ARP 2600 by KORG analog-modeling synth plugin interface

ARP 2600: Analog-Modeling Synth by KORG Free Download

Rated 4.8/5 on Plugin Boutique (9 ratings)

ARP 2600 is a software synthesizer from KORG that re-creates the classic ARP 2600 analog synth using KORG's CMT modeling technology. It runs as a VST3, VST2, AU or AAX plug-in on Windows and macOS.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

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Free trial available from the developer

01Overview

The ARP 2600 plug-in is KORG's software re-creation of the analog synth used across decades of recorded music. KORG says its CMT modeling reproduces the waveforms, filters, envelope shapes and patch panel behavior of the original. The developer states that all 100 sounds from the original 2600 Patch Book can be loaded and played as on the hardware. Beyond the original design, the plug-in adds a second filter, expanded modulation, polyphony, an arpeggiator and a sequencer.

Best for

Classic analog basslines
Pulsing synth leads
Sound design and experimentation
Learning analog synthesis
Electronic and film scoring

Developer: KORG
Category: Synths
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Models the original 2600 waveforms, filters and envelope shapes with CMT technology
Plays all 100 sounds from the original ARP 2600 Patch Book
Switchable 4-pole highpass and bandpass main filter modes
Mode-Sweep Filter inspired by the SEM, plus a second filter
Looping DAHDSR aux envelope and aux LFO
Up to 16-voice polyphony
Two-lane Motion Sequencer inspired by the ARP 16xx series
Three insert effects, a reverb slot and 31 effect types

03In depth

Sound and Modeling Accuracy

KORG's proprietary CMT technology models the distinctive waveforms and filters, the custom LFO and envelope shapes, and the nonlinearities of the original circuitry. The developer says the oscillator waveforms include the slight imperfections that add brightness, especially on the triangle and sine.

Both original VCF modules, the 4012 and the 4072, are modeled, with a switch to choose between them. Saturation points from the hardware are included, and anti-aliasing and oversampling are applied across the modules.

For polyphonic playing, KORG says component variation between voices is modeled, which mirrors the behavior of multiple hardware 2600s.

Patch Panel Workflow and New Features

The main signal path runs from left to right, and patch cables are optional. Color-coded silkscreen distinguishes signal sources, processors, modulation sources and control modules, and on-screen help covers every control.

New additions include switchable 4-pole highpass and bandpass modes, a Mode-Sweep Filter inspired by the SEM, a looping DAHDSR aux envelope and aux LFO, and a two-lane Motion Sequencer inspired by the ARP 16xx series. Patch-panel outputs for velocity, aftertouch and mod wheel are also included, and multiple cables can connect to one output jack.

MIDI control is extended, and the plug-in includes 31 effect types plus three insert effects and a dedicated reverb slot.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	KORG
Type	Plugin
Category	Synth
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit
Free trial	Yes

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does ARP 2600 support?

ARP 2600 is available as VST3, VST2, AU and AAX plug-ins. It runs on Windows and macOS in 64-bit.

What do I need to run ARP 2600?

On Windows, you need Windows 11 64-bit or higher and an Intel Core i5 or better, with 8 GB RAM and 16 GB of free disk space. On Mac, you need macOS 11 Big Sur or higher, and Apple Silicon is supported. An internet connection is required.

Can I load the original ARP 2600 patches?

KORG says all 100 patches from the original ARP 2600 Patch Book can be recreated and played in the plug-in. The Patch Book is available as a free PDF on KORG's website.