We compare KDP-120, RP-107 and YDP-145

Sound:

Kawai KDP-120 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.

The SK-EX is faithfully reproduced with full 88-key sampling using advanced 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-107 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-145 has samples from Yamaha's flagship 9' CFX concert grand piano, that 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 KDP-120’s Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHCII) keyboard action has been developed to represent the distinctive touch of an acoustic grand piano. Based on the highly-regarded RH keyboard action design, its spring-less mechanism and sturdy construction delivers consistent upward and downward motion, while improved cushioning material helps to reduce keyboard noise, resulting in a smooth, natural, and highly authentic piano playing experience.

Just as acoustic pianos utilise heavier bass hammers and lighter treble hammers, the RHCII keyboard action also employs different hammer weights, appropriately graded for each playing range.

The Responsive Hammer Compact II keyboard action utilises an accurate triple-sensor key detection system for enhanced playing realism. The added third sensor improves responsiveness when playing the same key repeatedly, and unlike conventional two sensor keyboard actions found in many digital pianos, allows the sound of a single note to be gradually ‘layered’ without the previous tone being lost.

Kawai’s action technology also monitors the speed at which each key is lifted, influencing the release character of piano sounds, and providing a greater range of expression between staccato and legato playing.

Roland RP-107 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.

Yamaha YDP-145 has Yamahas GHS keyaction. With an 88-key piano action, the Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) reproduces the touch of an acoustic piano, from the heavy feel in the lower register to a lighter touch in the upper octaves.

The black keys have a matte surface, that immitates the feeling of ebony, to make them feel more like the keys of a traditional, acoustic piano. 

Design:

Kawai KDP-120 is available in three different colors: Black, Rosewood and White. The piano has a minimalist design, as well as curved edges, which makes it pleasing to look at. It is the tallest piano of these three and generally has a more traditional and aesthetic design.

Roland RP-107 is only available in one color: Black. The instrument comes in a more innovative design which looks very simple and modern. The back plate is a bit lower than on the other two models, which gives the feeling, that the piano does not take up too much space in the room. The surface of the cabinet does not have the classic wooden texture, but a matte surface.

Yamaha YDP-145 is available in three different colors: Rosewood, Black and White. The design is light and simple, since the instrument is relatively low and has neither details nor embellishments. Straight lines and sharp edges make this piano look elegant and stylish.

Specifications of these models: