Yamaha FB-01


The FB-01 is simply an inexpensive, 8 part multitimbral digital FM synth module. It's only a 4-operator synth which is less than, say a DX-7. This simply means its sounds are not quite as good. You will need an external MIDI system exclusive editor to edit the patches. This can be accomplished by a dedicated editor program like Unisyn, or by creating SysEx control messages within your sequencing program. The FB-01 has a lot of organ, piano, brass, bass, guitar, percussion, and lead sounds. Basically this is a good source of typical FM-sounds at a low price. It is used by Hardfloor and Moog Cookbook.
29 VISITOR COMMENTS
- Specifications
- Polyphony - 8 Voices
- Oscillators - Digital 4-operator FM synthesizer
- #Instruments - 8 Part multi-timbral
- Filter - None
- Effects - None
- Keyboard - None
- Memory - 240 presets, 96 user
- Control - MIDI (8 parts)
- Date Produced - 1986 - 1987
- Websites of Interest
- Resources & Credits
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Images from Perfect Circuit Audio.
Additional information provided by Jeff Bergman.
Errors or Corrections? Send them here.


The default patches are excellent (and plenty to choose from), the pianos are electrifying, personally better than the 6-OP counterparts. When connected to a DSP, it's sound comes to its own right.
Also if you want to create more rich sounds, it's always possible to layer them, using it's own UI, but accepting lower polyphony.
Great instrument!
I wouldn't mind having a read of that guide though! Get it posted please!