The volca fm is a three-voice digital FM synthesizer that completely reproduces the sound engine of a classic FM synthesizer, and provides compatibility with it as well. The unique volca interface makes it easy to manipulate distinctive FM sounds even if you're not familiar with the complexities of FM synthesis. The 16-step sequencer that's one of volca's features provides new functions such as WARP ACTIVE STEP and PATTERN CHAIN that let you make even more powerful rhythm patterns.
3-voice polyphonic FM synthesizer, fully compatible with classic unit
The appearance of FM (Frequency Modulation) sound generation was a major turning
point in the history of synthesizers. Its metallic and sharp sounds, most
notably electric piano and synth bass, have been loved by all music creators
since 1980 up to the present time. The volca fm perfectly reproduces the sound
engine of the classic digital synthesizer that made the world aware of FM
synthesis. Its six operators and 32 algorithms provide complete compatibility,
and it can even load files in the SYS-EX/SYX format of the Yamaha DX7.
Super-easy sound editing
The volca fm makes FM sound editing accessible with the MODULATOR/CARRIER
super-easy edit knobs – the knob movements are mapped to multiple parameters
for sound changes that are easy to understand. FM enthusiasts can also menu dive
into full parameter edits. The volca fm comes accompanied with a Parameter List
Guide to assist this.
Onboard CHORUS effect
Along with a perfect reproduction of the sound engine, the volca fm is also
equipped with a lush chorus effect to add depth to your sounds and further
expand its sound-creating potential.
16-step sequencer allows to automate each parameters
There’s a loop sequencer with up to 16 steps, allowing you to record your
performance on the touch panel keyboard just as you play. It’s easy to create
phrases that come to mind. Up to sixteen sequence patterns can be stored in
internal memory.
And the motion sequence function records your knob movements, letting you add time-varying change to the sound. This is great way to polish your loops, and also lets you generate highly original live performances.
WARP ACTIVE STEP, ARPEGGIATOR and PATTERN CHAIN make crazy looping rhythms
and patterns
In addition to the active step function that lets you skip steps during a
sequence, the volca fm provides new functions that enable you to generate more
irregular rhythms. If the active step is fewer than 16 steps, you can use the
warp active step function to compensate to occupy the same playback time as
16 steps; then by synchronizing the playback with another volca series unit,
you can deliberately skew the step timing to generate truly unconventional
performances.
In a first for the volca series, the volca fm is also equipped with an arpeggiator. By using this in conjunction with a motion sequence you can create extremely eccentric rhythm patterns.
Furthermore, the pattern chain function lets you connect multiple sequence patterns for successive playback, making it possible to construct large-scale developments of 32, 64, or even 256 steps by joining up to 16 sequences.
Make clone by synchronizing two units of volca fm
The volca fm provides a sync connector that can be easily connected to
Korg's groove machines. Connect this to the other volca series unit, the
electribe, or the SQ-1, and experience a session with synchronized sequencer
playback. And when two units of volca fm are connected, you can clone the sound
programs and sequence data from volca fm to volca fm.
The MIDI IN jack lets you use the volca as a sound module for DAW and MIDI controller.
Enjoy anywhere
With its compact size, battery operation, and built-in speaker, it's easy to
take the volca anywhere and perform any time.