Waldorf Microwave 1

$141.00 to $1,500.00 Price Tier: High-end

4 Critic Reviews

0 wishlisted

1 saved

Page last updated Jul 01, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated June 26, 2026.

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Price

$165.00

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$165.00

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5.0 (5)

$1,500.00 23 available Used

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5.0 (10)

$141.00

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Average Price: $493

High-end/Boutique

$79

$200+

Price Tier

In the Synth Plugins category, Waldorf Microwave 1 is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Waldorf Microwave 1". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Step into the world of Wavetable Synthesis with the Waldorf Microwave 1 Plug-in, a digital resurrection of the iconic original that captivated musicians in the nineties. Celebrated for its enigmatic wavetable modulations and the fusion of digital and analog synthesis, the Microwave 1 is a sound designer’s dream. This plug-in offers the same lush pads, massive bass lines, and brutal attacks that defined its hardware predecessor, now enhanced with a modern twist for today's digital workstations.

Crafted with precision, the Microwave 1 Plug-in meticulously models the original's Waldorf ASIC and Curtis filter chips, ensuring every sonic detail is captured. This reimagined classic runs at an ultra-high sampling rate of 250 kHz, guaranteeing a sound that is both authentic and dynamic. The plug-in replicates the warmth and character of the original hardware's digital-to-analog converters, offering a sonic palette that's both nostalgically rich and endlessly versatile.

Explore new creative dimensions with the user-friendly interface that reveals previously hidden synthesis elements. Whether you're sculpting wavetables or layering sounds in multi-mode, the graphical interface simplifies complex sound design processes, inviting experimentation and innovation. Dive into the depths of sound creation with the ability to edit and craft new wavetables and waveforms, empowered by intuitive control tables and randomization modes.

With the Waldorf Microwave 1 Plug-in, embrace a legacy of groundbreaking sound design while unlocking new possibilities in your music production journey.

Key Features:

Faithful recreation of the original Waldorf Microwave hardware
Integrated Waldorf ASIC and Curtis filter chip emulation
Operates at an ultra-high sampling rate of 250 kHz
Fully scalable, modern graphical user interface
Editable wavetables and user waveform creation
Multi-mode sound layering with an intuitive mixer
Supports Windows (VST2/VST3/AAX) and macOS (VST2/VST3/AU/AAX) systems

Product specs

Available since	August 2024
Single/Bundle article	Los artikel
Akustik Keys/Pianos	No
Beat production / Drum machines	No
Wind Instruments	No
Cinematic / Effects	No
Chorus / Vocals	No
Drums / Percussion	No
E-Pianos	No
Ethno / Folk	No
Guitars/plucked instruments	No
Loops/Construction-Kits	No
Orchestra Instruments	No
Organs	No
String Bass	No
Sampler	No
String Instruments	No
Synthesizer	Yes
Vintage Instrument	Yes
Hardware Controller	No
Download	1
NKS	1

Videos

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RetroSound

Waldorf MicroWave I vs. MicroWave II Synthesizer battle

RetroSound

Waldorf Microwave 1 Demo: Pads Strings Analog Brass

Rob World

Waldorf M vs Microwave 1 PPG 2.3 Presets

synthlegends

Waldorf microWAVE 1: THE RAW SOUND

Supah Dupah

WALDORF M vs MICROWAVE 1 [ filter comparison ]

Supah Dupah

Waldorf Microwave 1 Synthesizer

SoundSource

Reviews

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PROS

Offers a unique, gritty, and raw sound distinct from other synths
Capable of producing vast soundscapes suitable for any electronic music genre
Excellent bass and ambient washes with long-tailed reverbs
Recognizes polyphonic aftertouch for enhanced expressiveness
Provides a rich sound palette, from crispy and cold to warm and rich
Built like a tank, ensuring durability and longevity
Light CPU usage, enabling multiple instances without performance issues
Analog filter modeling is impressively accurate in the plugin version

CONS

Significant aliasing at high frequencies, though can be tamed with filters
No native support for transferring patches from hardware to VST
Loading patches in the VST can be unreliable, needing updates for improvement

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Waldorf Microwave 1.

