Waldorf Protein – compact 8-voice wavetable synthesizer featuring Microwave 1 oscillators.
The Waldorf Protein is a powerful yet affordable compact desktop synthesizer that bridges the gap between classic 90s sound and modern features. At its core lie two oscillators based on a faithful emulation of the legendary Microwave 1 ASIC chip, running at the original 250 kHz sample rate with 8-bit quantization. This delivers the distinctive gritty and raw character that defined the wavetable era. The sound engine is complemented by a modeled analog CEM filter and a unique digital noise generator.
Despite its small footprint, the Protein boasts an advanced 4-layer architecture, allowing for complex, evolving soundscapes or multitimbral setups. Drawing inspiration from the flagship Iridium series, it includes a powerful arpeggiator, step sequencer, chord mode, and dual effect slots. With a sturdy metal faceplate, USB-C power, and weighing under 1 kg, it is the perfect tool for both studio production and mobile performance.
KEY FEATURES
- 8-voice polyphony with 4-layer architecture
- Two Wavetable oscillators based on Microwave 1 ASIC emulation (250 kHz sample rate)
- Faithful reproduction of 8-bit quantization and all original wavetables
- Filter modeled after analog CEM chips with adjustable calibration
- Advanced modulation: 3 Envelopes, 2 LFOs, 8-slot Modulation Matrix
- Support for MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) and Poly-Aftertouch
- Powerful performance tools: Arpeggiator, Step Sequencer (32 steps), Chord Mode
- Dual effect slots: Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Drive, EQ, Compressor
- Compact desktop form factor with metal front panel
- USB-C powered (ideal for use with laptops or power banks)
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Synthesis: Digital Wavetable (Microwave 1 heritage) + Analog Filter Modeling
- Polyphony: 8 voices
- Multitimbral: 4 parts (Layers)
- Memory: Over 150 factory presets, storage for 250 patches
- Audio Outputs: Stereo Line Out (2 × 6.35 mm Jack, L/R), Headphone Out (3.5 mm TRS)
- MIDI: In, Out (DIN 5-pin via mini-TRS Type A adapters – included), USB-MIDI
- USB Connection: Type C (power and data)
- Dimensions: 252 × 170 × 48 mm (9.9" × 6.7" × 1.9")
- Weight: 0.9 kg (1.98 lbs)
- In the Box: Protein Synthesizer, USB C-C cable, 2 MIDI adapters (mini-TRS to DIN)