17 Best Rhodes VST Plugins: Electric Piano Dive (2024)

What Are the Best Rhodes VST Plugins in 2024?

Here are the top rhodes VST plugins to consider in 2024:

• AAS - Lounge Lizard EP-4
• Arturia Stage-73 V
• XLN Audio - Addictive Keys: Mark One
• AIR Music Technology Velvet 2
• Sampleson - Suit73 V2
• Spectrasonics Keyscape - Rhodes Collection
• Rhodes - Rhodes V8 Pro
• Universal Audio - Electra 88 Vintage Keyboard Studio
• Soniccouture - EP 73 Deconstructed
• Reason Studios - Radical Keys
• Modartt - Pianoteq Electric Pianos
• Soundiron - Dusty Roads
• Loot Audio - Epia
• E-Instruments Session Keys Electric Bundle
• Toontrack - EZkeys Classic Electrics
• Toontrack - EZkeys Dream Machine
• Toontrack - EZkeys Soul Roads

Authentic Vintage Emulations

These plugins are designed to accurately emulate the sound and feel of vintage Rhodes pianos, capturing the classic tones and playability that made these instruments legendary. They focus on providing a faithful recreation of the original hardware, making them perfect for purists and those looking to add authentic Rhodes sounds to their compositions.

AAS Lounge Lizard EP-4

The Quintessential Rhodes Emulator for the Modern Producer

The AAS Lounge Lizard EP-4 isn’t just another electric piano emulator; it’s a complete toolkit dedicated to capturing the soul and essence of the classic Fender Rhodes. The first impression of this VST is the sheer realism of the sound. From its velvety lows to shimmering highs, every nuance and subtlety of the Rhodes is beautifully represented.

In the second layer of its brilliance lies the depth of customization. The Lounge Lizard EP-4 allows users to venture beyond the classic Rhodes sound. With its extensive editing capabilities, you can tweak the hammer hardness, tine noise, and many more intricate details to curate your unique electric piano sound. It’s not just about emulation; it’s about evolution.

Moreover, for those who may feel overwhelmed by the myriad of options, the VST comes packed with a range of presets. These span from the most authentic vintage tones to modern reinterpretations, perfect for a variety of genres and styles. Whether you’re laying down a smooth jazz track or producing a chill lo-fi beat, the Lounge Lizard EP-4 is ready to deliver.

Final Thoughts:

For those seeking the warm, soulful tones of the classic Rhodes with the added advantage of contemporary tweaks, the Lounge Lizard EP-4 is a must-have. Its unparalleled sound quality and customization options make it a top contender in the realm of electric piano VSTs. Don’t just take our word for it; experience the magic of the Rhodes reimagined with the Lounge Lizard EP-4!

Arturia Stage-73 V

The Quintessential Rhodes Emulator for the Modern Producer

Arturia’s commitment to bringing vintage sounds to modern producers shines brightly with the Stage-73 V. Rooted deeply in the iconic tones of the Fender Rhodes Stage 73 electric piano, this plugin provides an astonishing level of authenticity. Each note resonates with the same warmth and expressiveness that made the original Rhodes a beloved instrument for generations.

Beyond just a straightforward emulation, the Stage-73 V integrates a range of built-in effects. These aren’t just any effects; they’ve been carefully selected and tuned specifically for the Rhodes sound. This provides producers with the tools they need to move from the pure vintage tone to more experimental soundscapes without leaving the plugin interface.

A unique feature of the Stage-73 V is its advanced modulation capabilities. Producers can dive deep into the software, adjusting parameters like hammer hardness, action noise, and pickup placement, tailoring the instrument’s tone to their exact preferences. Furthermore, as a part of Arturia’s acclaimed V Collection, users are assured of its quality and integration within a broader suite of vintage instrument emulations.

Final Thoughts:

With Arturia’s Stage-73 V, you’re not just getting a Rhodes emulator; you’re gaining a versatile tool that captures the spirit of the past while providing the functionalities of today. It’s an essential addition for those who cherish the iconic Rhodes sound, enhanced with modern production capabilities. Dive into the rich textures of the Stage-73 V and let your creativity soar!

