Full Description
View Full Description
Legendary sound with modern precision
The Rhodes MK8 offers a meticulously refined version of the iconic Rhodes sound, using redesigned tines, dampers, and pickups to deliver unmatched tonal clarity and dynamic range. Each component is hand-selected and precision-built, ensuring consistent quality and an authentic playing experience. Ideal for performing live or recording in the studio, the MK8’s updated design captures the warmth and character of its predecessors while introducing enhanced reliability and performance.
Designed with input from legendary industrial designer Axel Hartmann, the MK8 retains the classic Rhodes silhouette in a lightweight, portable package, making it an excellent choice for musicians on the move.
Rich analog effects at your fingertips
The MK8’s built-in effects suite combines analog warmth with modern versatility. The analog compressor shapes your sound with options ranging from subtle dynamics to dramatic pumping effects. The stereo chorus and phaser provide lush, immersive textures, while the bucket-brigade delay adds atmosphere and depth. Each effect has been tailored specifically for the MK8, ensuring seamless integration with its tonal character. True stereo signal paths and expression pedal controls offer additional precision and creativity for live or studio applications.
For performers, the intuitive controls on the front panel make it easy to dial in the perfect effect settings, whether you're layering subtle modulation or exploring experimental soundscapes.
Advanced analog preamp with cutting-edge Vari-Pan technology
The MK8’s custom-engineered analog preamp offers a level of tonal control that sets it apart from other electric pianos. A tri-band active equaliser with adjustable low, mid, and high frequencies lets you fine-tune your sound to suit any context. The sweepable parametric midrange control is particularly powerful, enabling precise adjustments to cut through a mix or achieve a more focused tone.
One of the standout features of the preamp is the Vari-Pan system, which takes traditional Rhodes vibrato and expands it with four selectable waveforms: square, ramp, triangle, and sine. This flexibility allows for a variety of modulation effects, from gentle pulsing to dramatic, synthesiser-like textures. Additionally, the Vari-Pan includes controls for rate and depth, so you can tailor the stereo imaging or mono pulse to your exact preferences.
The preamp also features envelope controls for shaping the attack and decay of your sound, giving you the ability to mimic everything from sharp, percussive tones to soft, swelling textures. Combined with an independent drive control for adding subtle warmth or full-on distortion, the MK8’s preamp is a powerful tool for sculpting your ideal sound.
Optimised design for superior playability and portability
Every aspect of the MK8’s design has been optimised to enhance playability while maintaining its classic aesthetic. The keyboard, developed in collaboration with the Steinway Group’s Kluge division, provides an unmatched playing experience. Its premium materials and responsive action ensure that every nuance of your performance is captured, from delicate pianissimos to bold fortissimos.
Despite its advanced features, the MK8 is surprisingly lightweight and easy to transport. By carefully selecting materials and modernising the internal structure, Rhodes has achieved a design that retains the durability and stability of the original while shedding unnecessary weight. This makes the MK8 equally at home on stage or in the studio, providing a versatile solution for professional musicians.
The iconic silhouette of the Rhodes piano has been preserved, with sleek updates that give it a contemporary edge. Every detail, from the placement of the controls to the layout of the front panel, has been carefully considered for maximum functionality and intuitive use.
Designed for creative exploration
The Rhodes MK8 goes beyond being a simple instrument; it’s a tool for sonic exploration. The built-in effects, preamp, and Vari-Pan system open up a world of possibilities for musicians looking to push boundaries. By combining vintage tones with modern features, the MK8 allows players to blend tradition and innovation seamlessly.
Whether you’re crafting retro-inspired tracks, experimenting with avant-garde textures, or simply looking for the best possible version of the Rhodes sound, the MK8 delivers. Its thoughtful design and premium components ensure that every performance is both inspiring and reliable, making it a standout choice for musicians who demand the very best.
