Kawai K1r

^# 68

Equipboard's ranking is determined by analyzing factors such as professional artist usage, popularity, user ratings, reviews, and more.

$172.73

3.5 (5)

2 Critic Reviews

1 Review

Newer option

Kawai K1 II

4.5 (7)

Find out who is using Kawai K1r

1 wishlisted

21 saved

Page last updated Jun 29, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 29, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

5.0 (1)

$172.73 13 available Used

View Deal

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Edit description

The K1 comes in many options: the K1m module/desktop version and the rackmount K1r (pictured above).

The Kawai K1 is a synthesizer manufactured in 1988 by Kawai. It is an entry-level[4] and low fidelity synthesizer and not as feature rich as the Kawai K4 and was released to compete with the Roland D50 and Korg M1 synthesizers.

The K1 features 256 8-bit PCM waveforms (204 additive waveforms, 52 acoustic samples[6], AM (Ring modulation) and a 16×2 lines LCD display.

The K1 includes drum kits and sounds (acoustic and electronic kits, cymbals as well as some tuned percussion), so can be used to create full rhythm backing when sequenced. The K1II model has 32 percussion sounds.

Product specs

Brand	Kawai
Model	K1R Rackmount Digital Synthesizer Module
Finish	Black
Year	1988
Categories	Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital	Digital
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony	16 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Kawai K1r use?: The Kawai K1r uses digital synthesis with a focus on sample-based waveform sounds, offering a variety of digital timbres and textures suitable for a range of musical styles.
How many voices of polyphony does the Kawai K1r have?: The Kawai K1r features 16 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex layering and rich soundscapes in your compositions.
What are the MIDI capabilities of the Kawai K1r?: The Kawai K1r includes MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, making it versatile for integration with other MIDI-equipped devices and setups.
Can the Kawai K1r be used as a standalone synthesizer?: The Kawai K1r is a rackmount module and requires an external MIDI controller or sequencer to play and control its sounds.
What kind of sounds can I expect from the Kawai K1r?: The Kawai K1r offers a wide array of digital sounds, including synthesized waveforms and sampled instruments, suitable for electronic, ambient, and experimental music genres.

Videos

Add video

Christian's Sonic Spaces

Best Ambient Synth Shootout #69: Kawai K1r - Song 1

Christian's Sonic Spaces

Kawai K1r digital synthesizer module

Alfonse

Kawai K1r Rackmount Digital Synthesizer

Alfonse

Reviews

Add review

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kawai K1r.

Setup and maintenance

1 0

The Kawai K1r often loses presets due to a dead battery, which is soldered to the motherboard, requiring technical service for replacement.
Source
1 0

Correct polarity is crucial for the Kawai K1r; ensure the power adapter tip matches the device's polarity to avoid damage.
Source
1 0

Verify your power adapter is AC to DC, not AC to AC, as most devices, including the K1r, require AC to DC adapters.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

Owners report that without presets, the K1r defaults to a basic sound across all banks, significantly limiting its utility.
Source
0 0

The Kawai K1r module lacks the joystick found on the K1m, affecting tactile control options for sound manipulation.
Source

Software and compatibility

0 0

Loading factory patches onto the K1r requires downloading them and using a sysex program, a process described as cumbersome by users.
Source
0 0

The K1 plugin is enhanced by using a non-spring-loaded joystick controller, as knobs fail to replicate the fluid control of a joystick.
Source

User experience

0 0

Users have expressed frustration over the difficulty of restoring presets and dealing with battery issues, affecting their overall satisfaction with the K1r.
Source
0 0

The K1 keyboard is noted for its exceptionally light action, providing minimal resistance during play.
Source
0 0

Owners emphasize checking voltage and amperage on adapters, noting the amperage should meet or exceed the K1r's requirements without causing harm.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

One owner received a refund through Reverb due to undisclosed battery issues, highlighting the importance of checking the unit’s condition before purchase.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

The K1 plugin emulates the hardware using ROM dumps, not recordings, offering a similar sonic experience without physical hardware.
Source

Critic Reviews

Kawai K1r

boymeetssynth.blogspot.com

The Kawai K1r, while overshadowed by its analog counterparts, offers a unique digital charm with its 8-bit PCM waveforms. Its nostalgic sound, reminiscent of late-80s industrial records, brings character despite its low resolution. However, it lacks advanced features like a vector joystick, and its usability is hindered by an outdated LCD screen. Yet, it's a budget-friendly option for those seeking a retro vibe. Modifications, such as screen replacement, are necessary to enhance its functionality. Overall, the K1r is a quirky addition for synth enthusiasts but might require patience and DIY skills to fully appreciate its potential.

neutral

Full Review

Kawai K1R Synth Expander (PH May 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Kawai K1r Synth Expander is a budget-friendly option that excels in producing warm, atmospheric sounds with its 256 waveforms and 16-note polyphony. Its rackmount design saves space, making it ideal for studio setups. However, the absence of a joystick makes editing more cumbersome compared to its predecessors, the K1 and K1m. Despite this, the K1r's intuitive programming system and software editing options on Atari ST computers offer flexibility. With pre-programmed patches and the ability to create realistic acoustic imitations, the K1r stands out for its ease of use and unique sonic character, although it faces competition from Roland and Yamaha. Overall, it's a solid choice for musicians seeking a fresh and accessible digital synth.

positive

Full Review

Add review

3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 5 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

luke7fps

900

over 9 years ago

Nice machine for Pads and Textures, sadly lacks of Filters and Effects, but plug it into an external reverb and you're done

Great late-80's machine, especially for Pads, Strange Synths and Wall of noisy effects. It can layer up to 4 of the 256 PCM packed waveforms and do some basic processing. One of the great failings of this synth is the lack of filter, alongside with some quite noisy waveform. But if you need a cheap, beginner synth or a ambient-pad machine you just need to plug it in some multi-FX (Alesis Nanoverb, Lexicon MX200...) and you made the day!