Piano World Home Page Forums Our Most Popular Forums Digital Pianos - Electronic Pianos - Synths & Keyboards Kawai ES100/110 with VP software or ES8

I am a returning classical musician, and beginner digital piano player. I have been picking up keyboard with a really old Yamaha YSR unit without weighted keys or I think even a full sized keyboard. I need a digital piano for sure, before I pick up bad habits.

Recently I played a variety of DP's and it seems like for actions I always seem drawn to Kawai, they just work well for me. Here is what I am considering:

1. An ES100 or ES110 running through virtual piano software and outputting the audio through an external speaker and sub.

2. A Kawai ES8.

Currently I have a windows PC with an SSD for the OS and can put the VP software on another SSD. This PC has 32GB of RAM and an 8 core processor so I do not need any additional hardware. My work is in IT and this was used for a home lab. I also have the amp and speaker system sitting in a closet.

I would consider a VPC1 but I would like to have a keyboard that is not completely dependent on a computer.

My question is will mating the ES100 with something like Ivory II overcome the differences between the ES8. I know the action in the ES100 is a little lighter then the ES8 but in my novice hands they both feel good.

One thing I know for sure is the ES8 is a three sensor system and the ES100 has two. Is this really that big of an issue or is it marketing hype?

Mike

Hello Mike,

Welcome to the forum.

The new 'RH Compact' action utilised by the ES110 is a step-in in realism from the older 'AHA IV-F' action found in the ES100, so given the choice I would almost certainly opt for the latest model.

However, the ES8's 'RHIII' action is even more realistic, while the instrument itself benefits from a broader range of sounds, higher quality samples, and a more powerful speaker system.

The ES110 is an excellent entry-level board, and particularly good for gigging musicians. However, given the choice, the ES8 would be my pick. It's obviously more expensive, but the investment is justified in my opinion. The instrument plays very well standalone, but can of course be used to control virtual piano software if you decide to take this route at a later date.

Kind regards,
James
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My choice would also be the ES8 ( I have one).

Then you could try it for a bit and see if you like the sound ( I do ).

If not, you can always go down the VST route.

Good Luck

I kind of knew that was going to be the answer. The ES8 is a little outside of what I budgeted but at the same time if it means in a couple years I will not be wanting to purchase an ES9 when it comes out it is worth it.


Mike

Well, that is my feeling about my ES8.

I have no reason to be looking for a "better" piano.

James/Don,

Thanks for your input. This weekend I ordered a Kawai ES8 with stand and triple pedal unit. I am thinking I should be set for a while.

Mike

Congrats Mike, I'm confident that you made the right decision.

Cheers,
James
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In any case you can try the Garritan CFX Lite which is a terrific software piano for its price. Doesn't hurt to use it along with your ES8 which is also a great instrument Congrats on your purchase!

I am sure you will be pleased.

Congratulations. I'm sure you will enjoy your ES8 as much as the rest of us do.
Let everyone know how you get on