Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (19)
$699.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (6)
$899.00 $699.00 $200.00 · All time low
Amazon
3.9 (29)
$619.00 Used
Reverb
5.0 (35)
$397.06 New
$266.00 Used
B&H
5.0 (2)
$699.00
Thomann
4.4 (137)
$535.00

Average Price: $559

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Waldorf Blofeld Waldorf Desktop". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your sonic creativity with the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Synthesizer, a compact powerhouse that elegantly bridges the gap between digital precision and analog warmth. Perfect for both studio maestros and live performers, the Blofeld stands out with its versatile sound engine and robust build. Its sleek, desktop-friendly design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a testament to German engineering that packs a punch without compromising on portability.

Dive into a universe of sound with over 1000 presets, ranging from lush pads to crisp leads, all made possible by the synth’s 3 oscillators per voice. The Blofeld’s intuitive interface, complete with a 16-step fully programmable arpeggiator, invites users to push boundaries and explore new musical territories. Its frequency modulation capabilities between oscillators add layers of depth and complexity, perfect for crafting unique soundscapes.

Whether you’re a seasoned synth wizard or a curious newcomer, the Blofeld offers a user-friendly experience while ensuring you have all the tools necessary for professional-grade production. The four envelopes per voice and multiple effects options provide a playground for sound manipulation that’s as deep as it is accessible.

Key Features:

  • Over 1000 sounds and presets
  • 3 oscillators per voice
  • 4 envelopes per voice
  • 16-step fully programmable arpeggiator
  • Frequency modulation between oscillators
  • Compact, durable desktop design

Product specs

Brand Waldorf
Model Blofeld Desktop Synthesizer
Finish Black Shadow, White
Year 2007 - 2025
Made In Germany
Categories Desktop Synths, Digital Synthesizers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Polyphony 25 Voices

FAQs

Is the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Synthesizer polyphonic?

Yes, the Waldorf Blofeld Desktop Synthesizer offers up to 25 voices of polyphony, allowing you to create complex, layered sounds.

What type of synthesis does the Waldorf Blofeld use?

The Waldorf Blofeld combines virtual analog synthesis, wavetable synthesis, and frequency modulation (FM) synthesis, offering a wide range of sound design possibilities.

How many sounds does the Waldorf Blofeld come with?

The Blofeld Desktop Synthesizer comes with 1000 preset sounds and 100 multi programs, giving you a vast array of sonic options right out of the box.

Does the Waldorf Blofeld have USB connectivity?

Yes, the Waldorf Blofeld features USB 2.0 connectivity, allowing for easy integration with your computer and MIDI devices.

What are the main filter types available on the Waldorf Blofeld?

The Blofeld offers various filter types, including low pass, band pass, high pass, notch, PPG, and comb filters, each available with multiple slope options for versatile sound shaping.

Can the Waldorf Blofeld be used for live performances?

Yes, with its 16-part multitimbral capability and robust modulation options, the Blofeld is well-suited for live performances, providing flexibility and dynamic sound control.

What kind of power supply does the Waldorf Blofeld require?

The Waldorf Blofeld uses an external power supply, ensuring reliable performance during studio sessions and live gigs.

Venus Theory

Venus Theory

Waldorf Blofeld | An AWESOME Cheap Hardware Synth 🎹

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Blofeld | An AWESOME Cheap Hardware Synth 🎹 by Venus Theory

Waldorf Blofeld | An AWESOME Cheap Hardware Synth 🎹

Venus Theory

Venus Theory

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Blofeld Coming of Age by Starsky Carr

Waldorf Blofeld Coming of Age

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Blofeld Synthesizer: Complete Overview/Tutorial by WaldorfMusicChannel

Waldorf Blofeld Synthesizer: Complete Overview/Tutorial

WaldorfMusicChannel

WaldorfMusicChannel

Video thumbnail for A Deeper Look at the Waldorf Blofeld by Alamo Music Sound Lab

A Deeper Look at the Waldorf Blofeld

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Blofeld demo (desktop) by GJC Synths

Waldorf Blofeld demo (desktop)

GJC Synths

GJC Synths

Reviews

PROS

  • Remarkable sound quality with deep and rich textures

  • Beginner-friendly modulation matrix layout

  • Powerful multi-mode supports complex setups for studio and live use

  • Offers 25 voices and 16-part multi-timbrality

  • Intuitive UI makes sound programming easy

  • SL license adds full patch programming capabilities

  • Excellent built-in effects, including reverb

  • Versatile as both a virtual analog and wavetable synth

  • Sample option allows user content loading in oscillators

  • Great value for the features and quality offered

CONS

  • Complex feature set can be overwhelming for non-experts

  • Editing presets can be time-consuming due to menu diving

  • Headphone output picks up unwanted noise from chassis and knobs

  • Menu diving may hinder live performance adaptability

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Waldorf Blofeld Waldorf Desktop.

