Korg C1 Air Review

We rated the Korg C1 Air a 9.5/10. This digital piano has a slimline cabinet design with a gorgeous feeling keybed, internal MIDI recorder, and Bluetooth. We love the acoustic simulations and RH3 keybed! While we do wish it had some more sounds for the price range, this is an excellent intermediate and up digital piano.

Overview

The Korg C1 Air is a cabinet-style digital piano with an RH3 keybed and a newly designed amplification and speaker system. It is available in three colors (black, white, and wood stain). This instrument has excellent clarity in the sound bank. It also includes Bluetooth compatibility. In addition to all of this, the slimline design makes it easier to move and fit into a small space. 

According to Amazon.com, the KORG C1 is a superb piano, both as an exciting alternative to an acoustic instrument or in locations where a traditional instrument could not be used.

“The C1 offers levels of playability and versatility that will exceed the expectations of the most demanding pianist. From the very first note, the depth and clarity of sound that the C1 delivers from its compact, slim-line cabinet will astound both player and audience alike. The precisely engineered keyboard provides a feel and response that has been designed to help the student develop a sound playing technique while responding fully to the demands of the more advanced player.

Furthermore, a variety of additional features will inspire new levels of creativity in players of all abilities and enhance their enjoyment of music, including 30 superbly realistic instrument sounds, Bluetooth audio streaming, and onboard recording. Designed and manufactured in Japan, the KORG C1 redefines the digital piano. RH3 Keyboard The C1 features the real weighted hammer action 3 (RH3) keyboard that accurately simulates the playing experience of a grand piano, with a heavier playing feel in the lower register that becomes lighter as you move up the keyboard.

It is extremely responsive, even when notes are repeated quickly, while the performer’s expressive dynamics are faithfully interpreted even in the most complex passages. Key touch control is also provided, with a choice of five levels of sensitivity (light, normal, heavy, stable, fixed) to specify how your playing dynamics are reflected by the sound produced. Sophisticated and Elegant Design While paying homage to the acoustic piano’s traditional form, a new design philosophy elevates the C1 above the bland, rectangular appearance of many digital pianos. The contemporary design features …”

Features

Play With a Friend!

Dual mode allows you to play duets in the same octave as your teacher or music buddy. 

30 Voices

The Korg C1 air uses a Stereo PCM System for its soundbank.  According to Korg, this instrument is the new standard for the digital piano. Take a listen for yourself around 2:00! 

Learn Classical Music On-Board

The Korg C1 Air has many excellent classical play-alongs, such as Debussy’s “Arabesque” and “Claire De Lune”, and Chopin’s “Waltz 6 in Db”.

3 Pedal Unit, Sleek Cabinet Style

It can be quite difficult to find a digital piano with all 3 pedals included. This model has extremely smooth feeling pedals, built into the slim and sleek cabinet base. 

Included MIDI Recorder

The C1 Air has an included 2-track MIDI recorder, so you can capture sounds onboard. These MIDI files can then be transferred to another device and program, such as your computer’s DAW, for more editing and producing fun.

Bluetooth Compatible

Want to jam your favorite tune, but don’t have any speakers? You can connect your phone or tablet to the Korg C1 Air.

Acoustic Simulations

Part of what makes the Korg C1 Air sound so realistic is its acoustic simulations. This model has both key-off and damper resonance.

A Lovely Keybed

Most all (revised) RH3 keybeds have beautiful action, and the C1 is no different. This natural-feeling keybed is responsive, and one of the best replications of the acoustic piano that is out there. 

Specifications

• Piano Type: Cabinet-style digital
• Weight: 41 Kilograms / 90 pounds
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 57.25 x 17.6 x 17.15 inches

Who Is It Suitable For?

The Korg C1 Air is most suitable for intermediate pianists and up.

Korg C1 Air In Action

If you want to learn more about the C1, this Sweetwater review will cue you in on some more important details.

According to Sweetwater pro, the C1 Air is a ‘trendsetter’. I couldn’t agree more! Now, let’s see what Amazon customers have to say about the instrument. 

Amazon Rating: 4.1 out of 5 Stars 

Positive customer ratings: 

• “This is the best digital piano I’ve owned.”
• “High-quality digital piano, excellent features”
• “Balanced sound”
• “Stop shopping, buy this one”

Negative customer ratings: 

One customer was pretty unhappy with the sounds of the instruments, stating  “It looks good, but sounds are mediocre at best”

Pros and Cons

Pros

• This digital piano has three-foot pedals
• It is comparable to, yet more than economical than the stellar Korg G1 Air
• The slimline design helps you to squeeze this instrument into smaller living spaces
• It is Bluetooth compatible 
• Pro instrumentalists say it feels very smooth and pleasant to play

Cons

• The two-track recorder isn’t going to be enough to suit composers
• The Korg C1 Air price may be out of the range of many beginners

Quick View 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Korg C1 Air is a lovely cabinet-style digital that has a beautifully sensitive keybed, and a modern look. We think this one is a true crowd-pleaser for intermediate to advanced performers. 

We hope you’ve enjoyed this Korg C1 Air review! Come back soon for everything piano!

9.5Expert Score

We rated the Korg C1 Air a 9.5/10. This digital piano has a slimline cabinet design with a gorgeous feeling keybed, internal MIDI recorder, and Bluetooth. We love the acoustic simulations and RH3 keybed! While we do wish it had some more sounds for the price range, this is an excellent intermediate and up digital piano.

PROS

• This digital piano has three foot pedals
• It is comparable to, yet more than economical than the stellar Korg G1 Air
• The slimline design helps you to squeeze this instrument into smaller living spaces
• It is Bluetooth compatible
• Pro instrumentalists say it feel very smooth and pleasant to play

CONS

• The two-track recorder isn’t going to be enough to suit composers
• The Korg C1 Air price may be out of the range of many beginners