Twisted Electrons MEGAfm II

The Twisted Electrons MegaFM MkII is a 12-voice, four-operator desktop FM synthesiser that combines dual Yamaha YM3438 sound chips, direct slider control and extensive modulation for distinctive digital sound design.

Classic MegaFM Design with Updated Sound Chips

The MegaFM MkII retains the original MegaFM’s hands-on interface and analogue audio circuitry while replacing its YM2612 chips with two Yamaha YM3438 chips, the variant associated with the Sega Mega Drive II. These chips offer the same synthesis functionality, preserving the instrument’s combination of detailed FM tones and gritty analogue distortion.

The MkII also introduces socketed chips beneath an accessible bottom panel. This arrangement accommodates compatible alternative chips and allows each socket to use an independently configured chip type.

Four-Operator FM Synthesis with Direct Control

Four operators generate sine waves that interact through selectable algorithms. Each algorithm changes the routing between operators, determining how they modulate one another and contribute to the output. These configurations support sounds ranging from rounded basses and bell-like plucks to metallic percussion and complex, evolving textures.

Each operator has eight dedicated sliders, giving the instrument 32 operator controls. Detune adjusts the operator’s tuning offset, while multiplier establishes its frequency ratio. Total level controls the operator’s contribution, influencing modulation intensity or output level according to its position within the algorithm.

Five envelope parameters shape each operator independently: attack rate, decay rate, sustain level, sustain rate and release rate. This arrangement controls how individual components of a sound develop over time, allowing its harmonic character and amplitude to evolve together.

Polyphony, Unison and Stereo Voicing

The 12-voice engine supports polyphonic parts, layered textures and sustained chords. Unison concentrates voices into a denser sound for substantial basses and leads, while Wide6 mode creates a broader stereo presentation for spacious pads and atmospheric passages.

The sound engine reaches beyond retro game tones, covering delicate digital timbres, aggressive basses, distorted textures and atonal effects.

Modulation and Arpeggiation

Three assignable LFOs introduce repeating movement into synthesis parameters. Dedicated link buttons simplify modulation assignment, while rate and depth controls determine the speed and intensity of each modulation source.

Assigning an LFO to algorithm selection produces dramatic changes in operator routing over time. This approach creates shifting harmonic structures and animated sequences. A dedicated vibrato section adds pitch movement, while the arpeggiator converts held notes into rhythmic patterns.

Preset Storage and MIDI Integration

Preset storage supports sound recall, while MIDI CC control provides external access to almost every synthesis parameter. The keyboard-free desktop format integrates with MIDI keyboards, hardware sequencers and DAW-based setups.

The current specification includes 600 preset locations. Firmware 5.0 adds bidirectional SysEx communication, allowing compatible editors to retrieve patch data and send changes back to the hardware. Editor/VST integration supports DAW workflows, alongside standalone controllers for macOS and Windows.

Why Choose the Twisted Electrons MegaFM MkII?

• Dedicated sliders make complex FM sound design quicker to explore and adjust.

• Its distinctive sound covers delicate pads, powerful basses and experimental textures.

• Flexible modulation brings movement and variation to repeating parts.

• MIDI control connects hands-on synthesis with studio sequencing and automation.

• The updated socketed design offers scope for compatible sound-chip experimentation.

• Desktop FM synthesiser with up to 12 voices.
• Two Yamaha YM3438 sound chips associated with the Sega Mega Drive II.
• Socketed chip design with independent configuration for compatible alternatives.
• Original MegaFM analogue audio circuitry and distortion character.
• Four operators with selectable routing algorithms.
• 32 dedicated operator sliders.
• Individual operator detune, frequency multiplier and total level controls.
• Independent attack rate, decay rate, sustain level, sustain rate and release rate controls for every operator.
• Polyphonic, unison and Wide6 stereo voicing options.
• Three assignable LFOs with dedicated link buttons, rate controls and depth controls.
• LFO modulation of algorithm selection.
• Dedicated vibrato section.
• Built-in arpeggiator.
• 600 preset locations.
• Extensive MIDI CC control.
• Bidirectional SysEx support with firmware 5.0.
• Compatible editor/VST integration and standalone macOS and Windows controllers.
• Keyboard-free format for external MIDI control.

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.