Skip to content
CATCHY PIANOS

CATCHY PIANOS

The World of Digital Piano & Keyboard Reviews

Menu
  • Home
  • By Usage
    • For Beginners
      • Digital Piano
      • Keyboard
      • Yamaha Keyboard for Beginners
      • Casio Keyboard for Beginners
    • For Kids
    • For Learning
    • For Stage
    • For Creating
    • For Home
    • For Intermediate Players
    • For Classical Pianist
    • For Advanced Pianist
  • By Type
    • Digital Piano
      • Yamaha Digital Piano
      • Casio Digital Piano
    • Keyboard Piano
    • Stage Piano
    • Upright Piano
      • Upright Piano Brands
      • Cheap Upright Piano
      • Kawai Upright Piano
    • MIDI Controller
      • 25 Key
      • 61 Key
      • 88 Key
      • For Beginners
      • Cheap MIDI Keyboard
      • Portable MIDI Keyboard
    • Synthesizer
    • Roll Up Piano
  • By Feature
    • Portable
      • Portable Digital Piano
    • White Keyboard
    • Best Sounding
    • Weighted Keys
    • Touch Sensitive
  • By Size
    • 61 keys
    • 73 keys
    • 76 keys
    • 88 keys
  • By Brand
    • 5 Best Brands
    • Yamaha
      • Upright Piano
    • Casio
    • Roland
    • Korg
    • Kawai
  • By Price
    • Under $3000
    • Under $2000
    • Under $1000
    • Under $500
    • Under $300
    • Under $200
    • Under $100
    • Best Price
    • Budget Digital Piano
  • Synthesizer
    • By Type
      • Analog Synth
      • Digital Synthesizer
      • Bass Synth
      • For Pads
      • Guitar Synth and Pedal
      • For Beginners
      • Portable Synthesizer
    • By Brand
      • Yamaha Synthesizer
      • Roland Synthesizer
    • By Price
      • Under $1000
      • Under $500
      • Under $300
      • Cheap Synth
  • REVIEWS
    • Yamaha
      • Yamaha P71
      • Yamaha P125
      • Yamaha NP12
    • Casio
      • Casio CTK-3500
      • Casio CTK-2550
      • Casio Privia PX-160
      • Casio LK-265
    • Roland
      • Roland FP-30
  • Guide
    • Synthesizers Vs. keyboards
    • Digital piano vs keyboard
    • Yamaha vs Casio
    • How Much Does a Piano Cost
    • What is An Upright Piano
    • How to Connect A MIDI Keyboard to An iPad
Menu
volca fm synthesizer

The 5 Best FM Synth Reviews 2022

Posted on by

FM synth is an incredible tool for anyone in the music industry and is a powerful form of synthesis that guarantees the production of clear sound output.

There are various FM synthesizers in the market, making it a bit tricky when selecting the best. For you to choose the most ideal, there are things you need to consider, includes; the sound quality, brand, cost, and features. The following article will provide you a guide on what to look for when choosing the right FM synth, the best FM brand synth, and a review of the five best FM synthesizers you should consider.

 

Table of Contents

  • 5 Best FM Synths On The Market
  • What is FM Synthesis?
  • How to Choose the Right FM Synth?
    • Features
    • Interface 
    • Brand
    • Sound Quality
    • Portability
    • Cost
  • Top 5 Best FM Synth Reviews
    • 1. Best Overall -Korg Volca Digital FM Synthesizer
    • 2. Runner Up -Yamaha REFACE Portable FM Synthesizer
    • 3. Best Budget -Elektron Digitone FM Synth
    • 4. Best Powerful -Yamaha MODX8 88 Key Synth
    • 5. Best Versatile -Teenage Engineering Synth with FM Radio
  • Best Brand of FM Synth
    • Korg
    • Roland
    • Yamaha
  • Conclusion

5 Best FM Synths On The Market

Photo Title Price Buy
Korg Digital FM...image Best Overall -Korg Volca Digital FM Synthesizer $142.00 Buy on Amazon
Yamaha REFACE DX...image Runner Up -Yamaha REFACE Portable FM Synthesizer Buy on Amazon
Elektron Digitone 8-Voice...image Best Budget -Elektron Digitone FM Synth Buy on Amazon
Yamaha MODX8 88-Key...image Best Powerful -Yamaha MODX8 88 Key Synth $2,199.00 Buy on Amazon
teenage engineering OP-1...image Best Versatile -Teenage Engineering Synth with FM Radio $1,699.00 Buy on Amazon

 

What is FM Synthesis?

fm synthesis

The idea behind FM synthesis was initially invented in 1967 by John Chowning at Stanford University. Later the concept was licensed and commercialized by Yamaha Corporation. In 1983 Yamaha released the DX7 as the first FM synthesizer. The patent by Stanford University on the FM synthesis expired in 1995, allowing Yamaha to use the technology freely.

