Waldorf Music Announces the Iridium Desktop MK2
- Noise Harmony
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 7 minutes ago
Waldorf Music introduces the Iridium Desktop MK2, the new generation of the highly acclaimed Iridium Desktop synthesizer, originally launched in 2020. Used and embraced by countless artists and sound designers since its release, Waldorf Music is now, six years later, taking its sonic success story even further.
Based on the legendary multi-engine design of the Quantum and Iridium product line, this new generation innovates even further, fitting perfectly into Waldorf’s forward-looking synthesizer design philosophy.
The Iridium MK2 features a new design and an upgraded CPU board with expanded RAM and flash storage, allowing for larger sample capacity and a whole new world of synthesis capabilities.
At the core of the Iridium Desktop MK2 lies Waldorf’s powerful synthesis engine featuring three oscillators, each capable of operating in six different synthesis modes. These include classic wavetable synthesis, traditional waveform generation, particle-based granular sampling, resonator modeling, and the flexible Kernel engine capable of linking up to six sub-oscillators through FM, AM or wavetable position modulation at audio rate.
With the MK2 generation, Waldorf introduces “Seeds” synthesis, a new approach where timbral journeys are dynamically generated from sub-oscillator structures rather than static waveforms. By combining techniques such as ring modulation, frequency modulation, partial synthesis and noise-based components, Seeds opens up entirely new ways of shaping evolving sonic textures.
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Each voice in Iridium MK2 passes through a true stereo dual-filter architecture, offering combinations of 12 and 24 dB low-pass, high-pass and band-pass filters. The system includes multiple filter models derived from Waldorf classics such as Nave, Largo, PPG and Quantum, alongside flexible State Variable designs.
These filters operate in a sophisticated stereo routing environment, allowing independent panning, animated filter curves under modulation and detailed spectral visualization through the built-in analyzer display.
What's new?
Per-Note-Parameter-Locks (ft. Aphex Twin)
In this MK2, users can enjoy a very special feature called Per-Note-Parameter-Locks, which is the result of a collaboration with legendary Aphex Twin, a long-term Iridium Desktop user. With this feature, each of the 128 notes can be assigned up to 16 individual parameter variations by simply holding a note and turning knobs. This system allows each note to have a different set of parameters. Users can even change the synthesis mode of oscillators for each note or change effect parameters. Per-Note-Parameter-Locks are saved with each patch and can be inspected and edited on a dedicated page.
Beyond the new performance features, Iridium MK2 also expands its powerful modulation environment. The instrument includes six envelopes, six LFOs and the flexible Komplex Modulator, a hybrid envelope/LFO system with morphable shapes.
All modulation sources are routed through a 40-slot modulation matrix, allowing complex interactions between parameters. Sources and destinations can be reused multiple times, enabling intricate sound design structures and deeply evolving patches.
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"Seeds": The Sixth Synthesis Sense
The added RAM further allows a new sixth synthesis method for each of the three oscillators. Inspired by wavetable synthesis, in which each wavetable represents a timbral journey, Waldorf has found a way to base these timbral journeys not only on static waveforms but also to dynamically synthesize each waypoint from sub-oscillators called "Seeds." These can be controlled and recombined using techniques like Ring Modulation, Frequency Modulation, Wavetable and Partials, and enriched with noise and other non-pitched material. Similar to wavetables, while a set of predefined timbral journeys is included, users can also edit and create their own.
Protein’s "Flavour" Knob
The new knob called "Flavour" adds sonic liveliness using Waldorf's new concept of micro-variations in timing, timbre, pitch and a whole set of additional parameters, which they recently introduced with Protein synthesizer.
Expanded Universe of Sound: More Memory, More Layers
With the increased memory capacity, changing the multi-timbral layer count from 2 to 4 is now possible. In addition to the layered and split modes, the new MK2 also features more advanced multi-timbral modes, such as round-robin and random-robin. These additions bring greater timbral richness and variety, letting users build deep and complex sonic landscapes. A dream-come-true for all sound designers, sonic explorers and cinematic artists.
A general update of the Iridium and Quantum operating system will be available soon. This upcoming version 4.0 will provide some of the new features for all existing Quantum and Iridium models, including the Mutator patch randomizer they introduced in the Microwave plugin, a new polyphonic arpeggiator, and new microtonal features saved in patches, among others.
Each layer features five effect slots with flexible parallel and serial routing, allowing users to build complex processing chains directly inside the synthesizer. The effects section includes high-quality studio tools such as reverb, delay, chorus, phaser, flanger, drive, EQ, compressor and tremolo.
The instrument ships with over 1750 factory patches and provides storage for up to 7000 patch slots, ensuring plenty of room for custom libraries. The expanded 4 GB sample flash memory, preloaded with 2 GB of factory samples, further extends the sonic palette available to sound designers.
Iridium Desktop MK2 offers extensive connectivity options including stereo audio inputs and outputs, MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB MIDI device and host ports, and four assignable CV inputs that can serve as modulation sources within the modulation matrix.
Additional analog clock and gate inputs allow seamless integration with modular systems and external sequencers, making the MK2 a flexible centerpiece for both studio and hybrid hardware setups.
Iridium Desktop MK2 will be available through Waldorf Music’s growing global network of distributors (https://waldorfmusic.com/distributors/) at a price of 2.399,00 EUR (including German VAT).
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