Plugin Boutique is currently offering a 75% discount on FM8 by Native Instruments, reducing the price to just $24.50 (regularly $99). To sweeten the deal, you’ll also get a free copy of Wave Alchemy Pulse with any purchase this month.
FM8 is a powerful FM synthesizer that’s earned its legendary status for good reason. While many FM synths emulate Yamaha’s DX7 with limited operator configurations, FM8 ditches that rigidity in favor of a highly flexible matrix system.
You can connect its six operators in virtually any way, creating everything from classic bell tones to sprawling cinematic textures and aggressive digital basslines.
If you’ve ever found FM synthesis confusing, FM8 is one of the more approachable plugins out there. The envelope system lets you draw complex modulations in a freeform way, almost like Absynth, and the Easy/Morph page helps beginners get started with simplified controls and patch morphing.
Sound-wise, FM8 still holds its own among modern synths. I love how it goes well beyond DX7 emulation by offering 32 waveforms per operator (compared to the DX7’s single sine wave), a robust effects rack, arpeggiator, and morphing functionality that adds real movement and complexity to patches.
The morphing grid is especially fun to use with a MIDI controller and perfect for evolving textures. I use it all the time for background layers in my cinematic projects.
FM8 can even load classic DX7 SysEx patches, enhancing them with stereo imaging, modulation, and effects. If you’ve got a collection of old patches (Lately Bass for the win!) or are just curious about old-school FM tones, FM8 lets you use them in your DAW and also breathe new life into them.
While there are some minor issues like the slightly convoluted morph matrix, they’re not deal-breakers. Overall, FM8 remains one of the most versatile and inspiring FM synths available.
If you’re new to FM, here’s a bit of advice. For me, a solid starting point is working with just two operators and experimenting with feedback. This stripped-down approach helps you understand the fundamentals without being overwhelmed by complexity.
Also, don’t dive into the filter section too early; FM is about harmonics, not subtractive filtering.
FM8 is compatible with Windows 10/11 and macOS 13+ (Apple Silicon supported). It comes in VST, AU, and AAX formats. You’ll need an internet connection for installation and activation, but it works offline after that.
Grab it now at Plugin Boutique and enjoy the bonus Wave Alchemy Pulse while you’re at it.
Get the deal: FM8 (75% OFF)
More
- BaconPaul releases Six Sines, an Open-Source TX81Z-inspired FM synth plugin
- Sonicbits releases the Exakt FM synth plugin and updates the FREE Exakt Lite to v2.0.
Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by Tomislav Zlatic.