FM synthesis stands for Frequency Modulation Synthesis and is an incredible tool used in the music industry.  It is one of the most important and useful types of synthesis. It is a digital form of synthesis that involves two-oscillator concepts that includes a modulator and the carrier.

The modulator modulates the timbres of a carrier without using filters to create new frequency information in the developing sound. In this concept, you only get the output from the carrier, and MIDI sources like a keyboard typically control its pitch.

FM synthesis can create sounds of harmonic and inharmonic nature. For the synthesizer to create a harmonious sound, the modulator should be in a harmonic relationship with the carrier.  A consonant sound implies that the sound grows progressively with an increase in the frequency of modulation. In enharmonic tones, the modulator has rates that are non-integer multiples to the carrier.

 

How to Choose the Right FM Synth?

buy best fm synthesizer

There are many models of FM synthesizers in the market, for an individual to choose the best FM synth, the following are some of the factors to consider.

  • Features

The best FM synth features are essential things that you should look out for when buying one.

The two main elements that you should look out for are the memory and the MIDI implementation. A higher ROM capacity is better as it will enhance in saving and expanding sounds.  However, it’s good to note that the more features you need, the higher the synthesizer’s cost.

  • Interface 

Different synthesizers have different user interfaces. The FM synth interface has a significant influence on how well you interact with it and the resulting sound. The usability and aesthetics of an FM synth are the two essential traits you should consider when assessing the interface.

Choose a synth that has an interface that is more program-friendly, and that is easy to use. The look might be non-factor to some, but if it matters to you, choose the one with an appealing look with inviting controls.

  • Brand

There are many brands in the market, but it is advisable to go for the best FM synth brand that is well known and has excellent reviews in producing great quality instruments.

A brand that has been around for many years will guarantee its quality and durability. Brands such as Roland, Yamaha, and Korg have been around for over thirty years.

  • Sound Quality

Everyone likes an instrument that produces excellent sound. When looking for the best FM synth, consider the quality of sound a synthesizer provides.

Some synth has the capability of creating particular sounds and textures while others can combine several sound styles. Therefore if you need a specific sound, you should consider a particular synth.

  • Portability

The weight of the best FM synth is an essential factor to consider. If you want an FM synth that you can move around with, you should opt for a lightweight synth that you can easily carry.

  • Cost

The price of the best FM synth varies a lot. The prices are mostly dependent on the features and brand of the synthesizer. Therefore, you should first determine your budget and buy one that is within your budget. The FM synth you choose should give you the value of your money.

 

Top 5 Best FM Synth Reviews

1. Best Overall -Korg Volca Digital FM Synthesizer

korg digital fm synth

CHECK PRICE

Brilliant features

  • 3-voice polyphonic synthesizer for perfect sound
  • Excellent motion sequencing feature
  • Easily imports DX7 patches
  • Its FM synth is portable and robust

Watch out for

  • Has a low voice count

Korg Volca Digital FM synthesizer machine links classic sounds formally found on the grove machine with the current dance music. It has a super and straightforward FM sound editing. The sound editing is made possible by the accessible modulators knobs. As a result, it equips FM enthusiasts with a menu that fully utilizes the edit parameters.

Korg Volca FM comes with a 3-voice polyphonic synthesizer that reproduces perfect sound. As a result, it made people aware of the FM synthesizer. With its 32 algorithms and six operators, it can load files that use the format of SYS-EX/SYX commonly found on Yamaha DX7 models.

This machine has an onboard chorus effect that is as a result of it synchronizing two units of Volca FM that enable the user to clone any sound program that has a sequence of data.

Check the Price on Amazon

 

2. Runner Up -Yamaha REFACE Portable FM Synthesizer

yamaha portable fm synthesizer

CHECK PRICE

Brilliant features

  • onboard multi-effects and unique additive synthesis
  • The machine is robust, quality, and portable
  • User friendly and produces quality sound
  • It has internal speakers and can use AA batteries

Watch out for

  • It has a primitive MIDI specification

With its new multi-touch control, Yamaha REFACE Synth enables you to operate with ease this powerful FM synthesizer. The machine can recall, store, and edit 32 voices with its onboard memory.

It has a robust four-operator sound FM engine that has an onboard multi-effects and unique additive synthesis. As a result, the machine is capable of adding depth to your sound.

It’s equipped with a 32 memory that enables you to recall and store your patches. With the help of its phrase lopper, when using this machine, you can capture your song’s ideas with ease.

