Video Chat with a Pro Audio Expert - Live

Korg Volca FM Digital FM Synthesizer

BH #KOVOLCAFM2 • MFR #VOLCAFM2
Print
Korg Volca FM Digital FM Synthesizer
Key Features
  • Polyphonic FM Synthesis
  • 6-Voice Polyphony
  • 6 Operators and 32 Algorithms
  • Loop Sequencer + Parameter List Guide
Fans of digital synthesizers and FM synthesis will be inspired by version 2 of the Korg Volca FM, a compact, linkable, fun, and affordable polyphonic digital synthesizer with unique sounds, effects, and an easy-to-use sequencer. Building upon the success of the original Volca FM, Korg ups the ante with more polyphony, effects, presets locations, and connectivity. Version 2 now sports six voices, a lush reverb, 64 preset locations, and MIDI in and out via 3.5mm jacks.
More Details
In Stock
No Store Display
Free 2-Day Shipping
Protect Your Gear
Add a protection plan from $23.00
Ask an Expert
800-606-6969

Korg Volca FM2 Overview

Fans of digital synthesizers and FM synthesis will be inspired by version 2 of the Korg Volca FM, a compact, linkable, fun, and affordable polyphonic digital synthesizer with unique sounds, effects, and an easy-to-use sequencer. Building upon the success of the original Volca FM, Korg ups the ante with more polyphony, effects, presets locations, and connectivity. Version 2 now sports six voices, a lush reverb, 64 preset locations, and MIDI in and out via 3.5mm jacks.

Version 2 of Volca FM faithfully reproduces the sounds of classic FM synthesizers with sharp metallic sounds, notable electric pianos, and deep full bass. The unit features 32 algorithms that provide complete compatibility and can even load files in the SysEx/SYX format of the Yamaha DX7. The Volca FM 2 makes editing patches easy and accessible with single knobs mapped to multiple parameters. Hardcore programmers can menu dive into full parameter edits with the included parameter list guide.

Double the Power
  • With 6 voices in Version 2 (instead of the 3 of its predecessor), the 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.
  • Moreover, the updated 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 + External Sequencing and Connectivity
  • By popular request, Volca FM now 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 want.
  • In addition to MIDI in, the Volca FM includes a MIDI out (in/out via 3.5 mm TRS), making it possible to use the intuitive Volca internal sequencer to control other devices through MIDI—a perfect addition to your standalone setup.
  • Of course it also works well with your DAW of choice, thanks its ability to recieve note, control, and clock via the MIDI input.
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 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 Version 2 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, Version 2 of 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.
Full Classic SysEx/SYX Compatibility
Next-gen 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 SysEx/SYX format.
Super-Easy Sound Editing
The Volca FM makes FM sound editing accessible with the Modulator and Carrier knobs. The knob movements are mapped to multiple parameters for sound changes that are easy to understand. FM enthusiasts can also menu dive into full parameter edits. The Volca FM comes accompanied with a parameter list guide to assist you in your explorations.
Unbeatable Form Factor
Following the Volca tradition, the new Volca FM comes in the same portable 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 / 12.6 oz (without batteries), it is the perfect standalone. Furthermore, with Sync in/out and MIDI in/out connections, it integrates seamlessly with your live rig, production studio, and any other Volca.
Free Online Editor
In collaboration with Oscillator Sink, the free online editor, old and new Volca FM users can easily modify their patches—no installation required.
Free Bundle of Music Software
The new Volca FM comes with a diverse variety of music software from Izotope including Ozone Elements to create songs and master them using AI; Skoove to help you improve your keyboard playing skills; Reason Lite DAW software; and software synths from KORG and other brands. The moment you get your hands on this synthesizer, you'll have a variety of tools to help you take your music to the next level.

