The Korg ARP Odyssey FSQ represents the culmination of Korg's efforts to faithfully recreate the legendary ARP Odyssey synthesizer in its original full-size format. Following the success of the miniature KARP Odyssey released in 2015, Korg has now delivered what many considered impossible: a brand-new, full-size ARP Odyssey that can be purchased from music stores today.

This instrument stands as an almost precise clone of the original Model 2800 to 2815 (MkI and MkII) Odysseys, featuring the iconic wrap-around vinyl case and bent-steel frame construction that defined the classic era of analog synthesis. The "FSQ" designation stands for "Full Size with SQ," referring to the included ARP-badged Korg SQ-1 sequencer that accompanies the synthesizer.

Design Philosophy and Construction

The Odyssey FSQ maintains absolute fidelity to the original design while incorporating carefully selected modern improvements. The synthesizer recreates the authentic visual aesthetic of the vintage models, available in three original color schemes: the standard black and orange livery (reminiscent of the MkIII models), with limited edition runs featuring the white-face MkI and black-and-gold MkII colorways.

The instrument incorporates all the sonic enhancements introduced in Korg's 2015 recreation, including overdrive capability through the headphones output (with potential for feedback), dual portamento modes, and most significantly, authentic recreations of all three original ARP filter types. These filters - the sparkling 12dB/oct ARP4023, the Moog-like 24dB/oct ARP4035, and the distinctive ARP4075 - have been meticulously recreated to capture the sound and character of the vintage devices with exceptional accuracy.

Performance Characteristics

The Odyssey was renowned for its ability to cut through dense mixes and its particular excellence in generating solo sounds, orchestral instrument emulations, and sound effects. Despite having minimal performance controls on the original (merely a tuning knob), the synthesizer's bright and energetic character made it ideal for expressive playing. The FSQ maintains this sonic signature while offering improved playability through more responsive keys and smooth, noise-free faders compared to vintage units.

The synthesizer features PPC (pitch-bend and modulation) pads across all models, providing essential real-time control capabilities. However, Korg has deliberately maintained the original's limitations, eschewing modern additions like velocity and aftertouch sensitivity to preserve authentic vintage behavior.

MIDI Implementation and Modern Integration

The FSQ includes basic MIDI functionality, receiving note on/off messages and pitch-bend data, making it suitable for studio integration and MIDI sequencing. However, the MIDI implementation remains intentionally minimal, recognizing only pitch-bend and two controller messages (All Notes Off and Reset Controllers). This limitation means that modulation amounts from the PPC pads cannot be sequenced or transmitted via MIDI.

The SQ-1 Sequencer Partnership

Bundled with the synthesizer is Korg's SQ-1 sequencer, a compact 16-step unit that can operate as a single sequence or dual 8-step parallel sequences. The sequencer offers linear and random modes with optional quantization, plus modern connectivity through 5-pin MIDI out and USB MIDI in/out. While less patchable than the original ARP 1600-series sequencers, the SQ-1 provides both V/oct and Hz/V output options and can function as a USB/CV converter for modular synthesizer integration.

The sequencer includes a slide function for smooth transitions between steps, though it lacks swing capability, memory storage for chaining sequences, and transpose functionality. Power is provided via batteries or USB connection.

Technical Specifications

Synthesizer Architecture

• Type: Analog synthesizer, recreation of ARP Odyssey Models 2800-2815 (MkI/MkII)
• Construction: Bent-steel frame with wrap-around vinyl case
• Keyboard: Full-size keys with improved responsiveness compared to original
• Performance Controls: PPC (Pitch-bend and modulation) pads on all models

Sound Engine

• Filters: Three selectable filter types (authentic ARP recreations)
  • ARP4023: 12dB/oct filter (MkI characteristic - sparkling)
  • ARP4035: 24dB/oct filter (Moog-like character)
  • ARP4075: Original ARP filter design
• Filter Overdrive: Available via headphones output with feedback capability
• Portamento: Dual mode operation
• Sound Character: Bright, energetic, excellent for solos and cutting through mixes

MIDI Implementation

• MIDI In: Note On/Off, Pitch Bend
• MIDI Out: Basic implementation
• USB MIDI: Not available on synthesizer (available on SQ-1)
• Recognized Controllers:
  • Pitch Bend (received only)
  • CC 123: All Notes Off
  • CC 121: Reset Controllers
• Limitations: No velocity sensitivity, no aftertouch, PPC modulation not transmitted

Audio Connections

• Audio Outputs: Standard line outputs
• Headphones Output: With overdrive/feedback capability
• Power: External wall-wart adapter (with stress relief hook)

Color Options

• Standard: Black and orange (MkIII style)
• Limited Editions:
  • White-face (MkI style)
  • Black and gold (MkII style)

Included SQ-1 Sequencer Specifications

• Steps: 16 steps (configurable as single 16-step or dual 8-step sequences)
• Modes: Linear, Random
• Quantization: Optional
• Functions: Slide (no swing capability)
• Memory: No sequence storage or song chaining
• Connectivity:
  • CV Output: V/oct and Hz/V selectable
  • Gate Output: Standard gate signals
  • MIDI Out: 5-pin DIN
  • USB MIDI: In/Out (no CC recognition)
• Power: Battery or USB powered
• Additional Function: USB/CV converter capability

Performance Features

• Real-time Controls: Pitch bend and modulation via PPC pads
• Tuning: Manual tuning control
• Hardware Quality: Smooth, noise-free faders and improved key response
• Reliability: New manufacture ensures all components function optimally

Sonic Characteristics Preserved from Original

• Excellent for: Solo sounds, orchestral emulations, sound effects
• Mix Compatibility: Exceptional ability to cut through dense arrangements
• Character: Bright, energetic, distinctive ARP personality
• Filter Flexibility: Access to all three original ARP filter types with authentic sound and behavior

Limitations and Considerations

• No Patch Memory: Maintains original hands-on approach
• Basic MIDI: Limited controller implementation
• External Power: Wall-wart adapter (no internal PSU)
• Sequencer Limitations: No transpose, no swing, no memory storage
• No Modern Enhancements: No velocity or aftertouch sensitivity by design