Kawai ES-60

The Kawai ES-60 is a compact digital stage piano – as befits its entry-level pricing, the control layout is deliberately clear and straightforward. But under the hood, it offers plenty of features only found in more expensive instruments: Its sound palette includes the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand, along with a selection of electric pianos, organs, strings, and other instruments. The ES-60 also gives pianists the playing feel of a real grand piano – achieved in part through specialised key action and damping technologies. The result is excellent playability across the entire keybed, as well as outstanding control over all the parameters that have been included here to accurately simulate the variable tone of an expressive grand. In addition, the keys' sound is free from the mechanical noise that sometimes afflicts other keyboards in this price range. Kawai's built-in speakers provide direct sound reproduction, and the accessories let musicians get on with enjoying their new instrument straight away.

The Kawai ES-60 is ideal for pianists looking for a simple yet expressive compact digital instrument for live performances. Alongside the authentic sound of a grand piano, it's also capable of faiuthfully reproducing other instruments – such as strings and electric pianos – for varied and versatile performances. The Dual mode even allows two sounds to be played simultaneously; similarly, the Split mode divides the keyboard into two zones, each with its own sound. Three reverb effects add depth and vibrancy to the tone. Thanks to its light weight of just 11kg, the Kawai ES-60 can be carried easily from gig to gig. In addition to the two line-out connections, for full stereo sound on stage, the headphone jack is great for silently practising at home.