The last few releases from GForce have centred around their official partnership with Oberheim, offering authentic emulations of some the legendary synth company’s most iconic instruments. Their latest instrument, however, is another of their own design, and offers a fresh new take on FM synthesis that is said to strip away the complexity while retaining its defining character, depth and unpredictability.
FM synthesis is often praised for its expressive power, but is avoided by many due to its notorious complexity. Halogen FM aims to change that, promising to make the process fun, fast and creatively awarding. The new virtual instrument is built around what the company call the Halogen Spark Core, a generative sound source that’s capable of producing unique, musical patches at the push of a button. Creating a new sound is as simple as clicking the instrument’s Spark button, while a set of intuitive macro controls — Timbre, Envelope Generators, Modulation and FX — make it possible to manipulate the resulting sound without the need for complex programming.
GForce say that Halogen FM’s controls are designed to “respond to instinct, not instruction“, and strike an ideal balance between playability and depth. It makes quick work of crafting sounds that range from soft pads to sharp plucks and evolving textures, with the macro controls allowing for everything from subtle shifts to bold transformations. Despite the simplicity, there’s still plenty more on offer for those who’d like more in-depth control thanks to full access to the parameters of each of the instrument’s operators.
Key Features
- Infinite patches, zero programming
- Halogen Spark core with global and individual parameter randomisation.
- Over 320 expertly designed presets.
- Two operators with unique tonal character.
- Inspired by a hidden gem in Japanese FM synthesis.
- Macro control over Timbre, EG1, EG2, Modulation and FX.
- Full operator access for advanced editing.
- Mono and Polyphonic modes.
- Fully scalable UI and advanced preset browser.
- Custom reverb and full CC MIDI mapping.
- Supports polyphonic aftertouch and polyphonic pitch-bend.
Compatibility
Halogen FM is supported on PCs running Windows 7 and above, and Macs running macOS 10.15 or higher. VST, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available, along with a standalone application.
Pricing & Availability
Halogen FM is available now, and is being offered at an introductory price of £39.60 until the end of July 2025, when it will increase to its full cost of £79.20.
