arp synthesizers

A Trip Down Memory Lane: The Rise of the Arp Synthesizer

The world of music is a vast and ever-evolving landscape, and one of the most significant milestones in its history was the invention of the synthesizer. The ARP Synthesizer, in particular, played a pivotal role in shaping the soundscapes of countless musical genres, from the experimental sounds of electronic music to the pop anthems of the 70s and 80s.

A Brief History:

The ARP story begins in 1969, when Alan Robert Pearlman, a trained physicist, founded the company ARP Instruments. Pearlman’s mission was to create a user-friendly synthesizer that could be accessible to musicians of all levels. His first creation, the ARP 2600, revolutionized the way music was made. The 2600 was a modular synthesizer, meaning its components could be connected in various ways to create a wide range of sounds. This modularity gave musicians an unprecedented level of control over their sonic creations, allowing them to experiment and push the boundaries of music.

The Rise of a Legend:

The ARP 2600 quickly became a staple in studios around the world, with artists like Pink Floyd, Kraftwerk, and Brian Eno utilizing its unique capabilities. Subsequent models, such as the ARP Odyssey, ARP Pro Soloist, and ARP Omni, further solidified the company’s reputation for innovative and inspiring instruments. The ARP synthesizers became synonymous with the progressive rock and electronic music movements of the 70s, and their impact on popular music continues to be felt today.

Funny Facts:

• The ARP 2600’s “Squelch” Sound: A key feature of the ARP 2600 was its unique “Squelch” sound, often used in sci-fi soundtracks and horror films. This was a result of the synthesizer’s lack of a dedicated low-pass filter, forcing composers to use creative techniques to achieve the effect.
• The ARP Odyssey and the “Star Wars” Theme: The ARP Odyssey was featured prominently in the soundtrack for “Star Wars,” adding to its already iconic status in musical history. However, its presence was nearly entirely accidental! Composer John Williams had initially used a different synthesizer, but after a disastrous recording session, switched to the Odyssey for its versatility and ease of use. He later described the Odyssey as “the perfect instrument” for the “Star Wars” soundtrack.
• The ARP Omni and Its Mysterious “Self-Destruct” Button: The ARP Omni, a portable synthesizer designed for live performance, was infamous for its “self-destruct” button. This button, though seemingly designed to activate a built-in speaker, actually caused the synthesizer to shut down completely, leaving musicians scrambling to figure out how to get it working again. It was a testament to the Omni’s notoriously quirky nature and the sometimes-unpredictable behavior of early synthesizers.

The ARP Synthesizer, with its innovative design, unique sounds, and a touch of quirky charm, has left an undeniable mark on the world of music. It has inspired generations of musicians and continues to be a beloved instrument in studios and on stages around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a curious newcomer, the ARP Synthesizer is a fascinating journey through the history of electronic music.