The ultimate compact FM synth is finally here.
The next-gen volca fm is a powerful 6-voice, 6-Operator FM synthesizer with all 32 classic algorithms, a 16-step loop sequencer, effects and a powerful arpeggiator that perfectly reproduces the sound of the classic Yamaha DX7 and is completely compatible with SYS-EX patches for the DX7 as well.
Battery (included) or adapter (optional) operated with built-in speakers and a compact and light chassis, the volca fm is the ultimate portable FM solution for all musicians.
This new generation – with double the voices of its predecessor, additional effects, expanded MIDI connectivity, and intuitive interface – is poised to bring unprecedented possibilities to your setup, and revolutionize your studio with new musical ideas.
Double power
With 6 voices (instead of the 3 of its predecessor) the new volca fm brings a new world of harmonic possibilities to your production.
Now it is possible to play, sequence or arpeggiate complex chords with up to 6 voices in order to bring a unique flavor to your music production. No more running out of voices when sequencing melody, harmony and bass all in one device!
Moreover, the new volca fm is now velocity sensitive via MIDI, which coupled with its 6 voice polyphony, provides a much more expressive and nuanced playing experience than ever before.
More Effects
By popular request, volca fm includes a lush Reverb effect in addition to the Chorus effect. Each of these two effects can be used and adjusted individually to add the finishing touch to any FM sound you are going for.
External sequencing and connectivity
In addition to MIDI IN the new volca fm also includes a MIDI OUT (IN/OUT 3.5 mm TRS), making it possible to use the intuitive volca internal sequencer to control other devices through MIDI, making it the perfect addition to your standalone setup. Of course, it also works well with your DAW of choice thanks to note, control, and clock receipt via the MIDI IN.
Powerful sequencer and functions
The internal sequencer offers looping up to 16 steps, allowing you to record your performance on the touch panel keyboard as you play. Up to 16 sequence patterns can be stored in the internal memory.
volca fm also incorporates a motion sequence function to record in real time all the subtle nuances of your playing and knob movements, letting you add time-varying change to the sound. This is a great way to polish your loops, and also lets you generate highly original live performances.
New program randomization and performance oriented functions
In order to spice things up, the new generation of volca fm includes a brand new program randomizer, letting you find new inspiration through happy accidents and unexpected patches.
Of course, it still incorporates highly acclaimed functions such as the warp active step, pattern chain and an improved arpeggiator, making it easy to create crazy looping rhythms and patterns.
In addition to the active step function that lets you skip steps during a sequence, the volca fm provides new functions that enable you to generate more irregular rhythms. If the active step is fewer than 16 steps, you can use the warp active step function to compensate so you occupy the same playback time as 16 steps; then by synchronizing the playback with another volca series unit, you can deliberately skew the step timing to generate truly unconventional performances.
Furthermore, the pattern chain function lets you connect multiple sequence patterns for successive playback, making it possible to construct large-scale developments of 32, 64, or even 256 steps by joining up to 16 sequences.
The volca fm perfectly reproduces the sound engine of the Yamaha DX7, the classic digital synthesizer that made the world aware of FM synthesis. Its six operators and 32 algorithms provide complete compatibility, and it can even load files in the SYS-EX/SYX format.
Unbeatable form-factor
Following the volca tradition, the new volca fm comes in a portable, small form factor that you can take anywhere. Totally hands on with plenty of knobs for on-the-fly sound editing, volca fm runs on 6 AA batteries, has an integrated speaker and at only 360g/12.6oz (without batteries) is perfect for stand-alone use. Furthermore, with SYNC IN-OUT and MIDI IN-OUT connections, it integrates seamlessly with your live rig, production studio and of course any other volca!
Synthmata online editor
In collaboration with Oscillator Sink, old and new volca fm users can use the completely free online editor to easily modify their patches; no installation required.
Synthmata includes an 'intelligent randomizer' which allows you to describe the type of sound you want using 11 sound-quality sliders, Synthmata can then generate infinite patches to help spark your creativity.
- Power
- Power Supply
- AA alkaline battery x 6 or AA nickel-metal hydride battery x 6
Or AC adapter (DC 9V) (optional)
- Battery Life
- Approximately 10 hours (
How much is my shipping?
Shipping is automatically calculated before you submit your payment information. Simply add items to your cart and proceed to the checkout page, where you'll be offered shipping options and their prices. In the UK it's normally around £4 for order values under £150, and free above that. Shipping to mainland EU is typically between £7 and £20, depending on the shipping method and the size and weight of the order.
