Kawai ES 520 W User Manual
ES520
Owner’s Manual
Important Information
Preparation
Basic Operation
Adjustments & Settings
Appendix
Important Safety Instructions
Important Safety Instructions
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
AVIS : RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE - NE PAS OUVRIR.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
WARNING
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE
OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS PRODUCT TO
RAIN OR MOISTURE.
The lighting ash with arrowhead symbol, within
an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user
to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous
voltage" within the product's enclosure that may
be of sucient magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.
Examples of Picture Symbols
denotes that care should be taken.
The example instructs the user to take care not to allow ngers to be trapped.
denotes a prohibited operation.
The example instructs that disassembly of the product is prohibited.
denotes an operation that should be carried out.
The example instructs the user to remove the power cord plug from the AC outlet.
Read all the instructions before using the product.
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
ampliers) that produce heat.
9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. A grounding
type plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The wide blade or the third prongs are
provided for your safety. If the provided plug does
not t into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
The exclamation point within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to the
presence of important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the leterature
accompanying the product.
Important Information
1 0) Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specied by the
manufacturer.
1 2) Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table
specied by the manufacturer, or
sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used,
use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
1 3) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
1 4) Refer all servicing to qualied service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or
plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or object
have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has
been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.
3
WARNING - When using electric products, basic precautions should always be followed,including the following:
The product should be connected to
an AC outlet of the specied voltage.
Do not insert or disconnect the power
cord plug with wet hands.
Take care not to allow any foreign
matter to enter the product.
When using the headphones, do not
listen for long periods of
time at high volume levels.
Do not lean against the keyboard.
Important Information
WARNING
Indicates a potential hazard that could result in death or
serious injury if the product is handled incorrectly.
120V 240V230V
● If you are going to use an AC power cord,
make sure that its has the correct plug shape
and conforms to the specied power voltage.
● Failure to do so may result in re.
Doing so may cause electric shock.
Entry of water, needles or hair pins may result
in breakdown or short-circuit.
The product shall not be exposed to dripping or
splashing. No objects lled with liquids, such as
vases, shall be placed on the product.
Doing so may result in hearing problems.
Doing so may cause the product to fall over,
resulting in injury.
Do not use the product in wet areas,
or areas close to water.
Do not disassemble, repair or modify
the product.
When disconnecting the AC power cord's
plug, always hold the plug
and pull it to remove it.
The product is not completely disconnected from the
power supply even when the power switch is turned
o. If the product will not be used for a long time,
unplug the AC power cord from the AC outlet.
Doing so may cause a short circuit, leading to an
electric shock, or a fire.
Doing so may result in product breakdown, electric
shock or short-circuit.
● Pulling the AC power cord itself may damage
the cord, causing a re, electric shock or
short-circuit.
● Failure to do so may cause re in case of
lightning.
● Failure to do so may over-heat the product,
resulting in re.
This product may be equipped with a polarized line plug (one blade wider
than the other). This is a safety feature.
If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact an electrician to
replace your obsolete outlet.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the plug.
This product shall be near the AC outlet and the power cord plug in a position so that it can readily be
disconnected in an emergency because electricity is always charging while the plug is in the AC outlet even in a
power switch o condition.
4
CAUTION
Indicates a potential hazard that could result in injury or
damage to the product or other property if the product
is handled incorrectly.
Do not use the product in the following areas.
● Areas, such as those near windows, where the product is
exposed to direct sunlight
● Extremely hot areas, such as near a heater
● Extremely cold areas, such as outside
● Extremely humid areas
● Areas where a large amount of sand or dust is present
● Areas where the product is exposed to excessive vibrations
● Do not stand the main unit on its side for extended periods of time.
● Do not attempt to play the main unit at unusual angles.
Doing so may place stress on the keyboard action, resulting in breakdown of the product.
Use only the AC adaptor included with this instrument to power the instrument.
● Do not use other AC adaptors to power this instrument.
● Do not use the included AC adaptor or AC power cord to power other equipment.
Before connecting cords, make sure
that the power to this product
and other devices is turned
OFF.
Do not drag the product on the oor.
Take care not to drop the product.
OFF
Using the product in such areas may result in
product breakdown.
Use the product only in moderate climates (not
in tropical climates).
Failure to do so may cause breakdown of this
product and other devices.
Please lift up the product when moving it.
Please note that the product is heavy and must
be carried by more than two persons.
Dropping the product may result in breakdown.
Important Information
Do not place the product near electrical
appliances such as TVs and radios.
When connecting the AC power cord
and other cords, take care
not to get them tangled.
Do not wipe the product with benzene
or thinner.
Do not stand on the product or exert
excessive force.
Do not place naked ame, such as lighted
candles on the product.
● Doing so may cause the product to generate
noise.
● If the product generates noise, move the
product suciently away from the electrical
appliance or connect it to another AC outlet.
Failure to do so may damage them, resulting in
re, electric shock or short-circuit.
● Doing so may result in discoloration or deformation
of the product.
● When cleaning the product, put a soft cloth in
lukewarm water, squeeze it well, then wipe the
product.
● Doing so may cause the product to become
deformed or fall over, resulting in breakdown
or injury.
Doing so may cause the illumination to fall over,
resulting in re.
Ensure that the ventilation is not
impeded by covering the ventilation
openings with items, such as newspaper,
table-cloths, curtains, etc.
The product should be located so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. Ensure a
minimum distance of 5cm around the product for sucient ventilation.
