Until the end of August, you can get the infamous FM8 softsynth by Native Instruments for just 10$ at PluginBoutique.
This is a great opportunity to save and grab this classic FM synth monster!
In addition, you get iZotope Neutron 4 Elements or Excite Audio Lifeline Console Lite as a gift with the purchase.
FM8 might look old-fashioned and not user-friendly, especially compared to modern FM8 synth plugins, which may have a more attractive and resizable GUI with cool new features.
Still, even if FM8 has been around for more than 15 years, it’s one of the most powerful and flexible FM synths on the market.
Originally it was conceived as a successor to FM7, which tried to bring the complex but versatile algorithm structure of the Yamaha DX7 to our DAWs in a more convenient way.
Indeed, the core of FM8 relies upon its programmable matrix modulation with six operators, effects, and external input.
The vast array of controls is spread over pages, like the Arpeggiator panel or Effects page.
One of the most advanced and coolest features of this synth is the graphical envelope stage, which allows up to 32 breakpoints, looping, and tempo synchronization. This can be hugely powerful and very handy for building intricate, evolving pads or sequences.
Also very handy is the option to see all of the operators’ envelopes stacked on top of each other at a glance. This lets you instantly visualize the overall envelope behavior of your current patch and how each operator interacts with each other.
FM8 excels at classic FM sounds like digital keys, bells, and punchy basslines. It also works for more experimental and complex sounds like monster basses you hear in classic Skrillex and Noisia tracks.
Together with Massive, FM8 has been a bass music producer’s first choice for several years. I think it’s a great sound design environment to learn for those of you interested in the pure synthesis process.
While Massive got its Massive X redesign and fresh update back in 2019, FM8 didn’t. So you may ask, is it about to be discontinued like Absynth?
It doesn’t seem so, or at least not soon. Last year, Native Instruments released a VST3 version as well as native Apple Silicon M1/M2 support for FM8.
It also offers NKS support and a huge amount of presets for those looking after quick-access sounds.
It’s compatible with macOS and Windows systems and runs as a VST, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin.
Get the deal: FM8 (10$ until the 31st of August!)
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