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Fender Rhodes Mark II 1981

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This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Description

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The Fender Rhodes Mark II 1981 stands as a testament to the golden era of electric pianos, offering musicians a unique blend of rich tones and dependable craftsmanship. This vintage keyboard is celebrated for its distinctive 73-key layout, allowing for a full range of expression in both live performances and studio recordings. Known for its warm, bell-like sound, the Rhodes Mark II has graced countless classic tracks and continues to be a sought-after instrument for musicians seeking that timeless sonic character.

Crafted during a period when the Fender Rhodes was at the height of its popularity, the Mark II model features an updated, more durable build compared to its predecessors. Its action is smooth and responsive, providing an authentic feel that has captivated musicians for decades. The Rhodes Mark II is versatile, perfect for jazz, rock, pop, and everything in between, making it an essential addition to any keyboardist's collection.

Collectors and players alike appreciate its rugged construction and the unique character it imparts on every note played. Whether you're an aficionado of vintage gear or a modern musician looking to infuse classic sounds into your repertoire, the Fender Rhodes Mark II 1981 promises a musical experience that transcends time.

Key Features:

73-key layout for expansive playability
Signature bell-like tone with a warm, rich sound
Durable construction for reliable performance
Ideal for a variety of genres from jazz to rock
Smooth and responsive keyboard action
Iconic design with a legacy in music history

Videos

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VogtThomas

FENDER RHODES PIANO BASS + RHODES MARK 2 STAGE E-PIANO 1981 - DOORS JAM by Keyton

VogtThomas

Rhodes Mark II 73 at Collar City Guitars

Collar City Guitars

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Rhodes Mark II 1981.

Setup and maintenance

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A real Rhodes benefits from being run through a good tube amp and pedals for optimal sound, but it can be challenging to transport due to its weight.
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Tine replacement is straightforward: unscrew the old one and screw on a new pre-tuned one. Owners recommend having spare tines for gigging.
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Voicing a Rhodes involves adjusting the magnetic pickups' distance to the tines to modify volume and tone, which can be customized to individual preferences.
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Dead pickups or broken tines are easily replaceable, and you can re-wind pickups to fix broken spots near the edges.
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Use cases and applications

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The Fender Rhodes, when properly maintained, is ideal for studio settings, played through amps like the Twin Reverb or JC-120 for authentic sound nuances.
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Mods and upgrades

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Some owners recommend the Vintage Vibe “miracle mod” for smoother action, which can significantly enhance the playing experience.
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The Vintage Vibe 73-Key Refurb Kit is suggested for replacing worn rubber tips and original grommets, though it requires repetitive work.
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User experience

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While some find the Rhodes easy to maintain with basic skills and tools, others find the upkeep overwhelming, likening it to owning a classic car.
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Build quality

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The Mk V has a characteristically bright tone not suitable for replicating certain classic sounds like "Riders On The Storm."
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Value and pricing

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Market price for a Mk V can range significantly; current listings show prices up to $2k without essential accessories like stands or pedals.
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Features and functionality

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The Mk V is noted for its rarity, with only about 2,000 units produced, adding to its potential value retention.
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Comparisons

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Modern alternatives like Nord, Yamaha, and Studiologic offer even keyboard response and ease of transport, appealing to those put off by the Rhodes' weight.
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