicated GFP-3 socket on the MP11 SE), the two new grand pianos and the end cheeks are made of a different material. Really, MP11 SE is just a refresh of the MP11, though the changes are worthwhile improvements for new purchasers.
Phillip. In my opinion, the Nord Grand action is not nearly as good as the action on the MP11se but of course, it doesn't weigh nearly as much. So if you want a great action for your studio, go with the MP11se. If you want a good gigging keyboard, you may want to look at the Nord Grand or Roland Rd2000.
Hey Tony, I recently purchased a kawai mp11se myself and I was wondering what piano stand would you recommend for it? I'm looking for something solid that won't wobble with some height adjustments.
The Roland KSG8 is a nice stand but I switched to the Yamaha LG800 because I wanted a stand that is as long as the piano. Most stands are under 4'wide, which are fine for support but don't have the look that I want.
That entirely depends on where you will be using the MP11SE. If you are looking for speakers purely for use in the home, then I would suggest a good pair of Studio Monitors like the Yamaha HS Series. If you are going to be using it in a Live performance, you can either use a PA System like , or Keyboard amp like a Roland KC220? It would completely depend on the venue size and if you are playing with other musicians/singers? Contact us directly via our website or telephone where any one of our specialists will be happy to advise you.
Tyrosmatt i use a pair of JBL LSR308 (8" woofers) powered active studio monitors with mine, but the JBL LSR305 (5") are enough. they are a popular option and the 5" model can be found online for $100-150.
I’m using Genelec 8330’s and a 7350 sub for in-home use. Having the ability to calibrate db by frequency to room acoustics makes it possible for each key to produce the tone as intended, at the same volume as all other keys. Quite a remarkable result. How much you value these qualities determines the value of the system (to you) of course.
Hey there, thanks for the great guide! Ive tested the MP11se today and there was one thing that was a little bit wierd to me and i would love to know, if its the same with all MP11se or if I maybe have tested some defect product.. The side of the keys, white and black, are a little bit rough, like pure wood without any "coating". My "normal" piano doesnt have that, the side of the keys is veeery smooth there, almost like they put a little plastic coating on it. Is that normal for the MP11se?
No that's not normal to the kawai mp11se. It should be perfect across the full range of the 88 keys. I will say the mp11se has been the best piano experience I've ever had with a stage piano. I tried the Yamaha yc88 and had to return it. That was not a good piano.
@masonjahncke7844 Hey, I actually bought the MP11se a few days ago, after testing 2 more MP11se's in different stores. It is by far the best feel to a stage piano on the market, BUT it actually is normal for the MP11se to have this "problem" that I described above. All 3 of them had that same problem. I guess it's because it's cheaper to produce it that way. If you have one yourself, try it out. The sides of the keys are not completely smooth. My "real" piano I have at home has a thin coating on all the sides of the keys which makes them very smooth, the MP11se doesn't have that, it's just the raw wood.
@@jdsd_ Funny thing is I remember feeling more of roughness on the sides of the kawai Vpc 1. Maybe it was due to the more stiffness nature of the VPC 1 key action that I didn't notice it on the Mp11se smooth key action. Regardless I went through a lot of stage pianos in my time and I couldn't find anything better with a real connection like the Mp11se. I really do hope in the next 5 years kawai finally decides to make a mp12 haha
This really depends on your own personal taste. The MP11SE has an excellent Piano action. Designed specifically to feel as close to an acoustic as possible. It is probably the most authentic of any stage piano in terms of the feel. This does however make it particularly heavy to cart around compared to the RD2000. With regards to sound, that would depend on your taste. Pop into our Eastbourne showroom and give both of them a try side by side!
Thanx for your reply. I totally agree and decided last friday to get the Kawai after using some time playing RD2000, Nord Piano 3, Korg Grandstage 88 and the MP 11SE. The Korg was nr 2, but Kawai has far better keys and the piano sounds, as you say, are a lot better than the other piano's. Roland and Nord have put too much effort on additional features and sounds, while Kawai (and Korg) have concentrated on the piano part. Maybe Nord / Roland are great for playing in a band where a perfect piano sound isn't that important. But for playing solo piano Kawai is the top.
