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PPG Waveterm A

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Page last updated Mar 31, 2026

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Description

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Step into the realm of vintage synthesis with the PPG Waveterm A, a trailblazer in digital synthesis from the early 1980s. This legendary instrument is not just a synthesizer; it’s a comprehensive sound design and sampling workstation that integrates seamlessly with the PPG Wave 2.2 and 2.3. Its unique ability to combine digital waveforms with analog filters offers a hybrid sound that's both rich and versatile, making it a staple for artists seeking that authentic retro vibe.

The Waveterm A features extensive sampling capabilities, allowing musicians to capture and manipulate sounds with precision. This capability, coupled with its powerful sequencer, provides a robust platform for crafting complex compositions. The interface, though reminiscent of early computing systems with its CRT monitor and dual floppy drives, offers a tactile experience that many modern musicians find inspiring. The PPG Waveterm A is a testament to the innovative spirit of its era, providing a distinctive sound palette that remains sought after by synth enthusiasts and professional musicians alike.

Whether you’re a collector or a musician looking to infuse your music with a piece of history, the PPG Waveterm A is a fascinating addition to any studio setup. Its classic charm and groundbreaking technology make it a unique piece of musical history that continues to inspire creativity.

Key Features:

Integrated digital synthesis workstation
Compatible with PPG Wave 2.2 and 2.3 synthesizers
Advanced sampling capabilities
Hybrid digital-analog architecture
Includes sequencer for complex compositions
Classic CRT monitor interface with dual floppy drives

Videos

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RetroSound

PPG Waveterm A + Wave 2.2 Wavetable Synthesizer System demo

RetroSound

PPG Waveterm A (1982) - Original Factory Sample Library (8bit)

RetroSound

PPG Waveterm A + Wave 2.2 "Sampling & Resynthese"

RetroSound

PPG Waveterm A System (1982) - Sample Library Demo Track

RetroSound

PPG Waveterm A System (1982) wave demo

RetroSound

PPG Waveterm Monitor Demo

Techno Empire

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about PPG Waveterm A.

Features and functionality

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The PPG Wave 2.3 utilizes 12-bit samples, contributing to its unique sound profile with aliasing and digital noise characteristics.
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The Waveterm module allows for editing samples and waveforms, which can then be transferred to the PPG's RAM for use.
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Comparisons

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The PPG Wave 2.3's sound is distinct from VCO/DCO synths due to its use of samples, resulting in unique sweeping wavetable capabilities.
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The 3rd Wave is a modern recreation of the PPG Wave, offering 24 voices, 4-timbral functionality, and virtual analog features.
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Use cases and applications

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Notable usage includes Tangerine Dream's albums and Frankie Goes to Hollywood's "Relax," showcasing its application in 80s music production.
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User experience

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Owners appreciate the raw sound without processing, and speculate on its potential when run through effects for a more expansive sound.
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The PPG Wave's UI is considered archaic, with significant menu diving, yet it offers a nostalgic experience for those familiar with older synths.
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Geddy Lee

Singer, Bassist

Rush

Verified via Cygnus-x1

In The article below Geddy mentioned it for Grace Under Pressure sessions

Don Airey

Keyboardist

Judas Priest

Verified

During the "Bark At The Moon" album era, Don Airey stated: "I have two keyboard sets, one is over here, and one is always in the States. There's a CS80 which is the basic keyboard, a MiniMoog, the Roland Vocoder Plus, Yamaha CF70, Oberheim OBXa, and a MemoryMoog. To them I'm adding a DX7, another MemoryMoog (because I use it so much), and the Wave 2.2 and the Waveterm." This confirms that Don Airey used the PPG Waveterm A, as documented in the article "Wizard Of Oz" (Electronics & Music Maker, Feb 1984).

David Frank

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Verified via Photo

The PPG Waveterm David used is verified as being an "A" model (vs B) by the unit's current owner in this Facebook post. Additionally, a Waveterm was spotted in David's Studio in a 1986 Keyboard Magazine interview posted as proof for David's DX1.

Elizabeth Parker

Keyboardist, Composer

Verified via Elizabeth Parker - Composer

"The WaveTerm, an add-on to the PPG, enabled Elizabeth to experiment massively with sampling sounds creatively, and this was put to good use in her first major commission, the ground-breaking The Living Planet, 1982,"

Andy Richards

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Strawbs

Verified via ELECTRICITYCLUB.CO.UK

Andy Richards used the PPG Waveterm A to overdub a string synth intro and voice samples on George Michael's 'Careless Whisper', as confirmed by The Electricity Club in their article "A Beginner’s Guide To ANDY RICHARDS".