Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (10)
$4,995.00
Guitar Center
$4,995.00
Musician's Friend
$4,995.00
B&H
5.0 (1)
$4,995.00
Thomann
5.0 (3)
$5,599.00 $5,499.00 $100.00 · All time low

Average Price: $5,096

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash your sonic creativity with the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave, a revolutionary hybrid wavetable synthesizer that blends classic charm with modern versatility. This powerhouse instrument is designed for musicians who demand depth and diversity in their sound creation. With 24-voice polyphony and 4-part multitimbrality, it's perfect for creating complex textures and lush, evolving soundscapes. Each voice is equipped with three digital oscillators, offering a wealth of sonic possibilities. The inclusion of 64 user wavetable positions, alongside 32 original 8-bit wavetables from the iconic PPG2 instruments, ensures you'll never run out of inspiration.

The 3rd Wave doesn’t stop there—it also features a custom-built analogue low-pass filter designed by Dave Rossum, ensuring your sounds are not only rich but also warm and organic. Dive into the depths of sound design with its extensive modulation matrix and dual digital effects processors, offering everything from lush reverb to gritty distortion. The 61-key semi-weighted Fatar keyboard with aftertouch provides an expressive playing experience, making it as much a performance tool as it is a sound design workstation.

Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave is your ticket to new musical dimensions.

Key Features:

  • 24-Voice polyphonic with 4-part multitimbrality
  • 3 Digital oscillators per voice
  • 64 User wavetable positions, 32 original 8-bit wavetables
  • 7 Modeled analogue waveforms
  • Dave Rossum-designed analogue low-pass filter
  • 4 x ADSR+ delay envelopes
  • 2 Digital effects processors with multiple effects
  • Built-in Custom Wavetable Maker
  • Sequencer and arpeggiator
  • 61-Key velocity-sensitive Fatar keyboard with aftertouch
  • MIDI In/Out/Thru and USB MIDI connectivity

Owner's manual

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave User Manual

Product specs

Type Synth Keyboard
Sound Engine Wavetable Synthesis
Analog/Digital Digital (sound engine), Analog (filters)
Number of Keys 61
Type of Keys Semi-weighted Fatar Keyboard
Aftertouch Yes
Velocity Sensitive Yes
Other Controllers Pitch and Mod wheels
Polyphony 24-voice
Number of Presets 500 Factory Programs
Oscillators 3 per Voice
Waveforms 32 x 64 Legacy Waveforms, 64 x 64 User Waveforms, 7 x Modeled Analog: Sine, Saw, Triangle, Supersaw, Pulse, White/Pink Noise
LFO Triangle, Sawtooth, Reverse Sawtooth, Square, Pulse 1, 2, 3, Pulse 3, Sine, Random (S&H)
Filter 24 x Analog Lowpass, 24 x State-variable
Envelope Generator 4 x ADSR + Delay
Effects Types BBD, Stereo/Tape Delay, Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Distortion, Reverb
Arpeggiator 1 Arp per Multi-part
Sequencer 24 Patterns, Up to 32 Measures each
Storage USB
Audio Inputs 1 x 1/4" TS
Audio Outputs 8 x 1/4" TS (4 stereo pairs)
Headphones 1 x 1/4" TRS
USB 1 x Type B
MIDI I/O In/Out/Thru/USB
Pedal Inputs 1 x 1/4" (sustain) 1 x 1/4" (volume), 1 x 1/4" (expression)
Mod Matrix 16 Assignable Slots, 12 Fixed-source Slots, 27 Sources, 114 Destinations
Power Source Standard IEC Cable
Height 5"
Width 38.5"
Depth 14.25"
Weight 27 lbs.

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave use?

The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave utilizes a wavetable synthesis engine, allowing for dynamic and versatile sound creation with both digital sound generation and analog filtering.

Is the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave polyphonic, and if so, how many voices does it support?

Yes, the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave is polyphonic, supporting up to 24 voices for rich and complex sound layering.

How many keys does the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave have, and are they velocity-sensitive?

The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave features 61 semi-weighted keys that are both velocity-sensitive and equipped with aftertouch for expressive performance capabilities.

What kind of filters are included in the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave?

The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave includes 24 analog lowpass and 24 state-variable filters, providing a wide range of tonal shaping options.

Can I create my own waveforms on the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave?

Yes, the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave allows for user waveform creation, offering 64 x 64 user waveform slots alongside its legacy waveforms.

