The VPC1 from Kawai simply does one thing; it provides a real grand piano keyboard experience in a USB/MIDI controller form. Features include graded hammer weighting, ivory-like key surfaces, let-off simulation, and bass note counterweights. Additionally, the controller includes a three-pedal unit that delivers damper (with half damper support), soft, and sostenuto pedal control. Aside from these functions, the controller presents a clutter free design, without any knobs, buttons, or faders, just a wide top surface for a laptop, mouse, or favorite semi-weighted keyboard.
Keyboard response curves are important for tailoring the feel of the piano keys across the entire range. Five built-in touch curves from a selection of popular virtual piano packages have been approved by the individual software developers, while further customization is available using the included editor software. Communication with a PC or Mac computer is provided via USB, which can also power the controller. For controlling external synthesizers or piano modules, MIDI in and out ports are also provided.