ARP 2600 Blue Meanie S&H 01

Published on Jun 30, 2013 AudioCentralMagazine·152 videos

"The (ultra) rare ARP 2600 Blue Meanie/Blue Marvin is under control of S&H module: EGs are fired from S&H Clock; VCO1, VCO 2 and VCF are S&H modulated. Audio signal goes straight into 2600's spring reverb. A copy of the VCA out signal (dry) is hard switched left/right with Electronic Switch. A great synthesizer, pretty different in sound from the standard 2600 B/W and B/O."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Rare ARP 2600 Blue Marvin Discovery w/ Ryan Hawkins & Rob Rosen

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

Also see Rare ARP 2600 Blue Marvin Jam (w/ Cameron Graves)

"Join Ryan Hawkins and me for an in-depth look at an extremely rare ARP 2600 called the "Blue Marvin". It was the first ARP 2600 prototype created in 1971 before the later gray faced Tonus versions of the instrument were made for sale to the public. There are a lot of quirky physical aspects to this beauty since it was never really completed for final production, but in spite of that, it sounds magnificent! In particular, there is a type of harmonic distortion that it delivers only to be found on the original R.A. Moog modular synths from the late 1960's through the early 1970's.

You'll also hear the back story about how it was found in a post office, changed hands and then how it was restored by Ryan. We'll explore the front panel by comparing it to the first production Tonus model and also give you a Hands-on demonstration of the compelling sounds that it delivers. All music in this video is composed and performed by Ryan.

00:00 Intro
00:08 Music Interlude 1
00:19 The Story: Finding the Blue Marvin
06:11 Rob Rosen @RosenSound replaces the power jack
07:36 About the original modules (rectangular vs later square versions)
08:25 Under he Hood with Rob Rosen
10:21 Music Interlude 2
10:31 "Blue Marvin": 2600 vs Tonus 2600 Differences
16:36 Music Interlude 3
17:10 Missing Items compared to later models
22:40 Who was "Marvin"
23:05 @AlexBallMusic Story of "Blue Marvin"
24:16 13-note chromatic scale
25:12 Keyboard Differences - "Blue Marvin" Keyboard vs ARP 3620 Keyboard
26:31 Face Differences - "Blue Marvin" 2600 Face vs Tonus 2600 Face
27:16 Making Sounds on the "Blue Marvin"
27:36 Incredible Harmonic Distortion on the "Blue Meanie" 2600
30:03 Ryan's Favorite Sounds on the "Blue Meanie 2600
31:12 Sample and Hold with a sine wave
31:45 "Blue Marvin" - Reverb
33:25 "Blue Marvin - The Way it's Built
34:33 Plugging in a Microphone
35:40 ARP 2600 Layout Designed for Learning
36:52 "Blue Marvin" at Synthplex
38:03 About Ryan Hawkins
38:21 Conclusion
39:17 End Credits Music by Ryan Hawkins
45:20 AMM Logo"

ARP 2600 with MIDI

via this auction

Details:

"Much of the following info can also be found at discrete synthesizers.

2600:
The very first model 2600 was produced in early 1971 and is known as The Blue Marvin. It has mistakenly been called the "Blue Meanie" but according to Alan R. Pearlman, the Blue Marvin is so named after Marvin Cohen, head of engineering at ARP at the time. It came in a bright blue aluminum case with a funky and fragile wooden enclosure. It used an entirely micro-chip based voice path but the chips they used wound up being highly unreliable, although they sounded great! Only a few of these were made (approx. 25) and they were mostly built in a garage.

2600C:
Next, the factory produced 2600C Gray Meanie (pictured above) appeared in 1971 and can be identified by the rectangular 'ARP' logo on its right speaker grille. About 35 of these were made.

2600P:
Later in 1971 came the 2600P V1.0 which featured the same metal case (housing the same electronics as the original models) now enclosed in a much more roadworthy suitcase-style enclosure (similar to the pic below). In 1972, ARP switched out the unreliable (Teledyne) VCO chips for the model 4027 and 4027-1 (National Semiconductor) VCO chips in the 2600P V2.0 and 2600P V3.0, respectively. These new VCO chips sounded weak and nowhere near as good as the originals. A new duo-phonic keyboard (3620) with LFO was introduced with the 2600P V4.0 in 1974. The 2600P V3.0 and V4.0 models are denoted by the "G-clef" ARP logo and are the most common models out there with roughly 1700 2600P's produced during 1971-1974. Unfortunately, further changes to inferior parts were just around the corner. The Model 4012 filter used in the all the 2600's through 1976 used a design that was a copy of Moog's patented ladder-filter design. This led to a law-suit between Moog and ARP which forced ARP to design their own filter for their next version.

