The FM8 from Native Instruments is a virtual synthesizer that starts off where the legendary Yamaha DX series of hardware synthesizers left off and then takes the sound of FM synthesis to a new level. The software goes far beyond just emulation - it adds distortion and filter operators, extensive modulation capabilities, a comprehensive effects section, audio input and much more to what was the traditional FM architecture.
An "Easy Edit Page" is a central aspect of the software and provides a clearly designed interface with simple controls that adjust more complex parameters automatically, allowing the user to take a far more musical approach to FM synthesis. The more detailed editing pages have been improved for easier handling and are all accessible with a single click.
A sound morphing feature provides a "vector-style" interface. Sounds can be dragged and dropped directly from the KoreSound Browser onto the four corners of the interface and the current preset can then be '"morphed" with the timbres of the additionally selected sounds. The movements can of course be automated.
A programmable arpeggiator offers a matrix of up to thirty-two steps and functions just like a step sequencer. An enhanced effects section features twelve effects, including a phaser flanger, tremolo, reverb and pitch-able delay. The FM8 also reads the complete sound library from the classic FM synthesizers.