KORG volca fm2 - 6-voice digital FM synthesizer with sequencer and effects

KORG volca fm2 - 6-voice digital FM synthesizer with sequencer and effects

The Korg volca fm2 is the evolution of the legendary Korg FM module: a compact FM digital synthesizer with 6 polyphony voices , 6 operators and 32 algorithms , fully compatible with the SysEx / SYX patches of the Yamaha DX7 . It maintains the portable format of the volca series with a multi-touch keyboard of 27 "keypads" , built-in speaker and operation with batteries or a 9 V adapter. Compared to the first generation, it doubles the polyphony and user programs ( 64 memories ), adds reverb along with chorus and, very importantly, incorporates MIDI IN and MIDI OUT in TRS minijack (type A), so you can sequence external equipment with its internal sequencer.

The volca fm2's FM engine is optimized for easy editing, with direct controls for Modulator/Carrier (attack and decay), LFO (rate and intensity), algorithm selection, and Randomize for creative variations. If needed, you can access advanced operator editing and fine-tune every parameter. The arpeggiator offers nine types (three Rise/Fall/Random patterns), and the 16-step sequencer stores 16 patterns with Motion Sequence, Active Step, Warp Active Step, Pattern Chain (chaining up to 16 patterns together for up to 256 steps), and a metronome. With a chassis measuring just 193 × 115 × 40 mm and weighing around 360 g (without batteries), it's a truly portable FM solution for studio, live, or mobile production.

Main features

• Full FM engine : 6 operators and 32 algorithms, compatible with DX7's SysEx/SYX.
• Expanded polyphony to 6 voices for richer chords, pads and arrangements.
• 64 sound programs with Randomize function for immediate inspiration.
• 16-step sequencer with Motion Sequence , Active Step , Warp Active Step and Pattern Chain (up to 256 chained steps).
• Arpeggiator with 9 types (Rise, Fall and Random ×3).
• Built-in effects : Chorus and Reverb with independent controls.
• MIDI IN/OUT on 3.5mm TRS (Type A adapter required) and Sync In/Out to integrate other volca or hardware.
• Accessible editing : Modulator/Carrier (Attack/Decay), LFO (Rate/Depth) controls and full edit mode per operator.
• Velocity via MIDI for more expressive performance from external keyboards/controllers.
• Ultra-portable format with integrated speaker and powered by 6 AA batteries or DC 9 V adapter.

Product benefits

• FM Creativity without a learning curve : Dedicated controls translate multiple complex parameters into simple gestures, without sacrificing full editing when you need it.
• More voices, more music : 6 voices allow for full chords, layers, and simultaneous bass lines without running out of polyphony.
• All-in-one workflow : sequence, automate, and add effects from the module itself; plus, use its MIDI OUT to trigger other synthesizers or modules.
• True mobility : small size, light weight and built-in speaker to compose anywhere.
• Massive compatibility : Load classic DX7 banks and take advantage of thousands of patches available in the community.

Use cases

• Electronic and lo-fi production : powerful FM bass, metallic bells, electric pianos and granular textures with movement thanks to Motion Sequence .
• Hybrid Live : Sync with other volca and use the MIDI OUT to trigger an external analog module at the same time.
• Compact studio : control the volca fm2 from your DAW via MIDI (including velocity response) and record its stereo output with integrated effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is it analog? No. It's a six-operator FM digital synthesizer , designed to faithfully reproduce the aesthetics of the DX7.
• Can I load patches from the Yamaha DX7? Yes, it supports SysEx/SYX from the DX7.
• What type of MIDI does it use? 3.5 mm TRS connectors for MIDI IN and OUT ; requires a Type A to 5-pin DIN adapter.
• What's the battery life? According to official documentation, it lasts around 8–10 hours on alkaline batteries, depending on usage.
• Can it be powered by an adapter? Yes, with a DC 9V adapter (KA-350 optional).

Description for projects

6-voice digital FM synthesizer with 6 operators and 32 algorithms; 64 programs; 27-key multi-touch keyboard; 16-step sequencer with 16 patterns, Motion Sequence, Active Step, Warp Active Step and Pattern Chain; arpeggiator with 9 types; built-in chorus and reverb effects; SysEx/SYX (DX7) compatibility; connectivity: 3.5 mm stereo headphone output, Sync In/Out 3.5 mm mono, MIDI IN/OUT TRS 3.5 mm (Type A adapter); dimensions 193 × 115 × 40 mm; weight approx. 360 g (without batteries); powered by 6×AA or DC 9 V adapter.