Digital Pianos Review
Kawai CX202 Review: RHC II in the New CX Console
The CX202 is the upper model in Kawai's new CX console line: the Responsive Hammer Compact II graded action, 17 sounds, 192-note polyphony, built-in speakers, three pedals and dual and split modes in a satin black cabinet. This review covers what the listing confirms, where the CN201 competes at a similar price, and who the CX202 suits.
Our Verdict
Research Score 83/100The Kawai CX202 is the CX console to buy if you want Kawai tone with the RHC II action in a current cabinet. It is a clear step over the CX102 for a student. The listing does not publish Bluetooth, speaker power or weight, and the CN201 with its RHIII action with let-off and counterweights sits close in price; a pianist who prioritizes touch should compare the two before choosing.
Editorial research score based on published specifications and documented features, not a customer rating or lab test.
Kawai
Kawai CX202
Best for: Students who want a Kawai console with the RHC II action in a modern cabinet
Skip it if: you can reach the CN201's RHIII for similar money
Check Price on AmazonWe may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Listing verified: October 2026
Who Should Buy It
Buy it if
- You want the mid Kawai action in a current console
- Kawai tone and 192-note polyphony matter
- You prefer a satin black modern cabinet
Skip it if
- The CN201 with let-off and counterweights is within reach
- You want Bluetooth confirmed
- You want a bench included
Key Specifications
| Key Action | Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHC II), graded |
| Sound Engine | Kawai sampled grands |
| Voices | 17 |
| Polyphony | 192 notes |
| Speakers | Built-in stereo |
| Bluetooth | Not published in listing |
| USB | USB MIDI |
| Pedals | 3 pedals built in |
| Weight | Not published in listing |
| Form Factor | Console in satin black |
The Upper CX
The listing confirms the CX202's Responsive Hammer Compact II graded action, 17 sounds, built-in speakers, 192-note polyphony and dual and split modes, in a satin black console with three pedals. It does not publish Bluetooth, speaker wattage, weight or the engine by name. At its price it sits between the KDP120 and the CN201 in Kawai's range.
Responsive Hammer Compact II
RHC II is the refined compact action from the KDP120 and ES520: graded, smooth, quiet, slightly lighter than Roland's PHA-4 Standard, with two sensors and no let-off. It is a comfortable, capable action through intermediate level and the natural step from the CX102's RHL. The CN201's RHIII adds a third sensor, let-off and counterweights, and for a pianist heading toward advanced repertoire that is the keyboard to reach for.
Sound, Polyphony and Speakers
The grand carries Kawai's warmth and the sound set covers a second piano, electric pianos, organs, strings and bass. Polyphony is 192 notes. The built-in speakers suit a practice room or modest living room; the listing does not publish their wattage.
Connectivity and Pedals
USB MIDI connects apps and a computer with a cable, and Kawai's PianoRemote app works that way. Three pedals are built in. Two headphone jacks allow silent practice for two. Bluetooth is not stated on the listing.
Assembly and Cabinet
The CX202 assembles in under an hour with two people into a satin black console with a folding cover. Weight is not published. No bench is included.
Daily Use
Owners use the CX202 as a straightforward practice piano: sounds, metronome, Duet mode and the recorder from the panel, with the app over USB for deeper settings. The RHC II action suits long sessions and the 192-note polyphony handles pedaled repertoire without dropping notes. Headphones in the evening, speakers by day.
CX202 Against the Alternatives
Against the CX102, the CX202 adds the RHC II action and is the better buy for a student who will progress. Against the KDP120, both use RHC II; the KDP120 adds Bluetooth MIDI, Grand Feel pedals and Alfred lessons at a lower price, while the CX202 has the newer cabinet. Against the CN201, the CN201's RHIII, Bluetooth audio and MIDI and 2 x 20 W speakers are the pianist's choice for a modest premium.
Buy the CX202 for the mid Kawai action in a current console; buy the CN201 if touch leads.
Setup and Accessories
The CX202 assembles like the CX102: side panels, back board, pedal board and keyboard unit, under an hour for two people. The satin black cabinet with a folding cover suits a modern room and sits close to a wall. Add an adjustable bench and headphones; Kawai's PianoRemote app over USB covers the settings the panel does not.
Practice Features
Duet mode for teacher and student, dual and split modes, a metronome, a recorder and two headphone jacks cover lessons and silent practice. The RHC II action's quiet mechanism matters in a shared home, where a noisy keyboard at night is as disruptive as the sound itself. With 192-note polyphony, pedaled and layered playing never drops notes.
Long-Term Fit
The CX202 carries a student through intermediate level and its action is what prompts an upgrade to the CN or CA series. As a new Kawai model it should hold value well.
Strengths and Limitations
Strengths
- RHC II action in the new CX console line
- Kawai grand samples with 192-note polyphony
- Seventeen sounds and dual and split modes
- Satin black console with three pedals
Limitations
- Bluetooth, speaker power and weight not stated on the listing
- Priced close to the CN201 with RHIII
- New model with little track record
How We Scored It
Scores reflect published specifications, documented features and value against the alternatives below. They are editorial research scores, not laboratory measurements.
Alternatives to Consider
Kawai CN201
Pianists who want the most authentic action and tone in an entry Kawai console
Read the Kawai CN201 review →
Kawai CX102
Families who want a Kawai console at the lowest price in the new CX line
Read the Kawai CX102 review →
Kawai KDP120
Students and families who want the warmest-sounding mid-priced console with wireless app connection
Read the Kawai KDP120 review →Questions Buyers Ask
Kawai CX202
See the current listing, price and included accessories.
About This Review
Mandrillis Team
The Mandrillis editorial team researches and compares audio and music gear using manufacturer documentation, verified specs and real buyer feedback, so you can make a confident purchase without wading through marketing claims.
Read our full research methodology.