ARP 1601 (1976)
Analog step sequencer with dual 8- or 16-step configuration, quantized and non-quantized outputs, and 25 patch points.
Overview
The ARP 1601 is a 16-step sequential voltage generator produced in 1976 by ARP. It features two tracks (A/B), configurable for either 16-step mode or dual 8-step mode. Designed to complement the ARP 2600 and other vintage ARP synthesizers, it provides both quantized and non-quantized CV outputs with a 1V/Oct scale (1/12V per semitone) over a 0–10V range. The unit includes three gate busses, each capable of generating positive gate signals, and supports internal clock generation or external trigger input.
Specifications
| Tracks | 2 (A/B) |
| CV Range | 0–10V |
| Scale | 1V/Oct (1/12V per semitone) |
| Outputs | Quantized and non-quantized |
| Clock | Internal generator or external trigger input |
| Step Modes | Configurable between 16-step mode and dual 8-step mode |
| Gate Type | Positive gate (no S-trig) |
| Gate Busses | 3 |
| Patch Points | 25 |
| Control Sliders | 60mm travel LED sliders for step CV control |
| Step Indicator | Each step slider LED lights when that step is gated |
| Clock Indicator | Clock frequency LED slider flashes in time with sequencer clock |
| Power Supply | IEC jack with auto-sensing 110V/220V capability |
| Weight | 3.6 Kg |
| Dimensions | Approx 25"x9"x4" |
Design
The ARP 1601 uses through-hole components, including 0.047u polystyrene capacitors (C30 and C31) and an LM301 IC. It features high-quality construction with 1% tolerance low temperature coefficient metal film resistors, 0.1% tolerance resistors in the quantizer, and EIA Class I temperature compensating ceramic capacitors. The front panel is powder coated and silkscreened, with wood side panels. Each step generates different voltage gates across three gate busses, which can function as a smart envelope generator. The circuit includes a dual VCO quantizer that locks voltages to the nearest relative note.
Context
The ARP 1601 was derived from module 1027 of the ARP 2500 modular system. It belongs to the Mk 1 design series, which includes models 1601, 1611, 1612, and 1613, all sharing a black and gold color scheme and wooden side panels. It was later updated in design with the ARP 1613 and then the ARP 1623.
Market
The ARP 1601 is now rare and priced between 1500 and 2000 Euros. Common issues include heat damage to polystyrene capacitors during soldering, often leading to quantizer failure. Faulty LM301 ICs—sometimes counterfeit—can cause calibration problems, especially when power draw at the 12V input is abnormally high. Repair cases include successful fixes via solder joint reflow and replacement of C30 and C31.
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