Kawai K1 II

4.5 (7)

2 Critic Reviews

1 Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Description

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The Kawai K1 II synthesizer is a classic digital instrument that has stood the test of time, offering a hybrid of PCM and additive synthesis that appeals to both enthusiasts of vintage gear and modern musicians seeking a unique sound. Originally released in the late 1980s, this synthesizer is known for its distinctive 8-bit PCM waveforms, which provide a rich, gritty texture that sets it apart from contemporary digital synths. The K1 II is an upgraded version of its predecessor, featuring enhanced sound capabilities and improved functionality, making it a reliable choice for both studio work and live performances.

With its 61 velocity-sensitive keys, the Kawai K1 II provides a responsive and expressive playing experience. The synth is equipped with a variety of patches, ranging from lush pads to dynamic leads, and offers the flexibility of layering up to four sounds simultaneously. Musicians appreciate its intuitive interface that allows for easy sound manipulation and performance tweaks on the fly. Additionally, the K1 II includes onboard effects like reverb and chorus, allowing users to further sculpt their sound without the need for external processors.

Whether you're a seasoned synthesist or a newcomer to the world of digital synthesis, the Kawai K1 II remains a compelling choice for those seeking a vintage sound with modern reliability.

Key Features:

61 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playing
Distinctive 8-bit PCM waveforms for unique sound textures
Layer up to four sounds for rich, complex tones
Onboard effects including reverb and chorus
Intuitive interface for easy sound manipulation
Extensive library of patches for versatile sound design

Videos

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TausendAugen

Kawai K1II "analog sounds"

TausendAugen

Van Halen "Jump" on Kawai K1 II

Costas Kara

Kawai K1 ii synthesizer demo and explanation of use and new age music

Northwest Time

Kawai K1 II Synthesizer - Part 1 - Fixing it

Runningonair

KAWAI K1 II (sounds demonstration)

Keyboards - review - repair

Kawai K1ii

Musicnectar

Kawai K1 II Demo (1990, 1991)

voicesofoblivion

Kawai K1 II Synthesizer - Part 5 - Drums & Effects

Runningonair

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kawai K1 II.

Features and functionality

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The Kawai K1 II lacks a filter but offers 8-bit waveforms and one LFO, which can create unique, gritty sound textures.
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The joystick does not send MIDI CCs, limiting its use as a MIDI controller despite its good pitch and mod wheel feel.
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Setup and maintenance

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Check for the "8th button press issue" where a random noise may appear on the 8th key press with 4-voice patches.
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A common issue noted is sticky keys, which may require attention but is considered manageable by owners.
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Comparisons

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Some users prefer the K1 II's sound over the Roland D-50 and Korg M1, highlighting its distinctive electric piano sound called "digi piano."
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Some users express a preference for the K1(m) due to its unique tone, which consistently brings joy compared to other synthesizers.
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Some users consider the Kawai K1 II to be superior to other synths like the Ensoniq ESQ-1 for its unique sound palette.
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Use cases and applications

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The K1 II is used by some as a MIDI controller, featuring a rare hidden drum kit accessible on MIDI channel 10.
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Owners highlight the Kawai K1 II's ability to produce exceptional choir pads, ideal for goth and industrial music styles.
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The Kawai K1 II contributed to iconic early rave and techno tracks, particularly using its default pad patches.
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User experience

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Some owners find the keys clacky but appreciate the controllable aftertouch and overall feel of the keyboard.
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Owners reminisce about the K1 II as their first synth, highlighting its nostalgic value and presence in early electronic music settings.
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Value and pricing

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A user found a Kawai K1 II for just $40 on a classified site, illustrating potential bargains for those seeking vintage digital synths.
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A Kawai K1 II can be found for as little as $50 at estate sales, illustrating potential opportunities for budget-conscious synth enthusiasts.
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Critic Reviews

Kawai K1 II (MT Oct 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Kawai K1 II is a budget-friendly evolution of its predecessor, adding onboard effects and a dedicated drum section without reinventing the wheel. While it retains the K1's familiar interface, the new digital effects breathe life into sounds and the drum section offers versatility, albeit limited by a curious note allocation restriction. The synth's effects are globally applied, which might limit customization but still effectively enhance its sound palette. Though the drum options are fewer compared to competitors, the selection suits modern styles and retains compatibility with original K1 sounds. Overall, the K1 II provides excellent value for those seeking added features without a significant price hike.

positive

Full Review

Kawai K1 II (SOS Dec 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Kawai K1 II builds on its predecessor's success by adding independent drum voices and a built-in effects section, making it an excellent choice for first-time buyers looking for a budget-friendly synthesizer. While it lacks the warmth of Roland's D5, the K1 II offers a compelling package with good quality stereo effects and a brilliant songwriting system when paired with a sequencer. Its 32 drum voices, though not as punchy as the D5's, are a sensible addition. If you can overlook its preset-only effects and lack of dynamic filter envelopes, the K1 II delivers great value for its price.

positive

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

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lwf

over 6 years ago

Great Lo-fi Synthesizer

I've used this Keyboard in my most recent Recording "Perfect Hatred". This synth is great in its stock form as I chose to use it. This 8 bit keyboard mixes great with other lo-fi recordings and distorted guitar very well. If you choose to use this alone you will notice the compression artifacts in the low bass range of the samples. Overall a high quality sound with a low noise floor; for the time it's quite impressive and still relevant today. Best recommended for "Dungeon Synth" and some forms of "Black Metal". The greatest strength of this item is that you don't need a manual to program; and anyone who wants to figure out how it works can in a short period of time. The greatest weakness is the drum kit. While it's usable it can't hold very well to the Roland 808. I've blended samples with the 808 and this Kawaii with great effect. You have to work to make the drums sound convincing in the mix.

Artist usage

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Jean Michel Jarre

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Dustbins

Verified via Iheartsynths

"A new Kawai K1 II, which I hated because it didn’t have a decent piano sound and the black keys were harder to press than the white keys. I probably would appreciate it now for what it is, but back then I would have needed a PCM-based workstation, like a Korg M1 that I lusted for, but couldn’t afford back then." - Jarre for I Heart Synths about the Kawai K1 II, which served as his first synth.

Legowelt

Music Producer

Verified via Legowelt

Featured on Legowelt's official website as being a piece of gear used by him at some point with a dedicated page with audio demos and his own words about it: "Behold: The Kawai K1 II is a digital synthesizer from the late 80s build by the Kawai Musical Instruments Manufacturing Company in Hamamatsu Japan. Its a cheap and easy to find machine cause its sneered upon by analog snoots who probably don’t have any braincell left to program it cause they inhaled too much toxic soldering fumes. A Really cool thing about the K1 is that it sort of looks like Darth Vader with its sleek triangular edges. Apart from that it also has a supercool joystick to program the sounds and smoothly mix through the different waveforms while playing."