Waldorf Q Rack User manual

User´s Manual
Q Keyboard / Q Rack

Waldorf Records – Zeitlos
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 2
Never Stop the machines!
Zeitlos – timeless
from the age of empire to the accelerated present, cultural movements have spread the globe with
increasingly complex webs. a timeless process...
machine music has a long history which predates the microchip or even the discovery of electronic
power. a timeless process...
the electronic listening music is a prime example of an art form derived from and stimulated by
countless influences. a timeless process...
composers of electronic music use and ever will use state of the art instruments in their incredible
productions. a timeless process...
always build a sound generator that stands apart as something wholly unique, never tailgate trends,
set them. a timeless process...
music is timeless
http://www.waldorf-records.com

➤Vielen Dank für den Kauf dieses Waldorf Produktes. Es zeichnet sich durch
Zuverlässigkeit und Langlebigkeit aus. Dennoch können Material- oder
Verarbeitungsfehler nicht völlig ausgeschlossen werden. Daher bieten wir
Ihnen eine verlängerte Garantie. Damit Garantieleistungen in Kraft treten,
müssen Kaufrechnung und Garantiekarte vollständig ausgefüllt innerhalb
von 14 Tagen zurückgesandt werden. Diese Garantie erstreckt sich auf alle
Defekte in Material und Verarbeitung für den Zeitraum von 1 Jahr ab Kauf
des Produktes. Während der Garantiezeit ersetzt oder repariert Waldorf
Electronics das durch Waldorf Electronics oder ein autorisiertes Service
Zentrum als defekt befundene Produkt, ohne dem Kunden Material- oder
Arbeitsaufwand in Rechnung zu stellen.
Um die Garantie in Anspruch zu nehmen, muß sich der Kunde zunächst
telefonisch mit dem zuständigen Vertrieb in Verbindung setzen. Produkte,
die ohne vorherige Absprache eingesandt werden, können nicht kostenfrei
ausgetauscht bzw. repariert werden.
Das Produkt muß frei und versichert in Originalverpackung eingesandt
werden. Detaillierte Fehlerbeschreibungen sind beizufügen. Unfrei und/oder
nicht originalverpackt eingesandte Produkte gehen ungeöffnet zurück.
Waldorf Electronics behält sich vor, das eingesandte Produkt auf den neusten
Stand der Technik zu bringen, wenn dies erforderlich sein sollte.
Diese Garantie deckt keine Defekte ab, die durch unsachgemäße
Behandlung oder Eingriffe von unautorisierten Personen verursacht wurden
und ist beschränkt auf die Behebung von Defekten, die während der
normalen Nutzung durch Material- oder Verarbeitungsfehler aufgetreten
sind.
Thank you for choosing this Waldorf product. It is a dependable device and
is designed to last. However, the potential for defects in material or
workmanship cannot be eradicated completely. This is why we provide an
extended warranty for you.
To ensure your unit has full warranty coverage, mail the receipt and the fully
completed warranty card back within 14 days of purchase.
This warranty covers all defects in material and workmanship for a period of
one year from the date of original purchase. During this time, Waldorf
Electronics will repair or replace the product without charge for materials or
labor, provided the product was first inspected and found faulty by Waldorf
Electronics or an authorized service center. You must first contact your dealer
or distributor by telephone. Products that were mailed without prior
agreement cannot be exchanged or repaired free of charge.
The unit must be insured and sent prepared in its original package. Please
include a detailed description of the defect. Products that were not send
prepared or in the original package will be returned unopened.
Waldorf Electronics reserves the right to upgrade the unit with the latest
technological advances if necessary.
This warranty does not cover defects due to abuse, operation under other
than specified conditions, or repair by unauthorized persons. The warranty
covers only those malfunctions caused by material or workmanship defects
that occur during normal operation.
Bitte schicken Sie die Garantiekarte vollständig ausgefüllt zusammen mit
einer Kopie der Kaufrechnung zurück, um die Produktgarantie in Anspruch
nehmen zu können.
Please fill out this warranty card completely, include a copy of the purchase
receipt and send the two items to us in order to ensure the warranty is valid.
Garantiekarte / Warranty Card
Produktgarantie / Product Warranty
✁
Produkt / Product:
Sonderausstattungen / Custom features:
Sonstige verwendete Geräte / Other used equipment:
Seriennummer / Serial number: Kaufdatum / Purchase date:
Name Ihres Händlers / Name of your dealer:
Ort Ihres Händlers / City of your dealer:
➤➤ ➤
Waldorf Electronics
Support Department
Schloss Ahrenthal
53489 Sinzig
Germany
Straße / Street:
PLZ, Wohnort / ZIP Code, City:
Land / Country:
Telefon / Telephone:
Telefax / Facsimile:
Name / Name:
Keyboard
Rack
S Y N T H E S I Z E R