Failure to do so may over-heat the product,
resulting in re.
5
The product should be serviced by qualied service personnel when:
● The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged.
● Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the product.
● The product has been exposed to rain.
● The product does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance.
●The product has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
Notes on Repair
Should an abnormality occur in the product, immediately turn the power OFF, disconnect the power cord plug, and then
contact the shop from which the product was purchased.
CAUTION:
To prevent electric shock, match wide blade of plug to wide slot, fully insert.
ATTENTION:
Pour éviter les chocs électriques, introduire la lame la plus large de la che dans la borne correspondante de la prise et
pousser jusqu'au fond.
An information on Disposal for users
If your product is marked with this recycling symbol it means that, at the end of its life, you must dispose of it
separately by taking it to an appropriate collection point.
You should not mix it with general household waste. Disposing of this product correctly will prevent potential negative
eects on the environment and human health which could otherwise arise due to inappropriate waste handling.
For further details, please contact your local authority.
(European Union only)
Instruction for AC power cord (U.K.)
IMPORTANT
THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.
BLUE : NEUTRAL
BROWN : LIVE
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter Lor coloured RED.
Important Information
Do not plug either terminal of the power cord to the the ground AC outlet on the wall.
Canadian Radio Interference Regulations
This instrument complies with the limits for a class B digital apparatus, pursuant to the Radio Interference Regulations,
C.R.C., c. 1374.
FCC Information (U.S.A)
CAUTION : Changes or modications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE : This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Declaration of Conformity
Products : Electronic Piano
Model Number : ES520
Responsible Party Name : Kawai America Corporation
Address : 2055 East University Drive Rancho
Dominguez, CA 90220
Telephone 310-631-1771
The nameplate label is located on
the underside of the instrument,
as indicated below.
Nameplate
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
This applies only to products distributed by Kawai America Corporation.
6
Displayed Icons
Panel lock icon
Displayed when panel lock is on.
USB icon
Displayed when a USB memory device is connected.
Headphone icon
Displayed when a pair of headphones is connected.
Transpose icon
Displayed when key TRANSPOSE is on.
Bluetooth icon
Displayed when Bluetooth Audio or Bluetooth MIDI is on.
* Displayed when the SPEAKER switch is o.
(Headphone icon is displayed when a pair of headphones is connected)
Important Information
* Displayed when a Bluetooth connection is made.
7
Table of ContentsTable of Contents
Table of Contents
Important Information
Important Information
Important Safety Instructions ....................... 3
Displayed Icons ...................................... 7
Table of Contents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Welcome to the Kawai ES520 .......................10
1. Package Contents ............................10
2. Feature Highlights ............................11
Part Names and Functions ..........................12
Preparation
Setting Up the Piano ................................14
Basic Operation .....................................15
Basic Operation
Selecting Sounds .................................... 16
Demo Songs .........................................17
Dual Mode ...........................................18
Split Mode ...........................................20
Four Hands Mode ...................................22
Enhancing the Sound ...............................24
1. Reverb ........................................24
2. Eects ........................................26
3. Amp Simulator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Panel Lock ...........................................31
Transpose ...........................................32
Metronome ..........................................33
USB Menu ...........................................46
1. Load Registration ............................. 47
2. Save Internal Song ............................48
3. Save Registration .............................49
4. Rename File ...................................50
5. Delete File ....................................51
Adjustments & Settings
Settings Menus ......................................52
Basic Settings .......................................53
1-1. Tone Control ..................................54
Brilliance ......................................54
User EQ .......................................55
1-2. Tuning ........................................56
1-3. Damper Hold .................................56
1-4. Four Hands ...................................57
1-5. Startup Setting ............................... 58
1-6. Factory Reset .................................59
1-7. Auto Display O ..............................60
1-8. Auto Power O ...............................61
Virtual Technician ...................................62
2-1. Touch Curve ..................................64
2-2. Voicing ........................................65
User Voicing ..................................66
2-3. Damper Resonance ........................... 67
2-4. Damper Noise ................................67
2-5. String Resonance .............................68
Rhythm ..............................................35
Registration Memories ..............................37
Song Recorder
1. Recording a Song .............................39
2. Playing a Song ................................41
3. Erasing a Song ................................43
Playing a MIDI or KSO le
(Internal memory) ........................39
(USB memory) ...............44
8
2-6. Key-o Eect .................................69
2-7. Fall-back Noise ................................70
2-8. Hammer Delay ................................ 71
2-9. Topboard .....................................72
2-10. Decay Time .................................. 73
2-11. Minimum Touch .............................73
2-12. Temperament ...............................74
Stretch Tuning ................................75
Stretch Curve .................................76
Temperament Key ............................76
User Temperament ........................... 77
2-13. User Key Volume ............................77
2-14. Half-Pedal Adjust ............................78
2-15. Soft Pedal Depth ............................78
Key Settings .........................................79
3-1. Lower Octave Shift. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
3-2. Lower Pedal ...................................81
3-3. Split Balance ..................................81
3-4. Layer Octave Shift ............................ 82
3-5. Layer Dynamics ............................... 83
3-6. Dual Balance .................................. 83
Phones Settings .....................................84
Important Information
4-1. SHS Mode .....................................85
4-2. Phones Type ..................................86
MIDI Settings ........................................87
Bluetooth Settings ..................................87
6-1. Bluetooth Audio ..............................88
6-2. Bluetooth Audio Volume .....................89
6-3. Bluetooth MIDI ...............................90
Appendix
Connecting to Other Devices .......................91
Rear Connectors ..................................92
Upper Connectors ................................92
Front Connectors .................................92
USB MIDI
Information about Bluetooth® ......................94
(USB to Host Connector) .........................93
Troubleshooting .................................... 95
Demo Song List .....................................96
EU Declaration of Conformity .......................97
Kawai ES520 Specications .........................98
Owner’s Manual Conventions .......................99
9
Welcome to the Kawai ES520Welcome to the Kawai ES520
ES520
Owner’s Manual
Important Information
Preparation
Basic Operation
Adjustments & Settings
Appendix
Welcome to the Kawai ES520
Thank you for purchasing this Kawai ES520 digital piano.
