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Description

The Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88 is a classic choice for musicians who appreciate the nuances of vintage electric pianos. Renowned for its iconic sound, this keyboard delivers the quintessential Rhodes timbre that has shaped countless genres from jazz to rock and beyond. The 88-key layout offers a full range of expression, allowing for intricate performances and dynamic compositions. Built during the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Mark II series is celebrated for its robust build and timeless appeal, making it a favorite among collectors and performers alike.

What sets the Mark II apart is its unique tonal quality, achieved through a combination of hammer action and tines, which provide a distinct, bell-like resonance. The Stage Piano model is particularly suited for live performances, allowing musicians to easily integrate it into their setups thanks to its straightforward design and reliable engineering. While it retains the classic Rhodes sound, the Mark II also offers improved stability and consistency over its predecessors, ensuring it remains a dependable workhorse on stage.

Whether you're crafting soulful ballads or driving funk grooves, the Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88 is a versatile instrument that continues to inspire artists worldwide with its rich heritage and unmistakable sound.

Key Features:

  • Full 88-key range for comprehensive musical expression
  • Classic Rhodes sound with a unique tonal quality
  • Hammer action and tines for authentic resonance
  • Ideal for live performances with reliable engineering
  • Vintage appeal with robust construction

Product specs

Brand Rhodes
Model Mark II Stage 88-Key Electric Piano
Finish Black Flat Top
Year 1979 - 1983
Made In United States
Categories Electric Pianos
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Weighted
Number of Keys 88 Keys

FAQs

What are the key features of the Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88?

The Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88 features 88 weighted keys, providing a full-size keyboard experience. It is an analog electric piano known for its warm, mellow timbre and bell-like tones, produced by vibrating tines. The piano is favored for its dynamic expression and classic vintage sound.

Is the Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88 is well-suited for live performances. Its robust build and signature sound make it a popular choice for musicians seeking the classic Rhodes tone on stage, with the convenience of stage-ready features like portability and durability.

How does the sound of the Fender Rhodes Mark II differ from other electric pianos?

The Fender Rhodes Mark II produces sound through vibrating tines and pickups, resulting in a warm, mellow tone with distinctive bell-like qualities. This analog approach contrasts with other electric pianos that may use digital sampling, offering a unique expressive and dynamic sound.

What maintenance does the Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88 require?

Regular maintenance for the Fender Rhodes Mark II includes tuning the tines, adjusting the pickup alignment, and ensuring the action remains smooth. These steps help preserve its characteristic sound and playability, making it essential for owners to perform routine checks and adjustments.

Can the Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88 be used in a studio setting?

Absolutely, the Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88 is ideal for studio use due to its rich, dynamic sound and versatility. It is often used in recordings to add depth and character, with its analog warmth complementing various musical genres and production styles.

Mark Oselski

Mark Oselski

Rhodes Mark II. 1982. Mark Oselski.

Video thumbnail for Rhodes Mark II. 1982. Mark Oselski. by Mark Oselski

Rhodes Mark II. 1982. Mark Oselski.

Mark Oselski

Mark Oselski

Video thumbnail for Fender Rhodes MkII by Tony Cause

Fender Rhodes MkII

Tony Cause

Tony Cause

Video thumbnail for Fender Rhodes MKII Stage 88 Demonstration by The Thame Guy

Fender Rhodes MKII Stage 88 Demonstration

The Thame Guy

The Thame Guy

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88.

Setup and maintenance

  • Tuning a Rhodes is complex and they can go out of tune easily; minor adjustments may be needed every 3-4 months due to seasonal changes.

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  • Owners of 1980s models frequently encounter dead pickups, which are often fully magnetized but may require troubleshooting for proper ohm readings.

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  • Testing pickups with a multimeter is recommended for diagnosing output issues, especially in older models like the 1980 MkII.

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Comparisons

  • The Korg SV-1 is recommended for gigging, matching the Mk1 sound with superior key action and significantly lighter weight.

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User experience

  • Real Rhodes instruments are valued for their mechanical feedback and acoustic-like resonance, making them feel more like an acoustic instrument.

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  • Owners report that rewinding every pickup is labor-intensive but ultimately rewarding for improving sound quality and reliability.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Vintage Vibe sells a restoration kit with damper and stop felts and hammer tips, offering an affordable DIY restoration option.

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  • Vintage Vibe is highly regarded for providing replacement pickups that are easy to install, enhancing the restoration process for the Rhodes MkII.

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Software and compatibility

  • Keyscape is praised for delivering near-perfect Rhodes sound, processed from mint condition keyboards, suggesting a high-quality alternative to owning a physical Rhodes.

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Value and pricing

  • A 1980 Rhodes MkII in need of repair can be acquired for around $700, considered a good deal despite requiring significant work.

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Artist usage

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See how Headnodic uses Fender Rhodes Mark II Stage Piano 88

Headnodic

Bassist, Music Producer

The Mighty Underdogs

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Verified via Photo

This post is a close shot of his keyboard, where we can see written "Mark II". We can deduce that it's part of the Fender Rhodes Mark II family. We can also deduce that it's 88 keys, because of the white / metallic borders.

Genre Usage

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