Models
The first Fender Rhodes product was the FenderRhodes PianoBass, a 32-key model. No other models were mass-produced until after the CBS takeover of Fender in 1965. Shortly afterwards the 73-key FenderRhodes ElectricPiano went into production.
FenderRhodes Electric Piano(1965, Sparkletop)
The '60s also saw the FenderRhodes Celeste, the Student/Instructor models and systems as well as the very rare Domestic models. In 1970 the more portable Stage MK I model was added to the range as well as the two Stage 88 and Suitcase 88 models. The Suitcase models included a built in pre-amp with the famous StereoVibrato, plus a cabinet with stereo amplifier and speakers. In 1980, a Stage 54 model was also produced.
Rhodes Mark I Stage 73 (post 1975) Rhodes Mark I Suitcase 88 (1977-79)The Rhodes went through continuous internal improvements: the hammers became all plastic, the pedestals changed shape (and were bare for a short while, the felt was on the underside of the hammer), the pickups were altered, and the tine structure modified to endure more wear. The Mk II model was introduced in late 1979.
Also manufactured for a brief period was the Rhodes Mk III EK-10 which had analog oscillators and filters alongside the existing electromechanical elements. The overall effect was that of a Rhodes piano and a synthesizer being played simultaneously. Compared with the new polyphonic synthesizers being marketed at the same time it was limited in scope and sound, and very few units were sold.
The final classic Rhodes was the Mk V, introduced in 1984. Among other improvements, it had a lighter body and all new action with an improved cam, increasing the hammer stroke by 23%. With competition from digital and polyphonic synthesizers and the introduction of MIDI, production of Rhodes instruments ended in late 1984.
Rhodes Mark III (1980) Rhodes Mark V (1984) Rhodes Mark 7 (2007, rear)
A new Rhodes Mark 7 was introduced at NAMM 2007 and Musik Messe 2007, featuring the same electromechanical design as the original instrument, but with a new futuristic look and number of changes.
The Mark 7 was the first instrument to be released under the Rhodes name since the late Harold Rhodes purchased it back from Roland.
Read more about this topic: Rhodes Piano
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