2601:
The Model 4072 filter, a four-pole low-pass designed to replace the original 4012 was widely considered to be faulty. The frequency response of this filter only goes to about 12kHz, giving this model a duller sound than models with the Moog style 4012 filter. The early 2601 V1.0 models were still using the disputed 4012 filters during 1975-76. In 1977 ARP started using their new 4072 filter in the model 2601 V2.0 with the modern orange-on-black design (pictured below). Around 1978 ARP unleashed a whole new line-up of their synthesizers using this new orange-on-black look. These were produced from 1977 through 1980. Very late 1980 versions of this model featured un-potted submodules, making them easier to maintain (but they are more rare).

There were also three versions of the remote keyboard: The Model 3601, which is a very rudimentary version with just Portamento and Tuning controls. The Model 3604 is similar but adds adjustable scaling and was used until 1974. The duo-phonic Model 3620 (pictured at top and bottom) which adds a dedicated LFO, latching and some other very useful features was introduced with the 2600P V4.0, and used with all subsequent models from 1974 to 1980."

First Demo Video & Pics of the New KORG ARP 2600

Uploaded on Jan 9, 2020 GAK

KORG ARP 2600 FS posts

Update2: The announcement is up here.

Update: Looks like the video was changed to private. Good reminder to be checking the site often - to catch things before they get pulled. :) BTW, the video stated the new 2600 is based on the first version of the ARP 2600. That is technically incorrect as the first version was actually the Blue Marvin/Blue Meanie. You can find two videos of one here, and some pics in various archived posts. There was also a Grey Meanie. From that link: "First was the Blue Marvin about 20 of these were made next was the Grey Meanie 35 or so were made". This new 2600 has the design scheme of the first major runs of the next 2600. Thanks goes to @AzevedoAudio for the reminder!

"The new Korg 2600 Arp is here!
Luke pops in to Demo this beast."

Note the "sequencer" is a programmable arpeggiator:

"3620 Keyboard While faithful to the original design, the functionality of the 3620 Keyboard has been greatly enhanced for this limited ARP 2600 release. The 3620 Keyboard contains 49 full-size keys, aftertouch, portamento, and is also duophonic, allowing two keys to be played at once – Single or Multiple Triggering is available. In addition, the duophonic keyboard can use an optional foot switch to lock the interval between any two notes, without retuning the oscillators during performance. Vibrato can be added via a dedicated circuit controlled by aftertouch, or by the onboard LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator), using any of three available waveforms. Most noticeable is the addition of a flexible Arpeggiator that allows a user-defined pattern to be manually sequenced and played back. Still present are the original Pitch Bend knob and the Two Octave Up / Two Octave Down Transpose switch. Connecting the keyboard to the main unit now uses a secure eight-pin din cable.

Processing Powerhouse The ARP 2600 reveals its modular nature by the unique assortment of valuable, esoteric, and individually patch-able modules it contains. To begin, there are a set of parallel-wired Multiple jacks that enhance the patching possibilities – allowing the same control signal to be sent to multiple locations, for example. Three independent Voltage Processors provide scalable control voltages, or can act to attenuate any control signal. Use the Lag Generator to delay the start of any control signal. The Noise Generator is tunable to deliver White, Pink, and Low-Frequency noise, plus everything in between. A series of three Inverters can reverse the polarity of any signal. The Electronic Switch can be sync’d to either the internal clock or any external clock signal, as can the Sample & Hold rate. Most importantly, the Arp 2600 includes a dedicated Preamp and Envelope Follower for processing an external audio signal."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Custom MacBeth M5N "Blue Meanie" / "Blue Marvin"

via Ken MacBeth:

"Hi Matrix! ...well to continue with the custom panel thread- a prolific german client asked to have 2 M5N synths built for him- but with a special blue color that I ordered in- this color was swatched against the color type of the very first ARP 2600s. We discussed whether or not they originals were called 'blue meanies' or 'blue marvins' - maybe the viewers of the matrix synth blog know this stuff! I am currently offering direct sales of two Process Red M5Ns (...there will be a fire in the disco!) that go as a pair-both hand built by myself, and not the factory I'm using- there is a premium for this- but interested parties can enquire- pics to follow soon. Best To All- Ken Mac."

click here for more pics. Regarding the "Blue Meanie" vs. "Blue Marvin," if you know, feel free to comment. Via this post: "The very first model 2600 was produced in early 1971 and is known as The Blue Marvin. It has mistakenly been called the "Blue Meanie" but according to Alan R. Pearlman, the Blue Marvin is so named after Marvin Cohen, head of engineering at ARP at the time."

