ARP Solus

$1,600.00 Price Tier: High-end

4.5 (2)

1 Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

Find out who is using ARP Solus

1 wishlisted

6 saved

Page last updated Apr 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated January 6, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

4.0 (4)

$1,600.00 1 available Used

View Deal

Average Price: $1,600

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, ARP Solus is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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

Edit description

Dive into the realm of sonic exploration with the ARP Solus, a synthesizer that strikes the perfect balance between portability and powerful sound generation. This sleek machine, heralded for its compact design, does not skimp on capabilities, offering a rich palette of sounds that rivals its larger counterparts. Its on-board ring modulator stands out, providing a unique sonic signature that can elevate any composition. Whether you're on the road or in the studio, the ARP Solus adapts to every setting, embodying the essence of creativity and flexibility.

Key Features:

Compact and portable design, ideal for musicians on the go
Two oscillators for rich, layered sounds
Advanced VCF and VCA circuits derived from its predecessors
Unique on-board ring modulator for distinctive audio effects
Functions as its own road case for enhanced durability and portability

Product specs

Brand	ARP
Model	Solus Monophonic Analog Synthesizer
Finish	Black / Orange
Year	1980 - 1981
Made In	United States
Categories	Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
Number of Keys	37 Keys
Polyphony	1 Voice

FAQs

Is the ARP Solus synthesizer polyphonic or monophonic?: The ARP Solus is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can only play one note at a time, making it ideal for bass lines and lead sounds.
What type of synthesis does the ARP Solus use?: The ARP Solus utilizes analog synthesis, providing warm and rich tones characteristic of vintage synthesizers.
How many keys does the ARP Solus have, and what is the key action like?: The ARP Solus features 37 full-size keys with a synth action, offering a smooth playing experience suitable for expressive performance.
What are the standout features of the ARP Solus's sound engine?: The ARP Solus is known for its robust analog sound engine, which includes two VCOs, a classic ARP filter, and modulation options for creating dynamic and powerful sounds.
What is the primary use case for the ARP Solus synthesizer?: The ARP Solus is ideal for musicians seeking classic analog sounds for bass lines, leads, and expressive solos in studio or live settings.

Videos

Add video

Alex Ball

ARP'S FINAL MONOSYNTH

Alex Ball

ARP Solus

shaft9000

1980 ARP Solus Analog Synthesizer

keyboard resource

Ellende: ARP Solus

Ellende

First time with an ARP SOLUS

Peter Churchyard

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Exceptional sound quality, outperforming the Odyssey
Unique FM capabilities, producing distinct electric guitar-like tones
Raw, versatile filter without the bugs found in the Odyssey
Light, portable, and durable with a built-in case for easy gigging
Aggressive sound ideal for lead lines, bass drones, and special effects
Features digital ring modulator and reverse envelope for creative sound design
Extensive I/O makes it a great addition to modular rigs
Protective ARP 2600 style case included

CONS

Keys are stiff, affecting playability for solo performances
Strictly monophonic, limiting harmonic complexity
Only has one envelope generator (EG), reducing sound shaping options
Lacks sample and hold feature found in similar synthesizers
CV inputs not standard, complicating integration with modern equipment
Overpriced in comparison to original Odysseys, offering less value for some

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

0 0

The ARP Solus lacks noise and sample and hold features, which some users desire for more experimental sound capabilities.
Source
0 0

The ARP Solus is praised for its unique filter and oscillators, which are considered incredible by owners.
Source
0 0

The digital logic ring modulator in the ARP Solus is noted to be magical and possibly the same as the one in the Odyssey.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

Owners compare the Solus filter, likely the 4075, favorably against other ARP designs, considering it the best ARP filter.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

Some owners add an orange ARP decal in the G-clef script to the briefcase lid for a personalized touch.
Source
0 0

DIY kits are available to upgrade ARP synths, such as adding the NEA "modular patch panel" to enhance functionality.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

It's mentioned that repair costs for Solus can be a few hundred dollars, with specific repairs needing expert technicians, sometimes located in larger cities.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

A functioning ARP Solus with minor issues, like a broken 2nd oscillator, is valued between $1,250 and $1,300, with consignment sales offering 70% returns.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

Owners in remote areas face challenges with repairs, highlighting the importance of location when owning vintage synths like the ARP Solus.
Source

User experience

0 0

Selling in regional markets, like Kansas City, is recommended for quicker transactions, with consignment and trade-in options available at specialized stores.
Source

Add review

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

jimmarchi1

41007

almost 6 years ago

basically an odyssey in a suitcase!

this is a slightly stripped down late model odyssey, the darker one.... it has some differences in response in some routings and the ring mod is different but if you select the type III filter from the korg RI it's pretty damned close in sound. External audio can be modded by vco1. Its whacky and cool. No S&H gen, but how often do you really use that? Has the knob for pitch bend, blech. No high gain XLR output. It's very heavy compared to the RI due to the case but not too heavy. Eminently giggable, heavy but sturdy, it's a suitcase, yo. Great addition to modular or semi modular rigs needing some Odyssizing.

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Keyboardist

Genres:

Electronic Orchestra Alternative rock

Artist usage

Add artist

Edgar Froese

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Tangerine Dream

Verified via Matrixsynth

''A little known fact: Edgar Froese of Tangerine Dream used the Solus on the group's 1981 album Thief and during live performances in Berlin and London."