This owner’s manual contains important information regarding the usage and operation of the ES520 digital piano.
Please read all sections carefully, keeping this manual handy for future reference.
1
Package Contents
The Kawai ES520 digital piano package contains the following items:
ES520 digital piano
Important Information
AC adapter (PS-154)/Power cable
Music rack/rest
Foot pedal (F-10H)
Owner’s manual
10
2
Feature Highlights
Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHC II) weighted-key keyboard action
The new Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHC II) action has been developed to reproduce the distinctive touch of an acoustic
grand piano. The weight of the keyboard is appropriately graded to mirror the heavier bass and lighter treble hammers of
acoustic pianos, with a smooth matte texture applied to each black and white key for enhanced playability. As with other
Kawai digital piano keyboard actions, Responsive Hammer Compact II utilises triple sensor hammer velocity detection, and
features a springless mechanism that delivers a smooth and natural piano playing experience.
Despite its lightweight, compact design, the RHC II action allows experienced pianists to perform with condence, playing
fortissimo with power and certainty, while delicately controlling the softest, most gentle pianissimo passages.
Shigeru Kawai SK-EX and Kawai EX instruments reproduced with Harmonic Imaging sound technology
The ES520 digital piano captures the rich, expressive sound of the Kawai SK-EX and EX grand pianos, with all 88 keys of these
exceptional instruments meticulously recorded, analysed and faithfully reproduced using Progressive Harmonic Imaging™
sound technology. This unique process accurately recreates the broad dynamic range of the original grand pianos, aording
pianists an extraordinary level of expressiveness ranging from the softest pianissimo to the strongest, boldest fortissimo.
The instrument’s built-in Virtual Technician feature allows various characteristics of these acoustic piano sounds to be shaped
at the touch of a button, with settings to adjust string and damper resonance, in addition to subtle hammer, damper, and key
release noises. This personalised piano sound is further enhanced with atmospheric reverberation eects, delivering a rich,
vibrant piano tone with breathtaking realism and authenticity.
Important Information
Strong selection of additional instrument sounds
Supplementing the realistic acoustic piano voices, the ES520 digital piano also features a strong selection of additional
instrument sounds, ranging from electric pianos and drawbar and church organs, to string, choir, and mallet instruments,
inviting musicians to add greater variety to their performances.
Furthermore, the Dual playing mode also allows two dierent sounds, such as grand piano and strings, to be layered together,
while the Split and Four Hands modes divide the keyboard into two independent sections. The volume balances for each
playing mode can also be adjusted quickly and easily using the real-time panel controls.
Wide range of connectivity options
The ES520 digital piano features a variety of standard connectivity options, with Line-level output jacks that allow the
instrument to be enjoyed in larger settings such as churches and schools. Standard MIDI and USB to Host connectors ensure
exibility when using computers and other electronic instruments.
Integrated Bluetooth® 0connectivity
In addition to standard MIDI jacks for connecting to other instruments, the ES520 digital piano also boasts integrated
Bluetooth MIDI and Audio technology that allows the instrument to communicate with supported smart devices wirelessly.
Once connected to a phone, tablet, or laptop, ES520 digital piano owners can enjoy a wide variety of exciting music-related
apps that enhance their learning and playing experience, or stream audio from songs and videos through the instrument’s
speakers without additional cables.
* Availability of Bluetooth function dependent on market location.
11
Part Names and FunctionsPart Names and Functions
Part Names and Functions
a
b
e
c d
Important Information
12
f g i
h
j
a Display
The display provides important information relating to the
currently selected sound, style, function, and setting.
* A protective plastic lm is attached to the display during production.
Please remove this lm before attempting to play the instrument.
b MENU buttons
These buttons are used to navigate through the instrument’s
various function and settings menus.
c VALUE buttons
These buttons are used to adjust values, and change settings etc.
d EXIT button
This button is used to exit the current function, or return to the
previous screen.
e USB to Device port (Type A)
This port is used to connect a FAT or FAT32 formatted USB
memory device to the instrument in order to load/save recorded
song data, registration memories, and SMF les etc.
* Use this port for connecting USB memory devices only.
* Connect the USB memory device directly, without using a USB
extension cable.
f TRANSPOSE button
This button is used to adjust the pitch of the instrument’s
keyboard in semi-tone steps.
k
l
nm
o p
g SPLIT button
This button is used to select and adjust the instrument’s Split/
Four Hands mode functions.
h DEMO button
When pressed simultaneously, the TRANSPOSE and SPLIT
buttons are also used to select the instrument’s Demo mode.
i REGISTRATION button
This button is used to store and recall one of the 28 dierent
Registration memories. Each Registration can store sound,
reverb/eects, and Virtual Technician settings, as well as various
other panel and menu options.
j SOUND buttons
These buttons are used to select the sound(s) that will be heard
when playing the instrument’s keyboard.
