I've been using the Fender Rhodes '73 electric piano for about five years. While not every studio or keyboard player has one, when I have access to one I will always try to use it when recording. Those who are familiar with this electric piano know its wonders and know what it can do. The Fender Rhodes is a classic electric piano, sought after by most when choosing an electric piano. The tone is unique and very rich. You can use the tremolo to get more of a wavy sound, or you can also get a bell like tone as well. The general sound is unique, but you can compare it to a Wurlitzer electric piano, but both have distant tones within the the electric piano setting. I have used this both for recording and for playing live, both with great results. It sounds great through an external speaker cabinet, but sounds fine when playing through the built in speaker, if your model has one. The price for a reissue of one of these is quite reasonable, but is comparable to that of a used vintage one, which I would recommend over the newer ones. It is built sturdy and has the Fender seal, which has become synonymous with making high quality instruments. It also looks great, and the keys have an awesome feel to them. It is easy to play, as the keys aren't too heavy and aren't too light. Whenever I play it I feel like I'm getting good results because of how easy it is to play and how great the sound is. If you are a keyboard player and you don't know about the Fender Rhodes by you should definitley try one out as you will fall in love! Great for all types of music including rock, pop, and jazz. The Fender Rhodes Suitcase '73 has become classic instrument in modern Western music and is used worldwide for all types of genres and situations.
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.
