opsix native

Name: opsix native
Price: 199 USD
Author: KORG

by KORG · Synth · Altered FM synth

Not rated yet

opsix native is the software version of KORG's opsix hardware, an FM synth whose operator mixer and alternative operator modes reach well past classic FM.

It adds polyphonic motion sequencing, 30 effect types and patch exchange with the hardware, for $199.

Best for: Keys & Synths, Bass, Sound Design. Genres: Electronic & EDM, Pop, Ambient & Cinematic.

Keywords: FM, sequencer, classic, polyphonic, warm, 80s, additive, basses, electric piano, evolving, leads, metallic, modulation matrix, modular, pads, randomize, sound design, subtractive.

What it does

opsix native is the plugin version of KORG's opsix hardware, an "Altered FM" synth with six operators. It starts from classic FM but lets operators do more than modulate each other, so the same engine covers subtractive, semi-modular, analog modeling, waveshaping, additive and classic FM sounds.

Six operators: besides standard FM, operators can act as processors for ring modulation, filtering and wavefolding, and they are not limited to sine waves.
Algorithms: 40 preset algorithms (the first 32 from the original DX7 plus eight new ones), with a graphical editor for building your own, and an operator mixer.
Shaping and modulation: multi-modelled filters, up to six envelopes, three LFOs and a 12-slot Virtual Patch modulation matrix; real-time oscilloscopes show what each operator is doing.
Motion sequencer: a polyphonic step sequencer with up to six notes per step and editable velocity, gate and timing, plus motion recording of up to six parameters.
Effects: three effect blocks drawing on 30 types, including chorus, phaser, delay, compressor and reverbs.
Randomize: scramble all parameters, or only the operators, the algorithm or the sequences.
Hardware link: patches move between the plugin and the opsix hardware through the Sound Librarian; the plugin also adds aftertouch support.

MusicTech notes a crossgrade for hardware owners, and Synth and Software mentions a demo.

Source: KORG product page

When to use it

opsix native is the pick for FM that does not have to sound like FM: its operator modes let one engine move from glassy digital tones to warmer, analog-style and wavefolded sounds. Compared with Arturia's DX7 V it is less of a vintage copy, and it cannot load original DX7 patches. Against Serum 2 or Phase Plant, which also offer FM, it is more focused on operator-based synthesis, with clearer algorithm graphics and a motion sequencer built in. It is also a natural pick for opsix hardware owners, since patches move both ways and the crossgrade is cheap.

Best for: FM basses, bells, electric pianos, metallic leads, evolving pads and sequenced patterns.
Genres: electronic, synth-pop and 80s-style pop, ambient and techno.
Look elsewhere if: you want an exact vintage DX7 with patch import (Arturia DX7 V), or a general-purpose synth with more engines in one window (Serum 2 or Phase Plant).
Tip: watch the per-operator oscilloscopes while you edit; they make it much easier to hear and see what each operator changes.

What producers say

Reviewers see it as a powerful, flexible FM synth that is easier to program than the hardware, with a steep learning curve and some workflow rough edges.

MusicTech (Alex Holmes, 2022) gave it 8/10, calling it "an immensely powerful and versatile synth" with a clear GUI and strong 80s-flavoured presets.
Synth and Software (Marty Cutler, 2022) called it "an intriguing new wrinkle in FM synthesis" and praised the graphical algorithm editor and the range from digital to warm tones.
Criticisms: a steep learning curve, cumbersome modulation setup with little visual feedback, an arpeggiator that struggled to sync to the DAW, fiddly controller mapping, no solo button and no DX7 patch import.

Where to buy

Plugin Boutique: $199

Tutorials and reviews

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