These buttons are also used to select Registration memories.
k AMP/EFFECTS/REVERB buttons
These buttons are used to turn the instrument’s amp, reverb,
and eects functions on/o, and to adjust their various settings.
l (RESET) button
This button is used to reset the instrument’s song recorder, and
to rewind songs and SMF les to the beginning.
q r s t
u
Important Information
m (REC) and
(PLAYBACK / START/STOP) buttons
These buttons are used to record and playback songs stored in
the instrument’s internal memory, or SMF les saved to a USB
memory device.
n RHYTHM / buttons
These buttons are used to select the Rhythm style.
o VOLUME button
This button is used to display the rhythm volume adjustment
screen by a single touch of the button.
p RHYTHM button
This button is used to play the rhythm.
q METRONOME button
This button is used to turn the instrument’s metronome function
on/o, and to adjust metronome settings.
r USB button
This button is used to access the instrument’s USB functions.
When pressed simultaneously, the METRONOME and USB
buttons are used to toggle the instrument’s Panel Lock feature.
s MASTER VOLUME slider
This slider controls the master volume level of the instrument’s
built-in speakers, LINE OUT, and headphones, if connected.
t POWER button
This button is used to turn the instrument on and o. Be sure to
turn o the instrument after use.
* The ES520 digital piano features a power saving mode that can turn o
the instrument automatically after a specied period of inactivity. For
more information, please refer to the Auto Power O setting on page
61.
u PHONES jacks
These jacks are used to connect stereo headphones to the
instrument. Two pairs of headphones can be connected and
used simultaneously.
* For more information about connectors/jacks, please refer to page
91.
13
Setting Up the Piano
Setting Up the Piano
Upon unboxing the instrument, please follow the instructions below which explain how to attach the music rest,
connect the F-10H (or optional GFP-3) foot pedal, and if desired, connect a pair of headphones.
Attaching the music rest
Insert the base of the music rest into the groove located at the
rear of the ES520 digital piano, taking care not to scratch the rear
of the instrument.
To prevent possible damage, avoid applying excessive force
when attaching/detaching the music rest from the instrument.
Connecting the F-10H foot pedal
Connect the included Kawai F-10H foot pedal to the DAMPER
pedal jack located on the rear panel of the instrument.
The foot pedal will function as a damper pedal, sustaining the
sound after hands are lifted from the keyboard. This pedal is
capable of responding to “half pedaling”.
Preparation
Connecting the optional GFP-3 triple pedal
Connect the optional Kawai GFP-3 triple pedal to the DAMPER/
SOFT pedal jack located on the rear panel of the instrument.
The right pedal will function as a damper pedal, sustaining the
sound after hands are lifted from the keyboard. This pedal is also
capable of responding to “half pedaling”.
The centre pedal will function as a sostenuto pedal, and the left
pedal will function as a soft pedal.
* When “Jazz Organ”, “Drawbar Organ” or “Ballad Organ” sounds are
selected, the soft pedal can also be used to alternate the speed of the
rotary speaker eect between “Slow” and “Fast” modes.
Connecting headphones
Use the jacks located on either side of the keyboard to connect
stereo headphones to the ES520 digital piano.
There are one standard jack and one mini jack so up to two pairs
of headphones can be connected. When a pair of headphones is
connected, sound will not be produced by the built-in speakers.
Turning built-in speakers on/o
Set the SPEAKER switch located on the rear panel to the O
position to disable the instrument’s built-in speakers. Set the
switch to the On position to enable the speakers.
* When a pair of headphones is connected, sound will not be producedfrom
the built-in speakers regardless of the status of the SPEAKER switch.
14
Basic Operation
The following instructions explain how to connect the instrument to the power outlet, turn on the power, adjust the
volume to a comfortable level, and begin playing the piano.
1. Connecting the power adaptor
Connect the included AC power adaptor to the “DC IN” jack
located on the rear panel of the instrument, indicated below.
2. Turning on the instrument’s power
Press the POWER button located on the right side of the
instrument’s control panel.
The instrument will turn on, and the words “SK ConcertGrand”
will be shown in the display, indicating that the SK ConcertGrand
sound is selected. The LED indicator for the PIANO 1 button will
also turn on.
Connect the AC power adaptor to an AC outlet.
Preparation
* The ES520 digital piano features a power saving mode that can turn o the
instrument automatically after a specied period of inactivity. For more
information, please refer to the Auto Power O setting on page 61.
3. Adjusting the volume
The MASTER VOLUME slider controls the volume level of the
instrument’s speakers, LINE OUT, and headphones if connected.
Move the slider to the right to increase the volume, and to the
left to decrease the volume.
Use this slider to set the volume to a comfortable listening level
- the middle is often a good starting point.
4. Play the piano
Begin playing the piano.
The rich sound of a Kawai SK-EX Concert Grand Piano will be
heard as the keys are pressed.
Left:
Decrease
volume
LED indicator on:
Sound category is selected.
Right:
Increase
volume
15
Selecting Sounds
Selecting Sounds
The ES520 digital piano features a wide selection of realistic instrument sounds suitable for various musical styles.
Sounds are arranged into seven categories, with multiple sounds assigned to each category button.
