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Novus NV12 Hybrid Piano Wins 2026 Good Design Award
Kawai Japan is pleased to announce that its hybrid piano, the Novus NV12, has received the 2026 Good Design Award, presented by the Japan Institute of Design Promotion.
It features the same keyboard action and damper mechanism as a grand piano and is the first hybrid piano to incorporate a soundboard. This achieves a natural, rich sound that resonates comfortably throughout the body. The opening and closing of the large topboard not only allows players to adjust the sound projection, but also creates the refined appearance and sense of openness associated with a grand piano. The NV12 was recognized for successfully combining a compact design with an authentic playing experience.
By carefully considering not only sound, touch, and resonance, but also the player's visual experience and harmony with the surrounding space, the NV12 brings a grand piano-like playing experience into the home.
Comments from the Good Design Award Jury
In today's living environments, it is difficult to place a grand piano in one's own room and play it to one's heart's content. Although many space-saving electronic instruments are available, their touch and resonance have remained substitutes for the real thing, creating a gap between practice and performance that can be a source of stress for players.
What makes this product outstanding is that, rather than simply recreating the appearance and feel of a grand piano, it aims to deliver the authentic touch of a grand piano by using the same components.
It is the first hybrid piano to incorporate a soundboard, which has been given a rounded shape to maximize its surface area. Details such as the opening top lid and pedal positioning also follow the design of a grand piano.
Opening the lid and adopting three legs can make the instrument appear visually unbalanced. However, careful consideration of the volume and placement of the legs and pedals creates a stable, well-balanced appearance befitting a musical instrument. This is another aspect we particularly commend.
For those who have had to give up on playing a full-fledged instrument because of their living environment, this product offers a compelling alternative.
Comments from the Novus NV12 designer, Shinichi Ito
We wanted to bring the grand piano closer to more people, allowing them to enjoy the authentic experience of playing a real piano to their heart's content, even in a small room. The Novus NV12 was created to bring this vision to life.
We incorporated the same components as a grand piano in the parts responsible for the playing touch and introduced a soundboard for the first time in a hybrid piano. This delivers a comfortable, enjoyable playing experience with a tone that resonates throughout the body.
By bringing together acoustic and digital technologies, we have created an instrument that combines the compactness of a hybrid piano with the many qualities of a grand piano.
For more information about the Good Design Award and Novus NV12, please refer to the links below:
Good Design Award – Official Award Page: https://www.g-mark.org/gallery/winners/36116?years=2026
Novus NV12 – Product Page: https://www.kawai-global.com/product/nv12/