One of Rhodes’ announcements at the 2025 NAMM show was MIDI MK8, a new system that brings comprehensive MIDI connectivity to their flagship Rhodes MK8 electromechanical piano. The feature is being made available as an optional extra for those ordering a new instrument, and has been designed to kit the instrument out with a wealth of advanced recording and performance features.
The system relies on a proprietary sensing technology developed specifically for the task at hand, and Rhodes say that they have spent over two years developing the system and ensuring it does not interfere with the feel of the MK8’s keybed. With the system installed, the instrument can be used as a comprehensive MIDI controller, with its keybed offering both polyphonic and channel aftertouch support and its onboard dials capable of taking control of parameters on MIDI-capable hardware and software. Seeing as the Rhodes MK8 an electromechanical device, it’s not possible to generate sound from incoming MIDI data, although it does allow the onboard effects parameters to be controlled from another device or DAW track.
Key Features
- Proprietary MIDI Sensing Technology: Ensures zero interference with the Steinway-designed Kluge keybed, preserving the touch and feel of the MK8.
- High-Resolution Polyphonic Aftertouch: Allows independent control over each note’s dynamics and modulation for nuanced, expressive performances.
- Channel Aftertouch Support: Offers global pressure modulation for all notes being played.
- Dynamic Key Monitoring: Continuous, high-resolution tracking of key positions ensures precise control and expression.
- Onboard Effects Control: Enables MIDI implementation of over 30 MK8 parameters, including preamp and effects settings, for integration with DAWs and MIDI hardware.
- Damper Pedal Integration: Features an optical damper pedal sensor with multiple sustain modes for enhanced playability.
- USB MIDI In/Out: For integration with modern hardware and software setups.
- DIN MIDI Out: Provides compatibility with traditional MIDI devices.
- Noise-Free Design: Fully isolated electronics eliminate noise, ground loops, and interference when connecting to multiple devices in studio or live settings.
- Firmware Expandability: Capabilities are extendable through firmware updates, ensuring adaptability to future advancements.
“After two years of painstaking research and development, we're proud to present a first-in-class MIDI system that seamlessly integrates with the Rhodes MK8 piano. We’ve gone to great lengths to ensure we deliver a fully optimised, noise-free solution that enhances the Rhodes experience while preserving the piano’s signature touch and feel. This is our own system, developed in-house in collaboration with industry experts and fully integrated with our piano. Just like the MK8’s effects, it’s optimised for the Rhodes by Rhodes, preserving the signature experience while offering unmatched versatility for musicians. With the inclusion of advanced features like high-resolution polyphonic aftertouch, the MIDI MK8 represents a major leap forward in MIDI technology.” - Dan Goldman, Product Manager at Rhodes
Pricing & Availability
The MIDI MK8 system is available now as a factory-installed option for the Rhodes MK8 piano. The company are celebrating the launch with an introductory price of $1295£995 including VAT / €1195 until 1 April 2025, with the cost increasing to $1695£1295 including VAT / €1495 thereafter.
