ARP 1613 (1977)
A rare 16-step analog sequencer from ARP, designed to control external synthesizers with hands-on real-time editing.
Overview
The ARP Sequencer Model 1613 is a 16-step analog sequencer produced in 1977 by ARP Instruments Inc. of Massachusetts, U.S. It is not a synthesizer but a dedicated control device for generating CV/Gate signals to drive other analog gear. Designed as a rare variant of the ARP 1601 and preceding the 1623, the 1613 features a hands-on interface with sliders for real-time voltage adjustment. It supports two operational modes: a single 16-step track or dual 8-step tracks (A/B), and includes a special 8 x 2 mode for simultaneously controlling two voltage-controlled components like a VCO and VCF at 1V/Oct. The sequencer includes both straight and random step play modes, with real-time tweakability via front-panel sliders, each representing a sixteenth note in a 1-bar pattern.
Specifications
| Tracks | 2 (A/B) |
| Steps | 16 |
| CV range | 0-10V |
| Scale | 1V/Oct |
| Weight | 3.6 Kg |
| Control interface | Sliders |
| Clock | Internal generator or external trigger sync |
| Display | LEDs |
| Technology | Analog and IC |
| Country of manufacture | United States |
Design
The ARP 1613 uses analog and integrated circuit (IC) technology to generate control voltages and gate signals. Each of the 16 steps is controlled by a slider that sets a specific voltage (0–10V) corresponding to pitch at a 1V/Oct scale. The sequencer allows for step reset or skip functions, transposition via CV input, and dual quantization to lock voltages to the nearest musical note. It features extensive patch connectivity including CV/Gate I/O, multiple gate bus outputs, trigger and reset inputs, clocked gate out, and a four-way multiple patch point. A footswitch output and manual step advance button support live performance. The internal clock can be adjusted in frequency or overridden manually, and the unit can sync to external triggers via the step input.
Context
The ARP 1613 is described as a rare version of the ARP 1601, developed prior to the 1623. It is considered one of the rarest ARP sequencers, with some units possibly prototype-level builds. ARP Instruments Inc., founded in 1969 by Alan Robert Pearlman and co-founders Lewis G. Pollock and David Friend, was based in Massachusetts and ceased operations in 1981. The brand was later revived by Korg in 2015. The 1613 is listed among the archived models of the ARP product line.
Market
Current market values for the ARP 1613 range from €1600 to €2000. Units often require serious maintenance, with sticky sliders being a common issue that may necessitate lubrication or replacement. One documented service included slider replacement, power supply capacitor upgrades, timing chip replacement, and full calibration. A unit was listed on Reverb approximately four years ago and marked as sold. Despite maintenance demands, the 1613 is praised as fun, hands-on, and musically engaging once operational.
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