The LA Custom Preamp for Fender Rhodes Pianos (Limited Edition)
History
The original Rhodes Peterson preamp (1970–1977) is famous for its warm tone, its ability to drive 73- and 88-note pickup rails with low noise, and its characteristic harmonic distortion. It became a key part of many classic recordings throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Two miniature lamp filaments created its signature “soft tremolo” effect, heard on countless hit records, including Stevie Wonder’s “Living for the City.”
A known challenge of the original the Peterson preamp is also known for its limited EQ range. Even with the treble control fully turned up, it can still lack the clarity and brightness needed to cut through a dense mix.
Innovation
The LA Custom Preamp is based on a rare, customized Peterson prototype that was used by top Los Angeles session players. This prototype preserved the original Peterson gain stage and tremolo circuit but added an improved EQ section designed to increase clarity while keeping hiss to a minimum.
The LA Custom Preamp closely follows that rare prototype, using reliable components for long term durability. It is available in configurations that fit all vintage Rhodes Mk I, Mk II, and Mk V pianos produced between 1970 and 1984 as well as the new, passive tine based pianos.
Direct Output
- 1973 Stage Fender Rhodes with the LA Custom Preamp (Direct Out) Steve Weingard
Standalone Enclosure
- Stainless Steel Enclosure
- Input: 1/4″ Mono Instrument Level
- Stereo Outputs: 2 x Unbalanced 1/4″ Line Level Outputs
- External effects send/return: 2 x 1/4″ Line Level
- Volume Control
- Body & Shine EQ Controls
- Stereo Tremolo Effect: On/Off Switch, Speed and Depth Controls
- 110VAC to 12VDC Power Supply (Included)
- Enclosure size: 9.68″ x 4.13″ x 1.81″ (246mm x 105mm x 46mm)
- Weight: 2.7lbs (1225gr)
- Compatible with Stage, Suitcase and Satellite Rhodes pianos models
- Optional Rack-Mounting ears available
- Plug and play, no installation required
MK1 Rail
- Stainless Steel Polished Mirror Rail Finish
- External effects send/return: 2 x 1/4″ Line Level
- Volume, Body & Shine Tone Controls
- Stereo Tremolo Effect: On/Off Switch, Speed and Depth Controls
- 110VAC to 12VDC Power Supply (Included)
- Compatible with Mark 1 73 or 88 keys, Stage and Suitcase Pianos
- Drop-in replacement for the original MK1 Rail
- Adapter box: 2 x unbalanced 1/4″ line level outputs, power supply input, 6ft 4-pin din cable to preamp
- Installation time: 5 minutes, required tool: phillips screwdriver
MK2 Nameplate
- Compatible with 73 or 88 Keys, Stage and Suitcase MK2 Pianos
- Retrofit replacement for the original Rhodes nameplate (Stage) or Preamp (Suitcase)
- External effects send/return: 2 x 1/4″ Line Level
- Volume, Body & Shine Tone Controls
- Stereo Tremolo Effect: On/Off Switch, Speed and Depth Controls
- 110VAC to 12VDC Power Supply (Included)
- Adapter box: 2 x unbalanced 1/4″ line level outputs, power supply input, 6ft 4-pin din cable to preamp
- Installation time: 10 min. Required tools: Phillips screwdriver and pliers
Custom Installation
- Custom installation in your original MK1 73/88 rail
- Mail in or drop off your original Rhodes MK1 rail
- External effects send/return: 2 x 1/4″ Line Level
- Volume, Body & Shine Tone Controls
- Stereo Tremolo Effect: On/Off Switch, Speed and Depth Controls
- 110VAC to 12VDC Power Supply (Included)
Reviews
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This preamp has completely changed how I experience my stage piano. It's not just about better sound; it's about a deeper connection to the music.
I really like the professional and responsive service. The unit arrived at my door within 5 days after ordering. And it sounds great! It really gives my Rhodes Mark I 88 so much more dynamics in its tone. And it looks good too. 😊
Thanks, Koen!
Whoa!!! Just put it on the Rhodes and this thing does not disappoint. It brings out the highs that I wanted to capture. Thank you so much for this quality product.
I really like the fact there are still people like you so dedicated to making this kind of equipment for musicians. I received the preamp a few weeks ago, I'm really satisfied after a few weeks of working with it. I love the way it makes the Rhodes sounds more “tight“ and in balance.
The clarity and definition that I get with the L.A. Custom Preamp IS better than with the original preamp of my piano. I still use the original preamp when I want a more traditional sound. Having both is great! When I first took the L.A Custom Preamp to a gig, the upright bass player told me: "That sounds really good." The next night, a jazz guitarist said "I LIKE the sound of the sound of your piano..." They have both played with me before, and have heard the original preamp.
This preamp exceeded my expectations! Sounds wonderful!!
Smooth like butter sound. I had no idea what tone quality my Stage Rhodes MKII was missing until I plug this puppy in... thank you Nir Benjaminy! Its what we’ve all been waiting for.
Thanks, appreciate your kind words!
