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Yep, forgot to add, thanks

Stage, 9/10 good tolex, top key not working (I wouldn't play it anyway tbh).

Just outside of Austin, where instruments typically come at a premium.

What's the going rate for this instrument. Assuming very good playability and sound.

What year was it?

Hey thanks, that is a great suggestion! I like the sounds of the VV, often more than what I've heard from the Mk8. A fully restored Mk1 is in same price range of both of those models, and frankly I like that tone best. (disclaimer is this is only from watching dozens upon dozens of videos, and playing a Mk1 and Mk2, but not Mk8 or VV).

The variable voice control is a brilliant idea, after all that is the factor that changes the sound arguably more than anything else (?). It also seems like it could have been implemented several different ways, so I wonder why others haven't tried implementing a dynamic voicing control.

Interesting! Still researching and mulling this over. I tend to think of 72-74 as the "sunshine of my life" warm tone, post '75 as brighter but still balanced, and post '78 as very bright and glassy.

I know what sound I'm after, but it's tough to parse all of the different components and their effect on the sound:

harp
harp supports
hammers (wood, plastic, mix)
tip material and shape
pickups

and their impact on the action.

Definitely agree that it's easier to filter out highs than to add them.

Post 75, but pre 78? (I'm far from an expert)

Sounds lovely

Hi all,

I will be purchasing a Rhodes MK I Stage from one of the well-known restorers. All years of MK I sound good to me, they're just different flavors of great tones. However, I need to choose one and was curious if any input could help.

-Action, would love a dynamic action that is perhaps on the lighter side touch-wise. I do play acoustic piano primarily, and a little bit of Wurlitzer.
-Tone, balanced tone without too much bark or bell (unless you dig in)
-Reliable for playing jazz daily. I wouldn't mind replacing tines here or there, and it will never be gigged.

Is it safe to buy a brighter instrument and shave off some of that top end with amp settings? Alternatively, how well does a darker roads brighten up with effects? My gut says 1974-1974, and have them do the pedestal mod to improve the action.

Between the different years, hammer tips, tines, this is quite the rabbit hole!