XLN Audio Addictive Keys: Mark One

Iconic Mark I Electric Piano Emulation in Pristine Detail

Overview:

The Rhodes Mark I, revered for its gentle bell-like tone and unmistakable character, has found its way into numerous classic records. XLN Audio captures the essence of this iconic instrument in the Addictive Keys: Mark One plugin. Crafted with an attention to detail, the software provides an uncannily accurate representation of the original sound, letting you access the beloved electric piano vibe with ease.

One of the standout features of the Mark One plugin is its adaptability. With an array of microphone positioning options, producers can sculpt the sound from a direct vintage tone to ambient, room-filled resonances. This versatility ensures the Mark One can effortlessly fit into various musical contexts, from jazz and soul to pop and electronica.

Further enhancing the instrument’s tonal capabilities is its effects suite. Designed specifically with the Rhodes Mark I sound in mind, the effects – ranging from EQ to reverb – allow for even greater sound customization. Plus, being part of the Addictive Keys line, users can expect seamless integration with other products in the series, ensuring a cohesive workflow.

Final Thoughts:

For those in pursuit of the classic Rhodes Mark I sound, XLN Audio’s Addictive Keys: Mark One is an unmatched digital companion. Its rich features and authentic sound reproduction make it a must-have in any producer’s toolkit. Experience the charm of the Mark I, and let its tones inspire your next hit.

AIR Music Technology Velvet 2

Dive into the Golden Era of Electric Pianos with Rich Authenticity

Overview:

AIR Music Technology’s Velvet 2 is not just another electric piano plugin; it’s a nostalgic journey back to the golden era of keys from the 60s and 70s. As the spiritual successor to the beloved Rhodes, Velvet 2 brings together the most iconic electric pianos, delivering them right to your digital workstation with impeccable accuracy and realism.

At the heart of Velvet 2 is its commitment to authentic sound reproduction. The plugin captures the distinct character of five legendary electric pianos, including the classic Rhodes sound. Every nuance, from the hammer strikes to the tine resonances, is reproduced in exquisite detail, ensuring that users get the genuine vintage vibe they seek.

Beyond the core sounds, Velvet 2 provides an extensive range of onboard effects and processing tools. This allows producers and musicians to tailor the instrument to their unique tastes, whether that’s adding a touch of phaser for a psychedelic spin or dialing in some tube drive for grit and warmth. Furthermore, the real-time controls ensure that players can introduce those subtle performance nuances that truly bring an electric piano part to life.

Final Thoughts:

Velvet 2 by AIR Music Technology isn’t just an instrument; it’s an invitation to relive the magic of the most revered electric pianos in history. Its intricate sound reproduction and extensive customization options make it an essential tool for both the purists and the modern producers. Dive in and let the rich, vintage tones of Velvet 2 elevate your music.

Sampleson Suit73 V2

Classic Electric Piano with Modern Enhancements

Overview:

Sampleson’s Suit73 V2 is a meticulously crafted electric piano plugin that emulates the iconic sound of the Fender Rhodes. This VST stands out by using advanced spectral modeling technology, which allows it to deliver authentic sound and dynamic response without relying on extensive sample libraries. The result is a lightweight, efficient plugin that retains the expressive characteristics of the original instrument.

The Suit73 V2 offers a wide range of customization options, giving users control over various aspects of the sound. You can adjust the velocity curve to suit your playing style, tweak the mechanical noise levels for added realism, and fine-tune other parameters to create your perfect tone. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for both studio recordings and live performances.

Final Thoughts:

Sampleson’s Suit73 V2 is a versatile and powerful tool for musicians and producers who seek the classic sound of the Rhodes piano with modern enhancements. Its lightweight design and low CPU usage make it ideal for any setup, while the advanced synthesis engine ensures that every note is rich and expressive. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of vintage warmth to your tracks or need a reliable electric piano for gigs, the Suit73 V2 delivers exceptional performance and sound quality.

Spectrasonics Keyscape Rhodes

The Pinnacle of Electric Piano Emulation

Overview:

Spectrasonics Keyscape is not just another keyboard VST; it’s a meticulously crafted collection of over 500 acoustic and electric keyboard sounds. This plugin stands out particularly for its Rhodes emulation, specifically the highly sought after Classic Mark I, the distinctive LA Custom “E”, and the ethereal JD-800 Crystal Rhodes®. Each of these instruments has been multi-sampled with the utmost precision, ensuring that the digital replication captures the character and soul of the original.

