The Korg volca fm 2:

• Desktop Synthesizer
• FM synthesis (from Yamaha DX-7)
• 6 voices
• 6 operators / 32 algorithms
• 64 memory locations
• Arpeggiator with 9 types
• Voice modes: Poly, Mono, Unison
• Chorus & Reverb effect
• Compatible with Yamaha DX-7 sounds (via SysEx)
• Step sequencer with motion sequence
• 16 patterns
• MIDI In & Out
• Sync In & Out
• Headphone output
• Built-in speaker
• Battery operation

Historical

In the early 80's Yamaha introduced the DX7, a digital synthesizer as the music making world had never seen before. Its sound and especially the extraordinary sound creation possibilities of the then new FM synthesis marked an important turning point and milestone in the history of synthesizers. To this day, the old DX series enjoys great popularity and can be found in numerous variations.

FM synthesis in the here and now

The volca fm 2 has the same sound architecture as its historical model and thus 6 operators and 32 algorithms that can be used to form a sea of classic synth sounds, but also totally wacky, atonal sounds with a metallic character. One of the special features of FM-Synthese is that even changing a single parameter to a few values tends to drastically change the sound depending on the configuration of the operators. Original sounds of the DX7 can also be imported via the MIDI connection. For deeper settings and a better overview of all parameters, Korg offers the free online editor SYNTHMATA. The sound generation, expanded to six voices, is rounded off with the two chorus and reverb.

Sequencer with parameter automation

The volca-type sequencer holds 16 patterns with a total step length of up to 16 steps in its memory. By chaining patterns, lengths of up to 256 steps are possible. For each pattern, several parameters can be recorded directly in a motion sequence. The sequencer is rounded off by live intervention options for the tempo as well as a Arpeggiator with nine different motifs, which should provide Italo disco moments especially in combination with the FM-Synthesis.