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Average Price: $5,702

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$500

$1501+

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Description

Step into the world of unparalleled synthesis with the Waldorf Q+, a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation. Celebrated by electronic musicians and synth enthusiasts alike, this synthesizer offers a distinctive blend of analog and digital technologies. Equipped with 16 voices, it provides a rich, full sound that is perfect for both studio recordings and live performances.

The Waldorf Q+ comes with robust features that cater to the creative demands of modern music production. Its unique architecture combines analog filters with digital oscillators, delivering a versatile sound palette that ranges from warm, classic tones to cutting-edge sonic textures. With an intuitive interface, this synthesizer is designed to inspire creativity and streamline workflow, making it a favorite among producers who value both sound quality and usability.

Key Features:

  • 16-voice polyphony for expansive sound creation
  • Dual analog filters for enhanced sound shaping
  • Digital oscillators for a wide range of sonic possibilities
  • Comprehensive modulation capabilities to fine-tune your sound
  • Intuitive user interface offering ease of use
  • Built-in effects including reverb, delay, and chorus
  • MIDI compatibility for seamless integration into any setup
  • Expandable sound library with user presets

Whether you're crafting a new track or performing live, the Waldorf Q+ is engineered to elevate your music with its powerful synthesis capabilities and exceptional sound quality.

Product specs

Brand Waldorf
Model Q+ 61-Key Synthesizer
Finish Red
Year 1999 - 2011
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 100 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Waldorf Q+ use?

The Waldorf Q+ employs virtual analog synthesis, combining digital oscillators with analog filters to deliver a rich, warm sound palette.

How many voices of polyphony does the Waldorf Q+ offer?

The Waldorf Q+ provides up to 100 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex sound layering and rich, full arrangements.

What are the key features of the Waldorf Q+ synthesizer?

Key features of the Waldorf Q+ include its 61 semi-weighted keys, analog filters, extensive modulation options, and robust MIDI connectivity, making it versatile for both studio and live performances.

Is the Waldorf Q+ suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Waldorf Q+ is well-suited for live performances with its semi-weighted keys, intuitive controls, and robust build quality, providing reliable performance on stage.

Does the Waldorf Q+ have MIDI connectivity?

The Waldorf Q+ features comprehensive MIDI connectivity, including MIDI Input, Output, and Through, enabling seamless integration with other MIDI-compatible gear.

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The Waldorf Q+ has dedicated front-panel knobs for oscillator crossmod, shape modulation, ring mod, filter FM, and drive, enhancing hands-on subtractive synthesis.

    Source
  • The Micro Q's polyphony maxes at 25 voices, expandable to 75, but decreases with more CPU-intensive patches, unlike the consistent polyphony of the original Q models.

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  • The Waldorf M recently updated to include waveshaping algorithms and MPE support, enhancing its sound design capabilities.

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  • The Blofeld has a pulse width modulation/wavetable position control accessible on the oscillator type page, bypassing the need for the mod matrix.

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  • The Waldorf M's digital filters differ from Blofeld's, offering a distinct sound, and the M provides a classic wavetable experience with analog filters.

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Comparisons

  • Unlike the Quantum, the Q+ offers immediate access to synthesis parameters without menu diving, making it superior for those who prefer tactile control.

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  • The Blofeld is considered an upgrade over the Micro Q, offering additional wavetables, samples, and a desktop case, though some prefer the unique sound of the Q/micro Q.

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  • The Korg Modwave is suggested as a better low-cost digital wavetable synth option in the 2020s, thanks to its capability to import Waldorf wavetables made for Serum.

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  • The 3rd Wave offers three oscillators, FM crossmod, and both analog and digital filters per voice, distinguishing it from others like the Peak and Microwave series.

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  • The Waldorf M is highlighted for its PPG-style wavetable envelopes, unlike Blofeld's workarounds with modulation envelopes.

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Value and pricing

  • A broken key on a Waldorf Q+ might compromise its value, with owners suggesting other synths like the Iridium or Matriarch as better alternatives in the same price range.

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User experience

  • Some users find the Q+ can sound harsh, with patches possessing an edge that might not appeal to all, highlighting the importance of personal tonal preference.

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  • The traditional Waldorf UI is often criticized for its complexity, but users find the Q and Q+ models to have a more user-friendly, knob-rich interface compared to the Micro Q.

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  • Owners note that the M's UI, while not as user-friendly as other synths, is still manageable, and its sound quality stands out.

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  • The Blofeld has been criticized for its user interface, with some owners finding it more of a virtual analog synth than a true wavetable synth.

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Software and compatibility

  • The Largo software replicates the Blofeld's sound and capabilities, excluding samples, and is noted to sound better in FM without the hardware UI issues.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rhys Fulber uses Waldorf Q+

Rhys Fulber

Music Producer

Fear Factory

...
Verified via Photo

In a 2016 Gearspace post, Rhys Fulber discusses his use of the Waldorf Q+ synthesizer while working on Fear Factory's album "Genexus."

Album Usage

The Waldorf Q+ 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 Q+, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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