We compare CN-201, RP-701 and YDP-165

Sound:

Kawai CN-201 captures the magnificent tone of the flagship Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand piano. This peerless instrument is hand-built by Master Piano Artisans at the Shigeru Kawai Piano Research Laboratory in Ryuyo, Japan, and widely regarded as one of the finest instruments in its class.

In addition, the CN201 also features the distinctive sound of Kawai’s highly acclaimed EX concert grand piano, which has been selected by professional pianists in such prestigious events as the Chopin, Tchaikovsky, and Rubinstein international piano competitions, among others.

Both the SK-EX and EX are faithfully reproduced with full 88-key sampling using advanced Progressive Harmonic Imaging™ sound technology, to establish a new standard in digital piano tonal quality, and allow musicians to appreciate the contrasting properties of each.

Roland RP-701 comes with Roland's SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling technology, which captures the essence of all the notes in an acoustic piano.

Roland not only uses samples from acoustic pianos, like many others. At Roland, they use "computer modeling", which generates the sound the moment the key is pressed. Even though it's a different technology, the sounds are still just as great.

Yamaha YDP-165 has samples from the CFX grand. Yamaha’s flagship 9’ CFX concert grand piano, offers sparkling highs and a powerful resonant bass combined in a sound that projects to the furthest reaches of any concert hall.

The CFX was played by the winner of the prestigious International Chopin Competition in 2010, and has since gained recognition as one of the greatest concert grands of modern times.

Keyaction:

Kawai CN-201’s class-leading Responsive Hammer III keyboard action recreates the supreme touch of an acoustic grand piano, with its realistic movement and rigid, springless design providing a smooth and natural piano playing experience. The instrument’s triple-sensor key detection system enhances responsiveness and accuracy, while structural reinforcements throughout the action assembly help to minimise noise and key wobble during staccato and fortissimo passages.

The weight of the keyboard is appropriately graded to mirror the heavier bass hammers and lighter treble hammers of an acoustic piano, while let-off simulation recreates the subtle ‘notch’ sensation felt when softly playing the keys of a grand piano. In addition, the Responsive Hammer III keyboard action also features counterweights embedded as well as Kawai’s highly regarded Ivory Touch key surfaces as standard. 

Roland RP-701 is equippted with their PHA-4 (Progressive Hammer Action) keyaction, which responds to the pianist's playing and provides great control. The keys also has an "escapement" mechanic, which, in theory, is the same as what Kawai calls "let-off". The keys are made of hard-wearing material that ensures reliability even after several years of daily practice. They mimic both the look and feel of real ebony and ivory, and the surface of the keys has moisture-absorbing properties, which means that one's fingers do not slip.

The Yamaha YDP-165 is equipped with Yamaha's GH3 (Graded Hammer 3) keys. These keys are differently weighted, so that the keys in the deeper octaves are heavier and lighter in the light octaves. This keyaction also has an Escapement mechanism. The keys have Yamaha's quality, synthetically developed ivory and ebony surfaces that ensure that the piano is comfortable to play, even after several hours of practice.

Design:

Kawai CN-201 is available in 3 different colors: Black, Rosewood and White. The piano's minimalist design and sharp edges make it inviting to look at. It has slim "front legs", to provide more stability and general aesthetics. The display is hidden on the left of the keys, so you don't notice it.

Roland RP-701 is available in 4 different colors: Black, Rosewood, Light Oak and White. Is the largest of these models. Like the Kawai model, the RP-701 has nice legs in the front, but otherwise has a more modern design. The display is located on a slope above the keys, which also provides more space when playing on the back of the keys.