Kawai FAQ
Frequently asked questions about Kawai instruments, product features, and other topics.
Top > Support > FAQ > I would like to purchase a USB memory device for use with my Kawai digital/hybrid piano, what do you recommend?
Frequently asked questions about Kawai instruments, product features, and other topics.
ConnectivityDigital PianosHybrid PianosRecordingUpdateUSB
A
Many Kawai digital and hybrid pianos incorporate USB to Device functionality. This convenient feature typically allows the instrument to record and playback MP3 and WAV audio files from a USB memory device (USB stick). In addition, depending on the model, the USB port may also be used to apply firmware/software updates that can improve the instrument's functionality and fix bugs etc.
Because of the vast number of USB memory devices on the market, it is unfortunately not possible for Kawai to provide a list of tested and compatible devices. However, we recommend that customers adhere to the following suggestions when considering a USB memory device for use with their digital or hybrid piano:
Brand
Select a USB memory device from a reputable brand, such as SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston, PNY, Corsair, Transcend, Lexar, Sony, Toshiba, HP (Hewlett-Packard), etc. Avoid unbranded USB memory devices.
Capacity
Select a USB memory device with a capacity of 32GB or under - this capacity should be sufficient for any audio file recording/playback needs. Avoid USB memory devices with extremely large capacities (e.g. 256GB~1TB).
Hardware Interface/Technology
Select a USB memory device that adopts the USB2.0 standard. USB3.x devices should theoretically be backwards compatible with the USB2.0 standard, however we still recommend that customers prioritise native USB2.0 devices.
Avoid USB memory devices that incorporate additional technologies, such as the ability to pair via Bluetooth or to connect and transfer data using Wi-Fi. We would also recommend avoiding USB memory devices that feature special security/encryption functions, such as the ability to be locked/unlocked by fingerprint.
Filesystem
Most USB memory devices will be pre-formatted to use the FAT32 filesystem. It should not be necessary to reformat or repartition the USB memory memory device using a computer. Indeed, we would recommend against reformatting the USB memory device using either a computer or the instrument itself; if saved files are no longer needed, it is preferable to delete them using a file manager tool.
Kawai digital and hybrid pianos are fully compatible with USB memory devices formatted using the FAT32 filesystem, however please note that the exFAT filesystem is not supported.