I must admit, I was eagerly anticipating the new collection of patches for Native Instruments FM7 software synthesizer, as the included presets that came with the soft synth were awesome. I was looking forward to seeing where the Native Instruments programmers would take this new synth. I was not dissappointed! FM7 Sounds Volume 1 rocks! It takes the sonic possibilities of FM7 to a new level and exploits the power this new software synth offers.

At first glance I was slightly miffed that only 2 banks of 128 presets were included, but after loading them up and perusing the presets I was simply blown away! What FM7 Sounds Volume 1 doesn't provide in quantity, it sure makes up for in quality, as the vast majority of the 256 new presets are stuning! FM7 Sounds Volume 1 demonstrates that the FM7 soft synth is far more than just a recreation of the old DX7 offering new and fresh sonic capabilities! If you had any doubt that the FM7 can fit into the context of today's modern music, we suggest checking out the FM 7 Flash sound demos (on the right) to hear for yourself just how fresh the sounds are!

Also we suggest using these presets as the basis for further sound exploration. They take advantage of the extended parameters FM7 offers, and are good to start tweaking with. Also be sure to randomize the presets with this nifty FM7 feature. We've had some great unexpected suprises jus by messing with randomize!

A little bit of info... The 256 included presets were specially designed to benefit from the powerful sound synthesis abilities of this highly advanced FM synthesizer. The presets take full advantage of all of the FM7´s great features: envelopes with up to 31 breakpoints, two additional operators, extensive modulation capabilities, dedicated analogue style filters, and a comprehensive effects section.

The collection covers the full range of FM possibilities from crystalline pads and powerful percussion to innovative synths and looped sequences.

The first 32 presets in Bank 1

Content Bank 1 - Pads & Loops (128)

Bank 1a - PADS 1 (64)
Bank 1b - PADS 2 (64)
Bank 1c - LOOPS 1 (64)
Bank 1d - LOOPS 2 (64)

Content Bank 2 - Drums & Synths (128)

Bank 2a - DRUMS 1 (64)
Bank 2b - DRUMS 2 (64)
Bank 2c - SYNTHS 1 (64)
Bank 2d - SYNTHS 2 (64)

So, if you have FM7 and are looking to instantly add useable new sounds to your arsenal, FM7 Sounds Volume 1 is a must buy! Instant gratification! Surely inspiration will come your way.

FM7 Sounds Volume 1 retails for around $50. U.S.