Description

Rare low end tickler! Rhodes Piano Bass- 32 Key electric piano in great shape with lid.

Overview: The Rhodes Piano Bass is a unique electric piano instrument, initially released in the 1960s by the Fender Rhodes company. Designed by Harold Rhodes, the Piano Bass is essentially the bottom 32 notes (two and a half octaves) of a full-sized Rhodes electric piano. It gained popularity for its distinctive sound and was widely used by musicians seeking a portable and versatile bass instrument.

Key Features:

  • Design:
    • Keys: 32 full-sized keys, spanning from F1 to C4.
    • Action: Weighted, hammer-action keys similar to those of the full-sized Rhodes pianos, providing a responsive and dynamic playing experience.
    • Body: Compact and portable design, typically with a black tolex-covered wooden case.
  • Sound Generation:
    • Tines: Uses metal tines struck by hammers, with pickups to capture the vibrations and produce the iconic Rhodes electric piano sound.
    • Tone Controls: Basic tone control, typically a volume knob, allowing for some tonal adjustment.
  • Amplification:
    • Output: Standard 1/4″ mono output for connection to amplifiers or direct input to recording equipment.
    • Passive Electronics: No onboard preamp, relying on external amplification for volume and tone shaping.

Sound Characteristics:

  • Distinctive Bass Tone: Known for its warm, rich, and bell-like bass tones, making it suitable for various musical genres.
  • Sustain: Naturally sustaining notes, providing a full-bodied sound with a characteristic Rhodes decay.

Applications:

  • Genres: Ideal for jazz, rock, funk, soul, and experimental music.
  • Usage: Suitable for live performances, studio recordings, and as a unique addition to any keyboard setup.

Country of Manufacture:

  • United States: The Rhodes Piano Bass was manufactured in the USA, known for its high-quality build and craftsmanship.

Notable Features:

  • Portability: Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and integrate into various performance settings.
  • Classic Rhodes Sound: Delivers the iconic Rhodes sound in a bass range, providing a unique tonal palette for basslines and melodies.
  • Simple Interface: Easy to use with straightforward volume control and a robust, reliable design.

Notable Artists Using the Rhodes Piano Bass

1. Ray Manzarek (The Doors):

  • Genre: Rock, Psychedelic Rock
  • Details: Ray Manzarek is perhaps the most iconic user of the Rhodes Piano Bass. He used it extensively in live performances and recordings with The Doors, often playing basslines with his left hand on the Piano Bass while simultaneously playing a Vox Continental organ with his right hand.

2. John Paul Jones (Led Zeppelin):

  • Genre: Rock, Hard Rock
  • Details: John Paul Jones, the bassist and keyboardist for Led Zeppelin, used the Rhodes Piano Bass in various live performances, adding to the band’s rich and layered sound.

3. Donald Fagen (Steely Dan):

  • Genre: Rock, Jazz Rock
  • Details: Donald Fagen, one-half of the legendary duo Steely Dan, incorporated the Rhodes Piano Bass into some of their recordings, adding its distinctive tone to their sophisticated and jazzy arrangements.

4. Richard Wright (Pink Floyd):

  • Genre: Progressive Rock, Psychedelic Rock
  • Details: Richard Wright, the keyboardist of Pink Floyd, used the Rhodes Piano Bass in the early days of the band, contributing to the textured and atmospheric soundscapes in their music.

5. Benmont Tench (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers):

  • Genre: Rock
  • Details: Benmont Tench, the keyboardist for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, has been known to use the Rhodes Piano Bass in both studio recordings and live performances, adding depth and character to the band’s sound.

6. Garth Hudson (The Band):

  • Genre: Rock, Americana
  • Details: Garth Hudson, the multi-instrumentalist for The Band, has utilized the Rhodes Piano Bass in his eclectic setup, contributing to the group’s rich and diverse musical palette.

The Rhodes Piano Bass is a distinctive and versatile instrument known for its rich, warm bass tones and portability. With its compact design, classic Rhodes sound, and simple interface, the Piano Bass is ideal for a wide range of musical applications, from live performances to studio recordings. Whether used as a standalone instrument or as part of a larger keyboard setup, the Rhodes Piano Bass offers a unique and expressive tool for musicians seeking a distinctive bass sound.

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