The depth and authenticity of Keyscape’s sounds are unmatched, from the warm and mellow tones of the Classic Mark I to the sparkling resonance of the JD-800 Crystal Rhodes®. Moreover, the ability to integrate with Spectrasonics’ flagship synthesizer, Omnisphere, offers composers and producers an even broader sonic palette.

Final Thoughts:

Spectrasonics Keyscape is more than a Rhodes emulator; it’s a comprehensive journey through keyboard history. But for those in search of the quintessential Rhodes sound, it offers three of the most iconic versions of the instrument. Whether you’re a seasoned keyboardist or a producer looking for the perfect electric piano sound, Keyscape is a worthy investment. The depth, detail, and authenticity it brings to a mix can elevate any track.

Rhodes Rhodes V8 Pro

The Pinnacle of Electric Piano Emulation

Overview:

The Rhodes V8 plugin brings the iconic sound of the vintage Rhodes electric piano into the digital realm with stunning accuracy and flexibility. This VST plugin is meticulously crafted from carefully sampled vintage Rhodes pianos, ensuring that every nuance of the original instrument’s warm, bell-like tones is faithfully reproduced. Whether you’re looking for the classic, mellow sounds of the ’70s or something more contemporary, the Rhodes V8 delivers with authenticity and depth.

One of the standout features of the Rhodes V8 is its versatile control set, allowing users to shape their sound with precision. The plugin includes a range of effects such as tremolo, chorus, reverb, and EQ, providing a comprehensive toolkit for sound design. Additionally, the dynamic response and velocity sensitivity ensure that the playability feels just like the real thing, offering an expressive and realistic performance experience.

Final Thoughts:

The Rhodes V8 is a must-have plugin for musicians and producers seeking the authentic sound of a vintage Rhodes electric piano. Its combination of high-quality samples, versatile controls, and realistic playability make it a standout choice for any genre of music. Whether you’re adding soulful textures to a track or creating intricate jazz arrangements, the Rhodes V8 provides the classic sound and modern flexibility needed for professional production.

Universal Audio Electra 88

Authentic Vintage Keyboard Experience with Professional Studio Quality

Overview:

Universal Audio’s Electra 88 Vintage Keyboard Studio is a premium plugin that brings the revered sound of vintage electric pianos to the digital domain. This VST plugin is renowned for its meticulous emulation of classic instruments, particularly the Rhodes, delivering an authentic and immersive playing experience. The Electra 88 stands out with its detailed sampling and high-quality sound, capturing every nuance of the original instruments to provide unparalleled realism.

The plugin also features a range of studio-grade effects, including tape delay, spring reverb, and various amp models. These effects allow users to craft their sound precisely, adding layers of depth and character to their performances. The Electra 88’s intuitive interface and seamless integration with major DAWs make it a versatile and powerful tool for both live and studio environments.

Final Thoughts:

The Electra 88 Vintage Keyboard Studio by Universal Audio is a top-tier plugin that offers an authentic vintage keyboard experience with professional studio quality. Its detailed sampling, studio-grade effects, and easy integration make it an excellent choice for musicians and producers seeking to add the classic sound of vintage electric pianos to their projects. Whether you’re working on soulful ballads or funky grooves, the Electra 88 provides the tools to elevate your music to new heights.

Modern Interpretations and Enhancements

These plugins take the classic Rhodes sound and enhance it with modern features, sound design elements, and effects. They offer unique twists on the traditional Rhodes sound, making them suitable for contemporary music production and creative exploration.

Soniccouture EP 73 Deconstructed

Unique Take on Classic Electric Piano

Overview:

Soniccouture’s EP 73 Deconstructed takes a fresh and innovative approach to the classic electric piano sound. Unlike traditional electric piano plugins, this VST provides a detailed and layered representation of the iconic Fender Rhodes. By focusing on the deconstructed elements of the instrument, it allows users to explore and manipulate the sound in new and creative ways.

The EP 73 Deconstructed features high-quality samples recorded using vintage gear and techniques, ensuring an authentic sound that captures the warmth and character of the original instrument. It includes a range of controls that allow users to tweak and customize every aspect of the sound, from the mechanical noises of the keys to the built-in EQ and effects. This level of control makes it a versatile tool for both traditional and experimental music production.