User experience

  • It's noted that the Blofeld's interface allows for intuitive navigation and quick editing via matrix layout, making it less cumbersome than it may initially appear.

    Source
  • Frequent screen refresh issues, along with unintuitive menu navigation, deter some users despite the synth's sound capabilities.

    Source
  • Display bugs are reported, where screen updates lag behind audible changes, particularly with filter settings.

    Source
  • Users report that older Blofeld units may require encoder replacements, though newer models have improved components.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A user transitioned from Blofeld to Hydrasynth Explorer, finding the latter more enjoyable despite different sound characteristics.

    Source
  • Compared to the Studiologic Sledge, the Blofeld offers more advanced features, though both share similar engine DNA.

    Source
  • The Hydrasynth Explorer is praised for better build quality and user-friendliness compared to the Blofeld, offering features it lacks but missing some of Blofeld's unique capabilities.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • While MIDI implementation is robust, not all parameters are accessible via CCs; some users create custom Ableton or MPC MIDI setups for control.

    Source
  • Firmware updates can resolve encoder issues out of the box; some new units still ship with outdated firmware.

    Source
  • The Blofeld's menu system is cited as challenging, but third-party editors like the Waldorf Blofeld Editor can enhance usability by displaying controls on a computer screen.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Blofeld’s output level is noted to be lower compared to other studio equipment, requiring adjustments.

    Source
  • Some owners find the Blofeld's menu system deep and complex, requiring a clear plan before navigating to specific options for programming sounds.

    Source
  • The Blofeld is 16-part multitimbral, allowing up to 16 different sounds to be used simultaneously, though real-world usage may not support all 16 due to processor limits.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Blofeld is described as more of a studio piece than a live performance synth, with some users reporting glitches when used in live settings.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the Blofeld's suitability for ambient, techno, and EDM genres, praising its ability to emulate analog sounds and blend with other synths like the Waldorf Pulse 2.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users have experienced issues with encoders skipping values, and recommend upgrading to Bourns encoders for improved performance.

    Source

Other

  • The Blofeld's sound is described as 80s-inspired, cold, and digital, with specific praise for its comb filters and modulation capabilities.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Considered a good value for its unique sound capabilities, but potential buyers should be aware of its limitations in workflow and occasional bugs.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Waldorf Blofeld

soundonsound.com

The Waldorf Blofeld synthesizer showcases impressive build quality and a wealth of sound design options, packing a powerful synthesis engine into a compact format. However, its limitations—such as the absence of MIDI Out, a sparse rear panel, and incomplete multitimbral capabilities—detract from its appeal. While the sound engine offers lush tones and extensive modulation options, the convoluted matrix control system can be frustrating. Inconsistent patch loading and the need for a computer interface for MIDI functionality further muddy the experience. Overall, the Blofeld may delight sound designers, but its operational quirks could leave many users wanting more.

negative

Waldorf Blofeld Review 2021 — Kulshan Studios

kulshanstudios.com

The Waldorf Blofeld is a sonic treasure chest, offering a rich palette of sounds with its versatile oscillators and deep modulation capabilities. Its filters, while not analog in nature, can produce tight, cutting sounds that rival many competitors. However, the menu diving can be daunting for newcomers, and the effects section is a mixed bag—some are stellar, while others leave much to be desired. Despite these quirks, the Blofeld stands out with its unique character, making it a worthy addition for sound designers and electronic music producers alike.

positive

Reviewed: Waldorf Blofeld Virtual Analogue Synthesiser - Mixdown Magazine

mixdownmag.com.au

The Waldorf Blofeld Desktop synthesizer has transformed from a compact afterthought into a robust piece of hardware, featuring a built-in keyboard and a user-friendly interface. Its metal housing and smooth encoders reflect quality craftsmanship, while its wavetable synthesis capabilities offer rich, harmonically complex sounds drawing from classic Waldorf technology. However, the factory presets, though funky, may initially overshadow the potential for deeper sound design, posing a challenge for users eager to explore beyond the basics. Overall, the Blofeld Desktop is a compelling option for those seeking a powerful and versatile synthesizer, but it requires a commitment to fully unlock its creative potential.

positive

Waldorf Blofeld review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Waldorf Blofeld is a compact powerhouse, boasting an impressive array of sound-shaping options and a rich, vibrant tone that belies its small form factor. While its intuitive design and vast synthesis capabilities make it a joy to use, the limited connectivity options and absence of the promised vocoder might frustrate some users. Overall, the Blofeld is a remarkable synthesizer that delivers deep sound exploration at an accessible price, but potential buyers should weigh these compromises before diving in.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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