Waldorf Streichfett plugin is a virtual recreation of the popular hardware string synthesizer of the same name. It aims to capture the essence of vintage string machines from the 1970s and 1980s, offering lush, warm string sounds with a distinctly retro character. The plugin features two main sections – a fully polyphonic 128-voice string section and an 8-voice solo section. The string section allows for continuous morphing between violin, viola, cello, brass, organ and choir sounds, while the solo section provides bass, e-piano, clavi, synth and “Pluto” tones. Effects like ensemble, phaser and reverb help shape the overall sound. With its straightforward interface and focus on classic string synth tones, the Streichfett plugin brings the charm and nostalgia of vintage string machines into the modern DAW environment.
Pros:
• Authentic vintage string machine sound
• Simple, intuitive interface
• Very affordable introductory price
• Scalable UI works well on different screen sizes
• Low CPU usage
Cons:
• Limited sound shaping options compared to more complex synths
• Only 16 preset slots
At the heart of the Waldorf Streichfett plugin are its two main sound engines – the String section and the Solo section. The String section is fully polyphonic with 128 voices, allowing for rich, dense chords and pads. It offers continuous morphing between different string and orchestral tones like violin, viola, cello, brass, organ and choir. This is controlled by a single knob, making it easy to dial in hybrid sounds. The Solo section provides 8 voices of polyphony and focuses on more percussive, keyboard-like sounds including bass, electric piano, clavinet, synth and an unusual “Pluto” tone. Again, a single knob allows for smooth transitions between these timbres.
The String section includes an Ensemble effect which is crucial for achieving that classic string machine sound. It offers four modes – off, chorus, strings, and strings+chorus. This adds depth, movement and a lush quality to the string sounds. There’s also an Animate effect which modulates the string registration, creating evolving textures and spectacular morphs between different string tones.
For the Solo section, there’s a Tremolo effect that can add rhythmic pulsing or auto-pan style movement. Both sections have basic envelope controls – the String section has Crescendo (attack) and Release, while the Solo section offers Attack and Decay/Release. A central Balance knob allows for mixing between the String and Solo sections.
Global effects include Phaser and Reverb. The Phaser helps achieve swirling, swooshing textures typical of vintage string synths, while the Reverb adds space and ambience. These effects, while simple, are well-tailored to complement the core string machine sounds.
The plugin includes 16 programmable preset slots, allowing users to save their favorite settings for quick recall. The user interface is clean and straightforward, closely mimicking the layout of the hardware Streichfett. It’s continuously scalable, meaning it displays well on various screen sizes from laptop displays to large 5K monitors.
In terms of MIDI implementation, the Streichfett plugin supports both polyphonic and channel aftertouch, as well as sustain pedal and modulation wheel control. Users can choose between velocity-sensitive or fixed velocity modes. There are also global tuning and transpose functions. The plugin runs as a VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin on both Windows and macOS, including native support for Apple Silicon Macs. System requirements are relatively modest, making it accessible for a wide range of users.
When compared to other string machine emulations, the Waldorf Streichfett plugin stands out for its focused approach and authentic vintage character. The GForce Virtual String Machine offers a wider range of emulated instruments and more extensive sound shaping options, but at a higher price point. The Arturia Solina V provides a very accurate recreation of the ARP Solina, but is limited to that specific instrument. In contrast, the Streichfett aims to capture the general essence of string machines rather than emulating any one specific model.
Compared to more complex synthesizer plugins, the Streichfett is notably simpler and more specialized. It doesn’t offer the deep modulation options or extensive oscillator and filter controls found in instruments like u-he Diva or Arturia Pigments. However, this focused approach allows for quick and easy creation of classic string synth sounds without getting lost in complex programming. In terms of price, the Streichfett plugin is very competitive, especially at its introductory price. It offers a more affordable entry point into the world of vintage string machines compared to many alternatives.
This plugin is best for:
• Producers seeking authentic vintage string machine sounds
• Musicians working in genres like synthwave, disco, or ambient
• Composers looking for quick, easy-to-use orchestral-style pads
• Anyone wanting to add retro charm to their productions
• Users with less powerful computers due to its low CPU usage
Waldorf Streichfett plugin successfully translates the charm and character of the hardware unit into software form. It captures the essence of vintage string machines, offering warm, lush string and pad sounds with a distinctly retro flavor. The plugin’s strength lies in its simplicity and focus – it’s not trying to be an all-purpose synthesizer, but rather excels at delivering classic string synth tones with minimal fuss. The intuitive interface makes it easy to dial in usable sounds quickly, while the continuous morphing between tones allows for some creative sound design possibilities. The inclusion of essential effects like ensemble, phaser, and reverb helps to complete the vintage string machine experience. While more extensive sound shaping options would be welcome, the limited controls actually encourage users to focus on playing and arranging rather than getting lost in endless tweaking. The affordable price point, especially during the introductory period, makes it an attractive option for producers wanting to add some retro string flavor to their tracks. Whether you’re producing synthwave, scoring a retro-style film, or simply want to add some vintage warmth to your music, the Waldorf Streichfett plugin offers an accessible and authentic path to classic string machine sounds.