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Description

The Waldorf Microwave is a powerhouse for musicians seeking to explore the depths of digital synthesis with a touch of vintage allure. As a key player in the realm of wavetable synthesis, this sound module is celebrated for its unique ability to blend digital precision with an analog warmth, courtesy of its distinctive filter section. Originally launched in the late 1980s, the Microwave has become a staple in electronic music production, appreciated for its innovative sound-shaping capabilities.

This synthesizer stands out not only for its historical significance but also for its modern functionality. With a unique wavetable architecture, the Microwave offers a wide array of sonic possibilities, allowing you to shape and sculpt sounds like never before. Its intuitive interface is designed to cater to both seasoned synth enthusiasts and newcomers alike, ensuring that your creative workflow is as smooth as it is inspiring. Whether you're crafting lush pads, aggressive leads, or evolving textures, the Waldorf Microwave provides the tools you need to bring your sonic ideas to life.

Key Features:

  • Wavetable synthesis with extensive sound-shaping capabilities
  • Digital oscillators paired with analog filters for classic warmth
  • Comprehensive modulation matrix for dynamic sound manipulation
  • Multi-timbral operation for complex arrangements
  • Robust MIDI implementation for seamless integration with digital workstations
  • Intuitive user interface for easy navigation and sound editing

Product specs

Brand Waldorf
Model Microwave Rackmount Wavetable Synthesizer
Finish Blue
Year 1989
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony 10 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Waldorf Microwave use?

The Waldorf Microwave is a digital rackmount synthesizer that utilizes wavetable synthesis, allowing for complex and evolving sound textures.

How many voices of polyphony does the Waldorf Microwave offer?

The Waldorf Microwave provides 10 voices of polyphony, enabling the creation of rich, layered sounds.

What are the MIDI connectivity options for the Waldorf Microwave?

The Waldorf Microwave features MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with other MIDI-compatible gear.

Is the Waldorf Microwave suitable for live performance?

Yes, the Waldorf Microwave's rackmount design and MIDI capabilities make it suitable for live performance setups, especially for those looking for unique digital textures.

Can the Waldorf Microwave be used with modern DAWs?

Yes, with its MIDI connectivity, the Waldorf Microwave can be integrated into modern DAW environments, providing distinctive wavetable sounds for digital music production.

RetroSound

RetroSound

Waldorf Microwave "Wavetable Synthesizer" (1989)

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Microwave "Wavetable Synthesizer" (1989) by RetroSound

Waldorf Microwave "Wavetable Synthesizer" (1989)

RetroSound

RetroSound

Video thumbnail for Waldorf MicroWave I vs. MicroWave II Synthesizer battle by RetroSound

Waldorf MicroWave I vs. MicroWave II Synthesizer battle

RetroSound

RetroSound

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Microwave 1 - Presets/Patches Demo by Sonic Freaks

Waldorf Microwave 1 - Presets/Patches Demo

Sonic Freaks

Sonic Freaks

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Microwave Wavetable Synthesizer (1989) Sound Demo - PPG Wave Sounds by RetroSound

Waldorf Microwave Wavetable Synthesizer (1989) Sound Demo - PPG Wave Sounds

RetroSound

RetroSound

Video thumbnail for Waldorf Microwave 1 Demo: Pads Strings Analog Brass by Rob World

