ARP Odyssey

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The ARP Odyssey is a classic analog synthesizer first released in 1972 by ARP Instruments. Known for its distinctive, sharp sound, the Odyssey quickly gained popularity as a versatile and powerful instrument, becoming a staple in electronic music.

Design and Features

The ARP Odyssey was designed as a performance-oriented synthesizer that included a range of sound-shaping options. It featured two voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) capable of producing multiple waveforms and a lowpass filter with a 24dB/octave slope. Early models used the 4012 filter, which contributed to its characteristic sound. The synthesizer also included two envelope generators (ADSR and AR), an LFO with sine, square, and sample & hold waveforms, a ring modulator, and a sample & hold circuit. The 37-key keyboard added to its compact design, making it highly portable for live performances.

Historical Significance

The ARP Odyssey was developed as a direct competitor to the Moog Minimoog, aiming to offer musicians a compact and affordable synthesizer with comparable capabilities. It became ARP’s best-selling synthesizer and played a significant role in shaping the sound of electronic music throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Versions and Evolution

Three main versions of the ARP Odyssey were produced from 1972 to 1981:

Model 2800 (white face): The original design with the 4012 filter.
Model 2810-5 (black and gold face): Introduced circuit updates and a slightly altered filter.
Model 2823 (black and orange face): Featured additional component refinements and a more stable oscillator design.

Each version had its unique design nuances and sound, making all iterations desirable to different types of musicians and collectors.

Sound and Capabilities

The ARP Odyssey is known for its bold, aggressive sound and duophonic capabilities, allowing it to play two notes simultaneously. Musicians appreciated its wide range of modulation options and the flexible sound-shaping features, which could produce anything from deep basses and leads to experimental, otherworldly tones.

Notable Users and Legacy

The Odyssey was embraced by a variety of prominent musicians, including Herbie Hancock, ABBA, and Jean-Michel Jarre. Its unique sonic characteristics made it a favorite in genres ranging from jazz-fusion to progressive rock and electronic music.

In 2015, Korg reissued the ARP Odyssey in collaboration with David Friend, one of the original designers. This modern version maintained the original’s analog circuitry while adding contemporary features such as MIDI connectivity and USB support, making it accessible to a new generation of musicians.

Modern Impact

Today, the ARP Odyssey remains an iconic piece of musical history, sought after by collectors and still widely used in modern productions. Its influence continues to be felt in electronic music, underscoring the legacy of ARP Instruments and their contributions to synthesizer technology.

FAQ

What is the ARP Odyssey?

The ARP Odyssey is a classic analog synthesizer first introduced in 1972 by ARP Instruments, known for its distinctive sound and performance capabilities.

Who are some famous musicians that used the ARP Odyssey?

Famous musicians who used the ARP Odyssey include Herbie Hancock, ABBA, and Jean-Michel Jarre, among others.

What makes the ARP Odyssey unique?

The ARP Odyssey is unique for its duophonic capabilities, extensive modulation options, and its aggressive, sharp sound that set it apart from other synthesizers of its time.

When was the ARP Odyssey reissued?

The ARP Odyssey was reissued in 2015 by Korg in collaboration with its original designer, David Friend.

What are the main versions of the ARP Odyssey?

The ARP Odyssey was produced in three main versions: Model 2800 (white face), Model 2810-5 (black and gold face), and Model 2823 (black and orange face).

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