Kawai ES8chat_bubble_outlineFrom real comments

The sound is the ES8's biggest strength, with many calling it the most convincing acoustic piano tone in its class. Owners repeatedly praise the SK and EX grand samples as stunning, lifelike, and even capable of fooling listeners into thinking it's a real acoustic grand. The bass response and sustain on higher SK samples are called unbelievable. Some users did note the sound can feel digital and narrow at full volume in larger rooms, and one preferred sample libraries like Garritan CFX for demanding pieces.

The RHIII action pleases most players but a persistent 'double bounce' key-return issue splits opinion. Many describe the action as excellent, weighted realistically, and improving with continued use, though it can feel mushy or spongy when new. A vocal minority strongly dislikes a bouncy key return that some attribute to worn rubber parts or design, comparing it unfavorably to Roland and Yamaha actions, while others argue this bounce mimics real grand piano key behavior.

Reliability concerns and key-contact failures are a recurring theme among owners and shoppers. Multiple users report keys going silent under light touches, repeated notes muting inconsistently, or units failing within months, sometimes requiring rubber part replacements. Some found floor models with 5-10 dead keys and hesitated to buy despite loving the feel. Others who've owned theirs for years report no issues and remain highly satisfied, suggesting inconsistent quality control.