Waldorf Microwave 1 Demo: Pads Strings Analog Brass

Rob World

Rob World

Video thumbnail for Waldorf microWAVE 1: THE RAW SOUND by Supah Dupah

Waldorf microWAVE 1: THE RAW SOUND

Supah Dupah

Supah Dupah

Reviews

PROS

  • Versatile synthesis suitable for any electronic music genre

  • Unique raw and gritty sound reminiscent of PPG Wave

  • Extensive modulation capabilities for deep programming

  • Recognizes polyphonic aftertouch for enhanced expressiveness

  • Excellent bass and ambient soundscapes

  • Simple yet efficient analog LPF architecture

  • Built like a tank with durable construction

  • Offers rich and warm sounds, akin to vintage synths

  • Capable of creating powerful strings and fat brass

  • Highly recommended by long-time enthusiasts

CONS

  • Can experience significant aliasing at high frequencies

  • Lacks built-in knobs, requiring external programmers for full potential

Critic Reviews

Waldorf Microwave 2.0

soundonsound.com

The Waldorf Microwave 2.0 is a unique synthesizer that stands out for its distinctive wavetable sounds and powerful analog filter. While it lacks built-in effects and is limited to 8-note polyphony, it excels in producing raw and rich tones from subtle to aggressive. The ongoing upgrades and support for six years highlight its appeal, though the factory sounds are underwhelming, requiring users to delve into programming for the best results. Ideal for those seeking something beyond standard synth presets, its quirks are outweighed by its sonic capabilities. A solid choice for sound designers who crave a gritty edge.

positive

Waldorf Microwave (SOS Dec 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Waldorf Microwave is a modern synthesis marvel, blending the legendary PPG Wave's sound with contemporary MIDI capabilities. It's an 8-voice, 2-oscillator synthesizer boasting dynamic spectral wavetable synthesis and a powerful 4-pole analogue filter. The Microwave excels in sound design flexibility, though its factory presets disappoint. The unit's unique sound and modulation possibilities shine as users dive into programming their own patches. However, its limited polyphony and underwhelming presets mean it's not suited as a primary studio expander. For those seeking to create distinctive, expressive sounds, the Microwave is a compelling choice.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 13 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Trent Reznor uses Waldorf Microwave

Trent Reznor

Keyboardist, Singer

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Nin-pages

I’m this interview Trent states:

“ I had a PPG when they were out, and I have a Waldorf MicroWave now. If I go about trying to program that thing in a logical way, it comes out sounding like mid-1980s synth pop--kind of dated, digital-sounding. But just through randomly generating stuff with Opcode's Galaxy, and I did this a lot on the Xpander and the VS, I'd generate thousands and thousands of programs. Then I'd hear an element of one that was cool, and fine-tune it.”

See how Kraftwerk uses Waldorf Microwave

Kraftwerk

Composer, Music Producer

Kraftwerk

...
Verified via Kraftwerkfaq

Kraftwerk utilized the Waldorf Microwave during their 1998 world tour, as detailed in the Kraftwerk FAQ.

See how Vince Clarke uses Waldorf Microwave

Vince Clarke

Keyboardist, Composer

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via Archive

The Waldorf Microwave is featured in the "Studio Equipment List" on Vince Clarke's website.

See how Alan Wilder uses Waldorf Microwave

Alan Wilder

Drummer, Keyboardist

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via Archive

In the archived Sound on Sound article, Alan Wilder's equipment list includes the Waldorf Microwave as the ninth synthesizer.

See how Klaus Schulze uses Waldorf Microwave

Klaus Schulze

Guitarist, Bassist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via Muzines

List of equipment used by Klaus Schulze, from the February 1993 issue of Sound on Sound:

4x Akai S1000PB (32MB) 2x Akai S1000KB (32MB) Akai S900 Akai S612 Akai S7000 Moog Modular CIII 2x Moog MiniMoog Studio Electronics MIDIMini Mellotron Yamaha CS80 Yamaha CP70 Yamaha TX81Z Yamaha SY99 Korg M1 Korg M1 EX Korg T1 Korg T3 Korg DVP1 Roland U110 Roland U220 Roland D50 Roland S50 sampler & monitor Roland Planet S & editor Roland Super Jupiter & editor 2 Roland TR505 Roland Octopad Roland JD800 Roland Super JX10 4x Hohner HS2/E sampler 5x Hohner HS1/E sampler Hohner HS1KB sampler Waldorf Microwave GDS computer synth Misc. Crumar keyboards Fairlight CMI Series II SCI Prophet 2000 SCI Prophet 2002 Emu Proteus/2 Emu Proteus/3 World Emu Emulator II Kurzweil K1000 Kawai K4 EMS Synthi A PPG Wave 2.2 Linn 9000 4x Oberheim DPX1 Yamaha RY30 drum machine Sonor timpanies and octo toms Paiste gongs and cymbals Martin 12-string guitar

