Fender Rhodes Mark I Stage Piano

I am writing this review in regards to a Fender Mark 1 series stage piano (1972-79, 88 keys suitcase). I purchased the Rhodes in 2003 used (of course) and at that time, I was just gaining interest in pianos. I would say that I used it pretty regularly starting in 2004. What did I like most about it? THE TONE!! and the ability to alter it to your liking. Wow, its hard to imagine a style of music that wouldn't benefit from this instrument. You actually have a LOT of room for adjustment when it comes to tone. I setup mine to sound slightly plunky (very slight) with a very mellow, warm overall tone. I was going for the Chick Corea "sound," just slightly less bell sounding. Another great thing about this instrument is the basic simplicity of its innards. I am not a trained professional when it comes to working on equipment, but with a Rhodes you don't have to be. At least not for most things. Its like working on an old 350 engine, everything is just laid out for you. I was able to replace broken tines, adjust the tone, adjust the individual pickups for a good volume blend across the board, and fix/replace various small parts all on my own. The only thing I would leave up to the pros is replacing/soldering pickups, but that has never been necessary, they all work great. As for things I do not like? Well, I am having a small problem with my sustain pedal knocking off the damper bar, but I think thats fixed. The sustain pedal will also move on you if you don't secure it well. When that happens, you lose the ability to sustain which really bites when performing live. I have become good at adjusting it mid solo/section quickly but Watch You Head!! haha. Now the real bummer about this instrument..... IT WEIGHS A TON!! Do not try to move it on your own. You will either hurt yourself or the rhodes. I lugged it up the stairs by myself one time an nearly yanked my arm out. If you are a solo musician, get a friend/roadie to join you if you plan on touring. If you are in a band, make sure the band mates understand that it won't show up to a gig without one of there help.
As for price and value, if you are good a finding bargains, you might find a sweet deal on one of these. I got mine for $250 in great condition but don't hold your breath for a deal that good, it was really lucky. Good condition ones can range from $750 to $1000+, but, if you know how to work a few basic tools (screwdriver, ratchet set) and you aren't afraid to "tinker," a Rhodes in good/ok condition can be turned into a gem. As far as I know, replacement parts are still made. I also believe Fender might make Tines still.
This is one of the greatest instruments ever made in my opinion. The sound coming out of a Fender Twin amp, well, it just doesn't get much better for me.

I use it for over 35 years! And I always irreplaceable.
At the time there were no other piano models portable, so no further testing.
The model I bought used is a mark 1 1972. The keys are made of wood and hammers half wood, half plastic. This is an important characteristic that determines the touchdown is lourd.La harp with microphones that have aged (and well-aged) gives a beautiful warm sound inimitable.
For those who want a lighter touch should choose a model with a little newer plastic hammers everything but the keys still in the woods. They are found on the first and last Mark1 Mark2 that apart from the hood are exactly the same.
on the other hand is better to avoid any last-touch plastic Mark2 which tend to deform and a touch too soft synth like (but it may appeal to some) Besides the Mark5 keys are back to wood.

Good old Rhodes has experienced several periods of purgatory, it was believed the arrival of digital, DX7 etc. .. we could easily replace and I put a little avai aside in favor of digital keyboards and synths but luckily I had not sold.

Currently it takes around 1000-2500 € for a Rhodes depending on the state and I think it will increase as the back side. If we compare the side of an old Strato Caster is not very expensive. We can even pay 5 for the price of a bass in massive midrange!

What I like most: ben sound of course! and then it is a real living instrument and can adjust to fit yourself or by pro (it's not so easy to fine tune anyway) tastes.

What I like least: weight, high quality requirement as to amplify a crappy amp sound it means the obligation of a minimum volume that is expressed is an instrument that takes its strength and thrives in a group but boring to play solo. (an acoustic piano is irreplaceable) Provide more budget a good budget amp effects.

In short, a beautiful but demanding instrument and especially useful in groups.
For those who do not have the courage, it is better to choose a Nord Stage, but attention is not the same and when it starts to really play, The Rhodes North sinks seriously!