EssenceFM - Modern High-End FM Synthesizer

US Graphical approach to editing aims for simplicity without sacrificing power 17/06/19

Kodamo has announced the EssenceFM, which they describe as a modern high-end synthesizer dedicated to FM synthesis. Here's the story in their own words...

EssenceFM features the super powerful VFM engine (Variable Frequency Modulation) we designed, allowing flexibility in sound design and a lot of polyphony.

We are huge FM synthesis fans, but were disappointed with ergonomics and limitations we found in all FM synths. That's how the EssenceFM is born. It follows a very straightforward, graphical approach to make sound editing fun and easy : operator's outputs are shown in real time during playback, envelopes are displayed as editable graphical curves, operators can be drag&drop to build the algorithm, waveforms are editable...

The EssenceFM aims for simplicity without sacrifying power.

Main features :

Free algorithm design using drag&drop
User-editable waveforms (free drawing & wave import)
300 voice polyphony (6-op FM voice with filter)
Up to 128 layered/splitted voices per patch
Graphical envelopes
Useable as a rack or table-top module
2 integrated effects processors
Professional sound quality with 32-bit DSPs, 24-bit DAC, >100dB SNR
Ultra fast boot time (< 3 seconds)
Upgradable firmware

This video shows the prototype shown at the SynthFest event in France, 7-9 june 2019. Hardware conception and preset sounds aren't finished, but most of the features have already been implemented.