This was mainly a labor of love. I don’t expect that we sell a lot of these but we wanted to make one for a client and thought we should make some units available for anyone else who might want to upgrade their student model electronics - or simply make their student model Rhodes functional again. DIY Option now added - this comes with a fully assembled DLX preamp section and the amp/wiring as shown.

Here are the general DLX Jetson highlights:

• Extra-thick custom face plate - made in the USA - etched (not printed) with a two-color enamel

• The stunning DLX preamp circuit PLUS a combined dual supply and 50w power amp

• Extremely simple 2-part installation - using existing anchor points and requiring no major modification

• Gain matched to give an excellent usable volume range - high fidelity and high-headroom circuit

• Quick binding posts, spade connectors - 110/220v compatible w/ long AC cord

• Detailed installation instructions and (as always) email and phone support

• FX loop, TRS direct out / Headphone out, Speaker On/Off Switch & power indicator light

• Musical mono/stereo tremolo based off the original Peterson optical waveform

• Hand-made, hand-wired and assembled right here in our workshop - 1 year warranty - lifetime support

The retrofitting process on this model was probably the most challenging aspect but the final ease of installation really makes this retrofit accessible to anyone. I would estimate 20-30 minutes, and as always, there is no soldering involved. The manual also covers use and features which are fairly extensive - particularly in regards to the active FX loop. But at the end of the day, the beauty in most tools is in their ease of use. And that’s where this Jetson’s model excels. You pop it in, you turn it on and your Rhodes simply sounds fantastic. Useful features, modern circuit design and a very high build standard which should last a very long time.

DIY: This is a fairly advanced build but well detailed in pictures and instructions. It’s also a good option for retrofitting in the early student/Jetson models with a large plate on the bottom instead of the smaller holes found in the later units. In this DIY kit you’ll need to drill and mount the regulators and amp as well as route and connect the wiring. Reading voltage on a multi-meter and being handy with a drill and general wiring is a must. We’re happy to offer assistance within reason and so far people with decent experience have had a good time putting these together.

NOTE: There are a couple other factors which will affect your sound; namely the keyboard and the speaker. The included amp will have no trouble driving the original speaker, and likewise the original speaker should have no trouble with the amp. But over the years (and we are talking 40+ here) things can degrade. So it’s strongly recommended to also look at servicing your instrument and assessing the speaker. Many possible replacement speakers are available. 90db+ sensitivity 4-8ohm 50-100w rms would be our recommendation.

If you have any questions, please reach out. There’s innumerable finer points that won’t make it to this listing but we’re always happy to discuss any aspect of the build and install. Thanks for reading. All the best, Morgen @ Avion