Algorithms - Yamaha PLG150-DX Owner's Manual

FM Tone Generation

Algorithms

Although two operators can be combined in only two different ways, six operators can be configured
in a wide variety of combinations. These combinations are called "algorithms." Just as on the origi-
nal DX7, the PLG150-DX features 32 different algorithms, giving you different levels of harmonic
complexity for various applications.
Since the function of any given operator depends on the particular algorithm, you should check a
voice's algorithm carefully while editing the voice. For a chart showing all 32 algorithms, see page
34. Each operator in the algorithm is numbered to distinguish it from the others in editing.
Let's take a look at algorithm 28 as an example. The various operators function as follows:
Operator 1.............Carrier; is modulated by Operator 2, and outputs the resulting sound.
Operator 2.............Modulator; modulates Operator 1.
Operator 3.............Carrier; is modulated by Operator 4, and outputs the resulting sound.
Operator 4.............Modulator; modulates Operator 3.
Operator 5.............Modulator; modulates itself with a feedback loop, and modulates
Operator 6.............Carrier; outputs a sine wave.
10
Operator 4.
Algorithm 28
2
1
5
Feedback loop
(see next section)
4
3 6