Stryde Audio Swayed is an authentic emulation of the Yamaha SY77 from 1989, featuring FM synthesis and sample-based content.
Following the Roland JX-8P and Crumar DS-2, another vintage synth is now available as a plugin. Those active in the KVR Audio forum have likely been following Stryde Audio’s project for over a year.
The developer has been working on an authentic virtual reproduction of the Yamaha SY77 from 1989. The wait is over: Stryde Audio has today released Swayed.
Stryde Audio Swayed
Swayed is modeled after the famous Yamaha SY77 Synthesizer from 1989. The special feature of the SY-77 is that it can generate classic Yamaha FM synthesis and also play back sample-based content.
This combination allows for the creation of some unique timbres—from realistic to synthetic, and everything in between.
Stryde Audio has recreated the engine so authentically and accurately that you can even load SysEx patches into Swayed. Better, patches made with Swayed can also be loaded into the original hardware by exporting them as SysEx files.
Like the original hardware, it has two main cores: an FM synthesis core and a sample-based core.
The FM part features a 6-operator FM synthesis module with 15 waveforms and 3 configurable feedback paths. It has 45 factory algorithms, or you can draw your own signal flows/algorithms in freeform mode.
Each operator also has the same feature, including two inputs that can come from another operator, a feedback path, noise, or even a sample from a waveform element within the same patch. You also get a dedicated envelope, key scaling curve, and LFO modulation option per operator.
The PCM Part
Yes, the sample-based PCM part is also onboard. According to Stryde Audio, they recreated the waveforms/samples from scratch using a mix of custom recordings, public domain samples, and synthesis. So, they didn’t copy and paste them from the original hardware.
Swayed includes 112 preset waveforms and 81 unique expansion card waveforms not available elsewhere. You can also import your own waveform ROM files in the correct hardware format. Simply place your files in the Waveforms folder, and they will be loaded automatically.
According to the developer, they plan to release an update in the future to load your own audio files and to build custom multisample waveforms. That would be a big thing, especially for Yamaha SY-77 users.
Stryde Audio Swayed offers dual 12dB/oct resonant filters (LPF/HPF and one LPF), allowing you to shape both FM and PCM parts.
Operator, sample volumes, pitch, and filter cutoff can be modulated with envelopes. Alongside these, you also get two multi-wave LFOs for additional animation in your patch.
Effects
Not only were the operators, PCM samples, and filters emulated, but also the effects.
Swayed features the same 44 built-in effects, including modulation FX (chorus, tremolo, flanger, or ensemble) and reverb FX, with different reverb types, as well as delay, distortion, EQ, and hybrid combinations.
Each effect includes individual volume and dry/wet controls for precise sound shaping. There are three different effects routing configurations: serial, parallel, and mixed, which fall between the two.
Further, you can select from 64 panning envelopes to create a rich, evolving stereoscopic sound field.
Stryde Audio Swayed First Impression
A project I’ve been following in the forum for a long time. I’m very happy to see that the plugin is now available.
For everyone who loves the SY77 sounds, there’s now an authentic emulation. It’s also a highlight for hardware users because it makes it easy to design new patches from scratch. I can’t say how authentic the plugin’s sound is, as I’ve never owned a SY77.
Stryde Audio Swayed is available now for $99/99€. It runs as a VST3 and AU plugin on macOS and Windows.
More information here: Stryde Audio
interesting!
i love analog Synths but finally not another Copy of a famous synth. 😉
the SY77 is a famous FM synth
sorry. true.
Not that famous and expensive i guess
The TG77 was my first synth. It’s still in my rack but it doesn’t get much use these days. I’ve been waiting for an emulation for many years. Especially appreciate being about to import my old patches.
This looks like exactly what I’ve wanted as an FM synthesis fanatic. I love my dx7ii but have always wanted the next step with the SY77. Between screen worries and the sheer size of the synth I’ve never pulled the trigger. I think this is what I’ve been waiting for.