See how Mathew Jonson uses Waldorf Microwave

Mathew Jonson

Music Producer

Cobblestone Jazz

...
Verified via YouTube

In his Studio Tour Feature for FACT Magazine, Mathew Jonson's Waldorf Microwave can be seen at at 2:48.

See how Fjaak uses Waldorf Microwave

Fjaak

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

can be seen in this post from January 13, 2020

See how Charlie Clouser uses Waldorf Microwave

Charlie Clouser

Keyboardist, Composer

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Theninhotline

So for every song we had a single sys-ex dump of each Nord Lead, the Virus, the MicroWave, depending on which synths were used on that song.

See how Scooter uses Waldorf Microwave

Scooter

Music Producer

Dance United

...
Verified via YouTube

In this youtube video at 2:35, Scooter can be seen to have a Waldorf Microwave in their studio rack (2nd mounted device from the bottom). It is clearly identifiable by the big red knob, display and the print.

See how Jerry Harrison uses Waldorf Microwave

Jerry Harrison

Singer, Guitarist

Talking Heads

...
Verified via EMusician

As a keyboardist, Harrison still prefers playing old hardware keys to soft synths. He's a fan of the Clavia Nord Electro 2 (see Fig. 2) and plays an Emu Emulator III, a Hohner Clavinet, a Nord Lead, a Sequential Prophet 5, a Sequential Prophet T8, a Waldorf Microwave, and a Wurlitzer.

See how Paul Humphreys uses Waldorf Microwave

Paul Humphreys

Keyboardist

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

...
Verified via Omdweb

Although boasting a lush sound, the album was recorded largely at Paul's Rhythm Ranch studio on a single tascam 16-track with a Studiomaster desk. Synths used include: Roland D-50, Akai S1000 and S3000, Kork M1R, Waldorf Microwave, Roland Super Jupiter module, Oberheim Matrix 1000, Yamaha TX802, Minimoog, MIDIMoog, Oberheim Two-Voice, Roland Jupiter 8 and SH-101.

See how Thorsten Quaeschning uses Waldorf Microwave

Thorsten Quaeschning

Singer, Keyboardist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via Thorstenquaeschning

Equipment & Software used on 'SYNTHWAVES':THORSTEN QUAESCHNING: Software: Steinberg Cubase 8 &8.5Hardware: Manikin Schrittmacher Step-Sequencer x 2Manikin MemotronRoland Jupiter 8 synthesizerRoland JD800 synthesizerDave Smith Prophet 8 synthesizerARP Solina MK2 string synthesizerKorg Wavestation Ex synthesizerWaldorf Microwave synthesizerMoog Voyager monophonic synthesizerModular synthesizerRoland V Synth synthesizerKorg Z1 synthesiserKorg Prophecy synthesiserKorg M1 synthesizerClavia Nordwave synthesizerYamaha TG77 synthesizer moduleRoland System 1 synthesizerRoland JU06 synthesizer moduleKorg MS20 monophonic synthesizerRoland JP08 synthesizer moduleRoland TR-8 Rhythm Performer drum machineOberheim DMX drum machineRoland Promars synthesizerFender Starcaster guitarFender Telecaster guitarFender Stratocaster guitarScrewdriver on wood and contact microphones,Several boxes with contact microphonesA field recording of bees in Thorsten's garden, edited on Cubase and then treated with Melodyne & Halion - and finally used for the lead melody line on 'A Calm But Steady Flow'.(Software synthesizers): Spectrasonics Omnisphere synthesizer, Spectrasonics Keyscape

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

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Community setups

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