Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (8)
$3,999.00 $2,999.00 $1,000.00 · All time low
Guitar Center
$3,999.00
Amazon
4.4 (6)
$3,699.00
Reverb
5.0 (4)
$1,656.35 New
$1,749.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$2,999.00
zZounds
0.5 (1)
$2,699.99
B&H
$3,999.00 $2,999.00 $1,000.00 · All time low
Thomann
4.7 (25)
$2,059.00
Vintage King
$3,999.00

Average Price: $2,886

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Waldorf Iridium". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer is a compact powerhouse of sound, boasting the advanced tonality and futuristic functionality of its sibling, the Quantum Synthesizer. This desktop module brings to your fingertips a world of unique and dynamic sound generation, making it a perfect companion for musicians and sound designers alike.

With its three oscillators offering five different synthesis modes, the Iridium Synthesizer is capable of creating a wide array of sonic landscapes. From the sweeping grandeur of Waldorf's proprietary wavetable oscillator to the raw, innovative possibilities of its Resonator, Particle Generator, and Kernel Synthesis modes, this synthesizer is poised to take you on a sonic exploration like no other.

The Iridium doesn't stop at sound generation. It also offers an abundance of powerful modulators and a dual filter, allowing you to sculpt your sound with precision and flexibility. Yet, despite its depth and complexity, the Iridium remains user-friendly. Thanks to its intuitive multi-touch display and its array of tactile control knobs, you can easily navigate through its numerous parameters and settings.

The Iridium Synthesizer is also packed with a host of other features that will inspire countless hours of creativity. These include a 32-step sequencer, an arpeggiator, a 40-slot modulation matrix, and a Master FX section. And with its internal memory and expandable SD slot, you can conveniently store your patches, samples, and firmware.

Key Features:

  • 16 voices polyphony; dual-timbral in split or layered mode
  • 3 stereo digital oscillators per voice, each capable of five synthesis algorithms
  • Wavetable creation from audio and sample-based synthesis
  • Digital dual resonant filter with selectable 2-pole and 4-pole slopes
  • Visualization and deeper sound editing via multi-touch display
  • 6 LFOs, 6 envelope generators, and multi-curve LFO
  • 32-step sequencer and arpeggiator
  • 40-slot modulation matrix and 4 x 4 pad matrix
  • Master FX section with time-based and modulation effects
  • Internal Memory plus expandable SD slot for firmware and samples

Owner's manual

Waldorf Iridium User Manual

Product specs

Type Desktop Synthesizer and Sequencer
Analog/Digital Digital
Pads 16 x RGB Backlit Pads
Polyphony 16-voice, Multitimbral
Presets Over 1000 Factory, 7000 Patch Memory Slots
Oscillators 3 x Stereo Digital Oscillators, 5 x Modes (wavetable, waveform, particle, resonator, kernels)
Waveforms Sine, Sawtooth, Triangle, Square ; Warp Parameter
Noise Generator Pink Noise, White Noise
Envelope Generator 6 x EG ; Looping, Curve Control, Modulate Timings
LFO 6 x LFO
VCA Yes
Filter 3 x Stereo Filters per Voice, Independent Modes ; Nave, Largo, PPG, Quantum, State Variable
Sample and Hold Yes
Effects Types Chorus, Flanger, Delay, Reverb, Drive, Bitcrusher, Comb Filter, RingMod
Arpeggiator Yes
Sequencer 32-step Sequencer
Analog Inputs 2 x 1/4" (L/R)
Analog Outputs 2 x 1/4" (L/R)
Headphones 1 x 1/4", 1 x 1/8"
MIDI I/O In/Out/Thru/USB
Other I/O 4 x CV In, Clock In/Out, Gate In, Start In
USB 1 x Type B, 1 x Type A
Memory 2GB Internal Sample Flash Memory, microSD Card Slot
Power Supply 12V DC power supply (included)
Height 3.34"
Width 17.32"
Depth 12.00"
Weight 11.9 lbs.

FAQs

Is the Waldorf Iridium synthesizer polyphonic?

Yes, the Waldorf Iridium is a 16-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing for complex and layered sound creation.

What types of synthesis does the Waldorf Iridium offer?

The Waldorf Iridium features five oscillator modes: wavetable, waveform, particle, resonator, and kernels, offering a wide range of sound design possibilities.

Does the Waldorf Iridium have analog filters?

No, the Waldorf Iridium is fully digital, including its filters, which allows for twice the polyphony compared to hybrid models.

Can the Waldorf Iridium be used as a sampler?

Yes, the Waldorf Iridium functions as a sampler, allowing users to load and manipulate samples within their patches.

