4.9 Dexed

Dexed is a Frequency Modulation (FM) synthesizer based on vintage 1980s digital hardware. It generates sound through six Operators which function either as audible Carriers or as Modulators that warp the frequency of other operators to create complex textures. The specific signal flow and relationship between these operators are determined by the selected Algorithm.

Operator Controls

There are six identical operators in Dexed. Each Operator is housed within a rectangular block marked with a number in the upper right corner. The controls within these blocks are divided into the following functional groups, represented by the darker background rectangles:

Tuning Group: 

• Ratio / Fixed Toggle: Switches between harmonic frequency ratios and a fixed, static frequency.
• Coarse / Fine Knobs: Sets the frequency multiplier for the Operator.
• Det Knob: Slightly detunes the Operator to create thickening or "beating" effects.

Envelope Generator (EG) Group: 

• EG Window: Displays the visual shape of the Operator’s volume over time.
• EG Rate (1-4): Sets the speed of the envelope’s movement through its four distinct stages.
• EG Level (1-4): Sets the output levels reached at each stage of the envelope.

Keyboard Scaling Group: 

• Break Point: Selects the specific piano key where volume scaling begins to shift.
• L Depth / R Depth: Adjusts the intensity of the volume drop-off to the left or right of the Break Point.
• L Curve / R Curve: Selects the mathematical curve (linear or exponential) for the volume drop-off across the keyboard.
• Rate Scaling: Adjusts how much the envelope speed increases as higher notes are played, mimicking the behavior of acoustic instruments.

Sensitivity & Output Group: 

• A mod sens: Adjusts the Operator's sensitivity to LFO modulation.
• Key vel: Dictates how much physical key strike force affects the Operator's output level.
• Level: Sets the master output volume for the individual Operator.

Global & Master Controls

• Algorithm Matrix: A visual diagram displaying the current "wiring" or signal flow of the 6 Operators.
• Algorithm Knob: Selects one of 32 available Operator configurations. The number above the knob indicates the active algorithm.
• Feedback Knob: Routes the output of Operator 6 back into itself to generate noise or harmonic grit.
• LFO Section: Provides global modulation for pitch or volume. 
  • Wave: Selects the LFO waveform.
  • Speed / Delay: Sets the LFO rate and the time before the modulation begins.
  • PMD / AMD: Sets the depth of Pitch Modulation and Amp Modulation respectively.
• P EG Section: A master Pitch Envelope Generator that shifts the pitch of the entire instrument over time.

Note: The panel containing Cutoff, Reso, Level, and Middle C is disabled in this version of Dexed.