Each part is addressed via MIDI, either through conventional MIDI sockets or USB 2.0, with the added bonus that the USB interface acts as a class-compliant audio interface too, making it elegantly easy to supply audio to a DAW, if so desired. Kyra is an eight-part multi-timbral synthesizer, with an abundant voice count of 128 voices, although there is a restriction of 32 voices per part, which is pretty generous and shouldn’t find any release tails being cut short when deployed for real-world usage. This should not put you off in any way, as there is plenty to shout about, but before we get embroiled with the sound architecture, let’s consider the stats. This makes it ideal for both live and studio work, where its reliability could be something of a lifesaver.ĭespite the underlying technology, there is plenty of familiarity to be found, although it’s important to emphasise that this is firmly a synth which is virtual analogue in form, with no analogue sound theatrics anywhere on board, and that includes the filter section, where Waldorf has form for using analogue circuits. According to Waldorf, it means that you get a synth which is as powerful as a soft-synth, but in a format that is stable, reliable and quick, without the need for cooling fans and long boot times. This makes it ideal for certain applications.
![waldorf blofeld editor gearslutz 2016 waldorf blofeld editor gearslutz 2016](https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Db5va34WAAELI_X.jpg)
It’s probably fair to say that one of the points that will have piqued the interest of Waldorf will have been the notion that it is reputed to be the first synth to take advantage of FPGA technology, which is an integrated circuit design that may be programmed by a third party, offering flexible use coupled with very fast response in operation. The Kyra actually started life a few years ago without Waldorf involvement, first being shown as a prototype at Musikmesse.
![waldorf blofeld editor gearslutz 2016 waldorf blofeld editor gearslutz 2016](https://www.native-instruments.com/fileadmin/_processed_/csm_1273826449_pict_9447_blofeld_ed_2bb71ba6ed.jpg)
It’s got substantial weight too, which might be partly due to the metal casing, with pots that feel substantial and very securely mounted.
![waldorf blofeld editor gearslutz 2016 waldorf blofeld editor gearslutz 2016](https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rPHRZRxnZb0/VsFXevJR-GI/AAAAAAAKOlo/qah6Taib3TA/s1600/5.jpg)
#Waldorf blofeld editor gearslutz 2016 full
Its 440x300mm chassis is a full metal design with the exception of the rather beautifully matched wooden end-cheeks, which are inset. The Kyra is a fairly hefty piece of desktop kit, in a keyboardless form, that’s going to take up a fair slab of desk space.