And now for something completely different—well, maybe not completely different, but certainly unexpected. Rhodes has been doing some impressive work in both hardware and software over the past few years. Most recently, they’ve introduced Wurlitzer by Rhodes (previously named Rhodes Wurli), an officially endorsed recreation of the Wurlitzer 200A. We tested version 1.1.1.
| Category | Value | Rating |
| Features | 20% |  |
| Usability | 25% |  |
| Sound | 25% | |
| Documentation & Support | 10% | |
| Price | 20% |  |
| OVERALL RATING = 3.7 Stars, which earns it a WIHO Award! 3.6 stars or better: Outstanding, WIHO Award 3 stars or better: Worth considering 2 stars or better: Suited to specific needs 1 star or less: Not recommended |
||
For those unfamiliar, the original Rhodes and Wurlitzer electric pianos were once direct competitors, particularly throughout the Seventies and Eighties. Rhodes instruments used tines, while Wurlitzers used reeds to generate sound. While Rhodes pianos have returned to production in recent years, Wurlitzer instruments have not, leaving musicians to rely on vintage units or software recreations.
This plug-in recreates the Wurlitzer 200A, widely considered one of the most iconic models, discontinued in 1983. The instrument is delivered as a 2.5GB download and supports Windows and macOS. It is available in VST, AU, and AAX formats, though no standalone version is currently offered. A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is recommended.
We found the interface easy to navigate and appreciated the resizable window, which makes a noticeable difference compared to fixed-size plug-ins. The left side of the interface provides controls for tuning, mechanical and pedal noise, and timbre shift. Below that are speaker and amplifier options, including models based on classic designs as well as a direct signal option. Microphone selections include cardioid and dynamic models.
On the right side, controls are organized into sections for preamp, equalization, vibrato, and velocity. The velocity controls proved particularly useful, allowing us to tailor the response to different playing styles. Like the original instrument, the tonal character changes with playing dynamics, shifting from smooth tones to a more aggressive edge at higher velocities.
Many controls use concentric dual knobs to conserve space. While effective, we found the on/off indicators somewhat difficult to see at a glance due to their small size and subtle color changes. Below these controls are chorus, phaser, delay (with tempo sync), and reverb options, including spring, plate, room, and hall types. Preset selection and parameter value displays are located at the top of the interface.
So… how does it sound? In use, we found the plug-in to be highly responsive and expressive, and we thought it sounded great. There’s plenty of competition in this space, but this instrument holds its own. Since we have a real Wurlitzer 200A in our studio, we were able to compare the experience directly, and there is something to be said for having a clean signal without the challenges of microphone placement when recording.
The sound captures the characteristic Wurlitzer tone very well, and the included presets provide a useful range of starting points, from clean and mellow to more aggressive tones. The ability to add mechanical noise and shape the response further enhances realism. We also found that with additional drive, some presets worked well for lead-style sounds.
One notable design choice is the strict adherence to the original 64-key range of the Wurlitzer 200A. While this reflects the limitations of the original hardware, notes played outside that range do not produce sound, even when using extended MIDI controllers. Some users may find this limiting, though it does reinforce authenticity.
The manual is accessible directly within the plug-in and is clear and concise, providing sufficient guidance for most users.
Wurlitzer by Rhodes sells for approximately $130. While the price is in line with similar instruments, it is slightly higher than some alternatives. Even so, given its sound quality, usability, and attention to detail, it represents a strong option for musicians seeking a high-quality Wurlitzer plug-in.
Contact
Rhodes
www.rhodesmusic.com
