FM synth with each operator assignable to a (range of) key(s)?

September 7, 2023 5:48 PM

What the title says: Is there any existing FM synth that lets you route an operator to a key or set of keys?

I'm picturing the ability for pressure sensitivity to control the operator amplitude. You could map an operator to a range of keys (similar to split keys). Then a 73-key could support an octave per operator (scaled however).

posted by symbioid to Media & Arts (2 answers total)

Best answer: The Korg opsix should allow for this type of behavior. The key tracking settings can be set on a per operator basis to determine which keys the operator should respond to. I know there are more sophisticated methods that people have developed using this synth as well (check out "oscillator sink" on youtube who has some great videos on the synth). The "operator per octave" type of behavior you describe should be possible, but I would also think that this type of behavior could be possible on other FM synths, perhaps a classic such as the DX7. DX7-II is capable of bitimbrality, but I think that the opsix offers something a lot closer to what you're picturing.

I only have a moderate level of experience with the opsix, so perhaps consult the manual for more information. Using the mod matrix (called V-patch by Korg) you can create some extremely interesting relationships between various operator elements, program elements and effects.

For instance, you can definitely set the key velocity to control everything from operator levels and pitch, envelopes, LFO shape or rate, reverb amount, even the algorithm used by the program. In turn, you can route those LFO's and EG's to a wide array of destinations (check out the manual for a full list of sources and destinations.. I have seldomly been disappointed in my experimentation so far). This allows for using the opsix as a type of modular/FM/ringmod/Wavetable synth that is very unique. I have been using it to create some otherworldly sounds.

There is a hardware version which is now discontinued as well as a VST. The hardware might still be available new some places. The VST seems to go on sale in the summer and black friday each year for 99, but is normally 199. It's really a very interesting sound design tool, and the mod matrix and different FM modes allow for some new possibilities in comparison to the classic DX type of sound, but there may be other options out there too.

Native Instruments FM8 might be able to do some of these things I describe as well, and has more operators (though I find 6 to be sufficient). I find the hardware to be flimsy and somewhat lacking in physical controls, but the UI to be elegant and fairly fast. The sequencer is deceptively powerful for only being 16 steps as almost any parameter can be automated. Feel free to mail me with any further questions
posted by boredoms at 6:08 PM on September 7, 2023 [3 favorites]

Response by poster: Thanks for the answer. I feel completely ashamed to admit, but I actually have the physical opsix...
I haven't done anything with my gear since I first tried it after getting it on clearance (depression/burnout). I should have realized it would allow for routing like that.

I should take this as a sign :)
posted by symbioid at 8:30 PM on September 7, 2023 [1 favorite]