Waldorf Protein Synthesizer
Overview
The Protein is a new hybrid analog-digital synthesizer from Waldorf Music, designed as a compact, powerful instrument that blends wavetable synthesis with analog filters and effects. It features a 4-voice polyphonic architecture, making it ideal for both studio and live performance. Protein builds on Waldorf's legacy in wavetable synthesis (inspired by classics like the Microwave and Blofeld) while introducing modern digital enhancements and hands-on control. It's positioned as an affordable entry into high-quality synthesis, emphasizing immediate creativity with minimal menu diving.

Key Features

• Sound Engine:
  • Hybrid design combining digital wavetable oscillators with analog 24 dB ladder filters (inspired by the original PPG Wave).
  • 4 voices of polyphony, with unison and detune options for thicker sounds.
  • Over 1,000 factory wavetables, plus user-importable wavetables via USB.
  • Dual wavetable oscillators per voice, with independent modulation and spectral morphing.
  • Sub-oscillator and noise generator for added harmonic complexity.
• Modulation:
  • 4 LFOs (with sync, one-shot, and random modes) and 4 envelopes (ADSR or multi-stage).
  • Modulation matrix with 40+ sources and destinations, including per-voice modulation for dynamic sounds.
  • Arpeggiator with 32-step sequencer, chord memory, and random modes.
• Effects:
  • Built-in stereo effects chain: Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Overdrive, Delay, Reverb, and Compressor.
  • Master effects with adjustable send levels per part.
• Controls and Interface:
  • 37 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch (velocity and channel aftertouch supported).
  • Tactile knob-based interface with LED-ring encoders for precise parameter control.
  • Dedicated sections for oscillator, filter, envelope, and effects tweaking.
  • LCD display for waveform visualization and menu navigation.
  • 8 macro knobs for quick sound shaping and performance control.

Specifications

• Polyphony: 4 voices (expandable to 8 in unison mode).
• Oscillators: 2 wavetable oscillators + 1 sub-oscillator + noise per voice.
• Filters: Analog 24 dB low-pass ladder filter (with resonance up to self-oscillation); additional digital filters available.
• Envelopes: 4x ADSR/multi-stage.
• LFOs: 4x multi-waveform.
• Memory: 1,000+ presets (user + factory), expandable via USB.
• Dimensions and Weight: 530 x 353 x 93 mm (W x D x H); approximately 4.5 kg.
• Power: External 12V DC adapter (included).

Connectivity

• Audio I/O: 2x balanced 1/4" outputs (stereo), 1/4" headphone out, 1x 1/4" input for external audio processing.
• MIDI: USB-MIDI (class-compliant), MIDI In/Out (5-pin DIN).
• Other: USB-B for editor software and wavetable import; sustain pedal input.
• No built-in audio interface, but compatible with DAW integration via MIDI/USB.

Software and Integration

• Comes with a free desktop editor (VST/AU/AAX/standalone) for deeper programming, wavetable editing, and preset management.
• Supports SysEx for preset transfer and firmware updates.
• Compatible with Waldorf's ecosystem, including preset sharing from other models like Iridium.

Pricing and Availability

• MSRP: €699 / $799 (as of launch in 2024).
• Available from authorized dealers and Waldorf's online store.
• Initial release: Late 2024; check waldorfmusic.com for stock updates.

Additional Notes

• Protein is fully analog in the filter stage for warm, organic tones, with digital precision in oscillator and modulation sections.
• Designed for portability, with a metal chassis and rubberized feet for stage stability.
• Firmware upgradable, with community-driven expansions expected (e.g., additional wavetables and effects).
• Endorsed by artists for its "instant inspiration" workflow, blending vintage wavetable vibes with contemporary usability.

More Info:
https://waldorfmusic.com/protein/

 

This gave me a protein deficiency they gotta make this a plugin

 

...sure about that?

Otherwise though, it's a Microwave with some new bells and whistles. Do want.

 

4 voices polyphony is something I can't understand: 5, better 6, should be the bare minimum voices for a poly synth

 

Some wrong info...it's 8 Voice with 4 layer...it's 329 Euro but no analog Filter....it's looks a bit like the mw Plugin in a box..

