A Retro Digital Sound

Swayed is modeled after a famous 1989 synthesizer that combined FM synthesis with sample based synthesis. This combination allows for the creation of some unique timbres—from realistic to synthetic, and everything in between.

Patch compatibility means you can access the vast library of sounds made for the original hardware, in the form of SysEx files that can be imported. Patches made with Swayed can also be loaded into the original hardware by exporting them as SysEx files.

A full overview of the features can be found in the manual: Swayed Manual



FM Synthesis
Advanced FM synthesis module featuring 6 operators, 15 waveforms, up to 3 configurable feedback paths, and 45 algorithms.



PCM Synthesis
Waveform module that can play back multi-samples.



Digital Filter
FM and PCM elements can be shaped using a dual-resonant filter setup: one LPF/HPF and one LPF, both with 12 dB/octave slopes.



Modulation
Individual operator and sample volumes can be automated using envelopes. The same applies to pitch and filter cutoff. Additional modulation is available via 2 LFOs.




Effects
Choose from 44 effect types to give your sounds extra character. Including chorus, flanger, delay, reverb, and distortion. Effects can be routed in 3 different configurations.



Dynamic Pan
Select from 64 panning envelopes to create a rich, evolving stereoscopic sound field.


Advanced FM Synthesis
Swayed features a 6-operator FM synthesis module with 15 waveforms and 3 configurable feedback paths. You can select from 45 algorithms to define the routing between operators, or fully customize the signal flow using Freeform Mode.

Each operator has two inputs. Inputs can come from another operator, a feedback path, noise, or even a sample from a waveform element within the same patch.

Every operator includes its own envelope and key scaling curve. Operators can also be modulated by an LFO.




Preset Library
Swayed comes equipped with 128 custom made factory presets, and an additional pack of 140 presets designed by Saif Sameer. It also supports loading SysEx files from the original hardware unit and related series, giving you access to the vast library of sounds available online.

Sample Waveforms
Swayed includes 112 preset waveforms and 81 expansion card waveforms. The preset waveforms are approximations of the original hardware's samples, recreated from scratch using a mix of custom recordings, public domain samples, and synthesis. The 81 expansion card waveforms are unique to Swayed.

You can also supply your own waveform ROM files, as long as they are in the same file format the original hardware used. This applies to both preset and card sources. Simply place your files in the Waveforms folder, and they will be loaded automatically.

A future update will add support for loading your own audio files and building custom multisample waveforms.





Effects
Swayed includes 44 built-in effects. Each element in a patch can be routed to Group 1, Group 2, or both. Each group supports one modulation effect (such as chorus, flanger, tremolo, or ensemble) and one reverb-type effect. Reverb effects include various types of reverb, as well as delay, distortion, EQ, and hybrid combinations.

There are three routing options available: serial, parallel, and a mixed configuration that falls between the two.

Each effect includes individual volume and dry/wet controls for precise sound shaping.




Requirements and formats
Swayed is available exclusively as a plugin for DAW software. It does not run as a standalone application.

Windows

• Windows 8 or higher
• DAW with VST3 support
• 64-bit

macOS

• macOS 12 or higher
• Apple Silicon or Intel processor
• DAW with VST3 or AUv2 support
• 64-bit

More info:
https://strydeaudio.com/swayed

 

interesting

 

Amazing. I've been waiting for this. Can't wait to try it.

 

For sure it has a much simpler "GUI" if we can call it this way than my SY99.
I'm still thinking to refurbish it with USB floppy and bright display replacements, but it's a painful and long procedure, so for now it's still in its flightcase.

 

Any links to Yamaha wave ROMs would be welcomed

 

YAMAHA - SY77
A L L T H E W E B P A T C H E S C O L L E C T I O N
https://bobbyblues.recup.ch/yamaha_sy77/sy77_patches.html

 

I always found it weird why Steinberg, and by extension, Yamaha, with the inclusion of HALion's own FM Lab didn't include the AWM2 waveforms along side the FM waveforms... Suppose this finally fills the gap for the need for a proper SY-99/TG-77 emulation. Psyched to try it out!

 

Last edited: Apr 4, 2026