Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73

^# 16

Equipboard's ranking is determined by analyzing factors such as professional artist usage, popularity, user ratings, reviews, and more.

$78.48 Price Tier: Budget

5.0 (1)

2 Critic Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Find out who is using Rhodes Mark V Stage 73

3 wishlisted

4 saved

Page last updated Jun 13, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 13, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

4.0 (3)

$78.48 6 available Used

View Deal

Average Price: $78

Budget/Beginner

$2499

$4500+

Price Tier

In the Vintage & Electric Pianos category, Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

Standard

High-end

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Edit description

Featuring an all-plastic body, the Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 was the lightest Rhodes to date weighing just 100 lbs. The leg set used for all previous Stage models was replaced with a one-piece collapsable stand designed by Mike Peterson, capable of supporting 450 lbs. Improvements to the piano's action included a return to the use of wooden keys, as well as a modification to the dampers that resulted in a more bell-like tone. Using high-speed photography, the Rhodes engineers had discovered that the original damper design caused an initial snap-back when the key was struck, "kissing" the tine lightly and dampening the overtones before coming to a resting position. The new dampers behaved correctly when depressed, allowing the tines to ring more freely.

Product specs

Brand	Rhodes
Model	Mark V Stage 73 73-Key Electric Piano
Finish	Black
Year	1984
Made In	United States
Categories	Electric Pianos
Analog / Digital	Analog
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Weighted
Number of Keys	73 Keys

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73?: The Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 is known for its warm, mellow, and bell-like tones, making it ideal for jazz, funk, and soul music. Its unique sound is achieved through its analog tines and pickups, providing a classic electric piano vibe.
Is the Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 is designed for stage use, featuring a durable build and full-size weighted keys for expressive playability. Its iconic sound and reliable performance make it a favorite among live musicians.
How does the weighted action of the Mark V Stage 73 compare to other electric pianos?: The Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 offers a weighted keyboard action that closely mimics the feel of an acoustic piano, providing a responsive and dynamic playing experience. This feature is particularly appreciated by pianists seeking authentic touch and control.
Can the Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 be used for recording in a studio?: Absolutely, the Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 is highly regarded for studio recording due to its rich, distinctive sound that fits well in various musical contexts. Its analog tone and dynamic range make it a versatile choice for professional recordings.
What maintenance does the Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 require?: Regular maintenance for the Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 includes tuning the tines, adjusting the pickups, and ensuring all mechanical parts are in good condition. Proper care will preserve its sound quality and playability over time.

Videos

Add video

Márcio Mello - Criação Musical

Márcio Mello testanto seu Rhodes mark V stage 73

Márcio Mello - Criação Musical

Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 Key Mod, Cleaning, and Demo (Featured on Pawn Stars!)

Cats are Aliens

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Highly regarded by iconic musicians like Donald Fagen and Herbie Hancock
Considered the "holy grail" of Rhodes pianos by enthusiasts
Extremely rare and collectible
Smooth action that plays like butter
Perfectly dialed-in sound, offering a unique character piece

CONS

Does not replicate the original 1972 "Fender" sound
Quality of tines and microphones may deteriorate over time
Lacks the authentic vintage sound of early '70s models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73.

Use cases and applications

0 0

Amplifying the Rhodes through a Fender Twin Reverb is suggested for optimal sound, as it aligns with the original factory voicing.
Source
0 0

An active direct box is advised for recording, enhancing sound quality compared to a passive DI.
Source
0 0

The Mark V is noted for its rarity with only about 2000 units made, hinting at potential long-term value retention despite not being highly collectible.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The passive nature of Rhodes means fewer electronic failures compared to instruments like the Wurlitzer, which are more prone to electronic issues.
Source
0 0

The Mark V has a distinct bright tone, which might not suit those seeking the classic pre-1975 Mark I sound, such as in "Riders On The Storm."
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

Despite maintenance complexity, the cool factor and rarity make the Rhodes a potential investment or collectible object.
Source
0 0

Although the price of $2.5k seems high, it's suggested to compare with market rates as prices can vary widely based on condition and inclusions.
Source

User experience

0 0

Real Rhodes provides a tactile, acoustic-like experience with mechanical feedback, unlike digital counterparts.
Source
0 0

Each Rhodes, even within the same model, can vary significantly in sound and action, emphasizing the importance of trying before buying.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

Keyscape offers highly polished Rhodes sounds that can rival or surpass the real instrument in certain recordings.
Source
0 0

A Yamaha Reface CP is favored by some as an alternative for its portability and simplicity, featuring necessary effects and straightforward MIDI interfacing.
Source
0 0

Some users prefer modern alternatives like Nord or Yamaha for consistent keyboard response and lighter weight, suggesting that sound emulation is adequate for their needs.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

Vintage Vibe restoration kit, including damper and stop felts and hammer tips, is recommended for improving playability and sound.
Source
0 0

For tonal improvements, replacing hammer tips and tone bar springs/rubber grommets is commonly advised.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Initial setup often requires professional tuning for optimal action; minor adjustments may be needed every 3-4 months, especially with seasonal changes affecting key bushings.
Source
0 0

It's crucial to check for bent tines and worn-out hammers, as these are common signs of overplaying and can impact performance.
Source
0 0

Owners recommend Vintage Vibe's Miracle Mod to address sluggish action on the Rhodes, enhancing playability.
Source
0 0

Issues with mechanical action, such as stuck keys, are common and should be checked by playing with the lid removed to listen for unusual noises.
Source
0 0

Inspect for buzzing, hum, and crackling potentiometers when connected to an amp, as these indicate potential electrical issues.
Source

Critic Reviews

A Rare Breed Indeed: Rhodes Mark V – The Chicago Electric Piano Co.

chicagoelectricpiano.com

The Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 is hailed as a refined iteration in the Rhodes legacy, boasting a lighter design and improved dynamic action, making it a delight for players seeking a responsive touch. The instrument's redesign reduces its weight significantly, enhancing portability without compromising its iconic sound. However, the rarity of parts and the need for specialized repairs can be a hurdle for some owners, as highlighted by user experiences. While its tonal quality and build have enduring appeal, potential buyers should be prepared for the challenges of maintaining this vintage classic.

neutral

Full Review

Once Upon a Tine - The Rhodes Mark V - Rhodes Music

rhodesmusic.com

The Fender Rhodes Mark V Stage 73 shines as a legacy instrument, embodying the final and greatest design of its era. Despite being overshadowed by lighter synthesizers in the 1980s, the Mark V's improved action and dynamics made it a standout. Its lightweight design and robust build are commendable, although only 2,000 units were produced, adding to its allure as a rare gem. The integration of MIDI in its prototypes showcased innovation ahead of its time. While the Mark V Stage 88 never made it past the prototype stage due to production issues, the Mark V's reputation remains untarnished. It's highly regarded by legends like Chick Corea, reinforcing its status as a top-tier Rhodes piano.

positive

Full Review

Add review

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star