Do you ship to my country?
Almost certainly - the site will give you an estimate of shipping costs if you add an item to the cart and then enter your country and postcode. If you have specific requirements (such as if you prefer UPS over FedEx, for example) then let us know in advance and we'll try to work something out for you.
Shipping methods
We use a combination of Parcelforce, DPD, Royal Mail and UPS for the UK, and for international orders it's either Royal Mail, UPS, DHL or FedEx depending on where you are in the world. If you have a particular preference then try to let us know BEFORE you order so we can look into it for you. Please note that there may occasionally be additional shipping charges if you live in a remote area, depending on what surcharges are applied by the shipper. We'll get in touch to discuss this with you in such cases.
Dispatch times
For UK orders, we normally dispatch the same working day if we get the order before 15:00. If you have a really urgent situation then of course drop us an email before ordering and we'll always do our absolute best to accommodate you.
For international orders, we normally dispatch the same day if we get the order before 13:00 but again, occasionally it might be the next day before we can send it out, and sometimes FedEx or UPS may come a little earlier than scheduled which would also push an order into the next day.
Shipping times
Since April 2020 the couriers we use have suspended guarantees for shipping times, so even though we're paying them for priority services - 24-48 hours for most of the world - in practice it's often an extra day on top and sometimes it can be longer.
There is absolutely nothing we can do about this unfortunately. If you are outside the UK and it's a life-or-death situation where you absolutely MUST have that passive mult for the next day then... it may be better to find a local supplier.
Saturday shipping
If you're in the UK and you order before 15:30 on a Friday then we can send something for a Saturday delivery (NB: this applies to UK mainland addresses only). The success rate with DPD is about 95% so it's worth a punt most of the time. Please note that if you select Saturday shipping on an order placed earlier in the week, we'll wait until Friday to ship it.
Pre-orders
If a product is listed as a pre-order, it means we've ordered it from the supplier but it's not physically in stock yet. The product listing will include an estimated shipping date based on the best information we have from the supplier, but do bear in mind this is subject to change and is not a guaranteed date.
If you place an order containing a mixture of in-stock and pre-order items, we'll normally hold off on shipping anything until the pre-order item(s) have arrived, rather than splitting it into multiple shipments. If you need the in-stock items sooner, we'd recommend placing separate orders. As always, please get in touch if you have questions.
Product Overview
The ultimate compact FM synth is finally here.
The next-gen volca fm is a powerful 6-voice, 6-Operator FM synthesizer with all 32 classic algorithms, a 16-step loop sequencer, effects and a powerful arpeggiator that perfectly reproduces the sound of the classic Yamaha DX7 and is completely compatible with SYS-EX patches for the DX7 as well.
Battery (included) or adapter (optional) operated with built-in speakers and a compact and light chassis, the volca fm is the ultimate portable FM solution for all musicians.
This new generation – with double the voices of its predecessor, additional effects, expanded MIDI connectivity, and intuitive interface – is poised to bring unprecedented possibilities to your setup, and revolutionize your studio with new musical ideas.
Double power
With 6 voices (instead of the 3 of its predecessor) the new volca fm brings a new world of harmonic possibilities to your production.
Now it is possible to play, sequence or arpeggiate complex chords with up to 6 voices in order to bring a unique flavor to your music production. No more running out of voices when sequencing melody, harmony and bass all in one device!
Moreover, the new volca fm is now velocity sensitive via MIDI, which coupled with its 6 voice polyphony, provides a much more expressive and nuanced playing experience than ever before.
More Effects
By popular request, volca fm includes a lush Reverb effect in addition to the Chorus effect. Each of these two effects can be used and adjusted individually to add the finishing touch to any FM sound you are going for.
External sequencing and connectivity
In addition to MIDI IN the new volca fm also includes a MIDI OUT (IN/OUT 3.5 mm TRS), making it possible to use the intuitive volca internal sequencer to control other devices through MIDI, making it the perfect addition to your standalone setup. Of course, it also works well with your DAW of choice thanks to note, control, and clock receipt via the MIDI IN.
Powerful sequencer and functions
The internal sequencer offers looping up to 16 steps, allowing you to record your performance on the touch panel keyboard as you play. Up to 16 sequence patterns can be stored in the internal memory.
volca fm also incorporates a motion sequence function to record in real time all the subtle nuances of your playing and knob movements, letting you add time-varying change to the sound. This is a great way to polish your loops, and also lets you generate highly original live performances.
