Kawai analyzed an acoustic piano’s user experience, and distilled the most important aspects into the VPC1’s UX design. Designīefore judging Kawai’s design choices with the VPC1, it’s important to consider the ethos of this product. The Kawai VPC1’s velocity curve and MIDI settings can be configured with VPCEditor, a free software editor available on Kawai’s website. I recommend using the more reliable AC power adapter, especially if your setup includes USB hubs. Lastly, the VPC1 can be powered via USB or a 12V AC adapter. The VPC1 ships with Kawai’s F-30, a triple pedal unit featuring sustain with half damper support, soft pedal, and sostenuto. Be aware the VPC1 does not have a MIDI Thru port, so you shouldn’t put it at the end of your MIDI chain.

The DIN MIDI Out port can be used to connect the VPC1 to hardware sound module like the Roland Integra-7 or a traditional MIDI interface, while the DIN MIDI In port can be used to add additional pedal ports with the MIDI Solutions Continuous Pedal Controller.

In complex MIDI setups, the USB-MIDI port can also be used to connect the VPC1 to USB-supported MIDI interface like the iConnectivity mio4. The USB-MIDI port can be used to connect the VPC1 to a computer to control software instruments in MainStage or Forte. Both the DIN and USB ports can be used simultaneously. The Kawai VPC1 features MIDI In/Out via traditional 5-Pin DIN connectors, and MIDI In/Out is also available via the USB port. The Ivory Touch finish absorbs surface moisture and oils, ensuring maximum control over the instruments at all times. Lastly, the RM3II keyboard action features a natural matte finish dubbed Ivory Touch, which is also used on Kawai’s high end digital pianos. The RM3II keyboard action also employs a let-off simulation, which recreates the subtle “notch” that can be felt when playing a grand piano very lightly. The Kawai VPC1 features triple-sensor technology, which improves responsiveness when repeatedly striking a key. The VPC1 ships with the Kawai F-30 triple pedal unit (a $179 value). The weight of the hammers decrease from left to right, while the counterweights in the lower keys enable soft bass passages to be played with a light touch. The VPC1 features fully wooden keys with grade-weighted hammers and counterweights. The RM3II keyboard action employs a number of clever engineering feats to emulate the experience of playing an acoustic piano. The RM3II features wooden keys, triple-sensor technology, and Kawai’s signature Ivory Touch finish. The Kawai VPC1 uses the RM3II keyboard action, which is second only to the full-sized GF action found on the MP11. Despite a few silly (to me) design flaws, the VPC1 maintains its position as the finest pure MIDI controller keyboard on the market. The Kawai VPC1 marries a world class keyboard action with gorgeous design, and does so at a relatively affordable price point.

Ravenscroft 275 reviews