Features & Capabilities

DR-OM is a virtual synthesizer that simulates the hackable yard sale treasure of the same name. Dozens of DR-OM units have been adapted from a rare, limited science lab function generator that started turning up in flea markets in the 70s.

DIY synth enthusiasts discovered the device was easily hackable, and closely-guarded photocopies of modding schematics have been handed around the community for years. The directions show how to rewire the generator into a nice little synth with two mixable Low Frequency Oscillators and a Voltage-Controlled Filter.

This app is a complete and playable simulation of three different versions of DR-OM boxen that were discovered at a yard sale near Quonset Point along with a folder of photocopied schematics. Each DR-OM unit has its own characteristic sound because of degrading components or bad wiring by the owner. The Speed dial is the most finicky part of the assembly; depending on the box, the dial can cause tuning drifts, random events and gnarly effects.

In the seventies, the noise generator was nicknamed "Doctor Om" for the meditation-friendly tones it generates. Others believe the name is an acronym for Drone Ready Oscillator Module or Dual Recirculating Oscillator Module, but no one knows for certain where the name comes from originally.

Notes for iPad users:

  1. You'll probably want to use more than 2 fingers with DR-OM, so try turning off Multitasking Gestures in the General Settings on your iPad.

  2. Please check to make sure your side switch is "off" or in your General Settings disable the "Mute" function for the side switch. If your side switch is "on" and set to "Mute," your volume controls will be disabled and DR-OM will not be able to make sound.

This is a universal app for iPhone 4+ and the iPad. It is produced by the Fluxama Group, purveyors of fine simulated synths like Noisemusick. Sound and video samples may be found on the support web site.

User Growth & Download Statistics

App
By:
Fluxama
Rating:
4.20
(44)
Version:
2.1 Last updated: 2017-11-01
Version code:
841417289
Creation date:
2012-09-04
Compatible devices:
Size:
38.47MB
Price:
1.99
URLs:
Website
Full description:
See detailed description
Source:
Apple Apps Store
Data ingested on:
2026-06-06
Compare stats and ranking:

Ranking

Contact the developer

Chrome-Stats does not own this Apple app. Please use these information below to contact the Apple app developer.
Developed by:
Fluxama
Apple Apps Store
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dr-om/id555409573
Website:
http://www.fluxama.com

User Reviews

DR-OM is praised for its rich, distinctive drone sounds and suitability for live performance, with fans enjoying its quirky, retro vibe and depth. The addition of AB3/audiobus compatibility improves workflow. However, reviews repeatedly cite missing features (no Audiobus in earlier versions, no built-in recording or inter-app audio), UI scaling issues on iPad Pro leaving controls off-screen, and signs of stagnation (few updates, developer site missing). Some device-specific issues and variability between units are also noted.
Pros
  • Rich, distinctive drone/synth sounds with deep, evolving textures that many reviewers praise.
  • Excellent for live performance; widely used in shows and live sets.
  • Creative, offbeat design with a retro vibe that stands out from typical synth apps.
  • Audiobus compatibility added (AB3), improving routing and workflow.
Cons
  • No Audiobus / no inter-app audio support.
  • No built-in recording or copy/paste/export features.
  • UI/UX issues: controls not centered or off-screen on iPad Pro and other devices.
  • Lack of ongoing updates; developer site appears unavailable and updates are scarce.
  • Device-specific issues and variability between units (e.g., working on iPhone but silent on iPad 2).
Recent reviews
I’ve always liked the drone sounds DR-OM produces. I recently purchased a new iPad Pro M5 and transferred all of my apps over from my iPad Pro M1. Sadly, the display is broken. It still makes great sounds, but you can’t access the whole GUI. =( Also… the developer website is gone.
by T.*****, 2026-01-25

I love DR*OM. It is no longer centered on my iPad’s screen, so it .. Just doesn’t work now. Sad.
by br*****, 2023-01-29

UI needs updating. When opening the app on my iPad pro in stand alone and in AUM the controls do not center on the screen. Some of the knobs are off the screen and not able to be reached. A friend with a more recent iPad pro has the same problem.
by Co*****, 2021-04-25
View all user reviews ›

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