ARP 2600 Blue Meanie Funzionamento & Comandi Principali

Published on Jul 3, 2013 AudioCentralMagazine·157 videos

"Una panoramica veloce sul funzionamento dell'ARP 2600 Blue Meanie/Blue Marvin; rispetto al 2600 "normale" ha una risposta più aggressiva nei confronti dei livelli audio e manca del Fine Tune nella regolazione di Cutoff Frequency. Manca anche, particolare secondario, il multiplo a quattro vie per la triplicazione dei segnali. Una macchina spettacolare, rarissima e potente."

ARP 2600 Blue Meanie Comandi Principali


All parts of the series here.

ARPchives LIVE Special Birthday Edition "In His Words"

video upload by Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

Features the ARP 2600 assembly line. Note the Blue Marvin / Blue Meanie.

"(NOTE: These videos are for historical preservation and EDUCATIONAL purposes only. )

We are very excited to release 'The Lost ARP Tapes,' recently discovered footage that had been buried in decades worth of television. Join us Tuesday, June 7th on our YouTube channel to watch them live and celebrate Alan Pearlman’s birthday.

We will be having several releases. featuring footage from the 1970s of demos, two different ARP factories, Alan R. Pearlman, Phil Dodds, David Friend, David Frederick, and Tom Piggot! Not seen in 45+ years!

Included in these sessions will be other rare footage of Alan R. Pearlman speaking in later years (not in any other documentary) as well as contemporary interviews with ARP employees"

And via Dina Pearlman in the ARP Foundation mailing list:

Today is my father's birthday

Alan R. Pearlman would have been 97 today! Because he was born in 1925, he remembered the George Washington Bridge being built, the Great Depression, was a World War II vet.. he worked on the early NASA projects, saw the first person on the moon. And he built one of the most famous synthesizers in the world.

With celebrating my father's birthday we also recognize our future—the kids who love their STEM classes, the musicians who have aspirations to make music, or the filmmakers who wish to make soundtracks.

This summer we are trying to raise a minimum of $15,000 for the following projects:

ARPs for ALL - insurance, restoration and repair of instruments

ARPchives including scanning, digitizing and licensing rights to rare photos. See also: Google's Music Makers and Machines!

Our first residency at ARPs for ALL (estimated $10,000 for housing, transportation and engineering assistance) Grantwriter(s)

We will also be holding our Fall Synthposium and Fundraiser 2022: A Fifty Year ARP Odyssey!

READ the Synthposium Press Release

We hope you will consider making a tax deductible donation to The Alan R Pearlman Foundation

My father was a mentor. In his tradition, The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation is dedicated to preserving his legacy to inspire others, and to provide them with the tools to do so with our ARPs for ALL projects as well as our ARPchives that include Hot off the Press!

This year we have located some lost ARP tapes premiering on YouTube later today [above] (more coming later this summer) We have also located some rare photographs, but we have to purchase them, so this is part of our goals for this latest fundraiser.

Read the 'Lost ARP Tapes' Press Release

ARP 2600 Semi Modular Synthesizer Grey Meanie Tonus Version

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"if you know about the ARP 2600 you also probably know about the very rare early Tonus versions called "grey meanie" and "blue marvin".

The ARP 2600 in this auction is a "grey meanie" version from 1971.

This is one of the rarest analog synthesizers and nearly impossible to find.

After some internet research i found out that only around 15 to 30 units of this version were made and you can imagine how many of these are still around in fully working and original condition.

Maybe less than 5 to 10 worldwide ? I don't know but i think it is impossible to find another one in this condition.

The ARP 2600 in this auction is in very good original shape.

All faders are working fine and all plastic caps are on the slider shafts.

No missing screws, plastic parts etc.

All modules inside are original ARP. The filter is the legendary early 4012 version.

No modifications or repairs.

Original reverbtank (big version) is in the unit and it is sounding very very good. The best spring reverb i have heard.

The unit is very stabile in tuning, it is fully calibrated and sounds amazing.

The keyboard is the exact matching keyboard and it is duophone !!!

This was probably a special ARP custom version cause the early Tonus versions did not come with factory duophone keyboard.

The keyboard is working very good without any problems."

ARP 2600 Rev .2/4 SN 14616

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

Note this one was listed back in September, 2015 here.

