Vs Gx2: Kawai Rx2
RX-2:
GX-2:
The RX-2 has what many technicians call a "forward" warmth. The attack is slightly softer than a Yamaha but harder than a vintage Steinway. The sustain is excellent for a 5'11" piano, but the bass can become muddy if voiced too softly. The treble is singing but lacks the complex overtones of higher-end pianos. It is a predictable, reliable tone—great for accompanying or pop music.
For serious pianists, music educators, and institutions, the search for the perfect "living room" or "teaching studio" grand piano often ends up in the fertile ground of Kawai’s 5’11” (180cm) category. For nearly two decades, the benchmark in this size class was the Kawai RX-2. However, in 2012, Kawai introduced its successor, the GX-2, as part of the new GX Series.
If you are shopping in the used market (where RX-2s are plentiful and affordable) versus the new market (where the GX-2 reigns), you face a classic dilemma: Is the newer GX-2 worth the significant price premium, or is the older RX-2 a hidden gem that offers 95% of the performance for 60% of the price?
This article dives deep into the action, soundboard, rim construction, tone profile, and long-term durability to help you decide which of these Japanese masterpieces belongs in your home.
If you view pianos strictly as machines, the GX-2 is the objectively better engineered instrument. It has a more stable action, a more resonant rim structure, and better projection. However, the RX-2 remains a beloved instrument for those who prioritize a warm, traditional touch and a lower price point.
Kawai GX-2 is the successor to the , representing a refined evolution of one of the world's most popular grand piano designs. While both are professional-grade instruments featuring Kawai's carbon-fiber composite actions, the GX-2 offers several structural and performance upgrades. Comparison Overview Kawai RX-2 (Predecessor) Kawai GX-2 (Current) Millennium III (ABS-Carbon) Millennium III with longer key sticks Rich, warm, sometimes "mellow" Colorful, lush, with a broader tonal palette Standard RX rim materials Hybrid rim (Maple & Mahogany) for added strength Key Differences & Reviews Touch and Control: The most significant physical change in the kawai rx2 vs gx2
is the longer key stick. This provides the player with more leverage and control, making it feel and play more like a larger 6' 6" concert grand rather than a standard salon grand. Structural Integrity:
features a reconfigured foundation with a thicker stretcher bar and an "overlapping" design for improved tuning stability and resonance. Sonic Profile:
is highly regarded for its reliability and consistent action, the
is voiced to have a rounder, more professional tone. Reviewers from Merriam Music note that the
bridge and soundboard refinements allow for a more pronounced pianissimo and greater dynamic output.
models (produced roughly between 1995 and 2013) remain incredibly popular and are often considered some of the best-valued used grands on the market due to their durable composite parts. Are you looking at new models or considering a RX-2, and do you have a specific in mind for your search? An authentic tone from the Kawai RX-2 Grand Piano
The Kawai RX-2 (5'10") and the GX-2 (5'11") are highly similar in tonal characteristics, with the GX-2 serving as the evolutionary successor to the popular RX-2, introduced about 10 years ago to offer improved structural and mechanical design. While sharing a warm, "American-style" sound for Asian pianos, the GX-2 introduces subtle upgrades, including slightly thicker rims, redesigned beams, and a slightly longer key-stick length for better control, making the GX-2’s action feel more comparable to a larger 6'6" piano. Core Comparison: RX-2 vs. GX-2 The RX-2 has what many technicians call a "forward" warmth
Size & Structure: The RX-2 measures 5'10", while the GX-2 is slightly longer at 5'11". The GX-2 includes a redesigned cabinet, with more reinforced, solid beam support under the piano for enhanced stability.
Action & Touch: Both feature Kawai's renowned Millennium III Carbon Fiber action. However, the GX-2 features a slightly longer key-stick length, providing improved control and a faster repetition speed similar to larger instruments.
Tone: Players report that the RX-2 often has a more focused sound, while the GX-2 tends to have a slightly warmer, "woollier" or more resonant character. Both possess strong, clear bass for their size and a smooth transition into the tenor range.
Appearance & Durability: The GX-2 was designed with a more robust, modern cabinet finish, which is often cited as more durable than the RX-2. Key Takeaways for Buyers
Used vs. New: As the GX-2 is the current model, used RX-2s often provide excellent value. However, the GX-2’s improvements in action and cabinet structural integrity offer a tangible performance boost.
Similarity: Because the tonal characteristics are very similar (both are generally considered warm and expressive), the decision often comes down to the action refinement in the GX-2, the structural upgrades, or price.
For more in-depth technical specifications and current pricing trends for both models, you can explore detailed reviews on PianoBuyer.com. To help you choose between these two, I'd need to know: Are you looking to buy new or used? What is your approximate budget? 000. At that price
Do you prefer a brighter, faster action or a warmer, more resonant tone?
These details can help me narrow down which model better fits your needs. Kawai GX: Evolutionary or Revolutionary? - Piano Buyer
RX-2: Warm, rounded, typical Kawai. Good bass for its size, but the tenor can be slightly thin. The treble sings but lacks the last bit of sparkle compared to a Yamaha C2. It’s a very safe, pleasing home piano sound.
GX-2: Noticeably more color and complexity. The redesigned rim and tapered soundboard give it more projection and a richer midrange. Bass is deeper and cleaner, treble has a slight “velvet bite.” It feels closer to a small concert instrument than a home piano.
Winner: GX-2 — it’s simply a more mature, refined voice.
Buy the GX-2 if you can afford it. The improvements in action speed, tonal complexity, and sustain are not marketing hype—they are real, measurable engineering advances. The GX-2 is simply a more expressive musical instrument.
Buy the RX-2 if you find a well-maintained example for under $12,000. At that price, it is one of the best values in the used grand piano market. You will get 90% of the performance for 40% of the price of a new GX-2.