This 1984 Kawai studio upright is a premier example of why professional-height Japanese pianos are the choice of music schools and serious pianists worldwide. Standing at 49 inches, this instrument offers a significantly larger soundboard and longer strings than standard home uprights, providing a rich, authoritative tone that easily fills a room.

The “Kawai Sound” and Build: Kawai pianos from the 1980s are celebrated for their warm, deep, and mellow tonal character—often described as having a more “romantic” sound compared to the brightness of other Asian manufacturers. This 1984 model was built during a robust era of Japanese manufacturing, utilizing high-quality solid spruce for the soundboard and a heavy-duty cast iron plate. These materials ensure that the piano possesses the incredible structural integrity and tuning stability required for professional or institutional use.

Professional Performance: At 49″, this piano features an expanded action with longer keys, providing a more balanced and responsive touch. This allows for greater expressive control and faster repetition, making it an ideal tool for students preparing for advanced conservatory exams or teachers who require a high-performance instrument for their daily studio work. The action is consistently precise, reflecting Kawai’s legendary commitment to mechanical excellence.

Classic High-Polish Aesthetic: The High Polished Ebony finish provides the iconic “concert piano” look. The mirror-like gloss highlights the piano’s clean, professional lines, making it a striking centerpiece for any home, sanctuary, or studio. The 1980s Kawai cabinets are built to be sturdy and stable, ensuring the piano remains a reliable “workhorse” for decades to come.

Ideal For:

• Serious Students: Who need a professional action and deep tonal resonance for advanced practice.
• Teachers: Seeking a high-performance, durable upright that can withstand hours of daily lessons.
• Worship Spaces: Looking for a piano with enough projection and clarity to accompany a choir or congregation.
• Value Seekers: Who want a professional 49″ Japanese upright for under $6,000.

Comparison to New

New Kawai K-series (e.g., Kawai K-400 or K-500):

• MSRP: Approximately $13,500 – $16,500.
• The Difference: A new Kawai features the Millennium III carbon-fiber action and a factory warranty. However, this 1984 model offers the classic wood-action feel and a seasoned soundboard that many purists argue provides a “warmer” character.
• Value Analysis: At the reduced price of $5,899, you are paying roughly 35% to 45% of the cost of a new professional Kawai upright.

Why Choose the 1984 Kawai? Kawai professional uprights are built to last 60 to 70 years. This 1984 model is in the prime of its musical life and provides the same professional scale design and warm tone that has made Kawai a favorite of concert artists worldwide. It represents a significant “step up” in performance over a brand-new entry-level piano for a fraction of the investment.