I have an MP11SE it has ruined me for Nords, Yamahas, and everything else with an inferior action. I like the Shigeru samples but honestly I mostly use Pianoteq and Keyscape VSTs.
If you want the best and most authentic possible action on any stage piano, than this is for you. BUT...all of those big wooden keysticks are heavy and long. The MP11SE is bulky and weighs 34 Kg (75 pounds). So as an instrument for the studio, it's great, but for gigging musicians it's a backbreaker. And the on-board sounds are excellent, but there's a limited selection compared with some other stage pianos. The action is a little noisy too. It's a great instrument, but it's not for everybody.
Bonners Music Superstore I just ordered the MP11SE and will be getting it within the week and I really want to get a good stand for it. I wanted to ask if you experienced any wobbliness from the Yamaha L7B stand you're using in this video? Also is this a stand you would recommend using for MP11SE? It's just the depth length and wieght of the MP11SE is something that worries me when trying to pick the right stand for it
Maafa 1619 I have a job too...And a steinway upright, a Hammond M3, Yamaha motif xs8, Hammond xk1c, and ravenscroft 275 too..🤷🏻♂️ again I have a job too
I would personally go for a Mp7se if you are really wanting to stick with Kawai but if you want to get something that will last try the Yamaha CP 88 or the Nord piano 4 I just bought a Nord grand and it’s fantastic mainly you want a piano that will last and be able to have expandability the Yamaha cp 88 and all Nords can download new sounds and the keyboard themselves will be able to get better overtime it’s hard with an instrument like the Kawai MP series cuz the expandability isn’t there
@@josiahdelarosa1165 I will stay away from both CP-88 and Nord piano 4. Do thorough research and make sure you have "actually" tried a Kawai before you suggest something. The Nord Piano 4 has FATAR action which is a low-end keybed (sorry). Nowhere near what Kawai or Yamaha offer. Second CP-88 is a reface of S90XS with the ability to load samples. CP-88 is a ROMpler. MP7SE and MP11SSE come with a fantastic keybed (not available in CP series and Nord) and the piano emulation engine which has a faithful simulation of the majority of Kawai pianos. You really don't need any other samples to load in them! They sound that good!!! MP7SE has a superior voice set compared to CP-88. Great pianos, great Rhodes and e-pianos, good organs. MP series at the moment is the best overall stage instruments you can buy. CP-88 has been in the market for 2 years and still can't beat MP series sonically and technologically. Kawai's action is so good (and Nord's action is so bad!) that Nord decided to use MP7SE's action (RHIII) in Nord Grand.
The only thing Kawai is missing is a self contained speaker system option, which would take it over the top for me. Love feeling the vibration of the old Yamaha P series and CP300
Oystein Soreide I don't blame him if he wants to mimic the strings vibrations of a real piano. I wish they made it so the keys could vibrate without needing a self contained speaker system in it. That would be amazing
Does this have built-in speakers? Or does it require external speakers? And it's mentioned that it's designed as a portable keyboard. What's the weight? Is it truly portable? A frustratingly incomplete review...
There are balanced, unbalanced and midi outputs. I assume that there is also a headphone jack. External amplifiers and speakers are required. I think the weight was given as 37K.
Still sounds plastic compared to a real piano. It is just the air, the room - basically everything else than the piano that is a part of a pianos sound that are missing. But it is the same with every digital piano sound. Every note is fighting for its space when played at the same time, so it feels like a poly compression where each string on a piano is a lot more independent to conquer the room and our listening ears. The good thing with a digital piano is that it always is in tune.
@@pianistanimeher394 I am clearly saying that a digital piano still got a long way to go, if the goal is to sound like an acoustic piano. An acoustic piano is something you can buy for few bucks, if you are placed in europe at least.
Yes, Yamaha HS are very good. And reliable. I had control room Mackie but they didn't last very long. Keyboard amplifiers are far from sounding like studio monitors.