Configuration
- Smoked Hood
- Walnut Base
- Silver Front Panel
- Silver PreAmp
- Silver FX Unit
Features
- Legendary Rhodes tine piano with precision-built craftsmanship in the UK
- Optimized sound and improved tone, touch, intonation, and dynamics
- Redesigned components including tines, pickups, dampers, and pedal mechanisms
- Hand-selected materials and modern manufacturing techniques
- Iconic Rhodes silhouette with reduced weight and industrial design by Axel Hartmann
- Unique Kluge keyboard from Steinway Group for exceptional playability
- Inbuilt analog effects: compressor, stereo chorus, phaser, and delay
- Custom stereo analog signal processor with true bypass and expression pedal control
- Rich stereo effects for enhanced sound depth and texture
- Compressor for subtle peak control or dynamic pumping effects
- Bucket-brigade stereo chorus for doubling and pitch modulation
- 4-stage stereo phaser for subtle or dramatic modulated effects
- Bucket-brigade stereo delay for ambience, sustain, and atmospheric effects
- Advanced analog preamp with parametric EQ, drive, envelope control, and dual expression inputs
- Vari-Pan feature with 4 wave shapes for vibrato, panning, and unique soundscapes
- Onboard control panel for intuitive performance and alternative modes for deeper customization
- Real-time control of advanced settings with saved values for continuity
- Isolated electronics to prevent signal interference and ground loops
Specifications
- Analog Preamp: True Analog Signal Path Volume, Drive, Envelope Controls Expression Pedal Control Of Volume, Mid Sweep (Wah), Pan Speed, Pan Depth Rhodes Custom Analog Tri-Band (Low/Mid/High) Active Equaliser (+/- 15db Range) Voltage-Controlled, Resonant Midrange Filter Rhodes Custom Vari-Pan With Variable Rate/Depth 4 Wave Shapes And Audio-Rate Modulation
- Analog Effects Option: Rhodes Custom Stereo Effect Processor: VCA Compressor, Phaser, Bucket Brigade Chorus, Delay Expression Pedal Control Of Phaser Speed, Chorus Speed, Delay Time, Delay Mix
- Power Supply: 15-Volt, 4-Pin Locking XLR External Supply With Universal Voltage
- Keyboard: 73-Note (E8-E80) Rhodes Custom Spruce Keyboard By Kluge Klaviaturen GmbH, Oak And Beech Key Frame
- Pickups: Rhodes Custom Precision-Wound Alnico Pickups With Anti-Slip Adjustment For Accurate Voicing And Flat-Ended Pickup Heads For Accurate Volume Adjustment
- Action: Rhodes Custom High-Impact ABS Hammers And Combs, Quad-Zone Hard-Wearing Tips, Aerospace-Grade Damper Combs, Black Natural Wool Damper Felts
- Tone Generation: Rhodes Custom Precision Steel Tines And Tonebars, Sustainably Sourced Baltic Birch Tine And Pickup Rails
- Left Side Connection Panel: 2 x Balanced XLR Outputs (L/R), 2 x 1/4” Jack Outputs (L/R), 1 x 1/4” Jack Send (Direct Pickup Output), 1 x 1/4” Return
- Headphones: 1 x 1/4” Headphone Jack, Independent Volume Control
- UI Panels: Standard: Scratch-Resistant Brushed-Aluminium Foil Legend: Black With Silver Legend Or Silver With Black Legend
- Pedal: Rhodes Custom Twist-Lock Piano Connector With Flexi-Cable Chrome Aluminium Footplate Rhodes Folding Protective Non-Slip Mat
- Front Panel And Rear Grille: Standard: Black/Silver Anodised Aluminium
- Right Side Connection Panel: USB: Reserved For Future Firmware Updates 2 x Assignable Jack Expression Pedal Inputs
- Stand: Rhodes Custom Telescopic (L/R Adjustment) Powder Coated Black Steel/Mirror-Chrome Steel Height Adjustable Front Legs Folds Compactly For Transport
- Hood: Black ABS, Custom Colours
- Case: Lightweight Ply Case With Tolex, Aluminium Base Plate Solid Walnut Option
- Weight: 75lbs/34kg
- Dimensions: 1153 (W) x 563 (D) x 225 (H)
- Product Code: MK8-V1-0001.SM.W.SIFX.SI.SI.SI