I’ve been using and enjoying the preamp. Definitely a clearer and more articulate sound. With the treble in the lower range, I can find a tone that’s softer and still reasonably defined. I may want to grab another unit.
An ENORMOUS improvement to my passive Stage piano. The tremolo is awesome, too. Thanks for making this. Great sounding preamp.
You don’t really know the potential of your Rhodes sound until this preamp unlocks its true potential. If you’ve got a Rhodes that’s “muddy” or you’re just not happy with the sound, I can guarantee you’ll be blown away with what you can do with this preamp. The EQ boosts hit dead on to the sweet spots in a Rhodes, the noise floor is dead quiet, and the build quality is hefty and substantial. You cannot be disappointed.
Thanks, Ben! We appreciate your continued support.
I've been seeking this sound for years. Works really well with my 1973 Stage connected directly to my sound card. It's like a screen has been lifted and the Rhodes sounds like Steely Dan records. Nice packing and fast delivery. The only downside is I can't stop playing the Rhodes now 🙂
I have been using this beauty with my 1970 Mark 1 Suitcase for three weeks now and couldn't be happier. No bells and whistles, just pure sound. It brings out all the gorgeous overtones and makes the sound come to life. If you have a Stage piano without active pre and tremolo you definitely need this. Suitcase owners like me will benefit from a new "open" sound, very different than the original preamp that's built into piano!
This is a remarkable achievement that every Rhodes lover should own.
Hand Made with ♥ in Los Angeles, CA.
Follow the light pointing to the original Peterson and to the L.A. Custom when each preamp is played.
Notice the difference in clarity: the Peterson treble is set to maximum, the L.A custom treble is at 3 oclock.
Special thanks to Jeff Lorber for the music in this clip.
FAQ
- Q: How do I connect the standalone enclosure version to a Stage model?
A: Connect your piano output to the preamp input, connect our preamp outputs to a stereo amplifier.
- Q: Can I connect the standalone enclosure preamp to a Suitcase models?
A: Sure! Disconnect the original 4 or 5 pin cable from your preamp. Connect your Accessory Output 1/4″ jack, located in the front of the piano to the L.A. Custom preamp input. Connect the L.A Custom preamp outputs to your Suitcase amp External Input 1/4″ jacks.
- Q: Do you ship internationally?
A: Yes.
- Q: Where is the preamp manufactured?
A: The preamp is made in Los Angeles, California, USA
- Q: Will it work internationally?
A: We supply the preamp with a 110V power supply that works in the USA. International clients can obtain a step down transformer that fits their country. Example here. Alternatively, you can ask us to ship the preamp with a power supply that fits their region.
- Q: Which version is better? the standalone or the rail version?
A: There are pros and cons to each version.
The standalone version is compatible with any Rhodes piano. This can be useful in case you decide to buy a different Rhodes in the future or use the preamp with different Rhodes pianos. It’s easier and cheaper to ship and can be used to amplify other passive electric instruments like bass and guitar.
The standalone version provides you with three ways to use external effects:
1. Connect mono effects between the Rhodes and the preamp input
2. Connect mono effects to preamp Send / Return jacks. This insert point was carefully designed to reduce noise when connecting external effects. It is looping the effects between our internal EQ and Tremolo.
3. Connect stereo effects to the L/R output of our preamp.
The Rail Version only offers option 2 and 3 for external effects. Installing the Rail Version requires you to remove your old front rail using a Phillips Screwdriver and drop in our Rail Version. While the mirror rail offers visual appeal, reflecting the keys and hands playing the piano, it requires ongoing cleaning to maintain its shine,it is more susceptible to finger prints. We recommend using soft cloth used for cleaning eyeglasses.
Handcrafted Product Disclaimer
Each LA Custom Rhodes Preamp is individually handcrafted. Because of this artisanal process, slight cosmetic variations or minor imperfections may be present. These natural characteristics are part of the craftsmanship and do not affect the preamp’s performance or sound quality. Some of these details may be difficult to see in product photos
WARRANTY
The LA Custom Rhodes preamp is to be free of defects in materials and workmanship, within regular use for a period of 1 year from the date of pick up or shipping. This warranty is provided to the original purchaser and is non-transferable. We will exchange or fix defective preamps during the warranty period. Repair, exchange, or any other service offered by any entity other than us is not covered by our warranty. The customer is responsible for all transportation to and from us.
RETURNS AND EXCHANGE POLICY
All returns must be made within 14 days of arrival. To be eligible for a refund your item must be in the same condition that you received it and in its original packaging. Products damaged in shipping due to poor packing will not be eligible for a refund. All returns must be returned with delivery tracking confirmation. All returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee. Shipping costs are non-refundable. To return a product: contact us by email and include your original invoice number and which item(s) you’d like to return/exchange. We will reply with an RMA number. Mail us back the item(s) at your own cost and be sure to insure your package. Once the return has been received and processed, we will contact you to confirm that a refund has been issued. You will receive a refund to the same payment method that was used to place the order.