Additionally, the machine uses six AA batteries for five working hours, making it reliable. The inbuilt USB port allows you to connect to IOS or computer devices.

Check the Price on Amazon

 

3. Best Budget -Elektron Digitone FM Synth

elektron fm

CHECK PRICE

Brilliant features

  • The user can manipulate the FM sound with ease
  • A unique and brilliant sound
  • Efficient audio inputs and MIDI tracks that make the machine to integrate with other gear well

Watch out for

  • The eight synthesizers make this product not ideal for beginners

Digitone FM synth is a prime and an excellent source of new timbres and sounds. With its all-metal and icy perfection, it also has an accessible FM synthesis that makes it unique.

It has a robust 8-voice synth that helps it combine subtractive synthesis and deep FM synthesis. With its Electron, Bridgit is easy to integrate your sequencer and digitone synth in your DAW.

This product has an ultra-digital feature that helps it to select multiple FM algorithms.

Check the Price on Amazon

 

4. Best Powerful -Yamaha MODX8 88 Key Synth

yamaha 88 key fm synth

CHECK PRICE

Brilliant features

  • High-quality sound with 128-note polyphony
  • Seamless sound switch
  • Has a user-friendly interface
  • It can create up to 192 different instrument options
  • The synthesizer is lightweight and weighs 42 pounds, making it portable

Watch out for

  • The touch interface screen needs some skills to operate
  • The color produced by super knob flashes can distract the user

The MODX8 synthesis engines are robust and allow the user to create unique sounds. This feature gives you unlimited potential when using it. With a unique design created to inspire your music-making, this synthesizes lightweight.

The MODX8 88 Key has a super knob that can continuously control 128 parameters in one performance. Additionally, with its seamless sound switch, you can comfortably change your performance without experiencing any cut off effects.

It has a total stereo note of 128 with AWM2 polyphony with an additional 64-notes of polyphony FM-X. These features make this synthesizer able to produce classic sounds and excellent playbacks.

Using this synthesizer gives you control over your motion sequences. As a result, you can completely control your synchronized tempo and assign them virtually to any parameter you want.

Check the Price on Amazon

     

5. Best Versatile -Teenage Engineering Synth with FM Radio

teenage sampler fm synthesizer

CHECK PRICE

Brilliant features

  • More synthesis and sequences that it offers the user
  • The design seems simple, but it has a robust control
  • It is excellent in attaining the required sound
  • Using the radio, you can sample different tones from the radio stations

Watch out for

  • It is not that user friendly and requires some time to figure out how the synthesizer works

With this machine, you can connect the OP-1 to a computer then use it to quickly drag and drop to the selected .aif file directly that you want to use. You can also use the mic if you desire to sample your work. Some of the features that make this synth stand out are as follows.

The synth can do a tape recording work to create beats, sequences, tweak, and play. This machine can easily arrange your notes in various ways using the help of one of the four unique sequencers. With the help of the onboard microphone, you can sample your sound from the different available sources like the FM radio.

Plus, with 16-hour battery life, you can travel and use this product without worry.

Check the Price on Amazon

 

Best Brand of FM Synth

volca fm synthesizer

There are many manufactures of FM synth in the market. Buying a synthesizer from a brand that has been operational for long is a surety of its quality. The three best brands of FM synth are; Korg, Roland, and Yamaha.

  • Korg

Korg is a Japanese company that has notably produced musical instruments over the years. It provides quality synthesizers that have stood the test of time.  FM synthesizers from Korg are associated with the following unique features;

  1. Quality sound – Korg synthesizers produce spectacularly rich tones that are clear and easy to listen to them. Also, it generates an authentic sound that mirrors sound patterns of real-life sound.
  2. Seamless connectivity – What sets this brand apart from others is that it comes with this connectivity feature. It has USB and SD storage features that allow you to share your content easily.
  3. Distinctive Design – The instruments from Korg are uniquely designed with an easy to use interface. Also, they have an appealing look and a compact size, making them highly portable.

>>Recommended Korg FM Synth – Korg Volca Synthesizer<<

korg digital fm synth

CHECK PRICE

 

  • Roland

Roland has been in existence since 1972 and is a choice for many musicians. Roland Corporation is a Japanese company that dominates the music industry and has been a leader in the production of digital synthesizers.

The following are some of the distinctive features that attribute onto why you should choose Roland synthesizers;

  1. Latest technology- Roland’s synthesizers feature the newest technology. This brand’s products allow you to experience up to date innovations.
  2. Highly versatile- Ronald’s instruments are highly versatile.  Its synthesizers can attach to accessories such as USB that enables you to enjoy a significant degree of convenience when using them.
  3. Variable tones -Synthesizers from Ronald Corporation are capable of generating variable tones. These synthesizers also can mimic many sounds that we make use of daily. Also, the sound produced is clear and easy to listen to.