By default, the “SK ConcertGrand” sound will be selected automatically when the instrument is turned on.
Sound categories and variations
PIANO 1
1 SK ConcertGrand
2 EX ConcertGrand
3 Jazz Clean
4 Warm Grand
HARPSI / MALLETS
1 Harpsichord
2 Vibraphone
3 Clavi
4 Marimba
PIANO 2
1 Upright Piano
2 Pop Grand
3 Modern Piano
4 Rock Piano
STRINGS / CHOIR
1 String Ensemble 5 Choir
2 Slow Strings 6 Square Pad
3 String Pad 7 New Age Pad
4 Warm Strings
1. Selecting a sound category
Press the desired SOUND button.
The LED indicator for the button will turn on to indicate that this
category has been selected, and the name of the sound will be
shown in the display.
E. PIANO
1 Classic E.Piano
2 Classic E.P. 2
3 60’s E.Piano
4 60’s E.Piano 2
5 Modern E.Piano
ORGAN
1 Jazz Organ
2 Drawbar Organ
3 Ballad Organ
4 Principal Oct.
5 Church Organ
BASS
1 Electric Bass
2 Electric Bass 2
3 Electric Bass 3
4 Wood Bass
5 W. Bass & Ride
Basic Operation
16
2. Changing the selected sound variation
Several sound variations are assigned to each category button.
Press a SOUND button repeatedly to cycle through the dierent
sound variations.
The or VALUE buttons can also be used to select sounds,
and cycle through the dierent sound variations.
Example: To select the E.PIANO category, press the
E.PIANO button.
× 3
Example: To select the “Pop Grand” sound, press
the PIANO2 button two times.
Demo Songs
The Demo function provides an excellent introduction to the varied capabilities of the ES520 digital piano.
There are 23 dierent demonstration songs available, highlighting the instrument’s rich selection of high quality
sounds and powerful speaker system.
For a complete listing of the available demonstration songs, please refer to page 96 of this owner’s manual.
* Kawai regrets that sheet music for Kawai original demo songs is not available.
1. Entering demo mode
Press the TRANSPOSE and SPLIT buttons simultaneously.
The LED indicators for both buttons will start to ash to indicate
that demo mode is in use, and the Demo song will start to play.
Demo song name
* When the Demo song has nished, a sound demo song will be selected
at random, and will start to play.
2. Selecting a demo song
While Demo mode is selected and the demo songs are playing:
Press the desired SOUND button.
The LED indicator for the button will start to ash, and the rst
demo in the selected sound category will start to play.
Press the selected sound category button repeatedly to cycle
through the dierent demo songs in that category.
The or VALUE buttons can also be used to cycle through all
of the dierent demo songs.
The or MENU buttons can be used to switch for each group.
× 4
Example: To select the Warm Grand demo song,
press the PIANO1 button four times.
Basic Operation
3. Stopping the demo song and exiting demo mode
While Demo mode is selected and the demo songs are playing:
Press the EXIT button.
The LED indicators will stop ashing, the demo songs will stop
playing, and the instrument will return to normal playing mode.
* The TRANSPUSE button or SPLIT button can also be used to stop them.
17
Dual ModeDual Mode
Dual Mode
The Dual Mode function allows two sounds to be layered together, creating a more complex sound.
For example, a piano sound layered with strings, or a church organ combined with a choir, etc.
1. Entering Dual mode
Press and hold a SOUND button to select the main sound, then
press another SOUND button to select the layered sound.
The LED indicators for both SOUND buttons will turn on to
indicate that Dual mode is in use, and the respective sound
names will be shown in the display.
hold
Basic Operation
Main sound
Layered sound
2. Changing the main/layered sounds
To select a dierent variation for the layered sound:
Press and hold the main SOUND button, then press the layered
SOUND button repeatedly to cycle through the dierent sound
variations.
To select a dierent variation for the main sound:
Press and hold the layered SOUND button, then press the main
SOUND button repeatedly to cycle through the dierent sound
variations.
Example: To layer the “Slow Strings” sound with the “SK
ConcertGrand” sound, press and hold the PIANO1 button,
then press the STRINGS/CHOIR button.
hold
Example: To change the layered “String Ensemble” sound to
the “Slow Strings” sound, press and hold the PIANO1 button,
then press the STRINGS/CHOIR button.
hold
× 2
To layer two variations assigned to the same SOUND button:
Press and hold a SOUND button, then press the
buttons to select the layered sound variation.
* Preferred Dual mode sound combinations can be stored to a
Registration memory for convenient recall. Please refer to page 37
for more information.
or VALUE
18
Example: To change the main “SK ConcertGrand” sound to
the “Jazz Clean” sound, press and hold the STRINGS/CHOIR
button, then press the PIANO1 button twice.
hold
Example: To layer the “Classic E.P.” and “60’s E.Piano” sounds
together, press and hold the E.PIANO button, then press the
VALUE button twice.
× 2
3. Adjusting the main/layered sound volume balance
While Dual mode is in use:
Press the
or VALUE buttons to adjust the volume balance
between the main and layered sounds.
The volume balance will briey be shown in the display.
* The default Dual mode volume balance is 9-9.
* The preferred Dual mode volume balance can also be stored to a
Registration memory for convenient recall. Please refer to page 37
for more information.
* The Layer Octave Shift setting can be used to adjust the octave range
of the layered sound. Please refer to page 82 for more information.