 

8 voices should be standard for most monsters like this

 

These are the official specs, off https://downloads.waldorfmusic.com/cloud/index.php/s/fnm9gdPKzkCaxn6?dir=undefined&openfile=142026 (PDF)

So yes, 8 voice poly, modelled filters

--
Waldorf Protein
Authentic Wavetable Synthesizer

Oscillators
• Two oscillators based on unique Waldorf Microwave ASIC chip.
• Internally running with 250 kHz sampling rate to match original ASIC sampling rate.
• Modeling of digital-to-analog converters for each voice (DAC).
• Unique digital noise generator based on ASIC technology.

Wavetables
• All original wavetables of Microwave 1 based on the original coding and bit-identical to original.
• Including algorithmic and speech wavetables.
• Beautiful recreation of 8-bit quantization and aliasing.
• Full waveform catalogue of original Microwave.

Filter
• Faithful modeling of CEM analogue filters.
• Adjustable de-calibration of cutoff and resonance to model detuned hardware.
• Cutoff and resonance modulations.
• Additional „Dirty“ types: Noise, crackle, click, geiger and bursts.

Modulation
• 3 Envelopes
• 2 LFOs with tempo sync and sample & hold
• 8 slot modulation matrix
• Poly-aftertouch capable
• MPE modulation sources.

Effects
• Two effect slots
• Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Drive, EQ, Compressor, Tremolo

Voices
• 8 voice polyphony
• 4 timbral layers
• Stacked, round robin and MIDI-split layer-modes.
• Mono & Legato modes

Performance features
• Advanced Arpeggiator
• Step-sequencer with up to 32 steps
• Chord & Scale modes
• MPE Compatible
• MIDI CC Learn

Patches
• Over 150 factory patches
• Capacity of 250 patch memory slots
• Category filter for patch list
• Import- and export of patches via MIDI Sysex

Connections
• Stereo Audio Out with 6.35 mm jacks with optional mono and TRS stereo connections
• Headphones mini TRS output
• DIN MIDI IN & Out, mini-TRS Type A (two adapters to DIN MIDI sockets included)
• USB Type C for power supply and USB MIDI connection
• Firmware updates via USB

Overall
• Sturdy metal front plate on a colorful plastic case
• Dimensions: 252 mm wide by 170 mm depth by 48 mm height (including controls)
• Weight: 0.9 kg
• Power Supply via USB (not in the box)

What’s In the Box?
• Waldorf Protein Synthesizer
• Two MIDI adapters: mini TRS to DIN sockets
• USB C to C cable
• Printed Quick Start Guide

 

i dont know but who would like to use these type of weird sounds into their songs?

 

their filter modelling (such as in iridium) is pretty damn good tho

why would one even make songs if not for an excuse to make weird sounds

 

Oldstyle sample rate Oscillators with quantising and aliasing, heritage wavetables, Dac modelling, MPE, and price - are a win
don't like plasic box and toy look

it's not clear does it have microtuning as the original microwave?

 

weird sounds? i recognise many similarity to the microwave... which is in itself already legendary. i recognise so many of its sounds from 90s tracks..
i do agree that they might sound a bit "dated" if you are making modern tracks.
i loved the demo

 

Right, Kate, who needs all these weird, funny sounds when you can just call on the Royal Philharmonic for backup while singing your song in the shower

 

Last edited: Nov 28, 2025

That demo sounded killer.

 

great for ambient

 

Last edited: Nov 28, 2025

"
Pricing and Availability

• MSRP: €699 / $799 (as of launch in 2024).
• Available from authorized dealers and Waldorf's online store.
• Initial release: Late 2024; check waldorfmusic.com for stock updates."

"
Controls and Interface:

• 37 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch (velocity and channel"

Eh ?!?

 

Waldorf Protein, Wavetable-Synthesizer

Old school microwave in a modern guise. Waldorf Protein is a new wavetable synthesizer with old technology, as its oscillators are based on the original Microwave from 1989.