How many factory presets does the Waldorf Iridium include?

The Waldorf Iridium comes with over 1000 factory presets and offers 7000 patch memory slots for extensive sound storage.

What connectivity options are available on the Waldorf Iridium?

The Waldorf Iridium includes MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, analog inputs and outputs, CV inputs, and more, ensuring versatile connectivity for various setups.

Matt Johnson Jamiroquai

Matt Johnson Jamiroquai

Exclusive!! Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer keyboard version

Video thumbnail for Exclusive!! Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer keyboard version by Matt Johnson Jamiroquai

Exclusive!! Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer keyboard version

Matt Johnson Jamiroquai

Matt Johnson Jamiroquai

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Iridium & Quantum Compared by Tim Shoebridge

Waldorf Iridium & Quantum Compared

Tim Shoebridge

Tim Shoebridge

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer Module Demo — Daniel Fisher by Sweetwater

Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer Module Demo — Daniel Fisher

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer: Unboxing & Fun by Doctor Mix

Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer: Unboxing & Fun

Doctor Mix

Doctor Mix

Video thumbnail for Hands On Waldorf Iridium - Bass Relax Live-Session by WaldorfMusicChannel

Hands On Waldorf Iridium - Bass Relax Live-Session

WaldorfMusicChannel

WaldorfMusicChannel

Video thumbnail for Why I sold my Waldorf Iridium (and what replaced it) by Jameson Nathan Jones

Why I sold my Waldorf Iridium (and what replaced it)

Jameson Nathan Jones

Jameson Nathan Jones

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Iridium Deep Dive by WaldorfMusicChannel

Waldorf Iridium Deep Dive

WaldorfMusicChannel

WaldorfMusicChannel

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Iridium | A Cursed Holy Grail Synth? by Alamo Music Sound Lab

Waldorf Iridium | A Cursed Holy Grail Synth?

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Video thumbnail for From The Studio - Waldorf Iridium by clubbingtvofficial

From The Studio - Waldorf Iridium

clubbingtvofficial

clubbingtvofficial

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Iridium ► Sound Demo [40 MINUTES] by Mr. Card

Waldorf Iridium ► Sound Demo [40 MINUTES]

Mr. Card

Mr. Card

Reviews

PROS

  • Powerful synthesis capabilities with a variety of oscillators and filters

  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface, including touch screen

  • Solid, durable build quality

  • Offers deep sound design tools, including granular synthesis

  • Capable of importing DX7 patches and personal samples

  • Features comprehensive effects and modulation options

  • Unique sound that cuts through mixes well

  • Suitable for a broad spectrum of genres and soundscapes

  • Firmware updates potentially enhancing future functionality

  • Swivel mount option for ergonomic use

CONS

  • Occasional software bugs, including screen issues

  • Modulation assignment could be more straightforward

  • Limited to studio use due to reliability concerns live

  • Some reported hardware quality issues with buttons and encoders

  • Program change limited to 128 "favorite" patches

  • Patch and sample management can be cumbersome

  • No envelope triggering from an external gate for CV interaction

  • High price point compared to some alternatives

  • Customer service response may be lacking

  • Some features may have a steep learning curve for new users

Critic Reviews

Waldorf: Iridium Synthesizer & Processor | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

Waldorf's Iridium synthesizer dazzles with its innovative touchscreen interface and an expansive synthesis engine that blends digital and analog elements, making it a potential game-changer for sound designers. However, its steep learning curve and absence of a traditional keyboard may deter casual users. While the digital filters impress with their versatility and smoothness, the complexity of setting up advanced features can leave even experienced musicians feeling overwhelmed. Ultimately, Iridium is a powerhouse for those ready to dive deep, but it may not suit everyone’s studio needs.

positive

The Big Review: Waldorf Iridium

musictech.com

Waldorf's Iridium is a robust desktop synth that offers a wealth of features and impressive sound design capabilities. Its build quality feels premium, and the touchscreen interface enhances user interaction. However, the transition to digital filters and the somewhat cramped layout may deter some users, especially those accustomed to the Quantum. While it excels in wavetable synthesis and modulation options, the lack of velocity-sensitive pads and occasional touchscreen unresponsiveness are notable drawbacks. Overall, the Iridium is a powerful tool for creative sound exploration, particularly suited for those who appreciate hardware synthesis, but it may not be for everyone.

Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
othiym23

Almost too powerful.

