The Yamaha OPL2 chip was the second-generation chip in the OPL series and was first introduced in 1985. It was widely used in early PC sound cards, including the Ad Lib and Sound Blaster cards, and became a staple of video game soundtracks in the 1980s and 1990s.
discoDSP OPL emulates the OPL2 chip's synthesis engine, including its unique FM and additive synthesis capabilities. Additionally, the plugin includes the percussion mode of the OPL2, which allows you to generate a range of percussive sounds, such as drums, cymbals, and other metallic and percussive tones.
The percussion mode is achieved by routing a specific waveform to the OPL2's second operator, which is then used to generate the percussive sound. This mode provides a wide range of percussive sounds that can be used to add rhythmic interest to your productions.
With discoDSP OPL, you can take advantage of the unique sound of the Yamaha OPL2 chip, including its FM synthesis, additive synthesis, and percussion mode. Whether you're producing classic video game soundtracks, electronic music, or just looking for a unique sound to add to your productions, OPL is the perfect choice.
Overview
This instrument provides an emulated OPL sound chip. It provides all features of the OPL2, and some features of the OPL3.
Native Apple Silicon compatibility (M1 or higher).
What's an OPL?
At a technical level: the emulator has channels comprised of 2 oscillators each. Each pair of oscillators is usually combined via phase modulation (basically frequency modulation). Each oscillator can produce one of eight waveforms (sine, half sine, absolute sine, quarter sine, alternating sine, camel sine, square, logarithmic sawtooth), and has an ADSR envelope controlling its amplitude. The unusual waveforms give it a characteristic sound.
How do I use it?
Each instance of the plugin emulates an entire OPL chip, but with this plugin, essentially you are just working with two operators: the carrier and modulator.
Documentation
SBI Files
SBI files are an instrument file format developed by Creative Labs back in the day for the Sound Blaster. Essentially they work as presets for this plugin. Just drag and drop them into the plugin window!
Percussion
Percussion mode is now supported! This mode is not very well documented, even in the original Yamaha documentation. Here are some tips on using it based on experimentation and looking at the DOSBox source code. Also, some much more detailed notes on percussion mode based on experimentation with real hardware!
Supported Formats
System Requirements
PC: Windows 7 or a newer version.Credit and Licensing
The OPL plugin utilized in our product is based on JuceOPLVSTi developed by Bruce Sutherland and distributed under the GNU General Public License (GPL). We have incorporated his technology into our software in compliance with the terms and conditions specified.
