Microwave 1 Version 2: Wavetable Synth Plugin by Waldorf

Waldorf describes the Microwave as a hybrid design that combined wavetable synthesis with analogue filters. This plugin recreates the original wavetables along with their control structures and the full original waveform catalogue.

The digital-to-analogue converters of the original hardware are modeled with their non-linearities, and the digital noise has been rebuilt with its artifacts. Recreated digital waveforms were compared bit by bit with the original hardware, according to the developer, and the analogue components include artificial detuning and recalibration.

Beyond the original wavetables, you can create user wavetables and user waveforms. The interface shows graphical representations of wavetables, envelopes and filter response curves, and reveals parts of the synthesis engine that were hidden on the original hardware.

Randomization modes add unpredictable results to wavetable editing. Sounds can be layered quickly, and functions such as tuning and velocity tables can be modified within the interface. Multi-level undo and redo, simultaneous editing of multiple instrument parts, and a redesigned preset browser with favorites are also included.

Version 2 raises polyphony from the original 8 voices to 32 by adding voice cards, while keeping micro timing and variations. Round Robin and Random Robin modes are available, along with a polyphonic arpeggiator for each instrument part and a global arpeggiator.

The update also includes a creative delay effect with diffusion and pitch shifting. New presets from mixer, engineer and producer Chuck Zwicky are included.