"This is an ARP 2600 synthesizer. However, the configuration shown here is not exactly typical, and those who know this synthesizer will recognize the importance of these features. The synthesizer itself is a Rev.2, while the keyboard is a Rev.4 3620 two-voice model. Definitely NOT an 'off-the-floor' setup, but here's why this is significant:

When the Rev.2 versions were built after a redesign of the original (and craptastic) Rev.1 'blue meanie' 2600s, they still utilized ARP's original 4012 VCF design, which was a copy, more or less, of Bob Moog's transistor ladder lowpass VCF. Eventually, Moog and ARP came to blows in court over this, and the Rev.3 and 4 2600s used the not-so-awesome 4072 VCF, which sounds very different and much thinner at the low end, less bright at the top. But at the time of the Rev.2, there was no such animal as the two-voice 3620 keyboard; you had the simpler 3604 and the REALLY simple 3601...and that was it. It was not until some years on that ARP came up with the 3620, which also provides an extra LFO, some pedal controls and a few other interesting features, and the one here is from the final 2600 revision, Rev.4, as noted by the orange graphics and the 'no-logo' ARP logo. The synth here, also, has its distinctive rectangular Tonus logo, as opposed to the Rev.3 'G-clef'. The S/N tag on the side also says 'Manufactured by Tonus', as you can see in its pic.

As would be expected on a 45+ year old piece of gear, the cosmetics are a bit out of sorts. There's some typical tolex snags and scratches, a bit of an issue with the wooden housing (shown in one pic), and a little oxidation on the case metal. Electronically, however, the unit is perfect, with VCO3 having been replaced with a breadboarded copy in 2007, and VCO1 having had that done prior to my taking possession of the unit in 1994. Slider caps are missing here and there, but only one not-too-essential speaker slider has taken a hit. Caps are easily available, though. The synth, sadly, has a couple of major bits missing; the handle is gone (see pic) and there was no front case lid when I acquired it. If one isn't going to 'road' the unit, though, none of that is a serious issue.

The 3620 keyboard is a later vintage by perhaps 7-8 years, and accordingly, is in better shape. It's complete, works excellently, has a nice, smooth action. Both it and the synthesizer unit were fully realigned and calibrated when the VCO was replaced in 2007, and they're working magnificently. Not a 'collector piece', certainly, but if you want a 2600 that offers everything that that synth could have in store, this is the one you need."

CLICK FOR MORE »

ARP 2600 with CMS Mods / Upgrades

images via this auction
"ARP 2600 semi-modular synthesizer, with full complement of CMS modifications and upgrades.

This auction includes the 2601 Console (s/n 26010788) and 3620 Keyboard Controller (s/n 36200788). Not only is this 2600 in outstanding cosmetic and functional condition, the numerous modifications and upgrades performed by Phil Cirocco at C.M.S./Discrete Synthesizers make this a truly phenomenal instrument. Here is a list of the work performed, with descriptions from the CMS web site:
AUDIO PATH UPGRADE PACKAGE
This mod replaces all gain stages in the 2600 console with audiophile grade components for crystal-clear highs and a deep low end, while still maintaining the distinctive character of the 2600. Upgraded sections include: lag processor, voltage processors, reverb stages, preamp, VCF mixer, output mixer, output buffers, etc. We also fix the annoying VCA thump. Noise in the reverb section is reduced by 35%. Filter headroom is increased by a factor of 2! Stability and sound improvement guaranteed. Later model 2600s (almost all wood / tolex 2600s) use inferior sounding gain stages that severely impede the true sound of your 2600. Earlier 2600's (Blue Marvins and Gray Meanies) use "high slew rate" chips that sound much clearer. Restore your 2600 back to the specs that the original ARP engineers intended! Don't be fooled by imitations from "noob techs" or DIY attempts. If the Audio Path Upgrade is not performed correctly, it can become unstable and lead to high frequency self oscillation of all the amplifier sections!

MOOG STYLE FILTER MODULE - 4012cx
The 4012 filter was used from 1971 (blue Marvin) to the middle of 1976. If your 2600 is a gray face, It probably utilizes the 4012 module. The 4012 is a ladder type filter using discrete transistors. The original 4012 made by ARP is prone to instability. The 4012 replacement filter by CMS is guaranteed stable yet uses the exact circuit that ARP used. Better quality components and personal attention to craftsmanship yield a filter of superior sonic characteristics! See the Sub-module section for more info.

