What is it?

Sound synthesis through Frequency Modulation (FM) allows to obtain unique sounds that defined a whole musical generation during the 80's and 90's.

The model BLASTER uses the YMF262 (OPL3) Yamaha chip that was employed in many sound cards, including the popular Sound Blaster Pro 2 and the Sound Blaster 16 ASP.

Now the DAFM synth BLASTER YMF262 (OPL3) has been redesigned as a DIY friendly kit. This is a nice project that comprises soldering of through-hole components.

Build instructions can be found in the project website in Hackaday: Build instructions for DIY kit

Here you can find a tutorial for through hole components soldering: Through hole components soldering tutorial If you are not sure enough of your soldering skills, I can always assemble the kit for you. Select the option in the order menu.

There is already an assembled version for sale on Tindie in a smaller form factor with case and knobs to include in your audio setup: DAFM synth BLASTER YMF262 (OPL3)

Why did you make it?

This synthesizer is the perfect mix for lovers of retro video games, and makers who want to introduce themselves in the musical experimentation.

Includes the 128 General Midi 4-OP instruments designed by The Fat Man and used in 90's PCs videogames like Doom; Descent; Tyrian; The Lost Vikings; Heretic; Hexen, Ultima Underworld; Day of the Tentacle; Dune; Wing Commander; Another World; Syndicate; Lemmings and Indiana Jones & the Fate of Atlantis. These presets can be found in Bank 0. Bank 1 is used for loading up to 128 presets from the SD Card. Check the Datasheet below for the details.

All the parameters that defined these presets in the YMF262 chip can be controlled through MIDI CC messages. Check the Datasheet below for the MIDI CC implementation chart.

What makes it special?

The YMF262 has six channels with four operators per channel. The operators can interact according to four different algorithms. Attack-Decay-Sustain-Release (ADSR) envelopes, frequencies and low frequency oscillators (LFOs) can be modified to obtain the whole range of FM sounds.

The YMF262 chip is accompanied by the YAC512 stereo chip that allows converting the digital signal into clear and clean analog sound. Having the separate DAC allows the DAFM synth BLASTER to output a louder and cleaner sound.

The synthesizer is operated through 2 rotary encoders and has a complete menu that is shown in 4 blue OLED displays. Thanks to the beautiful tactile keyboard of 12 notes you can try the different patches as they are created. There is also the possibility of changing the octave and thus test the full sound spectrum of the Yamaha chip. Once created, the presets can be saved in the RAM memory or in an SD card as OPLI files that can be opened with instrument editors like the OPL3 bank editor.

The stereo sound output is 3.5 mm audio jack, has a MIDI input to connect a keyboard, sequencer or any MIDI instrument and can be powered with a USB Type B cable (5V).

Disclaimer: Please note that the sound chips used in the DAFM Synth may have been resurfaced at the origin. At KASSER SYNTHS, we ensure that every chip undergoes thorough testing and functions perfectly in our synthesizers, providing the best possible performance and sound experience.