* The Layer Dynamics setting can be used to adjust the dynamic
sensitivity of the layered sound. Please refer to page 83 for more
information.
4. Exiting Dual mode
VALUE
Increase main
sound volume/
decrease layered
sound volume.
Example: To decrease the volume of the main
sound to 5, press the VALUE button ve times.
VALUE
Increase layered
sound volume/
decrease main
sound volume.
× 5
While Dual mode is in use:
Press a single SOUND button.
The LED indicator for the button will turn on, the name of the
selected sound will be shown in the display, and the instrument
will return to normal (single voice mode) operation.
Basic Operation
19
Split ModeSplit Mode
Split Mode
The Split Mode function divides the keyboard into two sections, allowing each section to be played with a dierent
sound. For example, a bass sound in the lower section, and a piano sound in the upper section.
1. Entering Split mode
Press the SPLIT button.
The LED indicator for the SPLIT button will turn on and the
keyboard is split at the point between F#3 and G3.
G3 where the upper section begins, is called the split point.
The default split point is G3.
The LED indicator for the upper section sound button will turn
on, and the LED indicator for the lower section sound button will
start to ash. The respective sound names will also be shown in
the display.
Basic Operation
Upper section
sound
Lower section
sound
Split enabled
2. Changing the upper/lower section sounds
To select a dierent sound for the upper section:
Press the desired SOUND button.
To select a dierent sound for the lower section:
Press and hold the SPLIT button, then press the desired SOUND
button.
Default Split mode:
The previously selected sound is used for the upper section, and
the “Wood Bass” sound is selected for the lower section.
Example: To select the “Jazz Organ” sound for the upper
section, press the ORGAN button.
hold
* The Lower Octave Shift setting can be used to adjust the octave range
of the lower section. Please refer to page 80 for more information.
* The Lower Pedal setting can be used to enable/disable the damper
pedal for the lower section. Please refer to page 81 for more
information.
* Preferred Split mode upper/lower sound combinations can be stored
to a Registration memory for convenient recall. Please refer to page
37 for more information.
20
Example: To select the “W. Bass & Ride” sound for the lower
section, press and hold the SPLIT button, then press the BASS
button.
3. Changing the split point
Press and hold the SPLIT button, then press the desired split key
on the keyboard.
The name of the pressed key will briey be shown in the display,
and will become the new split point.
hold
New split point
4. Adjusting the upper/lower sound volume balance
While Split mode is in use:
Example: To set the split point to key F4, press and
hold the SPLIT button, then press the F4 key.
Upper sectionLower section
Press the
or VALUE buttons to adjust the volume balance
between the upper and lower sections.
The volume balance will briey be shown in the display.
* The default Split mode volume balance is 9-9.
* The preferred Split mode upper/lower volume balance can also be
stored to a Registration memory for convenient recall. Please refer to
page 37 for more information.
5. Exiting Split mode
While Split mode is in use:
Press the SPLIT button.
The LED indicator for the SPLIT button will turn o, and the
instrument will return to normal (full keyboard) operation.
VALUE
Increase upper
section volume/
decrease lower
section volume.
Example: To decrease the volume of the upper section
sound to 6, press the VALUE button four times.
VALUE
Increase lower
section volume/
decrease upper
section volume.
× 4
Basic Operation
21
Four Hands ModeFour Hands Mode
Four Hands Mode
The Four Hands Mode function divides the keyboard into two sections in a similar way to that of the Split Mode
function. However, with Four Hands Mode enabled, the octave/pitch of each section is automatically adjusted to
create two separate 44-key instruments with the same playing range. This function is intended to allow two people
to practise together or perform piano duets using a single instrument.
1. Entering Four Hands mode
Press and hold the SPLIT button, then press the damper pedal.
The LED indicator for the SPLIT button will start to ash to
indicate that Four Hands mode is in use.
* The default four hands mode split point is set between keys E4 and F4.
The LED indicator for the PIANO1 button will turn on, and the “SK
ConcertGrand” sound will automatically be selected for both the
upper and lower sections.
hold
Press the
damper pedal
Basic Operation
Upper section
sound
Lower section
sound
Four Hands enabled
2. Changing the upper/lower section sounds
To select a dierent sound for the upper section:
Press the desired SOUND button.
To select a dierent sound for the lower section:
Press and hold the SPLIT button, then press the desired SOUND
button.
Default Four Hands mode:
The “SK ConcertGrand” sound is selected for both
the upper and lower sections.
Example: To select the “Classic E.P.” sound for the
upper section, press the E.PIANO button.
hold
× 2
* If the included F-10H foot pedal is connected to the instrument, the
pedal will function as a damper pedal for the upper section only.
However, if the optional GFP-3 or F-302 triple pedal is connected,
the right (sustain) and left (soft) pedals will function as independent
damper pedals for the upper and lower sections respectively.
* Preferred Four Hands mode upper/lower sound combinations can be
stored to a Registration memory for convenient recall. Please refer to
page 37 for more information.
22
Example: To select the “Upright Piano” sound for
the lower section, press and hold the SPLIT button,
then press the PIANO2 button twice.
3. Changing the Four Hands mode split point
Press and hold the SPLIT button, then press the desired split key
on the keyboard.
The name of the pressed key will briey be shown in the display,
and will become the new Four Hands mode split point.
hold
New split point
4. Adjusting the upper/lower sound volume balance
While Four Hands mode is in use:
Example: To set the split point to key C5, press and hold
the SPLIT button, then press the C5 key.
