RHODES / Rhodes MK8 Deluxe FX

The Rhodes MK8 is the latest model, meticulously assembled in the United Kingdom, that carries on the legacy of the electromechanical tine piano concept devised by Harold Rhodes.

To bring out the full charm of the classic Rhodes sound, key components—such as the tines, pickups, and dampers—have been redesigned from the ground up using the highest-quality materials and modern technology. The keyboard features custom keys manufactured by Kluge Klaviaturen, a Steinway Group company, delivering a nuanced touch and expressive range comparable to that of a piano.

It also features a custom-designed analog preamp and built-in effects that enable a wide range of sound shaping. Furthermore, it integrates a proprietary MIDI system with high-resolution key-position monitoring and polyphonic aftertouch, successfully combining the warmth of analog with the convenience of a modern digital environment.

The exterior was designed by Axel Hartmann and features a beautiful form that strongly reflects the classic lines of the long-beloved “MK1.”

The first release includes the following four variations:

Classic FX: A classic design that follows the Rhodes design of yesteryear. Equipped with an FX unit; MIDI option not included
Classic FX MIDI: A classic design that follows the Rhodes design of yesteryear. Equipped with an FX unit; no MIDI option.
Deluxe FX: A deluxe design featuring a walnut cabinet with a smoke-gray clear top hood. Equipped with an FX unit; no MIDI option.
Deluxe FX MIDI: A deluxe design featuring a walnut cabinet with a smoke-gray clear top hood. Equipped with FX unit and MIDI option

Rhodes MK8 Deluxe FX Specifications:
Walnut cabinet
Smoke gray clear (transparent) top hood
Black front panel
Black preamp & FX panel
Equipped with analog FX unit (compressor/stereo chorus/stereo phaser/stereo delay)
Extendable, foldable stand with black finish

Model
MK8 FX
Analog Preamp
True analog signal path / Volume, Drive, and Envelope controls / Volume, Mid Sweep (Wah), Pan Speed, and Pan Depth controls via expression pedal / Rhodes custom analog 3-band (Low/Mid/High) active equalizer (±15 dB range) / Voltage-Controlled (VCF) Resonant Midrange Filter / Rhodes Custom Variable Pan with adjustable Rate and Depth / 4 waveforms and audio-rate modulation
Analog Effects (Optional)
Rhodes Custom Stereo Effects Processor: VCA Compressor / Phaser / BBD Chorus / Delay. Control of phaser speed, chorus speed, delay time, and delay mix via the expression pedal
MIDI System
USB MIDI In/Out / DIN MIDI Out / High-resolution key position monitoring / Channel and polyphonic aftertouch / Damper pedal sensor with multiple sustain modes / Isolated (insulated) electronic circuitry for power and signals
Power Supply
15 V, 4-pin locking XLR external power supply (universal voltage compatible)
Keyboard
73 keys (E8–E80) Rhodes custom spruce keyboard by Kluge Klaviaturen GmbH, with oak and beech key frames
Pickups
Rhodes custom precision-wound Alnico pickups (with anti-slip adjustment for precise voicing) and flat-end pickup heads for accurate volume control
Action Mechanism
Rhodes custom impact-resistant ABS hammers and comb, quad-zone high-durability tips, aerospace-grade damper comb, black natural wool damper felt
Sound Module
Rhodes custom precision steel tines and tone bars, Baltic birch tine rails and pickup rails made from sustainably sourced wood
Left-Side Connection Panel
2 x balanced XLR outputs (L/R), 2 x 1/4-inch standard jack outputs (L/R), 1 x 1/4-inch standard jack send (direct pickup output), 1 x 1/4-inch standard jack return
Headphones
1 x 1/4-inch standard stereo headphone jack, independent volume control
UI Panel
Standard specification: Scratch-resistant hairline-finished aluminum.
Panel Labeling (Printing): Silver lettering on a black background, or black lettering on a silver background.
Pedal
Rhodes custom twist-lock piano connector (with flexible cable). Chrome-plated aluminum footplate. Rhodes foldable protective non-slip mat
Front Panel and Rear Grill
Standard Specifications: Black/silver anodized aluminum.
Right-Side Connection Panel
USB: For future firmware updates.
2 x assignable 1/4-inch standard jack expression pedal inputs.
MIDI Out DIN socket: For future MIDI expansion.
Stand
Rhodes custom telescoping (left/right adjustable) powder-coated black steel / mirror chrome steel. Height-adjustable front leg. Folds down compactly for transport
Cover
Black ABS, Smoke Gray Clear (optional)
Case
Lightweight plywood case with Tolex finish, aluminum base plate. Solid walnut (optional)
Weight
34 kg
Dimensions
1153 (W) x 563 (D) x 225 (H) mm