The Korg ARP 2600 is a legendary analog synthesizer that has made a significant impact on the history of electronic music. It was developed in the early 1970s by the American company ARP Instruments in collaboration with Alan R. Pearlman, and later it was reissued by Korg in 2019.
Development and Release (1971-1972): Alan R. Pearlman, the founder of ARP Instruments, designed the ARP 2600 as a semi-modular analog synthesizer. The synthesizer was officially released in 1971, offering a portable and versatile alternative to the larger modular systems of the time. The ARP 2600 was designed to be a user-friendly and approachable synthesizer, making it popular among musicians, educators, and sound designers.
Features and Design: The ARP 2600 features a semi-modular architecture, meaning it has pre-wired connections but can also be patched manually for expanded sound possibilities. It includes three voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs), a low-pass filter (VCF), a voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA), and an envelope generator (EG). The system also incorporates a ring modulator, sample and hold circuit, noise generator, spring reverb tank, and a variety of control voltage inputs and outputs. Unlike most synthesizers of the time, the ARP 2600 was housed in a self-contained portable case, which made it more accessible for live performances and studio use.
Popularity and Influence: The ARP 2600 gained popularity among musicians and sound designers due to its distinctive sound and flexible patching capabilities. It was prominently featured in numerous iconic recordings across various genres, including rock, pop, funk, and electronic music. Notable artists who used the ARP 2600 include Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Jean-Michel Jarre, The Who, Nine Inch Nails, and many others.
Its sound can be heard in famous tracks such as the bassline of The Who's "Who's Next," the lead melody in Edgar Winter's "Frankenstein," and the sound effects in the original Star Wars trilogy.
Discontinuation and Reissue: ARP Instruments faced financial difficulties in the late 1970s and eventually ceased operations in 1981. Due to its limited production run, the original ARP 2600 became a sought-after and expensive vintage synthesizer.
In 2015, Korg announced a partnership with ARP Instruments to revive the ARP brand and reissue the ARP 2600, now called the Korg ARP 2600 FS (Full Size). The reissued version closely follows the original design and sound while incorporating a few modern enhancements, such as MIDI connectivity and XLR outputs.
The Korg ARP 2600 remains highly regarded for its sound, flexibility, and historical significance in the world of analog synthesizers. Its influence on music production and its iconic status among electronic musicians make it a timeless instrument in the history of electronic music.