Waldorf M – the ultimate MicroWave Synthesizer?

Waldorf returns to its roots. As a fusion and continuation of MicroWave and MicroWave II / XT, the new Waldorf “M” offers classic wavetable synthesis in desktop format. With 8 or (with upgrade) 16 analog / hybrid voices.

The portfolio of the M Synthesizer points out well-tried and solid aspects. Inside: 2 OSC, 1 VCF, 2 LFOs, 4 envelopes, stereo VCAs with pan function. Outside: Design by Axel Hartmann (and Vladimir Salnikov).

Sounds by Kurt Ader, Kurt Ader, Jürgen Driessen, Wolfram Franke, Rob Papen, Anthony Rother, Martin Stürtzer, Claudius Brüse and others – all well-known names …

In addition to the two LFOs (with MIDI synchronization) there is also an arpeggiator with chord mode, and a 4-way multi-timbrality.

Like the original MicroWave (Rev. A), the Waldorf M Synthesizer features that classic, blue PPG chassis color …

… and like the original MicroWave, the Waldorf M Synthesizer has several audio outputs. 3 stereo-outs plus headphones-out, to be precise …

A quick look at the sound structure shows the continuation of the proven wavetable hybrid synthesizer concept …

… and a look at the surface shows how to program the M Synthesizer: 8 mode pages, a display and 4 encoders (not shown) form the center of the user interface.

Since the basic concept of the M Synthesizer is well-known, the honest question “What is new compared to the classic MicroWave?” might arise. Let’s emphasized the modern, analog SSI2144 filter chip, the stereo VCA (PAN) function for each voice, the LFOs that can be synchronized (to each other and to MIDI), as well as the arpeggiator, the USB 2.0 port, and the SD card slot.

In addition, as always, the question of sound will have top priority. From the currently available demo videos, the pure sound characters cannot yet be clearly classified compared to those legendary synth classics PPG Wave and Waldorf MicroWave.

But of course it is far too early to make any judgment about the Waldorf M. Design and features of the new MicroWave synthesizer, however, indicate a vast and comprehenisve sound potential.