Waldorf has debuted a working prototype of its new flagship Quantum 8-Voice Analog/Digital Hybrid Synthesizer. The instrument features three oscillators per voice, with each oscillator offering four flavors of synthesis, including wavetable, analog-style waveforms, particle (sampling granular synthesis), and resonator, which is comprised of a resonating filter bank. Two “true-analog” OTA filters per voice are inserted within the digital signal path, followed by a “Digital Former” effects section, which includes distortion, drive, bit-crushing, and additional digital filters. The digital former can be placed before or after the analog filter section. The front panel offers controls over three envelope generators, while an additional three are available from the menu of the touch-capacitive display. Additional features include three panel-operated effects, a multi-stage envelope, glide, and six LFOs, three of which are controlled from the front panel, while the others are accessible from the touch-display menu.
The high-resolution display offers extended parameter editing from either of the built-in encoders or via the touch panel. A fully featured routing matrix offers a vast selection of source and destination options and provides access to the voice architecture. You can choose a 4-voice + 4-voice split, or opt for a 1- and 7-voice split with any other combination available. The onboard arpeggiator allows you to program and generate various rhythms and patterns. The wavetable section of the oscillators incorporates technology from the Nave synth engine for vowel-like sounds and speech synthesis.
The rear panel offers 1/4" main stereo outputs, an additional set of stereo auxiliary outputs, a headphone output, stereo inputs for sampling and processing, and a sustain pedal and expression pedal, which doubles as a CV input and may be used with modular synthesizers. Additional connectors include a USB Type-B for connecting to a computer and a USB Type-A for adding an additional MIDI controller. There are standard 5-pin DIN MIDI In/Out/Thru connectors, as well. A built-in SD card reader is offered for storing patches, sounds, samples, and system updates.