EVP is entirely modeling-based; there are no samples to load. The large knob selects the overall model, and four basic parameters control “physical” behavior: Since electric pianos have moving parts, every single one has slightly different decay and release characteristics. Some are “tight,” others are “sloppy,” and EVP has decay and release knobs that simulate that whole range, and then some. Then, you can adjust the level of the “bell” (inharmonic ping of hammer hitting tine), and that of the dampers going thunk against the tines when you release the keys or sustain pedal.
I thought the Suitcase and Stage Mk I models were most realistic, exhibiting the best harmonic and dynamic range in response to key velocity, and giving me the “dark with bark” sound I’m familiar with from my own real Rhodes, a Stage Mk II made in 1980. After slight increases to the decay and bell volume, “Suitcase V2” was perfect for a sparkly Dyno sound à la Al Jarreau’s “Morning.” The Wurly models, though, don’t fully achieve the round, almost clarinet-like midrange of a real Wurlitzer 200A, and no matter how I turned the onscreen knobs, I couldn’t quite dial that in. If anything, EVP is closer to the more subdued tone of older Wurlies, such as the 112 and 140.
A few bonus models, such as “Attack Piano” and “Funk Piano,” are intentionally unrealistic, representing modified or imaginary electric pianos. In fact, they remind me of some less-loved Yamaha DX7 presets, but they’re by no means the centerpiece.
The built-in phaser and chorus are excellent, and will inspire to you to learn even more Steely Dan tunes. Needless to say, integration of EVP88 within Logic is seamless. If you’re a Logic user, don’t worry about whether there’s a better Rhodes emulation available to you than what came in the box — there isn’t. If the Wurly looms large in your sonic desires, consider complementing EVP with a third-party plug-in.
INSTRUMENTS
Rhodes Suitcase and Stage (Mk. I and II), Wurlitzer 200A and 240V, Hohner Electra Piano.
PREVIOUSLY REVIEWED
Sept. ’01.
PLUG-IN FORMATS
Logic.
PROS
Clean, detailed Rhodes models can also bark when you want them to. Warm, transparent phaser and chorus effects.
CONS
Wurly models are short of fully authentic.
BOTTOM LINE
Except for the real thing, there’s no better Rhodes solution if you live in the Logic universe.