VCA MODULE UPGRADE - (4019)
If your VCA module is unencapsulated, we can give it crystal clear highs and a deep low end. Also provides lower distortion and a faster slew-rate. If you have an encapsulated ARP VCA, this upgrade is not available, but improved unencapsulated replacement modules are available, see submodules page, model 4019cx.

POWER SUPPLY UPGRADE
The power supply in your 2600 is about 20 to 30 years old. Chances are that your power supply is not up to spec. This can result in excessive noise, ripple, and instability. This mod replaces your unit with a high power, highly stable, military spec power unit with remote sense regulation. The overall sound quality and oscillator purity are noticeably improved. Rebuilt ARP units are available for 125.00 (50.00 core charge).

17 INCH REVERB TANK
Ever wonder why later model 2600s have such a lame reverb. Later model 2600s use smaller reverb tanks with a shorter delay time than earlier 2600s made by ARP. The only reason I can find for this change is economic. Our brand new reverb tanks use 6 springs, counter wound and placed in parallel for a rich, full sound. This mod restores your reverb sound back to the original "Blue Marvin / Gray Meanie" configuration.

1/4 INCH LINE LEVEL JACKS
Professionally installed 1/4 inch Switchcraft jacks at line level (designed to interface with your studio mixer etc.) on both main outputs, VCA output, and preamp input. 4 jacks total.

SYNC SWITCHES
Two independent miniature toggle switches that sync vco-2 to vco-1, and vco-3 to vco-1 This setup enables dual sync (two separate harmonics) if desired.

ENVELOPE GENERATOR RANGE EXPANDER SWITCHES
Miniature toggle switches that provide 2 additional time ranges for the attack, decay and release time of the ADSR generator and the attack and decay time of the AR generator.

VARIABLE VCF KEYBOARD TRACKING
The filter tracking on a 2600 is fixed at 1v per octave. This is quite limiting especially if you are shooting for natural textures. This mod provides a miniature rotary potentiometer that adjusts the tracking ratio from 0 to 1v/octave

LED INDICATORS
providing visual feedback on both E.G. outputs (red), s/h clock (green) and envelope follower (yellow). Requires power supply upgrade.

24Db DUAL MODE FILTER - MODEL 2621
The one key element missing in a 2600 is a highpass filter with resonance and associated coupling circuitry. The CMS 2620 is a dual mode, 24Db (Lowpass/Highpass), discrete, transistor ladder filter from the CMS 9000 series modules, Installed in the left speaker section. This original CMS design features a beautiful "raspy" resonance. Complete with anodized face plate, high quality controls, 1/8 inch Switchcraft normalized patching. Special switch links both filters in your 2600 together for a truly remarkable sounding bandpass function (24Db x 24Db). The resonance on the highpass function is also very unique and distinctive. Requires power supply upgrade. Now comes with voltage controlled resonance.

VCO / 4 CHANNEL MIXER / INVERTER - MODEL 2627
Installed in the right speaker section, this VCO utilizes the same exact circuitry used in the other VCO's in your 2600 to assure exact tracking and pitch stability characteristics. All four waveforms are available as well as pulse width modulation. Low frequency mode and normalized patching are also provided. The mixer section serves as a high quality audio mixer with the inputs either normalized to all 4 outs of VCO-4 or externally patched. The mixer can also be used as a voltage summer or inverter. Requires power supply upgrade.
In addition, the following mods are present:
• The AR has been converted to an ADSR for even more CV potential;
• All three oscillators have been fitted with -1/0/+1 "octave" switches. This switch will transpose the oscillator by the amount predefined by the "Interval" pot (up to one octave)
• An additional set of multiples have been added in the lower left, now giving you 2 x 4 mults;
• Voltage Processor sections 2 & 3 have positive outputs available as well as the conventional negative;
• External trigger input for the Sample & Hold."

Limited Edition Blue Lantern Darpa 7200 ARP 2600 Tribute

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"From Blue Lantern
"This modular system is a modern dedication to Alan R. Pearlman (AKA ARP). It uses the instrument list structure from the arp 2600. Instead of making another clone arp 2600, I wanted to make an updated synthesiser, like an Arp 2700 type of project. So there are many extra functions on this system, not found on the original arp2600. The only Arp 2600 circuit that is an exact clone, is the Analog Switch. All the potentiometers are metal D-Shaft type. There are no internal patches. All connections must be manually made between module sections, this is a fully Modular System. This particular item is the Euro Format Version. A few of these system will be sold. 'Green Meanie'. The case is powder coated white, and made of aluminum."