Features and functionality

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The plugin emulates both Rev A and Rev B filters of the original hardware, providing versatility in sound design options.
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The VST can import original SysEx files, making it easy for users to integrate with existing setups or migrate from the hardware.
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The Stereoping Programmer supports SysEx for precise control, enhancing userwave editing but lacks text-to-speech capabilities present in the Waldorf Quantum.
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Software and compatibility

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The plugin can be used as a graphical editor for the original hardware, bridging the gap between digital and physical interfaces.
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Value and pricing

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Priced at €119, it is competitively placed alongside other premium plugins like those from U-He and Arturia.
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Use cases and applications

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Noted for its capability to produce classic Waldorf warm grit and harmonics, making it ideal for Industrial/EBM music production.
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When combined with a programmer, the Microwave transforms into an intuitive instrument, offering enhanced multimode features like layering different presets.
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Comparisons

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The plugin is distinct from the Microwave XT, focusing on faithfully replicating the original Microwave 1's sound and features.
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Mods and upgrades

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Stereoping Programmer significantly enhances the Microwave's capabilities, allowing real-time control, a random preset generator, and the ability to draw wavetables with knobs.
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Setup and maintenance

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Users recommend positioning the Microwave in an accessible location over sequencers or controllers for better playability, rather than in a slanted or inaccessible rack.
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Build quality

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The Stereoping Programmer's faceplate can be customized, but users should be aware of color mismatches in knob choices for aesthetic consistency.
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Critic Reviews

Waldorf Microwave 1 Synthesizer plugin, first look review: macOS, Windows and now for iPads - SYNTH ANATOMY

synthanatomy.com

Waldorf Microwave 1 is a nostalgic trip for synth lovers, delivering an impressively authentic emulation of the classic hardware. Its sound design capabilities, including a wavetable editor, are standout features that invite deep exploration. However, the plugin's limitations mirror those of its predecessor, lacking modern conveniences like effects and a more user-friendly preset browser. While it excels in capturing the vintage sound, some may find the interface cumbersome. Still, for those who cherish the Microwave's unique tones, this plugin is a worthy addition to any setup.

positive

Full Review

Waldorf Microwave 1 synth is on iPad, and it's an instant favorite - CDM Create Digital Music

cdm.link

Waldorf Microwave 1 for iPad is a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern functionality, offering character-rich wavetable synthesis and a user-friendly interface ideal for on-the-go music-making. Its AUv3 support and cross-platform compatibility make it a versatile addition to any musician’s toolkit. However, while it shines in sound design and ease of use, it may lack the extensive feature set found in other synths, leaving some users wanting more. Overall, it’s a captivating option for those seeking vintage warmth with contemporary convenience.

positive

Full Review

Waldorf Microwave 1

proaudio.tech

Waldorf's Microwave 1 plug-in captures the essence of the classic hardware synthesizer with impressive accuracy. Musicians will appreciate its low CPU load and intuitive layout, making sound design a breeze. However, the lack of additional effects and a clunky preset management system might frustrate some users. While there are slight variations from the original sound, these are minor and do not detract from the overall performance. With over 500 presets included, this plug-in offers a rich palette for creative exploration, and at around 150 euros, it provides great value for both seasoned pros and newcomers alike.

positive

Full Review

Review Waldorf Microwave 1 Plugin – SOUNDS OF REVOLUTION

sounds-of-revolution.com

The Waldorf Microwave 1 Plugin successfully revives the iconic sound of the original hardware, showcasing stunning wavetable synthesis and an improved user interface. While the nostalgic sound quality makes it a must-have for synth enthusiasts, the lack of rotary knobs and a more intuitive sound browser holds it back from perfection. Nonetheless, the plugin's faithful recreation of vintage character and added features, like MIDI import, will delight users. It’s a fantastic homage to a classic, blending old-school charm with modern convenience, making it a standout addition to any music producer's arsenal.

positive

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