Final Thoughts:

Soniccouture’s EP 73 Deconstructed is perfect for producers and musicians looking to add a unique twist to the classic electric piano sound. Its innovative approach, combined with high-quality samples and extensive control options, makes it a powerful tool for sound design and music production. Whether you’re aiming for a traditional Rhodes sound or looking to experiment with new textures and layers, the EP 73 Deconstructed offers the flexibility and depth needed to achieve your creative vision.

Reason Studios Radical Keys

Versatile Keyboards for Modern Production

Overview:

Reason Studios Radical Keys is a powerful keyboard VST plugin that brings a collection of iconic keyboard instruments to your digital audio workstation. This plugin is designed to provide producers and musicians with a broad palette of sounds, ranging from vintage electric pianos to distinctive clavinet tones, all captured with meticulous detail and authenticity.

Radical Keys stands out with its comprehensive set of customization options, allowing users to tweak and mold the sounds to fit their specific needs. The plugin includes various built-in effects and modulation options, enabling you to create rich, layered sounds or subtle nuances to complement your tracks. Whether you’re crafting soulful ballads or high-energy funk, Radical Keys provides the flexibility and quality you need.

Final Thoughts:

Reason Studios Radical Keys is an essential tool for anyone looking to expand their keyboard sound library with versatile and high-quality instruments. Its integration with Reason’s rack extension format makes it particularly valuable for users of Reason, but its compatibility with other DAWs ensures it’s a great addition to any setup. With its diverse range of sounds and extensive customization options, Radical Keys is well-suited for both studio recording and live performance, making it a must-have for modern music production.

Modartt Pianoteq Electric Pianos

Authentic Physical Modeling of Classic Electric Pianos

Overview:

Modartt’s Pianoteq Electric Pianos is a standout VST plugin, leveraging physical modeling to deliver a remarkably authentic and versatile electric piano experience. Unlike traditional sample-based plugins, Pianoteq uses sophisticated algorithms to simulate the behavior and sound of real pianos, capturing the nuances of each instrument with stunning accuracy.

This plugin includes models of several legendary electric pianos, such as the Rhodes and Wurlitzer, each meticulously recreated to provide a lifelike playing experience. The physical modeling approach allows for detailed control over various aspects of the sound, including hammer hardness, strike position, and mechanical noises, giving users the ability to tailor the instrument’s tone to their specific needs.

Final Thoughts:

Modartt’s Pianoteq Electric Pianos is an exceptional choice for musicians and producers seeking the highest level of realism and versatility in an electric piano plugin. Its advanced physical modeling technology ensures an authentic sound, while its lightweight and efficient design makes it suitable for both studio and live use. With extensive customization options, this plugin offers endless possibilities for creating unique and expressive electric piano sounds, making it a valuable addition to any music production setup.

Soundiron Dusty Roads

Vintage Vibes with a Modern Touch

Overview:

Soundiron’s Dusty Roads VST plugin is a meticulously crafted virtual instrument that brings the nostalgic sound of vintage electric pianos to your DAW. This plugin is designed to capture the essence of classic electric pianos, providing musicians and producers with a tool that delivers the warm, rich tones characteristic of these timeless instruments. With a detailed sample library, Dusty Roads ensures that every nuance of the original instruments is faithfully reproduced.

Dusty Roads stands out with its extensive sample library, featuring high-quality recordings that capture the unique sound and feel of vintage electric pianos. The plugin also offers a range of customizable effects, allowing users to add reverb, chorus, delay, and more to shape their sound. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate through the different settings and achieve the perfect tone for any musical context.

Final Thoughts:

Loot Audio Epia

Innovative Take on the Classic Electric Piano

Overview:

Loot Audio’s Epia reimagines the classic electric piano, providing musicians with a versatile tool that combines traditional tones with modern enhancements. This VST plugin is designed to offer a unique and innovative sound, making it a valuable addition to any producer’s toolkit. Epia’s sound design focuses on delivering a rich and dynamic tone, perfect for everything from smooth jazz to contemporary electronic music.

