Plugin interface — screenshot pending
Synthesizer

FM-4

Bitwig

Where to get itIncluded with Bitwig Studio. It is part of that DAW, not a separate download.bitwig.com

FM-4 is a four-oscillator FM synthesizer that uses frequency ratios with offsets to set oscillator pitches, offering a modular and hands-on approach to frequency modulation synthesis. It features a dedicated noise generator with resonant filtering, optional self-modulation on each oscillator, and a comprehensive modulation matrix for routing modulation between all generators. The distinctive design emphasizes ratio-based pitch control and explicit modulation connections, making FM synthesis concepts visually transparent and editable.

Written from the manual and checked against it. How we check

Key Features

01Four sine oscillators with ratio and offset frequency control
02Modulation matrix with 5 sources (4 oscillators + noise) and 4 destinations
03Noise generator with resonant low-pass filter and up to +48.0 dB drive
04Self-modulation capability on each oscillator via matrix feedback
05Separate controls for audio level and modulation level per generator
06ADSR amplitude envelope generator with modulation routing
07Pitch offset from -12 to +12 semitones
08Glide control for smooth pitch transitions between notes

Things to Try

  • 01Use the top numeric control in each oscillator unit to set frequency ratios relative to incoming note pitch for classic FM harmonic relationships
  • 02Route oscillator 3 or 4 through the matrix to modulate the pitch of oscillator 1 or 2 for additive complexity
  • 03Enable the noise generator and adjust the Cutoff and Q controls along with Drive up to +48.0 dB to add filtered noise texture to the mix
  • 04Set the third row attenuator in the matrix to a value greater than zero to enable self-modulation feedback on an oscillator
User Manual↗

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FM-4 by Bitwig | Plugin Library