The Waldorf Q is a physically modelled analogue synthesizer that combines extensive hands-on control with powerful DSP technology. Housed in a robust chassis available in eye-catching yellow or midnight blue, this five-octave instrument offers exceptional sound design capabilities through its comprehensive interface of 58 knobs, 40 buttons, and numerous LEDs.

At its core, the Q is conceptually similar to other virtual analog synthesizers like the Novation Supernova, Nord Lead, Access Virus, and Roland JP8000, using digital signal processing to accurately emulate the characteristics and idiosyncrasies of analog circuits. What distinguishes the Q is its exceptionally wide frequency range, from an unheard-of 128' to a migraine-inducing 1/2', along with particularly clean, clear sound production.

The Q's signal path follows traditional analog synthesis architecture with three oscillators feeding into a versatile mixer section, followed by dual multi-mode filters with flexible routing options, amplifier stage, and dual effects processors. For performance and modulation, it provides four envelopes, three LFOs, and a 16-slot modulation matrix. Additional features include a pattern-based step sequencer, an arpeggiator, and a 4-part multitimbral mode for creating layered sounds.

The Q's distinctive strength lies in its noise-free operation and exceptionally clear sound quality, making it particularly effective for creating thunderous bass and screaming lead sounds. Its diverse filter types and unique routing capabilities enable complex timbral manipulation, while features like its excellent ring modulator add further sound design possibilities.

Technical Specifications:

Sound Generation

• Synthesis Type: Physically modelled analog synthesis
• Polyphony: 16 voices (expandable to 32 voices with optional board)
• Multitimbral Capacity: 4-part multitimbral

Oscillators

• Number: 3 per voice
• Waveforms: Pulse, sawtooth, triangle, sine
• Range: 128' to 1/2' (unprecedented range)
• Tuning: Semitone and detune controls to approximately 1% of a semitone
• Features: Independent PWM and FM for all oscillators, oscillator sync (Osc 2 synced by Osc 3)

Mixer

• Sources: 3 oscillators, noise generator/external input, ring modulator
• Ring Modulator: Osc 1 (Carrier) and Osc 2 (Modulator)
• External Input: Stereo input treated as two independent sound sources

Filters

• Structure: Dual filters with variable routing (series or parallel)
• Filter Types (10 total):
  • 24dB/octave low-pass
  • 12dB/octave low-pass
  • 24dB/octave high-pass
  • 12dB/octave high-pass
  • 24dB/octave band-pass
  • 12dB/octave band-pass
  • 24dB/octave notch
  • 12dB/octave notch
  • Comb+
  • Comb-
• Features: Drive level, key-tracking, cutoff frequency modulation, filter FM, self-oscillation at high resonance settings

Envelopes

• Number: 4 envelopes (Filter, Amp, 3, and 4)
• Types: Standard ADSR or enhanced 6-stage ADS1DS2R with Attack Level control

LFOs

• Number: 3
• Waveforms: 6 including sample and hold
• Features: Sync, delay, key-tracking, fade-in, variable clock options, audio range capability

Modulation Matrix

• Structure: 16 slots (8 Fast Slots for audio-rate modulation, 8 Standard Slots)
• Sources: 31 including LFOs, envelopes, keyboard tracking, velocity, controllers
• Destinations: 51 including oscillator parameters, mixer settings, filter parameters, LFO speeds, envelope times

Effects

• Structure: Two serial effects processors (FX1 and FX2)
• Effect Types: Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Delay, Distortion

Arpeggiator

• Modes: On, One Shot, Hold
• Patterns: 16 (one user-programmable)
• Features: Adjustable range (in octaves), note duration, tempo, direction, velocity modes, swing, accent, and glide per step

Step Sequencer

• Structure: 4 banks of 8 steps (32 steps total)
• Capacity: Up to 10 notes per step, 256 notes per sequence
• Features: Velocity and filter cutoff per step, variable step length and note duration, step rotation

Special Features

• Xphorm: Morphing between two sounds using mod wheel or key pressure
• Multi Mode: 4-part multitimbral with flexible effects routing

Outputs

• Main Output: Stereo (L/R) with Right/Mono option
• Sub Output 1: Stereo with Right/Mono option
• Sub Output 2: Stereo with Right/Mono option
• Digital Output: S/PDIF (mirrors Main Output)

Keyboard and Control

• Keyboard: 5-octave with velocity, pressure (aftertouch), and release-velocity sensitivity
• Controls: 58 knobs (59 including data entry), 40 buttons, and multiple LEDs
• Control Interface: Shift button system for accessing secondary functions

Physical

• Construction: Heavy-duty metal chassis
• Colors: Yellow (standard) or midnight blue (limited series)
• Power: Non-standard power cord
• Dimensions and Weight: Not specified in the source material

The Waldorf Q represents a powerful sound design tool with exceptional clarity and flexibility, though users should be aware of its somewhat complex interface and occasional operational quirks.