What connectivity options are available on the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave?

The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave offers comprehensive connectivity, including 8 audio outputs, MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and multiple pedal inputs for sustain, volume, and expression.

Does the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave include any built-in effects?

Yes, the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave features a variety of built-in effects such as BBD, stereo/tape delay, chorus, phaser, flanger, distortion, and reverb for enhanced sound design.

sonicstate

sonicstate

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave - Massive Wavetable Polysynth - SonicLAB Review

Video thumbnail for Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave - Massive Wavetable Polysynth - SonicLAB Review by sonicstate

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave - Massive Wavetable Polysynth - SonicLAB Review

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave - I Almost Missed a Shockingly Great Synth! by JimDaneker

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave - I Almost Missed a Shockingly Great Synth!

JimDaneker

JimDaneker

Video thumbnail for PPG Dreams: The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave by Red Means Recording

PPG Dreams: The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Red Means Recording

Red Means Recording

Video thumbnail for Groove Synthesis  | 3rd Wave  | Initial Impressions by Tim Shoebridge

Groove Synthesis | 3rd Wave | Initial Impressions

Tim Shoebridge

Tim Shoebridge

Video thumbnail for The ULTIMATE Virtual Analog Synth? // Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave by Miles Away

The ULTIMATE Virtual Analog Synth? // Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Miles Away

Miles Away

Video thumbnail for Vintage PPG Wave vs Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave by Starsky Carr

Vintage PPG Wave vs Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for 3rd WAVE // THE BIG REVIEW.. EVERYTHING you need to know by Starsky Carr

3rd WAVE // THE BIG REVIEW.. EVERYTHING you need to know

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave Advanced Wavetable Synthesizer | Demo and Overview with Matia Simovich by Guitar Center

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave Advanced Wavetable Synthesizer | Demo and Overview with Matia Simovich

Guitar Center

Guitar Center

Video thumbnail for Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave Custom Patches Vol. 2 // Sound Demo No Talking by Miles Away

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave Custom Patches Vol. 2 // Sound Demo No Talking

Miles Away

Miles Away

Video thumbnail for Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave first impression and walkthrough by MIDERA

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave first impression and walkthrough

MIDERA

MIDERA

Reviews

PROS

  • Unmatched sound quality with versatile and powerful sonic capabilities

  • Hybrid design combines wavetable and virtual analog synthesis

  • 24-voice polyphony and 4-part multitimbral setup

  • Intuitive and feature-rich sequencer enhances creative workflow

  • Comprehensive modulation options with multiple LFOs and envelopes

  • High-definition wavetables offer rich and complex sound textures

  • Authentic analog filter emulation adds warmth and depth

  • Robust build quality with a visually appealing design

  • Supports user-imported wavetables for personalized sound design

  • Engaging and dynamic sound experience with surprising sonic discoveries

CONS

  • Limited 16 slots for user-imported wavetables

  • Lacks polyphonic aftertouch on the keyboard

  • Learning curve for mastering wave envelopes

  • Memory space for sampling is limited, not ideal for a central sampler role

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave.

Comparisons

  • The 3rd Wave 8M is compared to the Waldorf M, noted for having a more modern UI and additional oscillator, offering different filter types (2040 vs. 2044).

    Source
  • The 3rd Wave's sound is described as "sparkly," contrasting with the perceived blandness of the Iridium, making it appealing to those seeking a high-end character.

    Source
  • The 3rd Wave's filter implementation is seen as tame compared to the Prophet X, making it hard to achieve aggressive sounds without additional drive.

    Source
  • The 3rd Wave's virtual analog patches are noted to sound superior to the Prophet 6.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners note that a 12-voice version would not significantly reduce costs, as analog filter chips are relatively inexpensive.

    Source
  • At $1,999, the 3rd Wave 8M is considered potentially overpriced compared to software solutions like Serum2, especially when considering additional analog gear for enhancement.

    Source
  • A desktop version is available, reducing the price by $1500, appealing for those with MPE controllers who don't need a keybed.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • While praised for its vintage analog tones, the 3rd Wave's VA oscillators are similar to those in the Prophet X, Prophet 12, and Pro 2.

    Source
  • The synth is praised for its ability to handle complete song production, especially strong in bass-heavy genres due to its punchy envelopes.

    Source

User experience

  • After three months of ownership, one user found the 3rd Wave lacking grit, despite its clean sound and complex modulation capabilities.

