ARP 1040 (1970)
A prototype VCO/Noise/Random Voltage module for the ARP 2500, announced but never produced.
Overview
The ARP 1040 Noisillator module was a hybrid module designed for the ARP 2500 synthesizer, combining a single VCO and dual noise/random voltage circuits. Manufactured by ARP (AMSynths), it was announced in 1970 as part of the original ARP Tonus lineup and appeared in initial brochures, but never entered production. Only a black and white photograph of the prototype exists. The module was conceived as a space-saving combination of half of the ARP 1023 Dual VCO and half of the ARP 1016 Dual Noise, intended to fill unused panel space in modular systems.
Specifications
| Production Years | Announced 1970, never produced |
| Original Price | $595 (listed in initial price list) |
| VCO Waveforms | Sine, triangle, square, sawtooth, pulse (adjustable width), with off position |
| Frequency Control | Dual concentric pot for coarse/fine tuning; toggle switch for low/high pitch ranges |
| Modulation Inputs | Two frequency modulation inputs with level controls; three 1V/octave inputs |
| Noise Outputs | Two independent noise circuits: white/pink and slow-moving random voltage each |
| Level Controls | No level controls on noise section |
Design
The VCO section uses the same circuit as one side of the ARP 1023 and is identical to the ARP 1004, featuring a reduced control set. The noise circuit matches the ARP 1016 but omits level controls. The module fits the ARP 2500 chassis design, which allows two PCBs to be mounted side by side, enabling the dual-function layout of the 1040. Slide switches and lamps from the original modules were retained on the front panel.
Context
ARP likely developed the 1040 to address panel space inefficiency, as the 1016 occupied significant real estate despite its simple function. By combining a VCO with noise/random voltage, ARP created what was described as a "most unusual module." It was intended for placement in unused spaces within the 2500 system, offering compact utility for experimental sound design.
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