Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $640
Standard/Professional
$249
$700+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black". 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
Step into the world of sound with the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black, a tabletop synthesizer that combines the best of analog modeling with modern digital capabilities. Its sleek design is not just for show; it houses a robust engine capable of delivering over 1,000 distinctive sounds, thanks to its comprehensive bank of Q oscillator models and Microwave II/XT/XTk wavetables. Whether you're creating lush pads, punchy basslines, or ethereal leads, the Blofeld is your versatile partner in sound design.
At the heart of this synthesizer are three oscillators per voice, each capable of frequency modulation, offering unparalleled depth and complexity. The intuitive interface, equipped with seven stainless steel control dials and five tactile buttons, ensures you can tweak and shape your sound with precision. Meanwhile, its large, backlit graphic display keeps you informed at every step, making navigation through its expansive options a breeze.
With up to 25 voices of polyphony and 16-part multitimbrality, the Blofeld is ready for both studio sessions and live performances. Its powerful arpeggiator, flexible modulation matrix, and dual multi-mode filters per voice provide endless opportunities for innovation. Plus, with USB and MIDI connectivity, integrating this powerhouse into your setup is seamless.
Key Features:
- Up to 25 voices of polyphony
- 16-part multitimbral capability
- Three oscillators per voice with frequency modulation
- Over 1,000 sounds, including Q oscillator models and Microwave II/XT/XTk wavetables
- Dual independent multi-mode filters per voice
- Intuitive interface with seven stainless steel control dials
- USB and MIDI connectivity for easy integration
- Graphic display for clear navigation and editing
- Powerful arpeggiator with freely programmable patterns and up to 16 steps per sound
- External power supply included and robust aluminum housing
Owner's manual
Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Desktop Synthesizer |
| Analog/Digital | Digital |
| Polyphony | 25 Notes |
| Effects Types | Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Overdrive, Triple FX, Delay, Reverb |
| Arpeggiator | Yes |
| Analog Outputs | 2 x TS, 1 x TRS (Headphones) |
| MIDI I/O | In/USB |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Power Supply | DC 12V (Included) |
| Height | 2.13" |
| Width | 11.97" |
| Depth | 5.19" |
| Weight | 2.87 lbs. |
FAQs
-
Is the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black synthesizer polyphonic?
-
Yes, the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black synthesizer offers 25-note polyphony, allowing you to play complex chords and multi-layered sounds.
-
What types of synthesis does the Waldorf Blofeld support?
-
The Waldorf Blofeld supports various synthesis methods, including wavetables, pulse width modulation, frequency modulation, and more, offering a wide range of sound design possibilities.
-
How does the Waldorf Blofeld integrate with a DAW?
-
The Waldorf Blofeld integrates with DAWs via MIDI over USB, allowing for easy control and sequencing directly from your computer.
-
What kind of effects can I use with the Waldorf Blofeld synthesizer?
-
The Waldorf Blofeld includes high-quality effects such as chorus, flanger, phaser, overdrive, delay, and reverb, enhancing your sound design and performance capabilities.
-
Does the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black have an arpeggiator?
-
Yes, the Waldorf Blofeld features a programmable arpeggiator with options for user patterns, accents, and random notes, making it versatile for live performances and studio work.
Videos
Elevator DJ
Elevator Vlog - Folge 16: Waldorf Blofeld
Reviews
PROS
-
Intuitive matrix-style parameter entry
-
Deep synthesis functionality with over 1000 built-in sounds
-
Effective for both programming own sounds and using presets
-
Supports extensive sound expansion packs
-
Multitimbral capabilities with up to 16 parts
-
Durable and sleek build quality
-
High-quality filters and modulation matrix
-
USB MIDI transmission/receiving without noise
-
Effective for atmospheric and layered sounds
-
Offers good value for its price
CONS
-
Learning curve for programming own sounds
-
Effects quality, especially reverb, could be better
-
Encoders can be unresponsive at times
-
Lack of individual outs and MIDI out/thru
-
Factory patches are disappointing to some users
-
Audio output level is low without mastering effects
-
Not user-friendly for live use
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black.
Software and compatibility
-
The Blofeld's MIDI implementation is robust but not comprehensive; some parameters like oscillation and envelope configuration are CC accessible, while others require more setup.
Source -
Newer Blofeld units from 2017 have a different controller chip that resolves encoder issues when updated with the latest firmware.
Source
Features and functionality
-
Bugs include screen updates lagging or showing incorrect settings, particularly with filters, although these don’t majorly impact usability.
Source
User experience
-
Users report slower screen refresh rates as a significant drawback, affecting real-time usability during performance.
Source
Comparisons
-
Despite minor operational annoyances, the Blofeld's raw sound is highly valued, though the effects are generally criticized.
Source -
Some users compare Blofeld's reliability to the Korg EMX-1, noting similar encoder issues, while others recommend alternatives like the Modor NF-1m for better quality.
Source
Build quality
-
The output signal is notably lower compared to other studio equipment, necessitating additional amplification considerations.
Source -
Waldorf Blofelds were made with cheap encoders that may eventually need replacement; newer models do not have upgraded encoders from the factory.
Source -
OLED replacements offer better contrast than original Blofeld screens; replacements are straightforward and improve usability.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
Replacing encoders requires caution due to fragile pads and traces, making DIY repair risky even for experienced solderers.
Source -
Examine for dead zones or backlight issues on the screen; these can be leveraged for price negotiation.
Source -
To identify a blown output op-amp, check for dead headphone output and very quiet main LR outputs.
Source -
Test all encoders thoroughly; skipping or stuttering requires complete replacement as other fixes are inadequate.
Source
Value and pricing
-
Some buyers recommend waiting for sales or using eBay coupons to reduce the cost of a new Blofeld, often bringing prices down to around $400.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 5 Reviews and 22 Ratings
773
POCKET ROCKET, powerful wavetable synth
This synth delivers on all fronts the wavetables are great and allows you to program everything, it's a deep synth creamy 😋 you'll never run out of patchs its programming possibilities are endless, every studio should have one.
1264
Beautiful Wavetable Synth with Decent VA Capabilities
I deleted all the presets - overwrote them all with INIT. This made the synth 1000% better. I don't remember what they sounded like but folks online say they sucked. I remember them sucking. I don't know if the patches I created suck or not, but I enjoy them.
It's better at being digital than virtual analog. It makes good weird noises.
If it broke I might not replace it. Maybe. I don't know, I'm conflicted.
411
Notes
In a hate-love relationship since december 2016. While some sound banks, expecially Analog Voltage by the exceptional Don Solaris, transform Blofeld in a great sound generator, the factory patches are quite disappointing to say the least. Within 1024 patches I found usable a small part.
Artist usage
Add artist
As seen in the keyboard shelf photos of this MusicTech article, tucked away behind the orange Behringer Crave.
In this video at 8:50 we can see that Schwefelgelb are using the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black in Live.
In an Instagram post, goreshit confirms the use of the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black, stating it is part of their setup for an upcoming hardware-only live show. The post includes a picture where the Blofeld is positioned above the TR-6S and below the RD-9.
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 Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Black, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Waldorf Tabletop Synthesizers
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Tabletop Synthesizers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
sammy3000Gear IQ 490
-