ARP Pro/DGX

The ARP Pro/DGX is a preset-based monophonic synthesizer manufactured by ARP Instruments, Inc. from 1977 until the company's demise in 1981.

Pro-DGX
ARP Pro/DGX
Manufacturer	ARP Instruments, Inc.
Dates	1977 - 1981
Technical specifications
Polyphony	Monophonic
Timbrality	Monotimbral
Oscillator	1
LFO	yes
Synthesis type	Analog Subtractive
Filter	24dB/Oct Resonant Low Pass
Attenuator	yes
Aftertouch expression	yes
Velocity expression	no
Storage memory	30 preset
Effects	yes
Input/output
Keyboard	37 key
External control	Portamento Footswitch

Like its predecessor, the Pro Soloist, it features 30 presets and aftertouch. In fact, it looks almost identical to the Explorer and Pro Soloist. However, there are some notable differences. The Pro/DGX was housed in a new steel chassis, which was much sturdier than that of the Pro Soloist. Presets were now accessed via digitally latched momentary pushbuttons with LED indicators, as opposed to the more retro, flapper-style toggle switches used in the Pro Soloist.

The first run of this synth looks very much like the Pro Soloist in layout and colour scheme, though subsequently, it was produced using ARP's late-1970s Orange and Black colour scheme, like the Quadra and Odyssey Mk-3.

The presets on the Pro/DGX are identical to those found on the Pro Soloist. However, it does sound slightly different, due to the implementation of a new filter design. Many describe the sound of the Pro/DGX as warm, and compare it favourably to its predecessor. However, some say it lacks the quality of the Pro Soloist filter, perhaps less "organic".