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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 Firechild uses Waldorf Microwave

Firechild

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

video of Firechild performing on the Waldorf Microwave in his studio

M

Michael Balch

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Front Line Assembly

...
Verified via Photo

From working with mike in the 90s occasionally, the waldorf microwave and waveslave companion were items we were jealous of mike having... In addition to the waldorf, mike also had an akai s950 sampler, roland sh-2000, sony m7 and d5 effects units and a lexicon jam man delay. mixer for song writing was a mackie 24-4 vlz. In the past, during his time with ministry, akai s1000/s1100 samplers were also used.

See how Phelios uses Waldorf Microwave

Phelios

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Gear list: Access Virus TI, Moog Sub 37, Yamaha DX7, Waldorf Microwave I rev a, Yamaha TG77, Roland JV2080, Kawai K5000R, Oberheim Matrix 1000, UAD Apollo, Eurorack with Mutable Instruments & Intellijel, Valhalla Vintage Verb, Waves H-Delay, Ableton Live 10.x

See how Michael Münzing uses Waldorf Microwave

Michael Münzing

Composer, Music Producer

Snap!

...
Verified via Muzines

Source: Interview with Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti about SNAP! mu:zines.co.uk - 1994: https://www.muzines.co.uk/articles/snap-to-tomorrow/8245

D

DJ Manian

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In the photo, DJ Manian is shown using the Waldorf Microwave, highlighting its role in his music production setup.

See how John Webster uses Waldorf Microwave

John Webster

Keyboardist, Composer

The Cult

...
Verified via John T. Webster

In the 1990s, John Webster's essential equipment included the Waldorf Microwave, as confirmed by his own account on his biography provided by John T. Webster.

See how Phil Wilde uses Waldorf Microwave

Phil Wilde

Music Producer, DJ

T99

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture we can see Waldorf Microwave

See how Drew Neumann uses Waldorf Microwave

Drew Neumann

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via SoundCloud

"SEA WITCH VS THE ALIENS" by Drew Neumann c2010 Droomusic ASCAP

"The story so far--fresh from their easy victory over the brainless Zombies, the Aliens dive into the Pacific Rim of Fire to raid the earth's resources and steal Methane Hydrates. They encounter something deep underwater that can actually fight back, and she is on her own home turf...

This cue features the Euro and Frac system set up in this simple patch--the one on the left is called Morbeus, it is an Emu/Paia homebrew made from Emu SSM evaluation boards and Paia EKX series boards. On the right top to bottom is an Encore Expressionist, Analogue Systems modular, Blacet, and Doepfer A100 modulars. Below that is a Powertran Digital Delay and an Alesis Quadraverb. These synths are backed up by 2 Waldorf Microwave 1, WAVE, and Q+, a Minimoog, 2 Minimoog Voyagers, Studio Electronics Omega 8, 2 Oberheim SEMS, a Tom Oberheim New SEM, Access Virus B and C, Arturia Origin, 2 MacBeth M3X, Jomox Sunsyn, Alesis Andromeda, and the 5U Knob Grotto. Mixed live off of all of the synths, this used 63 tracks and a couple of hundred voices. It probably should be titled the battle against noise floor and ground loops, but I won that battle!"

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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4
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Akai S1100 Audio Samplers
4
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4
Korg M1
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4

Community setups

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mirko_bostic

mirko_bostic

Gear IQ 94

rettervondunkel

rettervondunkel

Gear IQ 770

alf_kagg

alf_kagg

Gear IQ 57

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