Waldorf Quantum MK2 Hybrid Polyphonic Synth

Here's what Waldorf say

When we introduced the Quantum in 2018 it immediately found its way in the studios and hearts of the most acclaimed film composers, producers, musicians and sound designers. Now five years later, we release an upgrade of our flagship Quantum synthesizer called Quantum MK2.

Quantum MK2 was upgraded with a 61 keys polyphonic aftertouch keybed from Fatar, increased sampling storage to 59 GB, improved mechanical design and display. The new 3.0 firmware allows for up to 16 digital or any combination using the 8 analog filter with additional 8 digital.

Key Features

• Hybrid Digital/Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer
• 61 Keys high-quality Fatar TP/8SK keyboard, channel aftertouch
• 8 voices with analog filter, up to 16 voices with digital filters
• Dual timbral: split or layered mode with separate stereo audio outputs
• 3 stereo digital oscillators each capable of five synthesis algorithms
• Wavetable: Waldorf style with latest additions from Nave including speech synthesis, wavetable generation from audio and new features
• 6 LFOs in poly and global mode with extensive parameter set
• 6 loopable envelopes
• Master effect rack of 5 slots for each timbre choosing from FX like phaser, flanger, chorus, reverb, drive, eq and more.
• Compressor for main output
• Step sequencer with step recording, parameter automation and scale-based pitch quantization
• Microtonal pitch configurations capable of importing Skala scl files

61 keys Fatar TP8/SK with aftertouch

The Quantum MK2 is the first instrument which presents a 61 keys Fatar TP8/SK polyphonic aftertouch keybed to the world. With its increased possibilities for musical and gestural expression the keybed allows to utilize the enormous modulation capabilities of the Quantum synthesis engine. It is a next level of expression based on a traditional keybed, which keeps all playing capabilities of a musician, and then extends it with an additional dimension of control and creativity.

The polyphonic aftertouch is highly customizable in multiple dimensions globally as well as for individual keys. The high-resolution graphical display supports visual feedback and control for the customization process. In addition to its internal poly aftertouch keybed, the Quantum MK2 can be controlled by any MPE capable controller by directly connecting to Quantum’s USB host port.

16 voices of polyphony, digital and analog filters

Based on an 8 voice analogue dual-filter architecture, the Quantum has been opened up for up to 16 voices of polyphony in any combination of using digital dual multi-mode filters with the 8 analogue ones. Moreover the combination of analogue with digital filter opens up new sonic possibilities of what Waldorf Music stands for since its beginning: Hybrid digital and analogue synthesis. A new set of allocation modes gives the musician an easy control.

59 GB sampling storage

Another cornerstone of „The Quantum Mark 2“ is its increased internal sampling storage from a few GB to 59 GB. The Quantum has become quickly the instrument of choice for modern advanced sampling capabilities for sound enthusiasts and cinematic composers from Berlin to Los Angeles. From firmware 1.0 to 3.0 Waldorf Music has listened to the requests and needs of musicians to extend it polyphonic granular sampling engine as well its traditional multi- sample engine.

Design and display

The updated mechanical design and a classy naval blue presents the musician an instrument of beauty and
inspiration. The improved mounting of the high-resolution touch display provides wider viewing angles and an intuitive way of controlling the more advanced features of the Quantum synthesis engine.

Sounds and samples

Highly aclaimed sound designers from all of over the world have contributed to the huge library of factory presets and and initial sample content of 2 GB. Waldorf Music is proud to have sounds from designers like Richard Devine, Howard Scarr, Reinhold Heil, BT, Matt Johnson, Joerg Huettner, Kevin Schroeder, Sascha Dikiciyan, Kurt Ader, Mike Huckaby, Thorsten Quaeschning and many more. All sounds are compatible with Waldorf’s Iridium instruments inboth directions.

Synthesis Platform

Waldorf Music has updated and improved its Quantum firmware continuously adding new synthesis capabilities and many feature requests by musicians. The Quantum firmware builds together with the Iridium firmware a "Waldorf Synthesis Platform.

Technical Specs

Connections

• 2x stereo audio outputs for main and aux timbres
• Stereo audio input for sample recording and real-time processing
• High-Quality 24bit A/D and D/A converters
• Headphone out with separate level adjustment
• Sustain pedal input
• Control pedal connector also capable of CV input (0-5V sensitivity)
• USB host type A connector for interfacing MIDI controller or USB drives for sample/preset exchange and software updates
• USB device type B connector for interfacing computer or other class-compliant MIDI USB hosts like iOS devices
• SD Card for sample/preset exchange and software updates
• DIN MIDI In, Out & Thru
• Integrated power supply unit

Memory

• 4 GB internal Flash memory for presets and wavetables, 59GB internal sample storage
• Pre-loaded with approx. 2 GB sample data

Physical

• Weight: 17.8kg
• Dimensions: 1006 x 401 x 131 mm