ARP Odyssey Module Rev. 1 black/white

Korg’s ARP Odyssey Module Rev. 1 is a desktop duophonic analogue synthesizer traditionally faithful to the original ARP circuitry and presented in module format to cater for synthesis in DAW driven production. The Rev. 1 is an extension of the Korg family started in 2015 when the now legendary ARP Odyssey was reissued (itself a perfect reproduction of the original unit) developed under the supervision of David Friend (ARP Instruments co-founder) allowing a new generation of musicians access to distinctive sound design opportunities. These Odysseys can be connected via MIDI to your current keyboards and controllers to seamlessly integrate into your workflow while providing the kind of analogue sounds that digital plug-ins may seem to be lacking. ARP Odyssey Modules now include MIDI pitch bend, a welcome addition to its repertoire. In spite of its historically accurate sliders and switches, the exterior of the Odyssey Modules have been redesigned in a robust steel chassis to better survive their new table-top specifications.

Known best for its sharp and biting tone, the Rev. 1 has rich possibilities of modulation that allow an impressive variety of audio output. Duophonic design allows two different pitches to sound when you play two notes, and the high degree of pitch stability for which the ARP Odyssey was remarkable in its time has been perfectly reproduced. Pitch is variable over a wide range of 20Hz--2kHz while pitch modulation and pulse width modulation can be controlled within the PULSE WIDTH section of the module. An Oscillator Sync provides sharp, great-sounding overtones extending into a high range. Both White and Pink Noise can be added to the filter during synthesis.

The powerful LFO can be used as a modulation source for the oscillator or filter, or as a trigger source for sample & hold. The three types of low-pass filter found on different production runs of the original ARP Odyssey are all provided. With a single switch you can select any one of these filters with their differing characteristics: TYPE I (Rev1) is a 12 dB/octave filter with a sharp and punchy sound, TYPE II (Rev2) is a 24 dB/octave filter that's great for thick low sounds, and TYPE III (Rev3) features excellent stability even when the resonance is increased.

A wide variety of modulation sources such as S/H, LFO, ADSR, and AR can be used to modulate the filter. A high-pass filter is provided following the low-pass filter, giving you even broader sound design possibilities. A new function, the DRIVE switch generates extreme and aggressive sounds alongside a VCA GAIN slider which leaves the note sustaining. The envelope generator has two applications: ADSR and AR. This can be used not only for the VCA but also to modulate the filter or oscillator.

There are some unique control options included - the original PPC (Proportional Pitch Control) based on a rubber pad has been reproduced. Press the rubber pad with your finger to control pitch bend or vibrato depth in proportion to the pressure. A portamento slider and transpose switch are also provided. You can also use a switch to select either of the ways in which Rev1 and Rev2/3 of the original ARP Odyssey differ as to whether portamento is applied the moment that you operate the transpose lever.

Connection options are many and varied. Two types of audio output jack are provided: 1/4" phone and XLR. An external audio input jack is present, allowing you to process sound from an external device. The headphone jack has adjustable volume and can be connected to the external audio input jack to apply self-feedback and generate powerful sounds. CV, GATE, and TRIG jacks are provided, letting you send or receive analogue signals to operate the instrument. If you connect the GATE OUT jack to the TRIG IN jack, the EG will not be triggered, allowing you to play legato. Both 1/4" size and mini-size patch cables are included. MIDI IN connector and USB MIDI port are provided, allowing connection to a PC or MIDI device.