How the Rhodes piano makes its sound
In the Hornbostel–Sachs system, which classifies instruments by how they produce sound, the Rhodes piano belongs to the electrophones: sound is produced or shaped electronically – synthesizers, the theremin and electric organs.
Press play above and watch the spectrum: the evenly spaced peaks are harmonics, and their relative strength is what gives the instrument its character.
From Wikipedia
The Rhodes piano (also known as the Fender Rhodes piano) is an electric piano invented by Harold Rhodes, which became popular in the 1970s. Like a conventional piano, the Rhodes generates sound with keys and hammers, but instead of strings, the hammers strike thin metal tines, which vibrate next to an electromagnetic pickup. The signal is sent through a cable to an external keyboard amplifier and speaker.
Other electrophones
Frequently asked questions
What does the Rhodes piano sound like?
As one of the electrophones, its sound comes from the way sound is produced or shaped electronically.
What type of instrument is the Rhodes piano?
It is classified as electrophones (Hornbostel–Sachs 511).