Waldorf Iridium Desktop MK2

The Waldorf Iridium Desktop MK2 is a powerhouse hybrid synthesizer that brings the acclaimed Quantum engine into a compact, performance-focused desktop format. With 16 voices, four-part multi-timbrality and a vast choice of synthesis methods, it is designed for sound designers, studio producers and live performers who want deep sonic exploration without sacrificing immediacy or playability.

Running on the Waldorf Synthesis Platform OS 4.0 or later, Iridium MK2 combines three flexible oscillators, dual stereo filters, a Digital Former, extensive modulation and studio-grade effects with a responsive multi-touch display and RGB pad matrix. Whether you are sculpting evolving cinematic textures, aggressive electronic tones or expressive MPE-driven performances, Iridium MK2 gives you the tools to create complex, musical sounds that remain intuitive to control.

Deep Quantum-class Synthesis in a Desktop Format

Iridium Desktop MK2 shares its synthesis engine with the flagship Quantum, packing that same depth into a compact, metal desktop chassis. Three oscillators per voice can each run six different synthesis modes, from classic wavetables and virtual analogue waveforms to granular and multi-sample based Particle, physical-modelling style Resonator, modular-style Kernels and the adventurous Seeds waypoint synthesis. This lets you move effortlessly from familiar subtractive patches to experimental soundscapes, all within a single instrument.

Powerful Filters, Digital Former and Effects

Each voice features dual digital stereo filters with multiple models, including 12 dB and 24 dB low-pass, high-pass and band-pass in all combinations, plus characterful modes inspired by Nave, Largo, PPG, Quantum and state-variable designs. The Digital Former then adds further tone shaping, with additional filter types, combs, bit-crushing, drive, ring modulation and formant processing. Five effects slots per layer with flexible routing give you access to reverbs, delays, modulation effects, EQ, compression and more, so finished, mix-ready sounds can come straight from the synth.

Expressive Modulation and Performance Control

A deep modulation system makes Iridium MK2 highly expressive. Six envelopes, six LFOs and the Komplex Modulator provide flexible movement, while a 40-slot modulation matrix with fast assign keeps complex routings manageable. Per-note parameter locks and the Flavour control introduce subtle variations in timing, pitch and timbre, helping sequences feel more organic. Performance is enhanced by an advanced arpeggiator, step sequencer, MPE support, XY touchscreen control and a 4×4 RGB pad matrix that can trigger notes, scales or chords.

Studio Connectivity and Patch Management

Iridium Desktop MK2 is built to integrate into modern studios and performance rigs. It offers stereo audio in and out, headphones, DIN and USB MIDI, MIDI 2.0 compatibility, four high-resolution CV inputs, analogue clock and gate connections, plus microSD and USB storage support. With over 1750 factory patches, space for up to 7000 presets, 4 GB of sample flash memory and compatibility with Quantum and other Iridium variants, it is easy to manage large libraries, share sounds and keep your creative options open.

• Three Multi-mode Oscillators per Voice - Each of the three oscillators can run Wavetable, Waveform, Particle, Resonator, Kernels or Seeds synthesis, giving you everything from classic analogue-style tones to granular textures, physical-modelling flavours and complex FM-style structures in a single patch.
• Dual Stereo Filters and Digital Former - True stereo dual filters with multiple models and flexible routing, followed by the Digital Former section, let you sculpt your sound with precision or add characterful grit, comb filtering and formant shaping without needing external processors.
• Extensive Modulation and Performance Tools - Six envelopes, six LFOs, the Komplex Modulator, a 40-slot modulation matrix, per-note parameter locks and Flavour control provide deep movement and nuance, while the arpeggiator, step sequencer, XY touchscreen and RGB pad matrix make Iridium MK2 a powerful live performance instrument.
• 16 Voices, 4-part Multi-timbral with Broad Connectivity - With 16-voice polyphony, four independent layers, advanced multi-timbral modes, MPE support, CV inputs, MIDI 2.0 and comprehensive audio I/O, Iridium Desktop MK2 slots easily into studio and stage setups while handling complex, layered patches with ease.

