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.

46 Visitor comments

slow-learner

January 24, 2013 @ 2:45 pm

Don't get a FB-01 - they [beep] . Get an MT-32 if you can find one. WAY cooler sounds.

Jens

January 21, 2013 @ 11:23 pm

Hi tool
Why not try the dxi fm synth for iPhone? Or IPad. You get similar sound. You must have one of them of cause since there is no program for android.

The DX7 can produce sounds like the above module just use the same algorithm. Of cause it takes a little programming. I would choose the DX7 anytime.

Br
Jens

Tool

January 1, 2013 @ 3:53 pm

I'm thinking of getting a FB01, but still not sure wether to get a DX7 instead.
I'm sure the DX7 is a much more powerful machine in terms of sound and I like to edit sounds and have it all in the same box. But on the other hand the FB01 has that sega megadrive/genesis sound that I really love. Very noisy and metallic. Is the DX7 capable of the same thing ? Does it come close enough ?

purple karé

December 31, 2012 @ 2:28 am

Mastermind Geir Jenssen from "Biosphere" used this soundmodul next to an AKAI S 3000 on his mindblowing "substrata"- album.