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4. Faking integration using SysEx

1 Some plugin emulations of famous MIDI synths can import SysEx from hardware. Korg’s Volca FM takes things further – this tiny 1:1 reproduction of Yamaha’s legendary DX7 can import SysEx patch data from the original, so we can use something like the free Dexed plugin to make patches for the Volca FM.

2 The first thing we need to do is to ensure that we’ve got MIDI routed from our computer through a suitable interface and patched into the Volca FM via its MIDI input jack. The Volca FM lacks MIDI out, so we can only send patches to the little feller – any edits to the hardware will not be reflected in Dexed.

3 Dexed is a free, open-source, crossplatform FM synthesiser plugin from developer Digital Suburban, available from bit.ly/DSdexed. Once installed, it can be instantiated in your host. By clicking Parm, we can select a MIDI port to which our Volca is connected and the MIDI channel the Volca FM is set to respond to – in this case, MIDI Channel 1.

4 We can send any patch by navigating to Cart, then right-clicking the patch and choosing to send the program to DX7. Two things to keep in mind: you must store your patch before sending it, and your Volca FM’s firmware must be up to date for the patches to translate properly. The lack of two-way MIDI communication isn’t ideal, but it’s worth the hassle.