Korg ARP Odyssey FS Kit

Full Description

Simple, full-size kit

Built as a DIY kit with a full-sized 37-key keybed, the ARP Odyssey FS Kit comes with everything you need to build your own synthesizer. While that may seem intimidating, Korg have ensured that this kit is easy to use for absolutely anybody. No need for soldering or in-depth knowledge of synthesizer circuitry, simply follow the included instructions and build this reissue of a synthesis legend.

Duophonic Ddesigned

The Korg ARP Odyssey Mk3 features a duophonic design that utilises 2 VCOs for optimal versatility, allowing you to use two different pitches simultaneously when playing two notes, opening up a world of possibilities when it comes to sound design. The high degree of pitch stability the ARP Odyssey is renowned for has been perfectly reproduced for optimal audio quality and functionality. The pitch itself is variable over a wide range of 20 Hz – 2kHz, ideal for creating the most unique sounds on the fly. The pitch modulation and pulse width modulation can also be controlled, allowing you to make in-depth changes to the tonality and character of the sound.

ARP’s Original Circuitry

Incorporating the circuitry from the original ARP Odyssey models ensures optimal audio quality and versatility, producing the classic analog sound and vintage vibe that is so sought after. First introduced in 1972, the ARP Odyssey has dominated the synthesizer market for years; and the complete reproduction of the ARP Odyssey’s original circuitry ensures you retain the classic, vintage sound the original was so infamous for. The original PPC based on a rubber pad also been reproduced, allowing you to control your pitch wand vibrato depth with ease, in proportion to the pressure you put on the pad.

Analog Design Meets Modern Innovations

The ARP Odyssey’s wide range of controls and parameters ensure you have optimal reign over your sound, allowing you to achieve the sound you desire with ease. There are two types of envelope generators for added versatility – ADSR and AR. A ‘DRIVE’ switch has also been included to increase aggression in your sound, simply switch the DRIVE function on to generate extreme or subtle distortion. The Mk3 also features the three historic iterations of ARP’s low-pass filter circuit for added control, allowing you to get that analog low-end rumble associated with vintage synthesizers. The distinctive and unique S/H Mixer allows you to easily create sample and hold sounds by utilising the oscillator or noise generator as a source that is triggered by the LFO or keyboard. A portamento slide and transpose switch are also provided for added control of your sounds, allowing you to quickly and easily switch octaves as well as slide between notes.

Connectivity

The ARP Odyssey Mk3 also features a wide range of digital and analog connections, bringing the best of both worlds together for added functionality. Starting with the outputs, the ARP Odyssey Mk3 features both a 1/4’’ and XLR output for connecting the synth to a range of external audio equipment including speakers and more. An external audio input jack is also provided allowing you to process sound from an external device, opening up a world of possibilities when it comes to linking up units. The headphone jack allows you to play with the synth without disturbing others as well as being ideal for checking your sounds through a different format. The headphone jack also features integrated volume control for added convenience. You can also connect the headphone jack to the external audio jack creating a self-feedback which you can use to generate new sounds. CV, GATE and TRIG jacks are provided to let you send and receive analog signals to operate the instrument. For digital connectivity, Korg have included both MIDI IN and USB MIDI ports for connecting the synth to a computer. This is ideal for music producers who wish to utilise the ARP Odyssey in their favourite DAW, allowing you to implement the sounds you make into your musical productions.

Features

• A faithful, DIY kit re-creation of a classic synth
• Easy and intuitive construction with absolutely no soldering required
• Included instructions for easy building
• 37-note full-sized keybed (no velocity sensitivity, no aftertouch - just like the original)
• Mono and duophonic modes offer versatility in playing
• Proportional Pitch Control pads offer unique and responsive pitch bending or vibrato
• Switchable noise generator with white and pink noise modes to add grit and texure
• Portamento speed control and transpose switch
• Two different portamento modes reflecting the response changes between revisions
• Two VCOs with Sawtooth, Square, and Dynamic Pulse waveforms (with PWM)
• Resonant low pass filter with three filter modes following the sound of each revision
• Filter version I: 12 dB/octave low-pass filter
• Filter version II: 24 dB/octave ladder filter
• Filter version III: 24 dB/octave 4075 filter
• Classic Voltage Controlled Amplifier with broad 80 dB dynamic range gives full, responsive sound
• Ring modulator allows you to modulate oscillators for unique metallic tones
• Sample and hold circuitry for extra modulation and randomness in patches
• ADSR and AR envelope generators gives options for modulating filter and VCA
• Separate Low and High output jacks with balanced XLR on High and 1/4" TS on Low
• 1/4" headphone jack for easy monitoring while playing
• External audio input jack allows processing other sources through filters or creative feedback patching
• MIDI connectivity via DIN and USB cables allows broad control options from computers or MIDI keyboards
• 1/8" TS CV In/Out, Gate In/Out, and Trig In/Out patch points provide connectivity with other synths
• Pedal and Portamento footswitch inputs for extra expression

Specifications

• Keyboard: 37 full-sized keys, without velocity or aftertouch.
• Voicing: Monophonic/duophonic.
• Oscillators: Two (sawtooth and pulse/PWM waveforms) with sync and ring modulation.
• Noise: White/pink.
• LFO: One (sine, square).
• Sample & Hold: One, with output slew.
• VC LPF:
  • Three versions equivalent to MkI (12dB/oct), MkII (24dB/oct) and MkIII (24dB/oct) Odysseys.
  • Cutoff frequencies: all claimed 16Hz to 16kHz.
  • All resonant and capable of self–oscillation.
• HPF: Claimed 16Hz to 16kHz.
• VCA: 80dB dynamic range.
• Contours:
  • Two (one ADSR, one AR).
  • Attack 5ms to 5s.
  • Decay 10ms to 8s.
  • Release 15ms to 10s (ADSR) and 10ms to 8s (AR).
  • (These figures are identical to those quoted in the original ARP Odyssey service manual.)
• Performance facilities: PPC (bend up/down, vibrato), ±2 octave switch, portamento, plus portamento on/off and pedal controller inputs.
• Audio I/O: Low out, high out, headphones out, external signal in.
• Analogue I/O: CV In/Out (1V/oct), Trigger In/Out, Gate In/Out (10V output).
• Digital I/O: MIDI In (five–pin DIN), USB type B.
• Power: 9V DC.
• Accessories:
  • Assembly instructions
  • Manual
• Product Code: ODYSSEYFSK3