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Description
The ARP Omni Mark 1 Synthesizer is a hallmark of vintage sound and innovation, merging the worlds of polyphonic and monophonic synthesis. Introduced in the late 1970s, this synth was a pioneer in hybrid sound technology, offering musicians a versatile tool for creating lush, textured soundscapes. Its fully polyphonic string section and four-voice synthesizer section deliver a rich palette of tones, making it a favorite among both classic rock and electronic music enthusiasts.
The Omni Mark 1 is celebrated for its distinctive sound, characterized by its warm analog tones and unique ensemble effect. Its intuitive interface allows for easy manipulation of sound parameters, making it an excellent choice both for live performances and studio work. The synth offers controls for vibrato, filter, and envelope modulation, providing an expansive range for sound design. The built-in phase shifter and chorus add depth and movement to your music, allowing for truly dynamic performances.
Whether you’re recreating the sounds of the past or crafting new sonic landscapes, the ARP Omni Mark 1 offers a unique blend of historical significance and creative potential. Its legacy continues to inspire musicians and producers who seek that timeless analog sound in their compositions.
Key Features:
- Fully polyphonic string section
- Four-voice synthesizer section
- Built-in phase shifter and chorus effects
- Intuitive interface with vibrato, filter, and envelope controls
- Distinctive ensemble effect for rich sound textures
- Ideal for both live performances and studio recordings
Videos
Synthchaser
Synthchaser #034 - ARP Omni 1 Restoration & Repair - 1/4 - Intro
Synthchaser #034 - ARP Omni 1 Restoration & Repair - 1/4 - Intro
Synthchaser
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ARP Omni Mark 1 Synthesizer.
Comparisons
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The ARP Omni can achieve sounds similar to the Crumar Orchestrator, Logan, and ARP Quartet, making it versatile for vintage string machine tones.
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Features and functionality
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The Nord Electro can load Crumar and Elka string sounds, though lacks the ability to adjust delay and attack like the original machines.
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Setup and maintenance
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Owners mention that vintage synths like the ARP Omni require regular servicing, which can be costly, but are essential to maintain their unique sound.
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Use cases and applications
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Vintage string machines, including the ARP Omni, are ideal for recreating West African disco sounds, as used by artists like William Onyeabor and Fela.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 2 Ratings
327
Unique and fragile
Its sound is unique, it sounds as a well known one. The build is quite fragile: the pushbutton switches are highly prone to break and no replacement does exist. The tantalum capacitors that control keyboard voices are failing quite often, so it's mandatory to replace them all. The power supply had a design error that could burn the other electronics upon power-up. And the bass line is lowest-key priority, so that the old keyboard contacts usually have bounces that switches continuously between held notes... The ensemble/chorus unit is a genial creation by dutch company Eminent: three BBDs in parallel, clocked with 3 unsync'ed LFOs, and no straight signal, does create the ethereal sound the instrument is famous about. The term "synthesizer" is improperly used with the Omni: indeed it's paraphonic, with a single 24dB/oct VCF (the famous ARP 4075) and the ADSR is first-note triggered. The Omni II had an extra button to allow repeated triggers and a separate bass line EG and output.
76
Best String Machine + 1VCO poly synth
Amazing string machine. Synth is good for bass lines and just whatever. The only problem is that the fine tune knob lives on the bottom and needs a screwdriver for adjustments. Joy Division Atmosphere and 'Love Will Tear Us Apart', New Order 'Blue Monday' and 'Age of Consent', The Cure 'Just Like Heaven'. It's that classic strings sound.
Artist usage
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Mentioned in the liner notes for 1978 Gli dei se ne vanno, gli arrabbiati restano! as having been used on "Return From Workuta". Its status as a MK1 is evinced by a lack of specification, simply being listed as an "Omni", in addition to the fact that the MK2 came out the same year as 1978 Gli dei se ne vanno, gli arrabbiati restano!.
Mentioned in the liner notes for 1978 Gli dei se ne vanno, gli arrabbiati restano! as having been used on "Il Bandito del Deserto", "Acrostico In Memoria Di Laio" and "Vodka Cola". Its status as a MK1 is evinced by a lack of specification, simply being listed as an "Omni", in addition to the fact that the MK2 came out the same year as 1978 Gli dei se ne vanno, gli arrabbiati restano!.
Album Usage
The ARP Omni Mark 1 Synthesizer has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use ARP Omni Mark 1 Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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