Reader Xavier Hosxe sends word about a new DIY synth project, preenFM.
preenFM is an open source and open hardware project that lets you build a hardware FM synth module.
Features:
- 9 different FM algorithms with up to 6 operators
- Each operator includes a pair of oscillator and ADSR envelope
- Oscillator : 7 waveforms (4 sin variation + noise + square + sawtooth), linked to keyb freq or fix, fine tune
- Up to 4 voice polyphony with 3 operators FM algorithm, up to 3 voice polyphony with 4 operators FM algorithm and up to 2 with 6 operators FM algorithm.
- Glide available when voice set to 1
- 3 standard LFOs (4 waveforms (saw, ramp, square, random), frequency in Hz, ramp up to 4 seconds, reset on new note).
- 1 Env type LFO
- 8 rows modulation matrix – 12 different sources and 24 destinations
- 4 banks of 128 user presets
- System exclusive to exchange patches and banks with a computer
- Midi control : 44 control input/output control changes linked to parameters
- Nrpn : input/ouput of all paremeters
- Midi channel selectable : Midi for other channges can be forwarded to plug several PreenFM in serial
- Large readable 4×20 LCD
- Friendly surface controle : You always clearly see on the screen what you’re currently editing
- Sampling rate : 32768 Hz (Makes integer division faster). Pseudo 11 bits.
- 1024 Hz for LFO and modulation matrix
- 6th order butterworth analog filter to convert the 1 bit output into a nice waveform
- Transparent case that allows you to see every day your nice work
preenFM is going to be made available in limited quanities in mid-December. Hosxe says that there will be a batch of 20 kits, priced at 130 euros + shipping for the full kit.
See the preenFM site for details.
So, what have we learned from this video?
How NOT to make a synthesizer product video:
1. Show us the silent box for five minutes while the designer mumbles on about how f—–g great it is;
2. Give a cursory demonstration with really poor sound;
3. Be vague about price and availability;
4. Fill the video with feeble jokes and gimmicks.
How to make a GREAT synthesizer video:
1. Show us the box, features, knobs, connectors etc. briefly from all angles;
2. Give us a full and thorough demonstration of the capabilities, cool sounds and software features;
3. Let the product speak for itself;
4. Make sure the video features one or more provocatively-oiled sexie laydeez, as we all know that sex sells.
Pity about (4); however, in eight minutes (which felt like three), Xavier did a superb job of selling me this device. Thanks Xavier; I now know that I want one. 9.5 out of 10.
Hit #4 and you’ve got a sale.
Great to see a hardware synth at a good price. Hardware beats software any day.
Well done, FM synths are great. The yamahe dx 100 is the classic!!
Well done
Thanks for the nice feedbacks.
I’m glad you like the Video 🙂
I didn’t show the modulation matrix and the LFO, i’ll make an other video for that.
Xavier
What? There’s more? :-O
I can barely tie my shoes so how’s about a prebuilt option?
That’s cool, 2 oscillators per operator is pretty slick. Like the rockit I think I have to pass even though I really want both. I have purchased too many synths in the last year (never thought I would say that). It’s a testament to the amazing amount of cool affordable diy synths there are nowadays, (I finished my shruthi1, haven’t even got to my sammichFM or my meeblip, like I said, too many synths)