Alongside the Fender Rhodes, the Wurlitzer 200A is one of the best-known electric pianos, and it remains just as popular and sought-after today. With its expressive tone, the Wurlitzer 200A was featured in countless songs of the 1970s and has since become a staple sound in virtually every modern digital piano.
From Ray Charles’s “What’d I Say” to Supertramp’s “Dreamer” and “The Logical Song” to Pink Floyd’s “Money,” many artists relied on the unmistakable sound of a Wurlitzer electric piano.
The most famous model in the series is the Wurlitzer 200A. It is instantly recognizable by its black ABS plastic housing, detachable chrome legs, and two built-in speakers. With 64 keys, its range is relatively limited. However, this contributes to its compact dimensions, making it significantly easier to transport than a 73-key Fender Rhodes.
One defining element of the 200A’s sound is its built-in tremolo. You can adjust the intensity via the second knob on the brushed aluminum control panel, while the first knob serves as the power switch and volume control.
Introduced in 1974, the 200A was widely embraced by musicians for its punchy, assertive tone. The Wurlitzer 200, its predecessor, was first released in 1968 in four colors: black, green, red, and beige. However, early versions without the “A” designation were known to be susceptible to electrical noise, an issue that also affected some of the first 200A units.
Like the Fender Rhodes, the Wurlitzer is an electromechanical instrument, but it operates on a different principle of tone production. Instead of striking metal tines as on a Rhodes, the Wurlitzer 200A uses hammers to excite metal reeds. The Wurlitzer’s action is also mechanically more intricate than the Rhodes.
Tonally, the instrument is known for its robust, sometimes edgy and biting character. Yet, when played pianissimo, it reveals an almost vibraphone-like timbre. The 200A’s keyboard action feels smooth yet clearly defined. However, overly forceful playing is not advisable: This can overdrive the reeds, occasionally resulting in a loud bang.
The Wurlitzer 200B is a battery-powered variant that can operate independently of mains power. Additionally, Wurlitzer produced console versions with a built-in sustain pedal. The European-market models 203, 210, and 300 were designed more as home instruments. Rarer special-purpose models include the Wurlitzer 214, 215, 206, and 207. These models were developed for educational settings and lack the built-in tremolo effect.
The first Wurlitzer electric piano was introduced in 1954: the Wurlitzer E-110. It was followed by revised models such as the EP-111 and EP-112, which featured a built-in tube amplifier and a rear-mounted speaker. In 1962, Wurlitzer presented its first model with a transistor amplifier, the EP-140.
Playing an original Wurlitzer 200A is a unique experience—and a true joy when the instrument is properly tuned. However, these vintage electric pianos are sensitive, so it is highly advisable to establish a good relationship with a specialized repair workshop. For professional servicing of vintage electric pianos, we recommend the following specialists:
Original Wurlitzer 200A instruments command high prices on today’s vintage market. Fortunately, there are also high-quality, meticulously sampled virtual instruments. Two software instruments stand out in particular for their distinctive tonal approaches.
The Electric W by e-instruments features the innovative Pentamorph function, which allows users to shape the sound in highly flexible ways. If you’re looking for the charm of a heavily worn, slightly imperfect Wurlitzer, check out Soniccouture’s Broken Wurly.
→ Electric Piano VST: Software Instruments with Vintage Sound
Session Keys Electric W stands out with two excellent core sound variants, a wide range of clever customization options, and a tasteful selection of presets—all at a very attractive price.
Soniccouture's Broken Wurly doesn't sound broken, it sounds outstanding. Its dynamic response delivers the full range of expressive qualities that players value in a classic Wurlitzer electric piano. It can produce a lounge-like subtlety just as easily as biting accents.
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