Rhodes have announced the upcoming release of the first official virtual instrument to carry their name, the Rhodes V8. Whilst the final release is set for March 2023, Rhodes are currently offering a free trial version as part of their Missing Keys competition, where entrants are invited to use the new instrument to compose the soundtrack to a short film.
Rhodes V8 Plug-Ins
The Rhodes V8 is a multi-sampled version of the company’s latest hardware instrument, the Rhodes MK8. Utilising 30,000 samples across 100 velocity layers, the plug-in promises to capture all of the nuance and character of the flagship piano, providing users with the classic Rhodes sound within their DAW.
Two versions of the plug-in are available: V8, and V8 Pro. The V8 features a Preamp section equipped with a Drive parameter, Low/High EQ facilities, and a Vari-Pan effect with dedicated Rate and Depth controls. There are also options provided for tuning adjustment, mechanical noise balancing, and an electroacoustic Timbre Shift function, and a wide variety of ready-made tones are available thanks to a collection of included presets.
The V8 Pro then introduces a more in-depth set of features. The addition of the MK8’s Envelope parameter allows users to set up envelope-controlled filter effects, and the range of the Vari-Pan circuit is extended in order to deliver audio-rate modulation capabilities. The Compressor, Chorus, Phaser, and Delay sections from the MK8 FX are also included, and per-note control over Timbre, Fine Tune, Level, and Damper Response parameters become available from within the plug-in’s Setup page. Lastly, a selection of virtual microphones and amplifiers inspired by classic studio and stage setups are included.
The Rhodes V8 is the first virtual instrument to officially carry the company's name.
Missing Keys Competition
Rhodes have made a new short film to mark the release of the plug-ins, and are inviting entrants to compose the soundtrack using the trial version of the instrument. The film is titled ‘Missing Keys’ and features James Smith of the Mercury Prize-nominated band Yard Act. The film, along with a vocal performance by James are available to download from the Rhodes website. Soundtracks of all genres and styles of music are encouraged, although James’ vocal must not be edited, and the Rhodes V8 must feature prominently in the final track.
The competition closes on 1 March 2023, when the best five entries will be passed to a panel of celebrity judges. One lucky winner will receive a custom Rhodes MK8 piano of their choice, and their soundtrack will be used for the final version of the film. 19 runners-up will then receive full licences of the new plug-in, along with a prize bundle courtesy of Plugin Boutique.
More information on the competition, along with asset downloads, can be found on the Rhodes website.
Compatibility
Mac and Windows platforms are both supported, and the plug-ins are available in VST, AU, and AAX formats.
Pricing & Availability
The full versions of the Rhodes V8 and V8 Pro plug-ins will be available in March 2023. V8 will be priced at $179.95£149.95 / €169.95, and the V8 Pro will cost $299.95£249.95 / €274.95. Prices include VAT.