Software for Mac/Windows

  • KORG Collection—M1 Le (synthesizer sound module)
  • UVI Digital Synsations (synthesizer sound module)
  • AAS Ultra Analog Session (synthesizer sound module)
  • AAS Strum Session (acoustic guitar sound module)
  • AAS Lounge Lizard Session (electric piano sound module)
  • Reason Studios Reason Lite (DAW music production software)
  • Skoove free 3 month trial of Skoove Premium (online piano lesson)
  • KORG Gadget 2 Le for Mac (DAW music production software)
  • iZotope Ozone Elements (Audio Mastering Plug-in Software)
EAN: 4959112233140

Korg Volca FM2 Specs

Key Specs
Sound Generation
Digital
Maximum Polyphony
3 Voice
Audio I/O
1/8" (3.5 mm)
MIDI I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Output
CV/Gate I/O
No
Patch Points
No
General
Synth Type
Desktop Synth Module
Kit Components
Sound Generation
Digital
Keyboard
No
Expression Controls
No
Number of Pads
27x Pad
Sounds
Display
LED
Maximum Polyphony
3 Voice
Built-In Effects
Yes
Built-In Speaker
No
Synthesis
Oscillators
1 (FM)
Mixer
No
Amplifiers
No
Envelopes
No
Filters
No
LFOs
No
Glide/Portamento
No
Sequencing & Recording
Sequencer
Number of Steps: 16
Pattern Chaining: Yes
Input/Record Modes: Step-Loop Record
Playback & Features: Active Step
Arpeggiator
Yes
Number of Recorder Tracks
1x MIDI
Media/Memory Card Slot
No
Connectivity
Audio I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm Output
Pedal Support
No
MIDI I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Output
CV/Gate I/O
No
Patch Points
No
Sync I/O
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm Sync Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm Sync Output
Network I/O
No
USB I/O
No
Bluetooth
No
Power
Power Requirements
Battery, DC Input
AC/DC Power Adapter
9 VDC (Not Included)
Battery Type
6x AA
Physical
Color
Black
Included Accessories
No
Dimensions
7.6 x 4.5 x 1.6" / 193 x 115 x 40 mm
Weight
12.7 oz / 360 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
1.755 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
10.7 x 7.2 x 2.9"

Korg Volca FM2 Reviews

Amazing little synth

By Peter
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-06-12

This should have made every musician's gift list last year. It's inviting to play with, and it's uncanny how serious the sound is from this tiny casio-like object. I wouldn't change a thing.

The DX7 in the size of a book!

By FON
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-08-11

I've owned quite a few Synthesizers in my life including the Yamaha DX7. At the time that Synth was quite unique. I have recently started to build a new Music Studio/Workstation with several different Synths and I wanted to explore bringing back some of that DX7 sound. Now that Korg Upgraded the Volca FM to 6 Voice Polyphonic I decided it was worth giving it a try and I am glad I did. Here are the Pros Real DX7 Sound Engine and Algorithms 6 Voice Polyphonic Velocity Sensitive via MIDI Added Reverb Effect which is actually very good Arpeggiator and 16 Step Sequencer (that you can join Sequences to build 32, 64, or even 256 sequences) 64 presets/locations. Many of the Presets are actually quite good Original DX7 Factory Patch Banks are available as a free download as well as over 1000 Free Online Patch Banks It Interfaces with several Free Editors like DEXED or Synthmata which makes creating and or editing sounds so much easier than what is was like on the Original DX7, In fact as much as I was pretty good at programming most Synths, I never got into doing much more than the Presets on the DX7 because is was such a difficult Deep Non Intuitive Menu Driven System. That was the biggest complaint about that Synth. Small Footprint, so for me it does not take up any room on my Workstation 3.5mm MIDI In and Out Sync In/Out to Interface with other gear CONS ( But I knew all of this upfront so not really Cons) Build Quality is very Plastic...ie" and Cheap feeling, but hey it's only $169.00 Cheap built in Speaker that is also pretty useless Keyboard is useless except for making settings or a quick test of what a patch sounds like. Get a Keystep or something similar. Does not support a Modulation Wheel or Sustain Pedal but that could be added with a Firmware Update. I hope Korg does this. Korg should include a 3.5mm to standard MIDI Connector cable, add an extra $5.00 to the cost or do away with the cheap speaker to cover the cost. When you buy one make sure it is the Type A version. To interface with your computer (which you are definately going to want to do) you will need either an Audio Interface or MIDI Interface Cable. Make sure you get one that will support and transmit SSY-EX/ SYX Data. Many of the cheaper off brand MIDI Interface Cables do not. I use the Roland UM-ONE-MK2, it costs a few dollars more but it works. Bottom Line, this a great sounding FM Synth, based upon the original DX7 Sound Engine, with HUGE improvements in your ability to program it at a incredibly low price.

See any errors on this page?
Whatever You Need, We've Got It