module list:

*Midi to CV converter
*Europa VCO (Discrete Tri Core) sine, ramp, square, triangle waves
*Europa VCO (Discrete Tri Core) sine, ramp, square, triangle waves
*Cubensis VCO (Zero Through) sine, ramp, square, triangle waves
*FM Sinus problem (Analog Wave Folder)
*Cydonia Stereo BI-Phase Filter (Stereo Analog filter) and Stereo VCA
*Mix Em Up Pro: Audio Mixer, Noise Generator, Sample and Hold, Ring Mod (633 chip)
*Buffer Multiple and Analog Arp 2600 Switch
*Simple ADSR v2
*Duo Quantizer
*Simple Wave Folder (serge diode influenced)
*Simple ADSR v2
*Voltage Processor: 0-5v and 0-10v
*Cyllene VCLFO (digital electric druid firmware)
*Cyllene VCLFO (digital electric druid firmware)
*Trippy Dual AR generator
*Trippy Dual VCA
*Quinarius : Envelope Follower, Booster, Gate Extractor, Comparator, Slew Detector

top 1u:
*DC Mixer, Lag Processor, Monitoring amp
*FX Send and Return"

CLICK FOR MORE »

ARP 2600

Click here for shots via this auction. Note the cartridge modules on the inside shot.

Update via John Levin in the comments:
"For what it's worth, this one has the Tonus logo on it, as opposed to the Arp w/ cable logo. This means it's the first cut at the grey meanie after the blue meanie."

Update via Micke in the comments:
"It appears to be a model 2600P V2.0 (in production between 1972-72).

This model differed to the 2600P V1.0** (1971-72) in that the front panel was increased in height and that the VCOs changed from 4027 to 4027-1.

** the first version after the Blue Marvin and Grey Meanie

Micke"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Arp Odyssey Mk1 White Face with Moog 4035 "Blue Meanie" Filter

via this auction

SN 281684

"Arp Odyssey Mk1 White Face. Quite a rare synth, but this one is even more special. it has the Moog 4035 "blue meanie" filter installed by CMS. It is in excellent cosmetic shape, has a few CV 1/8" mods on the back, and is fully functional. Sliders work quite well and aren't gummy like some old Odysseys. Fully functional, keyboard works well too. The Moog filter sounds great. It was serviced about half a year ago and is good to go."

See the seller's other items for more including the Moog modular previously posted but still up for auction.

CLICK FOR MORE »

VEMIA November 2000 catalogue - vintage synths & prices

via this auction

"From ten years ago, a paper catalogue from the VEMIA auction. 24 pages, tiny print, and not well printed - but just about readable everywhere. A couple of illustrations (not high quality!!) - of a massive Roland System 700 and the even bigger Yamaha EX42.

Fun to look at the prices - many of them not the final bids, but all already over their reserves (there are no hidden reserves in this auction) .

That means that in November 2000, you could have had a chance of winning the following (with prices in pounds sterling):

