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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
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What type of synthesis does the Waldorf Microwave use?
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The Waldorf Microwave is a digital rackmount synthesizer that utilizes wavetable synthesis, allowing for complex and evolving sound textures.
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How many voices of polyphony does the Waldorf Microwave offer?
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The Waldorf Microwave provides 10 voices of polyphony, enabling the creation of rich, layered sounds.
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What are the MIDI connectivity options for the Waldorf Microwave?
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The Waldorf Microwave features MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with other MIDI-compatible gear.
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Is the Waldorf Microwave suitable for live performance?
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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.
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Can the Waldorf Microwave be used with modern DAWs?
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Yes, with its MIDI connectivity, the Waldorf Microwave can be integrated into modern DAW environments, providing distinctive wavetable sounds for digital music production.
Videos
RetroSound
Waldorf Microwave "Wavetable Synthesizer" (1989)
Reviews
PROS
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Versatile synthesis suitable for any electronic music genre
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Unique raw and gritty sound reminiscent of PPG Wave
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Extensive modulation capabilities for deep programming
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Recognizes polyphonic aftertouch for enhanced expressiveness
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Excellent bass and ambient soundscapes
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Simple yet efficient analog LPF architecture
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Built like a tank with durable construction
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Offers rich and warm sounds, akin to vintage synths
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Capable of creating powerful strings and fat brass
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Highly recommended by long-time enthusiasts
CONS
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Can experience significant aliasing at high frequencies
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Lacks built-in knobs, requiring external programmers for full potential
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 13 Ratings
Artist usage
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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
A token nod to contemporary keyboard equipment comes courtesy of the Waldorf Microwave and Proteus 1.
"We've had them for over a year. The Waldorf is just horrendously complicated, but generally I find we're using about four sounds out of it; the 'Scanalogue' is a good one. The big crunchy sound in 'Cubik' is made up of about three or four sounds from the Waldorf, put in an FZ1 and multi-sampled. We still use the FZ because we've got a big library for it, and it's a lot easier to use than the Akai. The Proteus is pretty bog standard - we don't tend to use it a lot, mainly because a lot of people use it. We used the Moog sound on it before we got the Moog."
you can see his 1st edition microwave above the waldorf pulse in the rack behind him
In a 1997 interview with Sonic-boom, :wumpscut: (Rudy Ratzinger) lists the Waldorf Microwave among his gear, highlighting its role in his music production.
Wow, i owned a microwave 2 and a pulse +, and this thing destroys them hands down, the envs are kinda clicky on the fast attack settings, but this is kinda cool for industrial music in my book. The sounds are pretty and digital with a glow to them that is powerful. The analog cem filters really shine. I prefer the bass sound out of this to the pro one, and to an extent even the juno 106. The bass sounds are awesome and fit in a mix better in a lot of cases than even mono synths.. Wavetable scanning is great for ambience and weird industrial stuff. this synth reminds me of depeche mode, and juno reactor.. even tho it aliases, it does it in a good way. This is my favorite hybrid next to the prophet VS. Used heavily on just about every wumpscut song ever made.
At 7:40 we see Steffi beginning to dial in a sound on the waldorf microwave rev. A (with black text on green LCD)
"@skudge_elias_landberg Racking it up. #rack #gear #waldorf #yamaha #tx8iz #wavetable #waldorfmicrowave #ensoniqesq1 #oberheim #matrix1000 #cheetah #inthestudio #hardware #2015"
Album Usage
The Waldorf Microwave has been featured on the following albums:
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.
Community setups
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