Rhodes MK8/80AE — a limited-edition electromechanical piano

Rhodes has released a special anniversary edition of its popular instrument to mark the brand's 80th year. The hand-built model is based on the flagship Rhodes MK8. Production is strictly limited to 80 instruments worldwide.

Photo: official website rhodesmusic

The electric piano has a 73-key all-black keyboard and a black oak cabinet with a gloss lacquer finish. Black chrome on the front panel is paired with silver chrome details. The MK8/80AE legs are also black oak, and the stand has a black-painted metal frame with chrome braces. Many other components, including tines and pickup guides, are finished in black. A transparent lid is included.

Photo: official website rhodesmusic

The instrument otherwise offers the full electronics package: a preamplifier with Volume, Drive, EQ, Envelope and Vari-Pan controls, plus stereo effects with compressor, phaser, chorus and delay. The special edition is available with or without a MIDI module.

Photo: official website rhodesmusic

Rhodes MK8/80AE is available to pre-order fully equipped for $19,200. The version without the MIDI module costs $17,500.