Fender Rhodes Tuneup
Our Fender Rhodes tuneup is a ten-step process designed to restore Rhodes pianos to their original factory specifications and dimensional standards. It is recommended that this process be performed every two years. Pricing information can be found here.
1. Detailed Cleaning
The piano is removed from its case and thoroughly cleaned. Any dust, metal debris, or foreign objects that could slow down the action or create unwanted noises are removed.
2. Humidity, Rust, and Corrosion Treatment
Surface rust, corrosion, or oxidation is removed and treated to prevent further spread.
3. Cosmetic Repairs
Minor external damage is repaired to prevent further damage to the piano’s exterior. We also offer complete exterior restoration and custom modifications.
4. Dampers Treatment
Damper arms are adjusted and floppy damper felts are rejuvenated using our signature formula. Worn-out or torn felt may need to be replaced.
The bridle strap connect the hammer to the damper arm. The tuneup includes inspection of the bridle straps and treatment, if possible. Worn our bridle straps may need to be replaced.
5. Action Felt Inspection and Treatment
Key pedestal felt is cleaned and treated to maintain responsive and accurate action. Worn-out felt may need to be replaced. Some Rhodes pianos made prior to 1978 can benefit from the factory recommended “Bump Modification” (aka. the “Miracle Mod”). We will let you where you stand during your initial inspection.
Both the balance rail and the key pin bushing felts are inspected. Worn out bushing felt can cause excessive side-to-side movement of the keys, which negatively impacts the action. In some cases, we can rejuvenate worn out felt, and in others, we may recommend replacing this important action felt.
6. Tonebar Grommet Inspection
Flexible rubber grommets are crucial for achieving stable voicing, sustain, and consistent volume. Worn-out grommets may need to be replaced.
7. Hammer Tips Inspection
Loose hammer tips often need to be re-glued to the hammer, this is included in the tuneup. Grooved hammer tips may require replacement.
8. Adjustments
9. Re-tuning
To ensure that Rhodes pianos stay in tune, we play the piano and re-check it for any changes in pitch.
10. Training
We encourage every Rhodes owner to familiarize themselves with their instrument’s basic care and maintenance. When you pick up your piano, we will provide maintenance, voicing, and tuning tips specifically tailored to your Rhodes model and its condition. We highly recommend reading the owner’s manual to make the most of your training session.