New program randomization and performance oriented functions
In order to spice things up, the new generation of volca fm includes a brand new program randomizer, letting you find new inspiration through happy accidents and unexpected patches.
Of course, it still incorporates highly acclaimed functions such as the warp active step, pattern chain and an improved arpeggiator, making it easy to create crazy looping rhythms and patterns.
In addition to the active step function that lets you skip steps during a sequence, the volca fm provides new functions that enable you to generate more irregular rhythms. If the active step is fewer than 16 steps, you can use the warp active step function to compensate so you occupy the same playback time as 16 steps; then by synchronizing the playback with another volca series unit, you can deliberately skew the step timing to generate truly unconventional performances.
Furthermore, the pattern chain function lets you connect multiple sequence patterns for successive playback, making it possible to construct large-scale developments of 32, 64, or even 256 steps by joining up to 16 sequences.
The volca fm perfectly reproduces the sound engine of the Yamaha DX7, the classic digital synthesizer that made the world aware of FM synthesis. Its six operators and 32 algorithms provide complete compatibility, and it can even load files in the SYS-EX/SYX format.
Unbeatable form-factor
Following the volca tradition, the new volca fm comes in a portable, small form factor that you can take anywhere. Totally hands on with plenty of knobs for on-the-fly sound editing, volca fm runs on 6 AA batteries, has an integrated speaker and at only 360g/12.6oz (without batteries) is perfect for stand-alone use. Furthermore, with SYNC IN-OUT and MIDI IN-OUT connections, it integrates seamlessly with your live rig, production studio and of course any other volca!
Synthmata online editor
In collaboration with Oscillator Sink, old and new volca fm users can use the completely free online editor to easily modify their patches; no installation required.
Synthmata includes an 'intelligent randomizer' which allows you to describe the type of sound you want using 11 sound-quality sliders, Synthmata can then generate infinite patches to help spark your creativity.
Technical Specs
Shipping Details
How much is my shipping?
Shipping is automatically calculated before you submit your payment information. Simply add items to your cart and proceed to the checkout page, where you'll be offered shipping options and their prices. In the UK it's normally around £4 for order values under £150, and free above that. Shipping to mainland EU is typically between £7 and £20, depending on the shipping method and the size and weight of the order.
Do you ship to my country?
Almost certainly - the site will give you an estimate of shipping costs if you add an item to the cart and then enter your country and postcode. If you have specific requirements (such as if you prefer UPS over FedEx, for example) then let us know in advance and we'll try to work something out for you.
Shipping methods
We use a combination of Parcelforce, DPD, Royal Mail and UPS for the UK, and for international orders it's either Royal Mail, UPS, DHL or FedEx depending on where you are in the world. If you have a particular preference then try to let us know BEFORE you order so we can look into it for you. Please note that there may occasionally be additional shipping charges if you live in a remote area, depending on what surcharges are applied by the shipper. We'll get in touch to discuss this with you in such cases.
Dispatch times
For UK orders, we normally dispatch the same working day if we get the order before 15:00. If you have a really urgent situation then of course drop us an email before ordering and we'll always do our absolute best to accommodate you.
For international orders, we normally dispatch the same day if we get the order before 13:00 but again, occasionally it might be the next day before we can send it out, and sometimes FedEx or UPS may come a little earlier than scheduled which would also push an order into the next day.
Shipping times
Since April 2020 the couriers we use have suspended guarantees for shipping times, so even though we're paying them for priority services - 24-48 hours for most of the world - in practice it's often an extra day on top and sometimes it can be longer.
There is absolutely nothing we can do about this unfortunately. If you are outside the UK and it's a life-or-death situation where you absolutely MUST have that passive mult for the next day then... it may be better to find a local supplier.
Saturday shipping
If you're in the UK and you order before 15:30 on a Friday then we can send something for a Saturday delivery (NB: this applies to UK mainland addresses only). The success rate with DPD is about 95% so it's worth a punt most of the time. Please note that if you select Saturday shipping on an order placed earlier in the week, we'll wait until Friday to ship it.
Pre-orders
If a product is listed as a pre-order, it means we've ordered it from the supplier but it's not physically in stock yet. The product listing will include an estimated shipping date based on the best information we have from the supplier, but do bear in mind this is subject to change and is not a guaranteed date.
If you place an order containing a mixture of in-stock and pre-order items, we'll normally hold off on shipping anything until the pre-order item(s) have arrived, rather than splitting it into multiple shipments. If you need the in-stock items sooner, we'd recommend placing separate orders. As always, please get in touch if you have questions.
