Waldorf Music releases Quantum MK2 - Flagship Synthesizer
Five years since the release of the first incarnation, Waldorf Music has released an upgrade of its 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.
What's new?
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. 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, says Waldorf. 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 acclaimed 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. Quantum MK2 includes 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 in both 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."
MSRP: 4.819,00 € (incl. German VAT).
Availability: end of January 2023.
