How do you make sounds with FM Synthesis?

FM synthesis (also known as Frequency Modulation synthesis) is a powerful and easily accessible style of sound synthesis that is used in a host of musical styles, from pop and techno to cinematic scoring. Today, many modern synthesizers use the FM synthesis model to create a wide range of amazing sounds, often in combination with traditional analog synthesis. So, how do you make sounds with FM synthesis?

The basics of FM synthesis involve combining oscillators with modulators to control the frequency of an audio signal. Different harmonics can then be created in an oscillator, while a modulator changes the frequency of the oscillator over time. This creates a whole variety of useful sounds, including basses, strings, pads and a range of natural and electronic percussive sounds, such as those commonly found in techno music.

The best way to get started with FM synthesis is to experiment and explore, using either a dedicated hardware FM synthesis unit or software-based synth. Before you begin, it’s important to understand the parameters available to you, such as the number of oscillators, the exact type of FM synthesis (4-op, 6-op etc.), the ratio of oscillators to modulators and the type of envelope shaping. With these fundamental parameters in mind, you can start to build sounds from scratch.

For example, you might start by creating a basic oscillator sound with a low note and then add a modulator to control its frequency. By adjusting the number of oscillators and their harmonic content, as well as adjusting the modulators, you can shape the sound to your liking. Once you have a basic sound created, you can then use the parameter envelope controls to adjust the sound’s attack and decay, release, and sustain – changing the way the sound behaves when played.

By combining FM synthesis with other synthesis techniques such as subtractive and additive synthesis, you can create unique and intricate sounds or even entire tracks. With some practice and experimentation, you can become adept at making amazing sounds with FM synthesis, from expressive digital strings to distorted basslines and creative percussion.

FM synthesis is a great way to access a wealth of sound design possibilities. With an understanding of the fundamentals and a willingness to experiment and explore, anyone can make great sounds easily with FM synthesis!