one key sounds more "bell-like" than the others

[freq_mod]

Hello,

I am relatively new to rhodes repair. I have replaced some tines and damper felts. I still have only one problem that irratates me while playing. One key sounds more "bell-like" than any of the others. Any possible solutions?

[Ben Bove]

if it's louder, slide the pickup back (Tiny red coil on metal tab at the end of the tine)

[freq_mod]

if it's louder, slide the pickup back (Tiny red coil on metal tab at the end of the tine)

I tried that.
I't's not really louder....it has a different sound to it. it's hard to explain. Thanks for the help though.

[tjcombs]

Ok, there should be 2 screws attaching your Tonebar to your harp.
See A and B below.




Try adjusting A while you press the cooresponding key. This is raising or lowering your tine in relation to the pickup. Clockwise lowers it, counterclockwise raises it.
This will affect your tone. Adjust this until the key sounds how you want it to.


Also, read this page of the service manual to help you out.
http://www.fenderrhodes.org/rhodes/manual/ch4.html#4-1

[hrees]

This problem is not really so much to do with volume/tone settings. These can make a slight difference but the sound will still be there.

The metallic 'ting' you describe usually occurs at the start of the hard black hammer tips, around B, C or slightly higher. These tips get a hard spot over time at the point where the tine is struck which accentuates the metallic sound. You can try a few things. Replace the tip with a new one (replacing the whole register will give a more even sound). Try changing the tine as some seem to have this sound a little more than others. If the offending note is at the tip register break point try using a softer grade of rubber. You will lose a bit of bite, but this will get rid of the sound.

[freq_mod]

tj - i'll try your sugestion as soon as i get a chance

hrees - is there anyway to tell if the hammer tips have hardened or do you just have to replace them to find out?




-Thanks for the help. It's greatly appreciated.

[andi85]

oh right, mine has that, too. c1 is the first with the hard tips - but honestly, i don't care about it.

[hrees]

Just look at the tip. If it has a darker, harder spot where the tine is struck then try changing it, or even just rotating it to expose an unworn face (though the escapement and strike point should be kept the same). You don't have to change all your tips if you're happy with the sound of the rest. Alternatively you can probably eq it out.