>>Recommended Roland FM Synth – Roland SE-02<<

roland fm synth

CHECK PRICE

 

  • Yamaha

Yamaha is the most popular and largest manufacturer of musical instruments. This Multinational Corporation, based in Japan, dominates the market. Their musical instruments remain a highly preferred option among amateurs and professionals. Yamaha synthesizers have the best build quality and have arguably the best quality sound in the industry. The following are some of the great features of Yamaha synthesizer that set them apart from other manufacturers;

  1. Comprehensive control-With Yamaha synthesizers, you can easily control the sound and make your song performance stand out.
  2. High-quality Sound – Yamaha synthesizers are capable of producing broad-spectrum quality sound. Its sound output mimics natural voices.
  3. Less complicated interface- Yamaha produces synthesizers with a user interface that is easy to use and can interact with ease.

>>Recommended Yamaha FM Synth – Yamaha REFACE Synth<<

yamaha portable fm synthesizer

CHECK PRICE

 

Conclusion

Selecting the best FM synthesizer in the market is an uphill task for a majority of music lovers.  Knowing and understanding your product better is essential for synthesizers’ buyers.

A digital frequency moderator is a very useful synthesis that involves the use of two –oscillators’ concepts that involve a modulator and the carrier.   When selecting the best FM synthesizer, always take note of its features, cost, brand, sound quality, portability, and interface.

It is also good to note that their three best brands of FM synths, Korg, Yamaha, and Roland, have new and unique specifications that you might want to consider choosing. Also, going through the detailed list of the top five best FM synth reviews will assist you in making a quick decision on which synth best fits your needs.

Photo Title Price Buy
Korg Digital FM...image Best Overall -Korg Volca Digital FM Synthesizer $142.00 Buy on Amazon
Yamaha REFACE DX...image Runner Up -Yamaha REFACE Portable FM Synthesizer Buy on Amazon
Elektron Digitone 8-Voice...image Best Budget -Elektron Digitone FM Synth Buy on Amazon
Yamaha MODX8 88-Key...image Best Powerful -Yamaha MODX8 88 Key Synth $2,199.00 Buy on Amazon
teenage engineering OP-1...image Best Versatile -Teenage Engineering Synth with FM Radio $1,699.00 Buy on Amazon

 

Recent Posts

  • A Quick Guide to Relearning Piano
  • Top 30 Easy Disney Piano Songs For Beginners
  • Everything You Need to Know About Piano Grades
  • How to Clean Piano Keys?
  • How to Create Synth Pad?
  • How Much Does a Piano Cost?
  • Top 6 Best String Synth Reviews for 2022
  • What is An Upright Piano?
  • Digital Piano vs Acoustic Piano
  • What Are Weighted Keys On A Keyboard?

Categories

  • Blog
  • By Keys
  • By Price
  • Casio
  • Electric Piano
  • Guide
  • MIDI Keyboard
  • Reviews
  • Roland
  • Synthesizer
  • Yamaha

Top Reviews

  • Donner DEP 20 Portable Weighted Keyboard Piano Review
  • Yamaha YDP143 Digital Piano Review
  • Yamaha YDP 140 Digital Piano Review
  • Korg B2SP Digital Piano Review
  • Korg B1SP 88 Weighted Key Digital Piano Review

Best Keyboard Piano

best Keyboard piano

Quick Nevigation

By Type

Keyboards      Digital Pianos     Stage Piano

MIDI Controller     Synthesizer     Upright Piano

By Usage

For Beginners    For Kids      For Stage

For Learning      For Home    For Creating

For Classical Pianist

For Advanced Players

By Feature

Weighted Keys         Touch Sensitive

Portable      Best Sounding       White

By Brand

Yamaha     Casio     Roland

Korg           Kawai

By Price

Under 100      Under 300        Under 500

Under 1000      Under 2000       Under 3000

 

SITE INFO

  • Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Terms of Use
  • DMCA Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Affiliate Disclosure

Recent Posts

  • A Quick Guide to Relearning Piano
  • Top 30 Easy Disney Piano Songs For Beginners
  • Everything You Need to Know About Piano Grades
  • How to Clean Piano Keys?
  • How to Create Synth Pad?

CATEGORIES

  • Blog
  • By Keys
  • By Price
  • Electric Piano
  • Guide
  • MIDI Keyboard
  • Reviews
    • Casio
    • Roland
    • Yamaha
  • Synthesizer
©2023 CATCHY PIANOS | Built using WordPress and Responsive Blogily theme by Superb