With three oscillators (including resonators and a pretty powerful granular implementation), a bunch of LFOs, and almost too many routing and modulation options, this is about as close as it gets to putting Massive X in a box. I ended up picking up a Minifreak in part because the Minifreak is more constrained and therefore accessible. But the Iridium is a beast and worth what it costs.

junkie_bass_studios

Well The First One DIdn't Work

We ordered a Waldorf Iridium unboxed it, plugged it in. 4 hours later the screen started going out, and the buttons on OSC 1 stopped working. It took close to 3 months to get my replacement. An almost $3000 synth should not start having issues when it is only a few hours old. Other then the issues with the first one this has turned out to be a very useful synth with a wide range of abilities.

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jordan Rudess uses Waldorf Iridium

Jordan Rudess

Keyboardist, Composer

Dream Theater

...
Verified via YouTube

introduces at 0:35 in the video

See how Tim Hecker uses Waldorf Iridium

Tim Hecker

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Tim Hecker mentions in this post how he's doing some scoring projects. Which if you're going to score a movie, a Moog One and/or Waldorf Iridium are the best ways to go about scoring with synthesis and sound design.

See how BNYX uses Waldorf Iridium

BNYX

Rapper, Music Producer

Working on Dying

...
Verified via YouTube

BNYX can be seen adjusting parameters on his Waldorf Quantum Synthesizer while live on Twitch, as he creates a beat for Seddy Hendrinx. This was documented in a YouTube video by ONB, titled "BNYX and @AMAARAE (w/ @SEDDYHENDRINX)" from February 9, 2025.

See how Mat Mitchell uses Waldorf Iridium

Mat Mitchell

Guitarist, Bassist

Puscifer

...
Verified via YouTube

At the 18:38 mark of this YouTube video, Mat Mitchell confirms using the Waldorf Iridium to replicate the vintage Fairlight CMI sounds.

It doesn't have a keyboard. It is all buttons. It forces you to think a little differently with it. It has a really powerful synth engine. It's got crazy effects, and bit crushers and filters and all kinds of knarly stuff.

See how JakoJako uses Waldorf Iridium

JakoJako

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this interview with JakoJako at https://inverted-audio.com/mix/jakojako/ the waldorf iridium is not named in the text, but it can be seen on her desk at the far right.

See how Martin Stürtzer uses Waldorf Iridium

Martin Stürtzer

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Throughout this video, Martin can be seen using the Waldorf Iridium. It is the large black synth at the bottom left to centre of the video, below the Elektron Analog Four, with the touch screen display and the gaudy coloured pads.

See how Merkaba uses Waldorf Iridium

Merkaba

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Merkaba/Kalya Scintilla posted a full studio walk-through. The Waldorf Iridium Synthesizer can be seen right at the beginning.

See how State Azure uses Waldorf Iridium

State Azure

Music Producer

...
See how Obscure Shape uses Waldorf Iridium

Obscure Shape

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

Obscure Shape uses the Waldorf Iridium for his latest productions, as confirmed by his Instagram post where he mentions, "My hand is broken, but the beats keep rolling!" and features an image of the Iridium.

See how Bombardier uses Waldorf Iridium

Bombardier

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Bombardier is confirmed to use the Waldorf Iridium, as evidenced by the performance captured in the video "Concentric - Performance 1" by Jason J. Snell, featuring Bombardier alongside Cece Zhang at CSPS Hall on June 10, 2025.

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 Iridium, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
tastatore

tastatore

Gear IQ 544

taureon

taureon

Gear IQ 397

junkie_bass_studios

junkie_bass_studios

Gear IQ 546

junkie_bass_studios

junkie_bass_studios

Gear IQ 546

6 alternative and related items for Waldorf Iridium, curated by the Equipboard community.

ASM Hydrasynth Desktop

$749.00 - $849.00

cheaper alternative

For wavetable synthesis the ASM Hydrasynth is right on par with the Iridium. Both offer massive nod matrix options, and Euro CV inputs and outputs.

They Hydrasynth does not offer, granular or particle synthesis like the Iridium, but it does offer a strong alternative when looking for digital synthesis with a large mod matrix, but not overly complex.

Waldorf Quantum 8-voice Hybrid Synth

$3,699.00 - $6,499.00

similar sound high-end alternative mod

The synth Iridium is based on. The major difference are no keys, and to help with the size the analog filters were swapped for digital. Though in Waldorf style you can't really tell.

Arturia MiniFreak

$509.00 - $599.00

cheaper alternative

A similarly vast palette of oscillator choices (albeit more curated and without wavetables or samples (yet)), a similarly powerful (albeit more constrained) set of modulation options, and a similarly clean, digital sound without sounding tinny.

Mayer EMI Vibes MD850

$2,222.00 - $2,599.00

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound

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