The Yamaha AN1x Synthesizer mailing list

Hi Scott,

>I've been tewaking around with a couple of organ patches trying to come
>up with an authentic Farfisa sound to no avail. Anyone have a few
>patches of this ilk lying around that they'd be so kind as to post to
>the files section for reference?

I don't have a Farfisa for my AN1x, because all of my pianos and other claviers are programmed on my Alesis S4.  However, I can give you the recipe for the sound, as I used all analog-synth waveforms in creating it:

1.  You'll need to use Dual mode on the AN1x, as you will need 3-4 oscillators to program the sound.  Program three oscillators to start:  16' (Course Pitch = -12), 8' (0), and 4' (+12).

2.  Use narrow pulse waves for the basic sound, running from about 33% on the 4' (and 2', if needed) to ~15% on the 16' settings.  Set them up with no detune or PWM and a reasonably strong Edge setting; start with ~110.  If you are looking for a "Multi-Tone Boost" kind of Farfisa sound, then narrow the waves by 25%.

3.  The output level of the oscillators should taper off very slightly from 16' up; try 16' = 127, 8' = 122, 4' = 117 for starter.  The VCF should be wide open, or nearly so.

4.  The low end on a Farfisa is mediocre.  You can simulate this by using the HPF to roll off a bit of bass.  Use your ear as a guide, or do the following:  Turn down all the oscillators except the 16', and adjust the HPF until lowest 1-2 notes on the AN1x are almost inaudible.

5.  Add vibrato to taste.  I found it most useful to use a knob or the mod wheel to add it.  The vibrato is a combination of pitch modulation and a tiny bit of PWM.  Standard combo organ vibrato is about 6Hz.  For extra credit, program an adjustable 4-6 speed knob, as Farfisas usually have a vibrato speed tab.

6.  After playing around with the sound levels, pulse widths, and Edge settings, if the sound is still not "right," try adding a bit of 2' (+24) pitch, with the same pulse width as the 4' oscillator.

I hope this helps.

Regards,

-BW

--
Bruce Wahler
Ashby Solutions\ufffd   http://music.ashbysolutions.com
CloneWheel Support Group moderator
978.386.7389  voice/fax
bruce@...