The LA Custom Preamp for Fender Rhodes Pianos
Having restored Rhodes pianos since 1994, we observed that the Peterson design Rhodes preamp (circa 1970-1977) is more sought after by our clients and Rhodes enthusiasts than any other preamp in Rhodes history.
The original Peterson Rhodes preamp warmth became synonymous with the classic recordings in the ’70s and ’80s. Two miniature lamp filaments were used to create its unique “soft tremolo” effect, which can be heard on countless hit songs such as “Living for the City” (Steve Wonder) and “Just the Way You Are” (Billy Joel).
A well-known challenge with the Peterson model is its limited EQ response. Even when the treble is fully boosted, it can still lack the clarity and brightness required to stand out in a mix in many cases.
We developed our preamp using a rare prototype used by some of the leading L.A. session musicians. That prototype was a customized Peterson preamp, featuring the original Peterson gains stage and tremolo, with enhanced EQ which was tailored to address the lack of clarity while minimizing unwanted hiss.
Our preamp faithfully recreates this rare prototype design, employing modern, dependable components for lasting durability and compatibility with all vintage Rhodes pianos made between 1970-1984.
Direct Output Samples
- 1973 Stage Fender Rhodes with the LA Custom Preamp (Direct Out) Steve Weingard
- 1982 Suitcase with the LA Custom Preamp (Direct Out) Jeff Babko
- L.A. Custom Rhodes Preamp (With Reverb) Jeff Lorber 0:50
Standalone Enclosure Specs
- 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 Specs
- 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 Specs
- 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
Reviews
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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 Rgodes mark I 88 so much more dynamics in its tone. And it looks good too. 😊
Thanks, Koen! 5 days to Belgium is normal with DHL Express 🙂
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 should obtain a step down transformer that fits their country. Example here.
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.