#The iridium software

The Resonator mode boasts crisp and percussive resonating tones, perfect for fronting more pad-like patches. But once you’re lost in the granular frenzy of Particle mode, you probably won’t mind. There’s an absence of batch-loading and formatting here though. Samples can be loaded via the SD card slot and, while it could be argued that merely using the Iridium as a sampler is a waste, importing samples for the construct of a multi-zoned instrument can be laborious. Like the Wavetable mode, this rabbit hole is deep and richly rewarding. The Particle mode opens up the possibility of sample imports, either for the purposes of straight sample playback or as a source for granular synthesis. Entire chords can be created in this mode, while only occupying a single voice. The control is not purely limited to this though. In the case of Waveform mode, this means you can create über-thick Euro-style voices thanks to the ability to detune subtly or with more aggression. Kernels are available in Waveform mode now too, which means it’s possible to apply up to six oscillators to a wave.

Each oscillator has a Coarse and Fine pot, so creating sub-oscillators is easy. The ability to activate a second oscillator in the conventional subtractive Waveform mode provides an easy path to adding a supportive fundamental to your wavetable. You may find the layout cramped but that’s only because Waldorf has put everything on parade

If you want to go further, the SD card slot provides an easy route to importing your own wavetable creations. Within Wavetable mode, it’s easy to create textures with the Waldorf-supplied wavetables. You find your level while sculpting sounds but it’s helpful to have options for working with pots and/or touch, as the pots offer greater numeric accuracy in many cases. These interact alongside six pots aligned in threes on either side of the touchscreen. Each oscillator has five pots, with labelled legends for each mode, aiding experimentation. You can get lost for hours after simply activating a single oscillator and placing it in the first synthesis mode, Wavetable. While the Iridium conforms to the structure of many subtractive synthesisers, the oscillators are a rich resource. The new kernels-based synth mode requires a two-button press, which is clearly labelled on the front panel. Each offers five wave modes, which are selected using four buttons that illuminate when pressed. The Iridium’s three oscillators are identical.

#The iridium software

The Iridium exploits the latest software release, 2.0, which offers a host of new capabilities, not least a new oscillator voice mode. This arguably takes the Iridium away from its PPG roots, where digital oscillators have always been used alongside analogue filters. The second big switch is the removal of the analogue filter element, which has been replaced with a digital facsimile. Firstly, the voice count has been increased to 16. Like the Quantum, there’s also a SD card slot, useful for loading user samples and wavetables.Īpart from these desktop-version differences, there are two more major changes from the Quantum. There’s also provision for connecting up Eurorack equipment, with four CV inputs, as well as gate and clock input. There’s no audio over USB but there is a stereo in and out, using quarter-inch mono jacks.

Its pots, metallic fascia and chassis are robust, and the touchscreen is crisp, even if it occasionally feels unresponsive, depending on how much information is on display.Īs there’s no musical keybed, you can make use of the conventional MIDI socket connectivity or USB MIDI. The weight is a testament to its build quality. This could give the Iridium a fantastic floating quality in the studio but you’ll need a firm bracket. It’s also fairly heavy at 5.4kg, important if you’re considering mounting the module using the VESA mounting holes on its underside. It’s not small but it packs a lot of functionality, and anything smaller would clearly result in a loss of control. Waldorf has, however, made some slight alterations that might have Quantum owners pondering a switch.The Iridium is designed to fit on your desk, in essentially the same case that houses the Waldorf Kyra. Wisely, Waldorf always sought to place the Quantum in a desktop box, which in essence is what the Iridium is: a desktop synth.