Pivot

No-nonsense FM Synth

pivot

Pivot is an FM synth with three operators, one morphing filter and zero algorithms, designed to be straightforward and joyous to use. Years of research, development and deep love of FM synthesis has gone into picking just the right balance of flexibility and simplicity.

It marks another milestone in a long journey of making FM synthesizers that deviate from the norm. Much like its predecessors, it does not aim to replicate or succeed anything but to explore FM in a slightly different way.

Video:

Lagom

In Swedish, this means 'just right', and it's exactly how we feel about 3OP FM. It's a great balance of being able to make complex timbres while being quick to program.

Zero algorithms

Instead of choosing between a range of pre-defined algorithms, Pivot lets you continuously route the top modulator's output between the other pair. This makes sound design a truly explorable process where you don't have to make any decisions up front.

Best of both worlds

With a resonant 4-pole morphing filter, Pivot lets you carve out frequencies in an intuitive way that feels right at home. Smoothly mixing between Lowpass, Bandpass and Highpass brings a flair that perfectly pairs with the most extreme of FM tones.

Matrix modulation

Modulate the FM controls to your heart's content with 2 LFOs and 2 ADSR envelopes in a flexible mod matrix routing with up to 6 destinations at once.

... and yes, you can change the color theme.

Want to make your own?
-> theme creator

To sum it up
  • 3-Operator FM
  • 4-pole resonant morphing filter
  • Stereo Widener effect
  • Stereo Distortion effect
  • Two-voice Unison
  • Portamento
  • Up to 16 voice polyphony
  • 2 × Variable waveshape LFOs
  • 2 × Auxiliary ADSR envelopes
  • Modulation matrix
  • + Scalable interface
  • and custom color themes

Demos are boring

So we made a free version instead.

Pivot-Lite plugin

Pivot-Lite is a smaller version of Pivot with two operators, one morphing filter and zero cash. It's a great way to dip your toes into FM synthesis with its simple structure but still almost all the bells and whistles from its bigger sibling. It may not have a mod matrix, but it has a lot of love to give.

Once you're ready to take the leap, sounds made in the Lite version can be loaded into Pivot as well. Together they form the perfect pair for FM exploration and we think you’ll find yourself reaching for one or the other depending on the occasion.

Want to learn more?

Check out the Pivot and Pivot-Lite guides.

Compatibility

Pivot and Pivot-Lite are instrument plugins that run in a compatible host application such as a DAW. They have been tested in most major DAWs that support the CLAP, VST3 and AUv2 plugin formats.

    macOS

  • macOS 10.13 or newer
  • Apple Silicon / Intel
  • CLAP, VST3 and AUv2

    Windows

  • Windows 10 or newer
  • x86 Intel / AMD
  • CLAP and VST3

    Linux

  • Ubuntu 22 or newer
  • x86 Intel / AMD
  • CLAP and VST3

DRM free

There is no license authorization, online requirement or other forms of DRM measures taken in Pivot. We believe that users should be treated with respect and trust.