M-VAVE is officially embracing the explosion of alternate firmware for its compact FM-1 synthesizer by introducing FM1 Open, an official open-source firmware project.
The release includes an open firmware, a browser-based workbench for editing sounds and projects, and a software development kit intended to help users and developers create new applications for the hardware.
The announcement follows a growing community of third-party developers who have released alternate firmware for the inexpensive synth, transforming the FM-1 into a popular development platform. Rather than limiting development to unofficial projects, M-VAVE is providing its own framework for extending the instrument’s capabilities.The open firmware features:
- Eight-track sequencer for arranging melodies, bass lines, percussion and samples.
- Multiple sound engines, including DX7-style FM synthesis and sample playback.
- Additional synthesis options including 303-style, 808-style, PSG and plucked-string sounds.
- Independent sound settings and volume controls for each track.
- Per-track loop lengths, with mute and solo functions.
- Reverb and delay sends for track-level effects routing.
- Eight sample slots for incorporating custom audio.
- Browser-based workbench for editing sounds, patterns and projects.
- Browser-based preview that allows users to explore the interface without connecting an FM-1.
- Tools for managing samples and transferring projects to compatible hardware.
- Firmware flashing through the workbench.
- Application source code and a companion software development kit for developers.
- Support for building and extending FM-1 applications, subject to the project’s source and SDK terms.
Availability:
FM1 Open is available as a free firmware and development project from M-VAVE. The source code is available now on GitHub.