Two Siemens V72s, 440GBP; Vortexion tube amp 23GBP; Roland CR-78 230GBP; Roland TR-808 500GBP; Crumar Jazzman 95GBP; Hohner Clavinet 1 140GBP; Clavinet/Pianet Duo 260GBP; Wurlitzer EP-200 450GBP; Ashly SC-68 140; AKG BX20E 100GBP; Six Audio & Design SCAMP modules 130GBP; BBC EQs in a rack 50GBP; Binson Echorec Baby 280GBP; Binson Tube Reverb 350GBP; Carlsbro Flanger 85GBP; Dynacord CLS222 145GBP; Dynacord TAM19; Echolette SEV66 Vocoder; Echoplex tube model 240GBP; EH Small Stone original 55GBP; EH Talking Pedal 260GBP; Four EMT 256 II compressors and two de-essers 755GBP; Moog 12-Stage Phaser 580GBP; Roland Funny Cat 160GBP; Roland RE-201 190GBP; Roland SRE-555 240GBP; Ursa Major Space Station 450GBP; Reslosound Ribbon 75GBP; two Sennheiser MD421s 250GBP; two Tannoy mics from the House of Commons 45GBP; Two EMS Presto patches 60GBP; Korg MS-03 110GBP; Korg MS-04 110GBP; Optigan Stereophonic Deluxe 220GBP; RSF Kobol Programmer 450GBP; BBC Outside Broadcast four-channel passive mixers 90GBP; Roland VCA800 / CPE800 units 115GBP; Telefunken 12/2 mixer 200GBP; ARP 2600 Blue Meanie (aka Blue Marvin) 1450GBP; EMS Synthi AKS with all EMS mods 1770GBP; EMS Synthi-E 600GBP; EMS VCS3 1900GBP; Korg MS-50 680GBP; Roland System 100M five-module system 880GBP; Roland System 700 complete 9950GBP; ARP Odyssey white-face 480GBP; ARP Pro Soloist 150GBP; EDP Wasp 280GBP; Hohner Bass 28GBP; Korg M500SP 75GBP; Korg Sigma 180GBP; Moog Minimoog 900GBP; Moog Prodigy 270GBP; Oberheim OB-1 460GBP; Octave Cat 330GBP; OSC OSCar 840GBP; Roland MC-202 200GBP; Roland SH-101 190GBP; Roland System 100 101 330GBP; Farfisa Compact Duo 500GBP; Hammond F-100 Extravoice 150GBP; Moog CDX 430GBP; Yamaha EX42 GX-1 look-alike 1250GBP; Vox Continental 300 240GBP; Yamaha YC-45D 280GBP; Elka Rhapsody 610 85GBP; Gleeman Pentaphonic 1270GBP; Moog Memorymoog Plus 1450GBP; PPG Wave 2.3 800GBP; Roland Jupiter 6 580GBP; Roland Jupiter 8 (JP8) 680GBP; Roland VP-330 400GBP; SCI Prophet 5 rev 3.2 760GBP; SCI Prophet 5 with Kenton MIDI 900GBP; Korg SQ-10 250GBP; Roland CSQ-100 34GBP; Roland MC-4 250GBP; a hundred CEM 3396 chips 100GBP; Leslie 147 360GBP; Ampex 351 980GBP; Studer C-37 300GBP."

Green Meanie - Blue Lantern BLM 7200 Darpa Modular System Euro Format 2019 Metallic Green

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction, also on Reverb.

"This modular system is a modern dedication to Alan R. Pearlman (AKA ARP). It uses the instrument list structure from the arp 2600.

Instead of making another clone arp 2600, I wanted to make an updated synthesiser, like an Arp 2700 type of project.

So there are many extra functions on this system, not found on the original arp2600. The only Arp 2600 circuit that is an exact clone, is the Analog Switch.

CLICK FOR MORE »

MACBETH M5 Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"This is the Original M5 with the black & orange colour scheme, as used for the later version ARP 2600.

Note that whilst it looks like a later model Rev.3 ARP2600, the M5's sound is both Moog and Oberheim inspired.

[Update: note the lawsuit mentioned below never happened. There was contention over the filter but it never got to that.  via Wikipedia: "Early versions contained an imitation of Robert Moog's 4-pole 'ladder' VCF, later the subject of a threatened (though ultimately nonexistent) lawsuit"Also the epoxy covered modules were likely more for performance reasons. Not sure if it was to stabilize temperature and to isolate the modules. See the comments at the bottom of this post for more.]

The original ARP 2600 (Blue Meanie model) that many/most claim sounds best of the 2600's, stole the Moog filter design of course, hence epoxy sealed units, lawsuit, 4072 ARP filter redesign, etc... Plus, the M5 actually dwarfs the 2600 in overall height + size. This M5 is one of around 90 (I think) of the original versions that were hand made between 2005/6, so only 14-15 years old compared with over 40 for a 2600.

It has great build quality courtesy of Ken McBeth. No tiny slider tops or mini jack sockets to fiddle with... On a practical note you can get multiple (man sized) finger tips between the slider tops for patching/mixing/modulation purposes. A joy to play with as you can easily see all patch points, sources, destinations, signal flow, etc.

As regards stability & tuning, many older analogue synths had & still do have problems with these factors. This M5 tunes very accurately and holds tune throughout every session, nor is this dependent on whether it's hot or not - inside or out, as was the downside of many old analogue synths, though it's appreciated some do like such instability... I prefer to start off with known stability & increase detuning/instability if/when needed. There is even a stability pot on Osc#3 for dialing in that effect when required, except it's under your control and not at the mercy of other elements...

IMO the M5 is sonically much more powerful and versatile than the 2600, based on the dual filter type design alone.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Rare Custom Blue MacBeth M5N

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"The M5N is the second and slightly enhanced version of the M5.

After owning a MacBeth M5 I ordered these with a painting job according to my wishes. As a huge fan of most iconic ARP synthesizers these M5Ns should be similar in look to an ARP Blue Marvin/Meanie. It finally looked absolutely stunning with a kind of white/turqouise color combo."

