Piano World Home Page Forums Our Most Popular Forums Digital Pianos - Electronic Pianos - Synths & Keyboards From the AvantGrand N1 to the Kawai MP7SE

I previously owned the N1 from 2014 to just a week ago. I made the decision to downsize, as it were, from a cabinet to a slab style DP because I will be moving quite a bit for school/training over the next several years and didn’t want the hassle of moving the AvantGrand. It’s like moving an upright.

So, what I miss with the AvantGrand? The action of course and the speaker system. Plus it looked nice. The sound was good, but definitely showing signs of 10+ year old sample sets.

My thoughts of the MP7SE:

First of all, at this price point, an absolute homerum. The acoustic piano sounds are simply incredible. Kawai has made a monumental leap with the new sound engine. And the Virtual Technician will be fun to experiment with. Most importantly, the base line sounds are better than what the videos show. Action, always a topic of conversation, is much better than I was expecting. The RHIII is easily at the level of the top end plastic and plastic/wood hybrid actions. Quite frankly, I’m surprised Kawai does not charge more for the MP7SE. The MP11SE action bears quite a heavy premium over the RHIII. The GF action is no doubt a superior action in every way, but is the GF action worth $1000 more? That’s a personal decision, but for me, no. I never got a chance to play the RHIII action so it’s a very nice surprise. I’m also enjoying the asthetic quality of the MP7SE. It is a handsome instrument. The new cheek ends are a really nice improvement and the overall fit and finish look and feel first class. I honestly believe the MP7SE is easily at the level of the RD2000, Nord Piano 3, and CP4, which I consider class leading stage pianos.

I have only had a little time with the MP7SE but so far I have to hand it to Kawai. They’ve done a magnificent job and have really put effort into all angles to make a great package and truly an excellent value. $1799 is extremely fair priced for what you are getting.

Zac

Hi Zac, good to see you again, it's been some time. Hope all's well.

Hey congrats on the new DP. I only had a short play with both - MPSE11& 7SE --at NAMM but instantly felt a much better connection to both with the upgrades.



Totally agree.

Hello Zac,

Thank you very much for sharing your initial thoughts about the MP7SE. I'm glad to read that you are enjoying the instrument.

Kind regards,
James
x

Good to hear Zac - Congratulations on your new piano!!

I hope I don't have to travel much, but if I do - I would love it if there was a keyboard like MP11SE but with half the weight

Osho

Hey great to hear from you Dave. Been a while for sure. All is well, just busier than ever. Hope all is well with you and glad you’re still on the boards too!



I’m seriously blown away with the overall package. The MP7SE feels like a stage piano in the next market up category. An unbelievable package for just $1800. Tell your team at Kawai, excellent job! Thanks for your input in helping my decision. I love the Kawai brand and am glad I’ve got another on at home.


For sure! I wish I could’ve made the MP11SE make sense but I couldn’t justify the extra $1000, and after receiving the MP7SE, I think I’ll get along quite well with it. Plus I’ve pre-ordered the GFP-3 Triple Pedal unit to go with it. Should be a great portable combo.