The core components are, of course, the oscillators, which are based on the Microwave's ASIC chip and, like the original, operate at an internal sampling rate of 250 kHz (!). The digital noise generator also uses ASIC technology, but instead of just white noise like the original, it offers five types: noise, crackle, click, Geiger, and bursts. The original DACs are modeled individually for each voice. There are two oscillators per voice, utilizing the original Microwave wavetables with 8-bit resolution, including aliasing.

The filters are modeled after the analog CEM chips that were used in the Microwave at the time. Cutoff and resonance are modulatable and can emulate a detuned hardware device with an adjustable decalibration. Two effects slots allow for the integration of reverb, delay, chorus, phaser, flanger, drive, EQ, compressor, and tremolo. For modulation, three envelopes and two syncable LFOs are available, which can be routed via an eight-slot modulation matrix. Protein also supports polyphonic aftertouch and MPE data. Additionally, there is a MIDI CC learn function for assigning controllers to parameters.

In addition, Protein features an advanced arpeggiator and a sequencer with up to 32 steps. These, along with the Chord Mode and effects, are derived from the Iridium. The device can store up to 250 presets and comes pre-loaded with 150 factory presets. The Waldorf Protein will be available soon and will be offered at an introductory price of €329 until December 31st. After that, the synthesizer will cost €379.

https://waldorfmusic.com

 

The Waldorf Protein is offered at an introductory price of €329.00 and will later be raised to €379.00.
It is a desktop synth without a keyboard.

Protein: The New Authentic Wavetable Synth

Protein is an affordable and compact 8 voice polyphonic Wavetable synthesizer based on the original Microwave 1 ASIC oscillators combined with modern features of Iridium heritage like the sophisticated arpeggiator, step sequencer, chord mode, effects and more. Protein links back to the very beginnings of Waldorfs instrument makings but interprets the original ideas in a contemporary and surprising way.

Waldorf Protein

Authentic Wavetable Synthesizer

Oscillators
• Two oscillators based on unique Waldorf Microwave ASIC chip.
• Internally running with 250 kHz sampling rate to match original ASIC sampling rate.
• Modeling of digital-to-analog converters for each voice (DAC).
• Unique digital noise generator based on ASIC technology.

Wavetables
• All original wavetables of Microwave 1 based on the original coding and bit-identical to original.
• Including algorithmic and speech wavetables.
• Beautiful recreation of 8-bit quantization and aliasing.
• Full waveform catalogue of original Microwave.

Filter
• Faithful modeling of CEM analogue filters.
• Adjustable de-calibration of cutoff and resonance to model detuned hardware.
• Cutoff and resonance modulations.
• Additional „Dirty“ types: Noise, crackle, click, geiger and bursts.

Modulation
• 3 Envelopes
• 2 LFOs with tempo sync and sample & hold
• 8 slot modulation matrix
• Poly-aftertouch capable
• MPE modulation sources.

Effects
• Two effect slots
• Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Drive, EQ, Compressor, Tremolo

Voices
• 8 voice polyphony
• 4 timbral layers
• Stacked, round robin and MIDI-split layer-modes.
• Mono & Legato modes

Performance features
• Advanced Arpeggiator
• Step-sequencer with up to 32 steps
• Chord & Scale modes
• MPE Compatible
• MIDI CC Learn

Patches
• Over 150 factory patches
• Capacity of 250 patch memory slots
• Category filter for patch list
• Import- and export of patches via MIDI Sysex

Connections
• Stereo Audio Out with 6.35 mm jacks with optional mono and TRS stereo connections
• Headphones mini TRS output
• DIN MIDI IN & Out, mini-TRS Type A (two adapters to DIN MIDI sockets included)
• USB Type C for power supply and USB MIDI connection
• Firmware updates via USB

Overall
• Sturdy metal front plate on a colorful plastic case
• Dimensions: 252 mm wide by 170 mm depth by 48 mm height (including controls)
• Weight: 0.9 kg
• Power Supply via USB (not in the box)

What’s In the Box?
• Waldorf Protein Synthesizer
• Two MIDI adapters: mini TRS to DIN sockets
• USB C to C cable
• Printed Quick Start Guide