Pricing and availability

Average Price: $259,000

High-end/Boutique

$149

$350+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Explore the captivating world of sound with the ARP 2500, a legendary modular synthesizer that has shaped music history. Known for its versatile and expansive sound capabilities, the ARP 2500 is a modular powerhouse, celebrated by musicians and composers for producing everything from deep, rumbling basses to ethereal, soaring leads. This instrument is a dream for sound designers, offering a wide range of tonal possibilities through its comprehensive array of modules.

The ARP 2500 features a unique matrix switch system, allowing for intuitive patching without the need for traditional patch cables. This design facilitates rapid experimentation and exploration of new sonic landscapes. Whether you're crafting intricate sequences or experimenting with abstract textures, the ARP 2500's distinctive sound-shaping abilities provide unmatched creativity.

With its rich analog tones and robust build, the ARP 2500 is more than just a synthesizer; it's an enduring piece of musical heritage. Its modules include oscillators, filters, amplifiers, and envelope generators, each contributing to its reputation as a versatile and reliable tool for any studio setting. This synthesizer is perfect for those looking to push the boundaries of music production and explore the full potential of analog sound design.

Key Features:

  • Unique matrix switch system for flexible patching
  • Comprehensive array of modules including oscillators, filters, and amplifiers
  • Rich, warm analog sound renowned in the music industry
  • Ideal for both sound design and traditional music production
  • Reputed for its robust and reliable build quality

Product specs

Brand ARP
Model 2500 Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer
Finish Silver with Wood Cabinet
Year 1970 - 1980
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Polyphony 1 Voice

FAQs

What makes the ARP 2500 unique among modular synthesizers?

The ARP 2500 is renowned for its matrix switch system that allows flexible patching without patch cords, making it a unique choice for sound design and experimentation.

Is the ARP 2500 suitable for beginners in modular synthesis?

The ARP 2500 is more suited for experienced synthesists due to its complex interface and advanced features, which can be challenging for beginners.

How many voices does the ARP 2500 support?

The ARP 2500 is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it supports one voice at a time, ideal for creating intricate and detailed soundscapes.

Can the ARP 2500 be used for live performances?

While the ARP 2500 can be used live, its large size and complexity make it more practical for studio use, where its full capabilities can be explored.

What kind of sounds can I create with the ARP 2500?

The ARP 2500 excels in creating rich analog textures, experimental sounds, and complex sequences, making it a favorite among sound designers and film composers.

HAINBACH

HAINBACH

The ARP 2500 at Willem Twee Studios - an introduction

Video thumbnail for The ARP 2500 at Willem Twee Studios - an introduction by HAINBACH

The ARP 2500 at Willem Twee Studios - an introduction

HAINBACH

HAINBACH

Video thumbnail for Distance of Time - A Piece for Arp 2500 Synthesizer by David Baron

Distance of Time - A Piece for Arp 2500 Synthesizer

David Baron

David Baron

Video thumbnail for Gelbart in Worm/Klangendum studio by Defekt Records

Gelbart in Worm/Klangendum studio

Defekt Records

Defekt Records

Video thumbnail for David Baron - Solo for Arp 2500 Synthesizer by David Baron

David Baron - Solo for Arp 2500 Synthesizer

David Baron

David Baron

Video thumbnail for Arp Fields  - ARP 2500 live in concert by Pablo Garreton

Arp Fields - ARP 2500 live in concert

Pablo Garreton

Pablo Garreton

Video thumbnail for Arp 2500 "Winter" by David Baron

Arp 2500 "Winter"

David Baron

David Baron

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ARP 2500.

Features and functionality

  • The ARP 2500 excels with multiple oscillators, voltage-controllable mixers, and ring modulators, crucial for creating meditative drones like Eliane Radigue's works.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to subtractive synths, the ARP 2500's modular setup provides immediate access to complex drone sounds, unlike the more performance-oriented KARP Odyssey.

    Source
  • The KARP Odyssey is praised for its looping envelopes and ring modulation, but lacks the depth of modular systems for drone composition.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • A small modular setup with a Doepfer case is recommended for beginners to avoid overwhelming complexity while achieving rich drone textures.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Modular synths allow for nuanced sound creation with slight oscillator detuning and amplitude/ring modulation, ideal for evolving drone music.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Owners suggest using an LFO for added movement in drone sounds, potentially paired with a filter for more sound sculpting options.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users recommend starting with software like VCVRack to familiarize with modular synthesis concepts before investing in hardware setups.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jean Michel Andrè Jarre uses ARP 2500

Jean Michel Andrè Jarre

...
Verified via Free

Jean Michel André Jarre utilized the ARP 2500 modular synthesizer in the creation of his albums "Oxygene" and "Rendez-vous," as detailed on the Free source website.

See how Meat Beat Manifesto uses ARP 2500

Meat Beat Manifesto

Music Producer

The Orb vs. Meat Beat Manifesto

...
Verified via YouTube

Appears from 2:20 in the video

See how Eliane Radigue uses ARP 2500

Eliane Radigue

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

Eliane has used the ARP 2500 for most of her long career, and it can be heard on most of her seminal sustained tone pieces, such as Jetsun Mila, Trilogie De La Mort, and so on. On some of her records it is in fact the only sound source.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwHIsZKrZhM

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89liane_Radigue

See how Benge uses ARP 2500

Benge

Keyboardist

Wrangler

...
Verified via YouTube

"...The item can be seen 5:50 into this video..."

See how Jerry Goldsmith uses ARP 2500

Jerry Goldsmith

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 18:12 in this documentary Jerry Goldsmith is mentioned. He used the ARP 2500 on various soundtracks.

See how Francis Rimbert uses ARP 2500

Francis Rimbert

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Jean Michel Jarre - Oxygene Live In Your Living Room," Francis Rimbert is seen using the ARP 2500 modular synthesizer, positioned behind an 88-key controller.

See how David Hentschel uses ARP 2500

David Hentschel

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 14:40 in this video it is mentioned that David used an ARP 2500 for the opening synthesizer arrangement on Funeral for a Friend by Elton John.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use ARP 2500, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Korg MS-10
Korg MS-10 Synthesizers
3
ARP 2600
ARP 2600 Synthesizers
3
Atari 1040 ST
Atari 1040 ST Computers & Peripherals
2
EMS VCS 3
EMS VCS 3 Synthesizers
2
Waldorf Microwave
Waldorf Microwave Synthesizers & Sound Modules
2

2 alternative and related items for ARP 2500, curated by the Equipboard community.

More ARP Modular Synthesizers

Accessories & Related Items

Community setups

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    simfonik
    simfonik

    Gear IQ 2532