Epia comes with a comprehensive preset library that showcases a wide array of sounds, from classic electric piano tones to more experimental textures. The plugin also includes advanced modulation options, allowing users to add effects such as chorus, delay, and reverb to craft their unique sound. The high-quality samples used in Epia ensure that every note is captured with clarity and depth, providing a realistic and immersive playing experience.

Final Thoughts:

Comprehensive Electric Piano Collections

These bundles and collections offer a range of electric piano sounds, including multiple Rhodes models, providing versatility and extensive options for producers looking for a variety of electric piano tones in one package.

E-Instruments Session Keys Electric Bundle

Capture the Spirit of Vintage Electric Pianos with Modern Features

Overview:

The E-Instruments Session Keys Electric Bundle encapsulates the iconic essence of electric pianos in a package that’s brimming with modern adaptability. Delving into this suite, users get a nuanced touch of Rhodes and Wurlitzer – two giants in the world of electric pianos, each boasting its unique character and allure.

One of the standout features is the Pentamorph, a control tool that effortlessly allows users to transmute the core sound into a wide range of tonal possibilities. Whether you’re aiming for the purist tone of the ’70s or something edgier and modern, the bundle caters to all shades of musical expressions.

An interesting facet for composers and songwriters would be the Smart Chord feature. This allows musicians to set chords or single notes in an intuitive manner, making the creation of accompaniments and chord progressions an absolute breeze.

Couple the aforementioned features with the meticulous sampling quality, and it becomes evident that E-Instruments didn’t just set out to create a replica. Instead, they have curated an instrument that celebrates the past while embracing the future, catering to both purists and modern composers alike.

Final Thoughts:

For those who hold a reverence for the Rhodes and Wurlitzer but also wish for a tool that aligns with contemporary music production, the E-Instruments Session Keys Electric Bundle stands as an impeccable choice. It’s more than just an emulation; it’s a reinvention of classics for the digital age. Embrace the best of both worlds and let your compositions shine.

Toontrack EZkeys Classic Electrics

Experience the Timeless Grandeur of Vintage Electric Pianos

Overview:

Toontrack’s EZkeys Classic Electrics is a beautifully crafted homage to the iconic sounds of the Rhodes Mark I and the Wurlitzer 200A – two electric pianos that defined countless hits across decades. It doesn’t just aim to replicate; it seeks to revive and redefine these classics for the modern age.

Diving into EZkeys Classic Electrics, you’re immediately graced with the warmth and depth of these vintage beauties. The meticulous sampling process ensures that every nuance, from the gentle hum of the amplifiers to the dynamic response of the keys, is captured in all its glory. The resultant sound is both lush and articulate, ready to be the backbone of your next soulful ballad or the punch in your retro-funk groove.

One of the standout features of the EZkeys lineup is the vast MIDI library, and the Classic Electrics version is no exception. Whether you’re a seasoned pianist or someone who’s just dabbling, the array of pre-recorded sequences available at your fingertips is a goldmine. From slow, melancholic ballads to upbeat jives, there’s a MIDI sequence to inspire or enhance your track.

Final Thoughts:

For those in pursuit of the quintessential electric piano sound with all its vintage charm and modern flexibility, Toontrack’s EZkeys Classic Electrics is an undeniable front-runner. It doesn’t just recreate; it rejuvenates, bringing the old-world charm of electric pianos to the modern digital realm. Explore its vast soundscapes and be inspired.

Specialized and Thematic Rhodes Libraries

These plugins focus on specific themes or unique interpretations of the Rhodes sound, catering to niche musical styles or specific production needs.

Toontrack EZkeys Dream Machine

Versatile Hybrid Instrument for Diverse Soundscapes

Overview:

Toontrack’s EKX – Dream Machine is a groundbreaking hybrid instrument plugin that offers an extensive range of acoustic and electronic sounds. Designed to inspire creativity, it seamlessly blends the organic warmth of acoustic instruments with the cutting-edge textures of electronic synthesis. This unique combination makes it a versatile tool for composers, producers, and sound designers working in various genres.

The EKX – Dream Machine includes a rich library of sounds, from classic pianos and mallets to futuristic synthesizers and ambient textures. The intuitive interface allows users to quickly navigate through presets and tweak parameters, making it easy to sculpt sounds to fit any musical context. Whether you’re crafting intricate soundscapes, adding depth to a mix, or exploring new sonic territories, the Dream Machine provides the tools and flexibility needed to bring your musical visions to life.

