FRMS - Granular Synthesizer plugin interface by Imaginando

FRMS - Granular Synthesizer: Hybrid Granular and FM Synth by Imaginando Free Download

Rated 4.7/5 on Plugin Boutique (83 ratings)

FRMS - Granular Synthesizer is a hybrid synthesizer plugin by Imaginando that combines granular, FM, additive and subtractive synthesis through a layering system of up to four layers.

VST3AUWindowsmacOS64-bit

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

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Free trial available from the developer

01Overview

FRMS - Granular Synthesizer is built around a flexible layering system. Each of its four layers can run as a granulator or an oscillator, so you can mix granular textures with FM, additive and subtractive sounds in any combination. You can granulate the included sample library, your own samples, or live audio input. The developer describes the interface as sleek and modern, with a split view for controlling each layer. It is available as a VST3 and AU plugin for Windows and macOS.

Best for

Ambient drones
Glitchy textures
Evolving soundscapes
FM sound design
Granular sound design
Experimental sound design

Developer: Imaginando
Category: Synths
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Four layers per voice, each set to granular or synth engine
Granular, FM, Additive and Subtractive synthesis engines
Granulate included samples, your own samples, or live audio
Up to 20 grains per layer
Eight FM modes with layers usable as operators
Modulation matrix, two EGs and a filter per layer
Four LFOs with five modes, plus five-mode arpeggiator
Factory bank with over 150 presets

03In depth

Layered Granular and FM Sound Design

Imaginando says FRMS mixes granular synthesis with FM to produce a wide range of timbres. Each voice has four layers, and the engines can be combined freely. The FM engine offers eight modes and can use layers as operators, which makes it possible to build FM-style tones alongside granular clouds.

Each layer has its own modulation matrix, two envelope generators, and a filter, and there is also a master filter. Up to 20 grains per layer shape the granular material. Four LFOs with five modes, an arpeggiator with five modes, and delay and reverb sends per layer give you further control over movement and space.

The plugin supports four-voice polyphony and MPE, so expressive controllers can be used with it.

Sample Library, Live Input and Recording

FRMS includes a high-quality sample bank and a factory bank with more than 150 presets. You can granulate the included samples or load your own, and you can also granulate live audio. A built-in audio recorder lets you capture material directly within the plugin.

Ableton Link is supported for syncing tempo with other Link-enabled software. Lifetime free updates are included with the license, which can be registered on up to five computers.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	Imaginando
Type	Plugin
Category	Synth
Formats	VST3, AU
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit
Free trial	Yes

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is FRMS - Granular Synthesizer?

FRMS is a hybrid synthesizer plugin by Imaginando that combines granular, FM, additive and subtractive synthesis across up to four layers.

What formats and operating systems does FRMS support?

FRMS is available as a 64-bit VST3 and AU plugin for Windows and macOS. On macOS it requires macOS 12 or higher, and on Windows it requires Windows 10 or higher.

What do I need to use FRMS?

You need a compatible 64-bit host DAW that supports the VST3 format on Windows, or VST3 or AU on macOS. Install requires at least 256 MB of free disk space, and license activation requires an internet connection.