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Average Price: $906

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$2499

$4500+

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Description

Unearth the iconic sounds of the 70s and 80s with the Hohner Pianet T. A brilliant fusion of tradition and innovation, this electric piano is renowned for its unique sound production system that utilizes reeds, akin to the Wurlitzer. This model, however, does not include legs, offering a more compact and portable form. Echoing the sounds of legendary artists like The Beatles and King Crimson, the Hohner Pianet T is a treasure trove for music enthusiasts who crave for authentic vintage vibes.

Key Features:

  • Manufactured between 1977 and 1982, tying it to an era of musical innovation and richness.
  • Employs a unique sound production system using reeds, similar to the famous Wurlitzer.
  • Compact and portable design due to the absence of legs, making it easier for musicians on the go.
  • Associated with legendary artists and bands, including The Beatles, Lovin' Spoonful, Roxy Music, King Crimson, Tony Banks, and Christine McVie.

Product specs

Brand Hohner
Model Pianet T
Finish Black
Year 1977 - 1983
Made In Germany
Categories Electric Pianos
Built-In Speakers No
Number of Keys 61 Keys

FAQs

How does the Hohner Pianet T produce sound?

The Hohner Pianet T uses sticky pads to press onto metal reeds. When a key is pressed, the pad lifts, allowing the reed to vibrate, which is then amplified by electromagnetic pickups, creating a warm, mellow tone.

Is the Hohner Pianet T suitable for live performances?

While the Hohner Pianet T does not have built-in speakers, it can be amplified through external systems, making it suitable for live performances, though its vintage nature might require careful handling.

What is the key action like on the Hohner Pianet T?

The Hohner Pianet T features a semi-weighted action that provides a unique tactile response, which is softer than modern keyboards, offering a vintage playing experience.

Can the Hohner Pianet T be used with modern recording equipment?

Yes, the Hohner Pianet T can be connected to modern recording equipment through its output, allowing it to integrate into contemporary studio setups for a classic sound.

What maintenance does the Hohner Pianet T require?

The Hohner Pianet T requires occasional maintenance of its sticky pads and reeds to ensure optimal performance, as these components can wear over time.

The Analogues

The Analogues

The Analogues - The Hohner Pianet (English subtitles)

Video thumbnail for The Analogues - The Hohner Pianet (English subtitles) by The Analogues

The Analogues - The Hohner Pianet (English subtitles)

The Analogues

The Analogues

Video thumbnail for Your Guide To: The Hohner Pianet N by Analog Emma

Your Guide To: The Hohner Pianet N

Analog Emma

Analog Emma

Reviews

PROS

  • Warm, mellow sound reminiscent of Rhodes and Wurlitzer

  • Ultra portable at 40lbs, ideal for gigs

  • Simple, plug-and-play design, no power cord needed

  • Compatible with a variety of pedals and amps

  • Unique percussive noises when keys released or box tapped

  • Affordable alternative to more expensive vintage pianos

  • Easy maintenance due to simple design

CONS

  • No sustain pedal mechanism, requires creative workarounds

  • Limited range of 60 keys

  • Shorter decay on held notes compared to Rhodes

  • Dynamic range not as wide as other vintage keyboards

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Hohner Pianet.

Setup and maintenance

  • Cleaning original sticky pads with soap and using isopropyl alcohol on the tines can improve sound quality without buying new pads.

    Source
  • Rust removal is tedious and time-consuming; consider this commitment before purchasing a rusted Pianet.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the output 1/4” jack and possibly the transformer are common upgrades, each estimated around 100 euro.

    Source
  • Clavinet.com offers high-quality replacement sticky pads, essential for restoring a Pianet with non-functioning keys.

    Source
  • Owners recommend using a Danelectro CC Vibe pedal to enhance vibrato and bass boost, alongside a Boss GE-7 for tonal adjustments.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Refurbished Hohner Pianets are selling for between 1000-1500 USD, making a 700 euro investment for repairs potentially worthwhile.

    Source

User experience

  • Issues with keys not working might be due to pads not sitting on tines or pickups needing adjustment.

    Source
  • Users report significant tonal improvement after replacing the sticky pads and adjusting pickups closer to the reeds for a sound akin to a Wurlitzer.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Clavinet.com forum is a recommended resource for repair and maintenance support.

    Source
  • Even fully restored, some Pianets have tonal inconsistencies, with magical sweet spots and weaker octaves compared to cheap EP plugins.