Final Thoughts:

Toontrack’s EKX – Dream Machine stands out as a versatile and powerful hybrid instrument plugin, perfect for those looking to expand their sonic palette. Its blend of acoustic and electronic elements offers endless possibilities for sound creation, while its user-friendly interface ensures a smooth and efficient workflow. Ideal for musicians, producers, and sound designers, the Dream Machine is a valuable addition to any virtual instrument collection, providing the tools needed to create unique and expressive music.

Toontrack EZkeys Soul Roads

Capturing the Essence of Classic Soul with Authentic Rhodes Sounds

Overview:

Toontrack’s EZkeys: Soul Roads is a meticulously crafted electric piano VST plugin that brings the iconic sound of the Rhodes electric piano to your digital audio workstation. Designed to capture the soulful essence of classic Rhodes pianos, this plugin is perfect for musicians and producers working in genres such as soul, R&B, jazz, and funk. The rich, warm tones of the Rhodes are faithfully recreated, providing a highly expressive and versatile instrument for your compositions.

The EZkeys: Soul Roads plugin features a comprehensive library of presets and customizable sounds, allowing users to fine-tune their tones to fit any musical context. The included EZkeys MIDI library offers a vast collection of professionally played chord progressions and playing styles, making it easy to create authentic and inspiring tracks. The user-friendly interface ensures a smooth workflow, with intuitive controls that make sound shaping and customization a breeze.

Final Thoughts:

“Add vintage warmth to your Rhodes sounds with effects from the Best Distortion VST Plugins.”

FAQ Buying Guide: Best Rhodes VST Plugins

When seeking the warmth and nostalgia of a Rhodes electric piano, VST plugins can provide that iconic sound with added flexibility and without the challenges of vintage gear. Whether you’re composing jazz, pop, or ambient music, a quality Rhodes VST can be a valuable addition to your sonic arsenal.

• What is a Rhodes VST plugin?

  A Rhodes VST plugin digitally emulates the sound of a Rhodes electric piano, a popular instrument from the 1970s known for its warm, bell-like tones used in various music genres like jazz, pop, and R&B.

• Why should I consider a Rhodes VST instead of a real Rhodes piano?

  Rhodes VSTs offer the iconic sound without the hassle of maintaining a vintage instrument, space considerations, or miking setups. They are also much more portable and often come with added features not available on the original instrument.

• What makes a good Rhodes VST stand out from others?

  Authenticity of sound, multi-sampled velocities, adjustable mechanics sounds (like tines and key noises), and the inclusion of effects that pair well with the Rhodes, such as phasers, choruses, and reverb.

• Does the age or model of the Rhodes being emulated matter?

  Different Rhodes models and production years have varying characteristics. For instance, a ’70s Rhodes might sound warmer, while an ’80s one could be brighter. A good VST should specify which model/year it’s emulating or offer multiple options.

• How do Rhodes VSTs handle the instrument's dynamics?

  The best VSTs use multi-sampling to capture the Rhodes’ dynamics. This means they’ve recorded each key at multiple velocity levels to ensure an authentic response to player touch.

• Are there any effects I should look for in a Rhodes VST?

  Classic effects like chorus, phaser, reverb, and tremolo often complement the Rhodes sound. A VST that comes with these integrated effects can save time and enhance authenticity.

• How do vintage emulations compare to modern takes on the Rhodes sound in VSTs?

  While vintage emulations strive for a faithful representation of classic Rhodes sounds, modern takes might add features, effects, or sound-shaping tools not available in the past. Your choice depends on whether you’re after pure nostalgia or a fresh interpretation.

• Is there a difference between standalone Rhodes VSTs and those that come as part of a larger keyboard collection?

  Standalone VSTs often dive deeper into the nuances of the Rhodes, with detailed sampling and specialized features. Those in larger collections may still sound great but might lack some of the in-depth customization of a standalone plugin.

• Can I use external effects with a Rhodes VST?

  Absolutely. While many Rhodes VSTs come with built-in effects, you’re free to route the sound through external VST effects to achieve your desired tone.