Waldorf Microwave XTk

Back in 1999, this synth brought the legendary PPG wavetable legacy into a keyboard format, evolving the rackmount Microwave series with hands-on control that made deep sound design feel immediate and alive.

Its DSP wavetable engine powers two oscillators per voice across 10-voice polyphony, drawing from 65 preset wavetables with algorithmic creation options, shaped by a standout digital filter offering 13 modes like 24dB low-pass, Moog-style 12dB, notch, waveshaper, FM, and more. Four envelopes handle amp, filter, wavetable position, and assignable duties, while two syncable LFOs with sine, triangle, square, random, and S&H waves add motion via a flexible mod matrix; ring mod, osc sync, and FM expand the palette. The 49 velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch pair with 44 endless rotary encoders for glitch-free tweaks, 11 dedicated patch buttons for quick access to 256 singles and 128 multis, an arpeggiator, stereo outs, and a bright orange metal-and-wood chassis measuring 32.5 by 13.5 by 4 inches at 24 pounds—heavy and solid, though some note the buttons wobble slightly.

Players have long praised its vivid, punchy tones and programming depth for ambient, electronic, and beyond, calling it an instant classic that holds up decades later alongside icons like the Minimoog.