Upper sectionLower section
Press the
or VALUE buttons to adjust the volume balance
between the upper and lower sections.
The volume balance will briey be shown in the display.
* The default Four Hands mode volume balance is 9-9.
* The preferred Four Hands mode upper/lower volume balance can also
be stored to a Registration memory for convenient recall. Please refer
to page 37 for more information.
5. Exiting Four Hands mode
While Four Hands mode is in use:
Press the SPLIT button.
The LED indicator for the SPLIT button will stop ashing, and the
instrument will return to normal (full keyboard) operation.
VALUE
Increase upper
section volume/
decrease lower
section volume.
Example: To decrease the volume of the lower section
sound to 6, press the VALUE button four times.
VALUE
Increase lower
section volume/
decrease upper
section volume.
× 4
Basic Operation
23
Enhancing the SoundEnhancing the Sound
Enhancing the Sound
The ES520 digital piano oers a variety of features to adjust and enhance the character of a particular sound. Some
of these features (e.g. Reverb), are enabled automatically when a sound is selected, however players may also wish
to change the strength or type of enhancement to suit their personal preferences or dierent styles of music.
1
Reverb
Reverb adds reverberation to the sound, simulating the acoustic environment of a recital room, stage, or concert
hall. Some sound types, such as acoustic piano, enable reverb automatically in order to improve acoustic realism.
The ES520 digital piano features six dierent reverb types.
Reverb types
Reverb type Description
Room Simulates the ambiance of a small rehearsal room.
Lounge Simulates the ambience of piano lounge.
Small Hall Simulates the ambiance of a small hall.
Concert Hall Simulates the ambiance of a concert hall or theater.
Live Hall Simulates the ambiance of a live hall or stage.
Cathedral Simulates the ambiance of a large cathedral.
Basic Operation
1. Turning Reverb on/o
Press the REVERB button to turn reverb on/o.
The LED indicator for the REVERB button will turn on to indicate
when reverb is in use, and the current status will briey be
shown in the display.
2. Entering the Reverb settings menu
Press and hold the REVERB button.
The reverb settings menu will be shown in the display.
hold
Reverb settings
Reverb setting Description Range
Type Changes the type of environment. –
Depth Adjusts the depth of the environment (i.e. amount of reverberation to apply). 1~10
Time Adjusts the decay length/speed of the reverberation. 1~10
24
3. Adjusting the Reverb settings (type/depth/time)
While the reverb settings menu is shown, to change the reverb type:
Press the
or VALUE buttons to cycle through the dierent
reverb types.
To change the reverb depth:
Press the
page, then press the
or MENU buttons to select the “Reverb Depth”
or VALUE buttons to decrease or
increase the reverb depth setting.
* The reverb depth setting can be adjusted within the range of 1~10.
To change the reverb time:
Example: To change the reverb type from “Small
Hall” to “Concert Hall”, press the VALUE button.
hold
Example: To increase the reverb depth, press the
MENU button to select the “Reverb Depth” page,
then press and hold the VALUE button.
Press the
page, then press the
or MENU buttons to select the “Reverb Time”
or VALUE buttons to decrease or
increase the reverb time setting.
* The reverb time setting can be adjusted within the range of 1~10.
To exit the reverb settings menu and return to normal playing
mode, press the EXIT button or wait 10 seconds.
* Reverb settings are independent for each sound variation.
* Any changes made to the reverb type, settings, or on/o status will
remain until the power is turned o.
* Preferred reverb settings can be stored to a Registration memory for
convenient recall. Please refer to page 37 for more information.
hold
Example: To reduce the reverb time, press the MENU
button to select the “Reverb Time” page, then
press and hold the VALUE button.
Basic Operation
25
Enhancing the SoundEnhancing the Sound
2
Eects
In addition to reverb, various other eects can be applied to the selected sound, altering the tonal character and
feeling of the instrument. As with reverb, some sound types enable certain eects automatically in order to enhance
tonal quality. The ES520 digital piano features 16 dierent eect types.
Eect types
Eect type Description
Mono Delay Adds an echo eect to the sound, playing through both speakers (stereo) simultaneously.
Ping Delay Adds a “ping pong” echo eect to the sound, giving the impression that it is “bouncing” from left to right.
Triple Delay Similar in principle to Ping Delay, but with an additional centre echo.
Chorus Layers a slightly detuned version of the sound over the original, thus enriching its tonal character.
Classic Chorus Similar in principle to Chorus, but intended for vintage electric piano sounds.
Ensemble Enriches the sound by adding three voiced chorus.
Tremolo Adds a tremor to the sound by varying the volume constantly.
Classic Tremolo Similar in principle to Tremolo, but intended for vintage electric piano sounds.
Vibrato Tremolo Adds vibrato to tremolo.
Auto Pan Alternates the sound output from left to right across the stereo eld using a sine wave.
Classic Auto Pan Similar in principle to Auto Pan, but intended for vintage electric piano sounds.
Phaser Applies a cyclic phase change to the sound, giving the impression that the sound is moving.
Classic Phaser Adds an eect produced by digital signal processing of classic chorus.
Compressor Increases the acoustic pressure.
Simulates the sound of a rotary speaker commonly used with vintage electronic organs.
Rotary 1
Rotary2 Adds vibrato to the rotary speaker eect.
