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Average Price: $130
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$249
$700+
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Description
Introducing the Korg Volca FM, a new age synthesizer that brings the classic and contemporary together. As part of the renowned Volca series, this three-voice digital FM synthesizer effortlessly reproduces the sound engine of a classic FM synthesizer, while offering full compatibility with it. Whether you're an FM synthesis expert or not, the Volca FM's unique interface allows you to easily manipulate distinctive FM sounds.
With the 16-step sequencer, one of Volca's signature features, you get access to new functionalities such as WARP ACTIVE STEP and PATTERN CHAIN, empowering you to create even more dynamic rhythm patterns. The Volca FM harks back to the golden era of synthesizers with its FM (Frequency Modulation) sound generation, delivering metallic and sharp sounds reminiscent of electric piano and synth bass, adored by musicians since the 1980s.
Volca FM doesn't stop at merely reproducing these classic sounds. It comes equipped with a lush chorus effect to add a richer dimension to your sounds, expanding its sound-creating potential. The loop sequencer allows up to 16 steps, letting you record your performance on the touch panel keyboard as you play. The motion sequence function records your knob movements, allowing you to add time-varying changes to the sound, perfect for refining your loops and generating original live performances.
Key Features:
- 3-voice polyphonic FM synthesizer, fully compatible with classic unit
- Easy sound editing with MODULATOR/CARRIER super-easy edit knobs
- Onboard CHORUS effect for added depth
- Volca-style sequencing and more
- 16-step sequencer for automating each parameter
- WARP ACTIVE STEP, ARPEGGIATOR, and PATTERN CHAIN for creating diverse rhythm patterns
- Ability to create a clone by synchronizing two units of Volca FM
- Compact size, battery operation, and built-in speaker for high playability and portability
- Power supply not included
Product specs
| Brand | Korg |
| Model | Volca FM Digital Synthesizer/Sequencer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2016 - 2022 |
| Categories | Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output |
| Polyphony | 3 Voices |
FAQs
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Is the Korg Volca FM polyphonic?
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Yes, the Korg Volca FM is a polyphonic synthesizer, offering 3-voice polyphony, which allows for more complex and layered sounds.
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Can the Korg Volca FM be used with a MIDI controller?
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Yes, the Korg Volca FM has MIDI input and output, allowing it to be controlled by an external MIDI controller for enhanced playability and integration into your setup.
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What type of synthesis does the Korg Volca FM use?
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The Korg Volca FM uses digital FM synthesis, emulating the classic sound engine of vintage FM synthesizers, which is known for its rich, complex tones.
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Does the Korg Volca FM have a built-in sequencer?
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Yes, the Korg Volca FM includes a built-in sequencer, enabling users to create and perform sequences directly on the device.
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How portable is the Korg Volca FM?
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The Korg Volca FM is compact and lightweight, making it highly portable and ideal for live performances or mobile music production setups.
Videos
Knobs
Korg - Volca FM
Reviews
PROS
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Accepts Yamaha DX7 patches, enhancing its sound library
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Six operators per voice for richer sounds
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Built-in sequencer and arpeggiator for creative compositions
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Portable with battery operation option
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Offers vast sound design potential with FM synthesis
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Can be integrated into modular setups
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Affordable entry into FM synthesis
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Compatible with Dexed for expanded patch use
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Fun and accessible for beginners and experts
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Can produce deep bass frequencies and complex sounds
CONS
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Limited to 3 voice polyphony
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Does not respond to velocity or program changes via MIDI
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Power adapter not included, causing inconvenience
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Built-in keyboard is not the best for playing
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Complicated patching process for beginners
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Lacks USB power option, seen as outdated
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Default presets may not appeal to all users
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Cannot control other devices via MIDI
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 15 Reviews and 105 Ratings
308
Sounds Amazing, Midi is In only
Great, and powerful FM engine. But, it can't be used to control other devices via midi.
It's sync can be used in Modular setups very easily, which is a huge bonus.
286
Seems so amazing!!!!
280
Small package, big DX7 sounds
Very small and portable, fun to take around and play with. Also great for performances, and adding it to your other synths for song recording.
41029
worth buying even thouh I own a vintage DX7 mk2?
280
If you own a DX7 I don't know much of a reason to buy this, although it might be fun to travel around with and practice when you can't carry the DX7. Alternatively you could use it to layer more DX7 style sounds on top of your DX7.
41029
actually the DX7 IIFD? its a beast.... way big and heavy, not fun to lug around nor is it something I keep out on a stand all the time as mucha s I happen to love it... I was kinda interested in the tweakability of this little guy, you can't change parameters while playing on a DX.... and the smallness, yes
141
Surreal.
Som em FM, com aquela pegada dos anos 80 podendo viajar na brincadeira e nos timbres.
Artist usage
Add artist
MUST DIE Shows his Volca FM in this picture compilation, with the caption: "THIS PAST FEW MONTHS HAVE BEEN SO GOOD"
Chris Vrenna lists the Korg Volca FM under "Hardware synths" on his official website.
In the YouTube video titled "Volca FM Keystep PO-12 Cuckoo Jam," True Cuckoo showcases his use of the Korg Volca FM, highlighting its capabilities during a jam session.
Scott Munro shared a photo of a Korg Volca FM on Instagram, suggesting it was likely used during the Preoccupations album tour.
𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐄
Boredbrain Patchulator, BOSS BD-2, BOSS DD-8, Caline CP-17, Chase Bliss blooper, Chase Bliss MOOD, dbx PB-48, Digital Music Corp MX-8, EarthQuaker Avalanche Run, Jamatar GENAJAM, KORG volca bass, KORG volca FM, KORG volca keys, KORG volca modular, MAM MB33, Peavey EQ31, Pigtronix Resotron, Roalnd JV-1080, Roland SC-88 Pro, SEGA Mega Drive VA6 w/ genMDM, t.c. electronic D-TWO
Listed and featured in this October 20, 2019 Instagram post.
My new studio is finally set up. I wanted a studio that didn’t feel too clinical or sterile; a place that I can feel comfortable and relaxed when writing music. That meant lots of light and plants. I can’t wait to fully dive in and start creating in this room. Equipment list for people who are interested in that sort of thing:
- MacBook Pro
- Munro Egg 150 Speakers
- Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 interface
- Kemper profiler amp
- Prophet 6
- Microkorg XL
- Roland Ju-06
- Korg Volca FM
- Korg Monotron Delay
- Teenage Engineering PO-20
- Teenage Engineering PO-12
- Akai APC40
- Mackie Big Knob
- Fender Telecaster Select
- Martin D-15M Streetmaster
- Fender P-Bass
- Ibanez S-Series Prestige
- LTD Explorer
- Boss GT-8 pedalboard
- Merlin Seagull
- Balalaika
- Aston microphones
- Aston Halo
- SE electronics microphones
- iPad
- Stroh-violin
- Zither
- Hapi Tongue Drum
- Udu drum
- Burmese Saung
- Xylophone
- Buckets of percussion
- Sitar
- Somali Cat
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Korg Volca FM, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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