Waldorf Protein Wavetable Desktop Synthesizer

The Waldorf Protein is a powerful desktop wavetable synthesizer that brings the unmistakable sonic character of the classic Microwave lineage into a modern, compact hardware instrument. Built around the original Waldorf Microwave ASIC technology, Protein faithfully recreates the raw digital tone, gritty aliasing, and expressive dynamics that defined an era of synthesis. With an internal 250 kHz sampling rate and detailed DAC modeling per voice, this instrument captures the authentic behavior of vintage hardware while offering modern performance flexibility.

At its core, Protein delivers an exact, bit-identical recreation of the original Microwave 1 wavetable set, including algorithmic and speech-based tables. The sound engine preserves the signature 8-bit quantization and digital artifacts that made the originals so musically inspiring. Combined with true-to-life CEM analog filter modeling and adjustable de-calibration, Protein provides a living, breathing sound that can range from precise digital textures to unstable, character-rich tones reminiscent of classic hardware synths.

Designed for expressive performance and deep sound design, Waldorf Protein features extensive modulation, multi-timbral layering, and advanced sequencing tools. MPE compatibility, poly-aftertouch support, and a flexible modulation matrix make it equally suited for modern controller setups and traditional MIDI workflows. Housed in a durable metal-front enclosure with colorful styling, Protein is a studio-ready instrument that bridges vintage digital synthesis and contemporary control in a compact, performance-focused design.

Key Features

• Authentic Microwave-based synthesis using original Waldorf ASIC technology.
• Bit-identical recreation of original Microwave 1 wavetables, including speech tables.
• Faithful modeling of classic CEM analog filters with added “Dirty” filter modes.
• Deep modulation with envelopes, LFOs, MPE, and poly-aftertouch support.
• Multi-timbral architecture with layered, split, and stacked performance modes.
• Built-in effects, arpeggiator, step sequencer, and chord/scale modes.
• Compact desktop form factor with USB-powered operation.

Technical Specifications

Oscillators:
Two oscillators based on the original Waldorf Microwave ASIC chip
Internal 250 kHz sampling rate matching original ASIC behavior
Per-voice digital-to-analog converter (DAC) modeling
Unique ASIC-based digital noise generator

Wavetables:
All original Microwave 1 wavetables, bit-identical to the original coding
Includes algorithmic and speech wavetables
Authentic 8-bit quantization and aliasing recreation
Complete original Microwave waveform catalog

Filter:
Faithful modeling of classic CEM analog filters
Adjustable cutoff and resonance de-calibration
Cutoff and resonance modulation support
Additional “Dirty” filter types: Noise, crackle, click, geiger, bursts

Modulation:
3 envelopes
2 LFOs with tempo sync and sample & hold
8-slot modulation matrix
Poly-aftertouch support
MPE modulation sources

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

Voices:
8-voice polyphony
4-part multitimbral layering
Stacked, round-robin, and MIDI-split layer modes
Mono and Legato modes

Performance Features:
Advanced arpeggiator
Step sequencer with up to 32 steps
Chord and scale modes
MPE compatible
MIDI CC Learn

Patches:
Over 150 factory patches
250 total patch memory slots
Patch category filtering
Patch import/export via MIDI SysEx

Connections:
Stereo audio outputs via 1/4” jacks with optional mono or TRS stereo operation
Headphone output via 3.5 mm mini TRS jack
DIN MIDI IN and OUT via mini-TRS Type A (adapters included)
USB Type-C for power and USB MIDI
Firmware updates via USB

Construction: Sturdy metal front plate with colorful plastic enclosure
Power Supply: USB-powered (power supply not included)

Dimensions: 9.92" x 6.69" x 1.89"
Weight: 1.98 lbs

What’s Included

Waldorf Protein Synthesizer
Two MIDI adapters (mini TRS to DIN)
USB-C to USB-C cable
Printed Quick Start Guide