FM Synthesis

FM synthesis creates sound by using one oscillator (the modulator) to rapidly vary the frequency of another (the carrier). This produces complex harmonic spectra that are difficult to achieve with subtractive synthesis. Simple FM ratios (1:1, 2:1, 3:1) create harmonic tones like electric pianos and bells. Complex or non-integer ratios create metallic, inharmonic timbres perfect for percussion and experimental sounds. FM synthesis was popularized by the Yamaha DX7 in 1983 and remains essential for electric piano, bell, and metallic sounds. Modern synths like Serum include FM as a warp mode, making it accessible within a wavetable workflow.