    Source
  • Owners express disappointment in the lack of first-party sound sets and editor/librarian support for the 3rd Wave, contrasting with Moog's free support for their products.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the intuitive interface, making it easier to access a wide array of modulation and parameters without excessive menu diving.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The desktop module has fewer LFO and oscillator knobs, requiring more menu navigation than the keyboard version.

    Source
  • The 3rd Wave supports MPE and is the only 24-voice hybrid synth to do so, enhancing expressiveness for advanced controllers.

    Source
  • The 3rd Wave 8M offers 4 LFOs, 4 ADSRs, and 3 MSEGs, surpassing modulation capabilities of competing synths like the Behringer Wave, which has only one LFO and two ADSRs.

    Source
  • Each oscillator can use samples, enabling complex additive synthesis by FM'ing wavetables with samples.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Lack of USB mass media support limits the 3rd Wave 8M in terms of loading user samples and wavetables, a feature common in older synths.

    Source

Build quality

  • Users note that the 3rd Wave 8M has a large and helpful display, enhancing usability during sound creation.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

soundonsound.com

Groove Synthesis’ 3rd Wave synthesizer channels the spirit of the iconic PPG Wave while confidently pushing boundaries. With a stunning 24 voices and an impressive array of features, including advanced wavetable manipulation and flexible modulation capabilities, it stands out in the synth landscape. The build quality is top-notch, and the user interface is intuitive, making sound design a breeze. However, the limited 16 user wavetable slots could hinder those looking to explore extensively. While the price tag is steep, the craftsmanship and sonic versatility make it a worthy investment for serious musicians. Overall, the 3rd Wave is a triumph, blending nostalgia with modern innovation.

positive

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave stands out as a powerhouse synthesizer, seamlessly blending old-school wavetable sounds with modern functionality. Its user-friendly interface and extensive modulation capabilities make sound design a breeze, while the multitimbral mode allows for versatile layering of sounds. However, the steep price tag may deter some, especially when the module version is considerably more affordable. Overall, it’s an impressive instrument that offers a unique sonic experience, but potential buyers should weigh the cost against their needs.

positive

Review: Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave Wavetable Synthesizer

mixdownmag.com.au

The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave synthesizer dazzles with its rich sound and expansive capabilities, seamlessly blending classic PPG vibes with modern technology. Its 24-voice polyphony and robust modulation options allow for intricate compositions and lush soundscapes. The user interface is refreshingly tactile, avoiding menu dives while maintaining a sleek design. However, while the synth excels in sonic depth and performance, some may find its complexity daunting, especially for those new to wavetable synthesis. Overall, the 3rd Wave is a compelling option for musicians seeking a versatile and stylish synth that pays homage to its roots while pushing sonic boundaries.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how The Weeknd uses Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

The Weeknd

Singer, Keyboardist

Bulleez n Nerdz

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo posted by The Weeknd in early 2024, Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave is visible on the left.

See how Oneohtrix Point Never uses Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Oneohtrix Point Never

Music Producer

Ford & Lopatin

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo posted by The Weeknd in early 2024, Oneohtrix Point Never is seen next to a Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave synthesizer.

See how Jody Wisternoff uses Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Jody Wisternoff

Music Producer

Way Out West

...
Verified via Facebook

featured in this post from May 29, 2023

See how Ricky Tinez uses Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Ricky Tinez

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "My Synth Ableton Workflow // Creating Stems and Loops with External Hardware in Ableton Live," Ricky Tinez can be seen with the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave in the background. This serves as visual confirmation of his use of this synthesizer.

See how Tate McRae uses Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Tate McRae

Singer

...
Verified via Photo

Tate McRae can be seen posing with a Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave in the sixth photo of an Instagram post shared by her on April 4, 2023.

See how Anthony Marinelli uses Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Anthony Marinelli

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

Anthony Marinelli is confirmed to use the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave, as it is featured at 1:15:21 in his studio tour video titled "My Synth Studio Revealed | Studio Tour 2025," published by Anthony Marinelli Music on YouTube.

See how Rodrigo Aboitiz uses Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

Rodrigo Aboitiz

Keyboardist

La Ley

...
Verified via YouTube

In the live session video "ENCUENTRO - ABOITIZ (LIVE SESSIONS)" by Rodrigo Aboitiz on YouTube, the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave synthesizer is prominently featured in the middle of the performance.

Album Usage

The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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