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 Genesis uses the YM2612 (or YM3438) yamaha chip that was used in the SEGA Genesis / Megadrive home console.

NEW Version 1.77 includes presets from iconic Genesis/Megadrive videogames like Sonic the Hedgehog 1, 2 and 3; Streets of Rage 1 and 2; Toe Jam & Earl, Panic on Funkotron; Ecco the Dolphin; Time Trax; Thunderforce IV and Chakan - The Forever Man in the bank 0. Bank 1 is used for loading up to 128 presets from the SD Card. Check the Datasheet below for the details.

Version 1.69 now with MIDI CC messages implementation to control all the YM2612 / YM3438 parameters. Check the Datasheet below for the MIDI CC implementation chart.

Now the DAFM Synth Genesis YM2612/YM3438 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 (new Black PCB)

In case you have the original blue PCB version you have to follow these build instructions: Build instructions for DIY kit (original Blue PCB)

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 Genesis YM2612/YM3438

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.

What makes it special?

The YM2612 has six channels with four operators per channel. The operators can interact according to eight 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 YM2612 chip has a peculiar form of crossover distortion in the output, which has become known as the "ladder effect" among fans. The YM3438 is a modified CMOS version of the YM2612 with a louder and cleaner sound output and no "ladder effect". The DAFM Synth can be purchased with the YM2612 or the YM3438 chip. Nostalgic retrogamers would choose the noisier YM2612 chip. The YM3438 would be the first choice for the FM-synthesis lovers. In any case, there is an option to dim the OLEDs to reduce noise at the sound output. In the latest version of this DIY model the chips YM2612 and YM3438 can be swapped easily.

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 a SD card as DMP files that can be opened with VGM trackers like Deflemask.

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.