FM SYNTHESIS 101 FM Synthesis Explored

FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesis always had a reputation of being challenging to program, but once you learn it, it's a very rewarding synthesis method for sound designers and musicians. The most popular hardware FM synth is the vintage Yamaha DX7, but nowadays FM is available in a variety of software instruments. Thankfully it's much easier to program on a big computer screen than on a tiny DX7 16 x 2 LCD display! With its soft synth shootout approach, this course explores the creative possibilities offered by FM synthesis.

FM synthesis is very different from more traditional synthesis methods, so that's why Rishabh starts the course by diving into some important FM synthesis theory. Operators, carriers and modulators are clearly demonstrated using Reaktor Blocks. The differences between Exponential, Linear and Linear Thru Zero are also explained in an easy-to-understand fashion.

First in the synth shootout is the appropriately named Operator synth that comes bundled with Ableton Live. Rishabh reveals how to harness the FM power that lurks under Operator's deceptively simple user interface. He applies FM concepts by creating a deep and wide pad sound with Operator. Next, you get a tour of a Logic classic, the EFM1. This synth may date back to Logic's Emagic era, but as you will see and hear it still packs a lot of FM punch!

FL Studios user will like the following tutorials, where Rishabh covers Sytrus in detail, complete with a sound design example. Native Instruments FM8 is next on the menu. Like the other synths, all parameters are explored with another sound design demonstration.

Next, Rishabh covers a recent addition to Logic, the Retro Synth. The rich-sounding synthesis possibilities hidden under the FM tab are explored and demonstrated. The course concludes with the Arturia DX7 V, which is a virtual recreation of the most famous synth of all time, the Yamaha DX7.

So get ready to delve in Frequency Modulation synthesis with this course by Rishabh Rajan!