CLICK FOR MORE »

ARP 2600 with Matching Keyboard

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"ARP 2601- The sale includes the synthesizer and matching serial number keyboard, original non copied manuals for synth and keyboard,old 1975 promotional materials, 4 patch cables, and dual 1/8" to 1/4 " synth to mixer(Amp) cables. This model is the Arp 2601P V1.0 circa 1975 with matching serial number 3620 duo-phonic LFO keyboard..This unit has the 4012 Moog ladder filter which was discontinued in the subsequent 2601P V2.0 model. It is serial number 0087 as is the serial number of the keyboard.This unit is in excellent cosmetic and functional condition for being close to 40 years old and has been brought up to showroom condition within the past year.

When searching for a 2600 , my goal was always to find a unit that had essentially been frozen in a time capsule and then replace dried out electrolytics! This is it. This synth was sequestered for nearly three decades in a closet in Calgary away from indoor lighting and moisture. Until recently, last played in 1978. Consequently, the grey faceplate shows no evidence of any fading as does the tolex.The tolex is original and exhibits no brittleness.All the 1/8" input/ outputs and faceplate nuts and screws are like new- shiney silver. Not even a hint of rust on any jack which would be evidence of poor environmental storage and moisture exposure. The internal speakers are great. No distortion or vibration at high volume.

In addition to the 12 standard photos, there is a link with 53 higher resolution photos of the synth, keyboard, and tolex cabinets/covers at all possible angles at wwwdotflickrdotcom/photos/ john316_golf ( sorry, have to list the site this way or it will be blocked by you know who).If you are serious about purchasing, you will definitely be reviewing these.

In order to bring this synth up to current standards, the following work was done in 2011 by John Smith of Davidson Electronics(NY) who apprenticed under Don Buchla:
All keyboard contacts cleaned, busbars polished, and bushings replaced(action feels great)
All tantalum capacitors were replaced
80% of op-amps were replaced
All sliders lubricated( no scratchy pots)
The typical signal path upgrade was done and the original VCA " thump" inherent in the 2600 series synths eliminated. Upgrade included replacing all gain stages in 2601 in preamp, VCF mixer, output mixer,output buffers,reverb stages, and voltage processors.
Additionally, Rob Currier of England Analog in August 2013 performed the following work:
replaced the standard 9" reverb tank with a 17" reverb spring which matched the original Blue Marvin/ Grey Meanie spring length. This spring is installed with an insulated sleeve so external vibration will not affect the reverb tank.
Replaced all voltage regulators
Calibrated the PSU to factory specs
All together, over $2800 of work was done to this synth and you would be hard pressed to find one in similar functional condition with the high quality original cosmetics of this unit .Reason for selling is I just put a 50% deposit on the Schmidt synthesizer and need to raise funds for the other 50%. That and my wife and 9 year old daughter could no longer take my full volume Frankenstein filter sweeps!This was a tough decision.I'll never find another 2600 down the road that sounds and looks as good as this one.

For anyone who has lived in a cave since 1971 and has never heard of the Arp 2600, here are a few basics:
Polyphony- monophonic(but can be patched via the 3620m keyboard to be duo-phonic )
Filter-25db self oscillating 4012(Moog) ladder with ring modulator
Osc-3 VCOs 4027 VCO 1- saw, square VCO 2-saw, square, sine, pulse, triangle VCO 3-saw, square,pulse; white noise
Envelopes- 1ADSR type 1AR type
Effects-17" spring reverb
LFO- 4015 sample and hold and many patchable options for modulation
Keyboard- 49 keys with portamento and LFO vibrato amount and rate, pitch bend knob.."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Arp 2600 1970 Original Tonus Blue Marvin Meanie Synth Promo Poster

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"Super rare, original 1970 Arp 2600, Blue Marvin, promo poster. Came with my 1971 Arp 2600 when I bought it from the original owner. Very hard to find. Over 50 years old and a true piece of synthesizer history. Ships folded, how it was original sent and stored.Some slight yellowing on the folds. 1 pin hole in each corner. Slight tearing around corner of folds. Excellent condition for it's age. Measures approximately 34"x22" "

CLICK FOR MORE »

ARP 2600 GREY MEANIE

via this auction

"rare ARP 2600 Grey Meanie.It has all the same functions as the usual 2600 grey face including the Moog filter ladder,but this was the second batch of the 2600 run.First was the Blue Marvin about 20 of these were made next was the Grey Meanie 35 or so were made so this really is the real deal of vintage and rare synths."