Immerse yourself in the world of classic synthesis with Formant Classic – a free software synthesizer that pays homage to the legendary Elektor Formant DIY synthesizer from 1977/78. Created by F tec – Audio, this plugin brings the spirit and architecture of this historical instrument directly into your digital studio, offering a unique opportunity to explore the soundscapes of the past.
The Legacy of Elektor Formant
The original Elektor Formant was a cult DIY (Do It Yourself) project that allowed many music and electronics enthusiasts to delve into the world of modular synthesis. Formant Classic meticulously recreates this legacy, preserving the concept and core modules, making it not just an emulation, but a true recreation of the classic architecture for modern musicians and producers.
Semi-Modular Synthesis for Modern Realities
Formant Classic is based on the concept of semi-modular subtractive synthesis. This means it has fixed internal routing, like traditional synthesizers, but also allows the user to make certain re-connections using “virtual cables” or switches, expanding sound possibilities and encouraging experimentation. This approach makes it more accessible to beginners compared to fully modular systems, while still maintaining significant flexibility.
Key Modules and Their Capabilities
The architecture of Formant Classic is reproduced with attention to detail, offering a set of classic synthesis modules:
- 3x VCO (Voltage Controlled Oscillator): Three oscillators for generating the basic tone. Allows you to create rich, multi-layered sounds or use them for FM synthesis.
- 2x VCF (Voltage Controlled Filter): Two voltage-controlled filters. A fundamental element of subtractive synthesis for shaping timbre, removing or boosting certain frequencies. Allows you to get sounds characteristic of classic analog synthesizers, from smooth sweeps to resonant effects.
- 2x ADSR (Attack-Decay-Sustain-Release): Two ADSR envelopes for controlling the dynamics of the sound. One ADSR is usually assigned to the VCA to control the volume, the other to the VCF to change the filter cutoff frequency over time. Velocity sensitivity adds expressiveness to the performance.
- 1x VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier): A voltage-controlled amplifier for controlling the final signal volume, usually modulated by the ADSR envelope.
- 1x RFM (Ring Frequency Modulator): Ring or frequency modulation module. Allows you to create complex, metallic, or non-harmonic timbres by modulating one waveform with another. Adds unique textures to the classic sound.
- 3x LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator): Three low-frequency oscillators. Used to add movement and modulation to various synthesizer parameters, such as pitch (vibrato), volume (tremolo), or filter cutoff frequency (wah-wah effect).
- 1x NOISE: Noise generator. Necessary for creating percussive sounds, special effects, or adding “air” and saturation to timbres.
- 1x COM(scope): Possibly a module for switching or visualizing the signal (oscilloscope), helping to understand how the signal passes through the system.
Flexibility and Ease of Use
Formant Classic is equipped with a user-friendly keyboard interface with flexible MIDI controller assignments. This allows you to easily integrate it into your workflow and control parameters with a MIDI keyboard or controller. The plugin supports voice selection: Mono (monophonic) for lead parts and basslines, Poly (polyphonic) for chords and pads, and Unison (unison) for thickening and enriching the sound of a single voice. Velocity sensitivity of ADSR makes the performance more dynamic and expressive.
Ideal for Learning
Thanks to its structure based on classic modules, and a visually understandable interface (which probably imitates the original design), Formant Classic is a great tool for educational purposes. It allows beginners in synthesis to understand the basic principles of subtractive synthesis and the interaction between different modules in a semi-modular system.
Conclusion
Formant Classic by F tec – Audio is more than just a free synthesizer. It’s a journey through time to the golden age of DIY synthesis, offering the classic analog sound and Elektor Formant architecture in a convenient VST format. With its semi-modular structure, full set of classic modules, flexible voice options and sensitivity to dynamics, it’s a valuable addition to the arsenal of any musician who seeks to explore vintage sounds, create unique timbres, or simply learn the basics of synthesis. Whether you are an experienced sound designer or just starting your journey in the world of electronic music, Formant Classic offers a rich experience and inspiring sounds.
