Korg ARP 2600 M

The Korg ARP 2600 M is a semi-modular synthesizer, based on the iconic ARP 2600. This faithful recreation brings the classic synth into the modern world, with a more compact size and a range of new features. With three powerful oscillators and authentic analog circuitry, the Korg ARP 2600 M is perfect for sound design, providing that gritty warmth that can’t be found in its digital counterparts. The synth also features onboard speakers, a built-in spring reverb tank, and two versions of the classic ARP 2600 filters (4012 and 4072) for a choice of different textures.

Bringing the ARP 2600 M into the digital age, Korg has incorporated new features and enhancements while staying true to the original design. The inclusion of USB connectivity (USB-A and USB-B) ports allows for plug-and-play operation, ideal for music production and connecting MIDI controllers. The voltages have been normalized, making the 2600 M ideal for use with external modules such as the Volca range. The attack and release times have been improved, as well as the speaker section, which turns off when headphones are plugged in. The scaled design size retains all the same features and functions from the original, in a frame 60 percent of the original size.

Almost every slider available on the front panel of the ARP 2600 is hard-wired to specific controls, providing precise control over the various components of the synth. Thanks to the semi-modular build, inserting a patch cord into any of the hardwired controls jack output will override the internal connection, allowing for infinite signal processing and sound creation.

The ARP 2600 M utilizes 3.5mm jacks as patch points to save space, creating an easy-to-navigate interactive control panel, and allowing for extra jacks and more patching potential. The majority of the patch points are located at the bottom of the control panel to keep the main panel unobstructed for tweaking controls.

The ARP 2600 M is packed with a wide range of individually patchable modules that can be used for processing an external signal through the dedicated envelope follower and preamp. A set of parallel-wired multiple jacks greatly enhance the patching possibilities of the ARP 2600, and three independent voltage processors provide scalable control voltages or can act to attenuate any control signal.

Each of the three oscillators features initial and fine-tuning sliders, resulting in extremely stable tuning throughout the synth. Each oscillator can then be designated as an LFO or audio oscillator and generates multiple wave shapes at once, including Sawtooth, Square, Triangle, Sine, and Pulse. These have a range of uses within the ARP 2600, including modulating the frequency of another audio oscillator to create analog FM effects.

The ARP 2600 M includes both the original 4012 circuitry and the 4072 type (DIN MIDI IN) for sonic versatility. The synth also features two envelope transient generators, with full ADSR control, retriggerable at any time using the manual start button, and providing both gate and trigger outputs.

To produce the output sound, the ARP 2600 M relies on a voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA) controlled using both linear and exponential control inputs, with the initial gain setting providing output at its highest setting. The synth also includes a music software bundle comprised of iZotope Ozone Elements, Reason Lite DAW, and Skoove for improving your keyboard playing skills.