General

• Compatible with Waldorf Quantum synth engine
• Software: Waldorf Synthesis Platform OS 4.0 or later
• Voices: 16-voice polyphony
• Multi-timbral: 4 layers with advanced modes such as round-robin and random-robin
• Play modes: Mono, Legato, Unisono

Oscillators

• 3 oscillators per voice
• 6 synthesis modes per oscillator:
  • Wavetable
  • Waveform
  • Particle in multi-sampling and granular mode with extended sample RAM
  • Resonator
  • Kernels with up to 6 sub-oscillators interlinked via FM, AM or wavetable position at audio rate
  • Seeds waypoint synthesis using sub-oscillators based on ring modulation, FM, wavetables, partials and various noise and dirt types

Filters and Digital Former

• Dual stereo digital filters per voice with true stereo path
• Filter modes:
  • 12 dB and 24 dB low-pass, high-pass, band-pass in all combinations
  • Nave, Largo, PPG, Quantum and state-variable models
• Filter view with analyser display
• Filter curve animation when modulated (optional)
• Sophisticated filter routing with modulatable panning and levels
• Digital Former section with:
  • State-variable, Raiser, Waldorf Nave, Largo and PPG filter models in high-pass, low-pass, band-pass and notch
  • Comb filters
  • Bit-crusher
  • Various drive types
  • Ring modulation
  • Formant filters

Modulation

• 6 envelopes
• 6 LFOs
• Komplex Modulator (LFO/envelope combination with user-definable shape and morphing)
• Per-note parameter locks for individual parameter variations per note
• Flavour control for micro-variations in timing, pitch and timbre

Modulation Matrix

• 40 modulation slots
• Fast assign mode
• One additional control amount per slot
• Identical sources and destinations can be used multiple times until the matrix is full

Effects

• 5 effect slots per layer
• Parallel and sequential routing options
• Effect types: Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Drive, EQ, Compressor, Tremolo

Performance and Control

• Advanced arpeggiator
• Polyphonic arpeggiator modes
• Step sequencer with up to 64 steps for notes and parameters
• 4×4 silicon pad matrix with RGB backlights assignable to notes, scales or chords
• Favourites screen for quick patch recall
• XY control on touchscreen
• Wheels touchscreen for MIDI controls such as mod wheel, pitch bend, aftertouch and velocity
• MPE capable

Screen

• Industrial-grade highly responsive touchscreen
• Brightness control
• Resolution: 1024 x 600 pixels

Patches and Memory

• Over 1750 factory patches
• Capacity for up to 7000 patch memory slots (numbers 0000 to 9999 can be used)
• Patch compatibility with Waldorf Quantum and other Iridium variants
• Category filter for patch list
• 4 GB sample flash memory preloaded with 2 GB factory samples
• Mutator patch randomiser

Connections

• Stereo audio out: 2 x TS jacks
• Stereo audio in: 2 x TS jacks
• Headphones TRS output with level control
• DIN MIDI In, Out and Thru
• USB Type B (device) for MIDI connection to computer
• USB Type A (host) for storage media and MIDI devices
• MIDI 2.0 compatible
• MicroSD slot
• 4 high-resolution CV inputs usable as modulation sources in the modulation matrix
• Analogue clock In and Out with clock divider settings
• Analogue gate and start inputs
• Kensington compatible lock

Construction and Power

• Sturdy metal case with aluminium knobs
• Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 305 mm (D) x 85 mm (H) including controls
• Weight: 4.8 kg
• VESA 75 receptacle on the bottom for mounting on compatible monitor stands
• 19 inch rack assembly parts available
• External power supply: Input 100 to 240 V AC, 50 to 60 Hz, Output 12 V DC / 3 A

Included Items

• Iridium Desktop MK2 synthesizer
• Power supply
• Printed quick start guide