Waldorf Microwave 1 plugin is a faithful recreation of the iconic Waldorf Microwave hardware synthesizer from 1989. This software emulation brings the distinctive hybrid wavetable synthesis and analog filter combination of the original rack-mounted unit to modern digital audio workstations. Developed over several years, the plugin meticulously models every aspect of the original hardware, from its custom ASIC chip to its 250 kHz internal sampling rate and even the quirks of its digital-to-analog converters. The Microwave 1 plugin features two wavetable oscillators per voice, a digital noise generator, and emulations of both Curtis filter chip variants used in the original hardware revisions. It offers 8-voice polyphony and a multi-mode allowing up to 8 layered or split instruments. The plugin includes all the original factory presets and wavetables, plus new modern sounds. A key feature for hardware owners is the ability to use the plugin as a remote editor for the original Microwave synthesizer. With its authentic sound and expanded editing capabilities, the Waldorf Microwave 1 plugin aims to bring the classic ’90s electronic music sound to a new generation of producers.
Pros:
• Authentic emulation of the original Microwave hardware, including its unique ASIC chip
• Expanded editing capabilities with a modern, intuitive interface
• Can function as a remote editor for original Microwave hardware
Cons:
• Limited to 8-voice polyphony, matching the original hardware’s limitations
Waldorf Microwave 1 plugin is a comprehensive recreation of the original hardware’s synthesis engine. At its core are two wavetable oscillators that can access all of the original Microwave’s wavetables, including algorithmic and speech wavetables. These oscillators are complemented by a digital noise generator, all of which are based on emulations of the original Waldorf ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) chip. The plugin runs at an internal sampling rate of 250 kHz, matching the original hardware and preserving its distinctive sound character.
The plugin’s filter section models both revisions of the analog Curtis filter chips used in the original hardware. Users can even simulate the slight detuning and calibration variations found in analog hardware. The filter and amplifier sections include modeled voltage-controlled amplifiers and panning, complete with the stepping effects of the original control voltage DACs.
Modulation options are extensive, mirroring the original hardware’s capabilities. The plugin features ADSR envelopes for filter and volume, plus a unique 8-stage wave envelope with variable key-off point and looping. Two LFOs with various waveforms, symmetry, and humanize parameters provide additional modulation sources. The plugin even recreates the subtle timing variations of the original hardware’s envelopes and LFOs.
The Microwave 1 plugin expands on the original hardware’s capabilities with a user-friendly wavetable editor, allowing users to create and edit custom wavetables. It also includes a waveform editor for even deeper sound design possibilities. The multi-mode feature enables up to 8 instruments to be layered or split across the keyboard, each with individual mixing and tuning parameters.
One standout feature is the plugin’s ability to import original MIDI and SysEx dump files, allowing users to load presets from the hardware version. This, combined with the included factory presets and new sound sets from contemporary designers, provides a vast library of sounds to work with.
The plugin’s interface is fully resizable and includes a configurable spectrum analyzer, making it easy to visualize and fine-tune sounds. For owners of the original hardware, the plugin can function as a remote editor, allowing control of the hardware synthesizer directly from within the DAW.
Compared to other wavetable synthesizer plugins, the Waldorf Microwave 1 stands out for its focus on accurately recreating a specific piece of hardware. While plugins like Serum or Vital offer more modern and flexible wavetable synthesis engines, the Microwave 1 captures a unique moment in synthesizer history. Its sound is distinctly ’90s, with a character that’s hard to replicate with more generic wavetable synths.
The Microwave 1 plugin’s closest competitors might be other vintage synth emulations, such as the U-He Diva or Arturia’s V Collection instruments. However, the Microwave 1 differentiates itself with its specific focus on Waldorf’s unique hybrid digital/analog architecture. Its ability to function as a hardware editor also sets it apart from most other vintage synth emulations.
Where the Microwave 1 plugin may fall short of more modern wavetable synths is in its limited polyphony and lack of built-in effects. However, these limitations are intentional, as they reflect the capabilities of the original hardware.
This plugin is best for:
• Producers seeking authentic ’90s electronic music sounds
• Owners of original Microwave hardware looking for an expanded editing interface
• Sound designers interested in exploring classic wavetable synthesis
• Electronic musicians wanting a unique hybrid digital/analog synthesizer sound
Waldorf Microwave 1 plugin successfully brings a classic synthesizer into the modern production environment. It offers an authentic recreation of the original Microwave’s distinctive sound, complete with all its quirks and characteristics. The plugin’s expanded editing capabilities and modern interface make it more accessible than the original hardware, while still maintaining its unique sonic character. For producers and sound designers looking to capture the essence of ’90s electronic music or explore the roots of wavetable synthesis, the Microwave 1 plugin provides a valuable tool. Its ability to function as a hardware editor also makes it an essential companion for owners of the original Microwave synthesizer. While it may not offer the flexibility of more modern wavetable synths, its focused approach and authentic sound make it a standout option for those seeking a specific vintage digital/analog hybrid tone. The Waldorf Microwave 1 plugin bridges the gap between hardware and software, offering a slice of synthesizer history in a convenient, modern package.