* Pressing the and MENU buttons simultaneously alternates the speed of the rotary simulation between “Slow”
and “Fast” eect modes. If the optional GFP-3 or F-302 pedal is connected, the left (soft) pedal can also be used.
Basic Operation
26
1. Turning Eects on/o
Press the EFFECTS button to turn eects on/o.
The LED indicator for the EFFECTS button will turn on to indicate
when eects are in use, and the current status will briey be
shown in the display.
* If the Dual, Split, or Four Hands mode is selected, no eect is exerted
on the layered sound or lower sound.
2. Entering the Eects settings menu, selecting the Eect type
Press and hold the EFFECTS button.
The rst page of the eects settings menu will be shown in the
display.
Press the or VALUE buttons to cycle through the dierent
eect types.
Eect settings
Eect type Setting 1 Setting 2 Setting 3 Setting 4
Mono Delay / Ping Delay / Triple Delay Dry / Wet Time Feedback High Damp
Chorus Dry / Wet Speed Feedback Depth
Classic Chorus Mono / Stereo Speed – –
Ensemble Dry / Wet Speed – –
Tremolo Dry / Wet Speed – –
Classic Tremolo Dry / Wet Speed – –
Vibrato Tremolo Dry / Wet Speed – –
Auto Pan Dry / Wet Speed – –
Classic Auto Pan Dry / Wet Speed – –
Phaser Dry / Wet Speed Feedback Depth
Classic Phaser Dry / Wet Speed Feedback Depth
Compressor Gain Ratio Threshold Attack
Rotary 1 Accel. Speed Rotary Speed Lower Slow Speed Upper Slow Speed
Rotary 2 Accel. Speed Rotary Speed Vibrato/Chorus Spread
hold
Basic Operation
27
Enhancing the SoundEnhancing the Sound
3. Selecting and adjusting the Eect settings
While the eects settings menu is shown in the display:
Press the
or MENU buttons to cycle through the dierent
eects settings pages.
Press the or VALUE buttons to adjust the value of the
selected eects setting.
* Eect settings can be adjusted within the range from 1 to 10 except
Compressor and Rotary 2(Vibrato/Chorus).
* Compressor settings are as follows.
Gain (1 - 128)
Ratio (1:1 - 64.5:1)
Threshold (1 - 128)
Attack (1 - 128)
* Rotary 2(Vibrato/Chorus) settings are as follows.
Vibrato (V-1 ~ V-3)
Chorus (C-1 ~ C-3)
× 2
Example: To select the “Delay Time” eects setting,
press the MENU button twice.
hold
Example: To increase the “Delay Time” effects
setting, press and hold the VALUE button.
Basic Operation
To exit the eects settings menu and return to normal playing
mode, press the EXIT button or wait 4 seconds.
* Eects settings are independent for each sound variation.
* Any changes made to the eect type, settings, or on/o status will
remain until the power is turned o.
* Preferred eects settings can be stored to a Registration memory for
convenient recall. Please refer to page 37 for more information.
28
3
Amp Simulator
The ES520’s Amp Simulator (Amp Sim) attempts to reproduce the sound, response, and overdrive characteristics of
a typical amp/speaker combination, giving electric piano and drawbar organ sounds an authentic vintage quality.
Once enabled, the amplier type can be selected, with adjustable drive, level, and Low/Hi EQ settings. As with the
Reverb and Eects functions, selecting certain sounds will enable the Amp Sim automatically.
1. Turning the Amp Sim on/o
Press the AMP button to turn the Amp Sim on/o.
* If the Dual, Split, or Four Hands mode is selected, no eect is exerted
on the layered sound or lower sound.
Amp Sim settings
Amp Sim setting Description Range
Type Selects the amplier/speaker type. See below
Drive Adjusts the drive (overdrive) level of the selected amplier. 1~10
Level Adjusts the volume level of the selected amplier. 1~10
EQ Low Adjusts the low frequency EQ level of the selected amplier. –6 dB~+6 dB
EQ High Adjusts the high frequency EQ level of the selected amplier. –6 dB~+6 dB
2. Changing the Amp Sim type
While the Amp Sim settings menu is shown in the display:
Press and hold the AMP button. The Amp Sim settings menu will
be shown in the display.
hold
Press the
Amp Sim types.
or VALUE buttons to cycle through the dierent
Basic Operation
Amp Sim types
Amp Sim type Description
S. Case I A distantly miked suitcase type speaker, suitable for vintage electric piano sounds.
S. Case II A closely miked suitcase type speaker, suitable for vintage electric piano sounds.
L. Cabinet A speaker enclosed within a wooden cabinet, suitable for vintage drawbar organ sounds.
29
Enhancing the Sound
3. Adjusting the Amp Sim settings (drive/level/eq low/eq high)
While the Amp Sim settings menu is shown in the display:
Press the
Amp Sim settings pages, then press the
to adjust the value of the selected Amp Sim setting.
To exit the Amp Sim settings menu and return to normal playing
mode, press the EXIT button or wait 4 seconds.
* Amp Sim settings are independent for each sound variation.
* Any changes made to the Amp Sim type, settings, or on/o status will
remain until the power is turned o.
* Preferred Amp Sim settings can be stored to a Registration memory for
convenient recall. Please refer to page 37 for more information.
or MENU buttons to cycle through the dierent
or VALUE buttons
hold
Example: To increase the drive of the Amp Sim, press
the MENU button to select the “Amp Sim Drive”
page, then press and hold the VALUE button.
Basic Operation
30
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