    Source
  • The Pianet T, when paired with a 15w tube amp featuring tremolo and reverb, mimics a Wurlitzer's tone in the lower register.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Pianet T's mechanism is simpler than a Rhodes but less user-friendly for teardown and repairs.

    Source
  • A Fender Twin Reverb with a 15-inch speaker is favored for achieving optimal sound, while a Peavey Classic is suggested for budget-friendly amplification.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • A 15-inch speaker with a tweeter is recommended for a balanced sound profile, particularly when using Roland KC series-like keyboard amps.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Benmont Tench uses Hohner Pianet

Benmont Tench

Keyboardist

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post, Benmont Tench hints at his use of the Hohner Pianet, drawing inspiration from The Zombies' song "Whenever You're Ready." Notably, The Zombies' keyboardist, Rod Argent, frequently used the Pianet in his recordings. The caption reads: "well I've been hurt but I still love you."

See how Peter Hammill uses Hohner Pianet

Peter Hammill

Singer, Guitarist

Van der Graaf Generator

...
Verified via YouTube

Hammill can be seen playing a Hohner Pianet at 0:34 and 15:45 in this live performance of "A Plague of Lighthouse Keepers" by Van Der Graaf Generator.

See how George Martin uses Hohner Pianet

George Martin

Music Producer

The Beatles

...
Verified via Photo

George Martin can be seen in this photo playing a Hohner Pianet with the Beatles. Additional photo here.

See how Jacco Gardner uses Hohner Pianet

Jacco Gardner

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

"Jacco playing the Pianet N with Microsampler on top for mellotron sounds"

See how Kerry Minnear uses Hohner Pianet

Kerry Minnear

Keyboardist

Gentle Giant

...
Verified via Photo

Said to be used by Kerry Minnear during warmups before shows according to this post on Gentle Giants youtube community page https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgS2qyzQgcZoxoECW0vcRXg/community?lb=UgkxSoHPg2FqVBpxsTfOuHxRk3Z-NjJp-RY7 . Cannot confirm whether it was used other than that

See how Richard Manuel uses Hohner Pianet

Richard Manuel

Singer, Drummer

The Band

...
Verified via Photo

Manuel played a Hohner Pianet throughout the 1970s with The Band.

This site contains additional info and pictures regarding Manuel's use of the Pianet:

I think that, of the albums I have (Music from Big Pink, The Band, Stage Fright, Cahoots, Rock of Ages, Moondog Matinee, Northern Lights-Southern Cross, and The Last Waltz), the Pianet appears in only four songs: "King Harvest (Has Surely Come)," "Caledonia Mission," "Get Up Jake," and "The Shape I'm In" on Rock of Ages. (The Pianet has an effect applied to it for "King Harvest (Has Surely Come)" and "The Shape I'm In," ostensibly the Mu-Tron.)

See how Mike Pinder uses Hohner Pianet

Mike Pinder

Keyboardist

The Moody Blues

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of the Moody Blues at the Carlton Club in 1964, Mike Pinder can be seen playing a Hohner Pianet.

See how Dave Stewart uses Hohner Pianet

Dave Stewart

Keyboardist

National Health

...
Verified via Photo

Dave Stewart extensively used the Hohner Pianet N in the 1970s, particularly on recordings with Hatfield and the North and National Health. This is evidenced by a user-uploaded photo.

See how Al Kooper uses Hohner Pianet

Al Kooper

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Blood, Sweat & Tears

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Verified via Photo

This photo shows Kooper playing a Pianet while backing Chuck Berry at Town Hall in 1965, where The Blues Project opened the concert.

See how David Cross uses Hohner Pianet

David Cross

Keyboardist, Composer

King Crimson

...
Verified via YouTube

At 8:34 of this clip, David Cross can be seen playing violin next to his Mellotron M400 and a white Hohner Pianet.

See how Doug Ingle uses Hohner Pianet

Doug Ingle

Singer, Keyboardist

Iron Butterfly

...
Verified via Photo

Ingle can be seen playing a Hohner Pianet during live performances of “Easy Rider (Let The Wind Pay The Way).” The Hohner Pianet is also used on “Shady Lady.”

See how Robert Lamm uses Hohner Pianet

Robert Lamm

Singer, Keyboardist

Chicago

...
Verified via YouTube

Lamm is seen playing the Pianet in the music video for "I'm a Man".

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Hohner Pianet, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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audiac

audiac

Gear IQ 249

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