4
Produktunterstützung / Product Support
✁
Wenn Sie Fragen zu Ihrem Waldorf Produkt haben, gibt es vier
Möglichkeiten, uns zu kontaktieren:
If you have any questions about your Waldorf product, feel free to contact us
via one of the four options listed below.
Schicken Sie uns eine E-Mail. Das ist der mit
Abstand effizienteste und schnellste Weg, uns zu
erreichen. Ihre Fragen können sofort an die
richtige Stelle weitergeleitet und innerhalb
kürzester Zeit beantwortet werden.
Senden Sie uns ein Telefax. Fast so schnell wie E-
Mail, allerdings für Sie und uns weniger
komfortabel.
Schicken Sie uns einen Brief. Etwas langsamer,
dafür jedoch genauso zuverlässig wie ein
Telefax.
Und wenn es ganz dringend ist, rufen Sie uns an.
Wir versuchen, Ihre Fragen möglichst sofort zu
beantworten.
Send us an e-mail message. This is the most
efficient and fastest way to contact us. Your
questions will be forwarded immediately to the
resident expert and you will quickly receive an
answer.
Send us a fax. This is as fast as e-mail, but not
quite as comfortable for you and us.
Send us a letter. It will take a bit longer, but it is
just as dependable as a fax.
If you’re in big hurry, call us, we’ll try to answer
your questions right away.
[e-mail]
[phone]
[phone]
Waldorf Electronics
Schloß Ahrenthal
53489 Sinzig, Germany
4
3
3
2
2
1
1

Foreword – Development
5 Waldorf Q User’s Manual
Foreword
Thank you for purchasing the Waldorf Q, the Q Rack or maybe both units. You now own a
synthesizer featuring a wide range of unique sounds from analog to digital.
To ensure your instrument functions properly and enjoys a long life, please read and heed the
instructions in this manual.
Development
Software development: Jürgen Fornoff, Albert Huitsing, Stefan Stenzel
Hardware development: Thomas Kircher
Design: Axel Hartmann
Housing: Frank Schneider
Factory Sound programming: Michael Bruder, Wolfram Franke, Achim Gratz, Uwe G. Hoenig,
Jörg Hüttner, Tommy Kircher, Dirk Krause, Hubertus Maass,
Stefan Stenzel, Tsching, Eric Young
Manual: Holger "Tsching" Steinbrink
Head: Wolfgang Düren
Revision Date: August 2001, Version 3.0
We would like to thank
Holger Bahr, Sigi Barishi, Steffi vom Berg, H.-P. “Bonni” Bonnenberg (†), Piera Caccia, Mike Caroll,
Geoff Farr, Gunther Gräfe, Peter Grandl, Florian Gypser, Christian Halten, Martin Herbst, Thilo Kloft,
Achim Lenzgen, Evi Mognol, Wolfgang Mörs, Werner Mohrlok, Dr. Georg Müller, Martin Neideck,
Drew Neumann, Stefan Profitlich, Amanda and Mark Pulver, Alex Sauff, Holger "Tsching" Steinbrink,
Beate Walkowiak, Kurt “Lu” Wangard, K.D. Warnecke, Sabine Weiland, Hubertus “Hubi” Weller,
Oliver Wüst, Rocco Zodiac … and anyone we have forgotten.
Waldorf Electronics is not liable for any erroneous information contained in this manual. The contents
of this manual may be updated at any time without prior notice. We made every effort to ensure the
information herein is accurate and that the manual contains no contradictory information. Waldorf
extends no liabilities in regard to this manual other than those required by local law.
This manual or any portion of it may not be reproduced in any form without the manufacturer's
written consent.
Waldorf Electronics GmbH, Schloss Ahrenthal, D-53489 Sinzig, Germany

Control Features and Connections – Front Panel Q Keyboard
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 6
Control Features and Connections
Front Panel Q Keyboard
햲햳 햴 햵 햶햷 햸햹 햺 햻햽 햾
헀햿
On
One Shot
Hold
Cutoff
Velocity
Option
2
1
Env A
Env B
Bank B
Step 9-16
Bank C
Step 17-24
Bank D
Step 25-32
Bank A
Step 1-8
Pattern
Multi
Sound
Tri Sine
Alt1
Alt2
Saw
Pulse
Shape Sync
Shape Sync Speed Delay
Shape Sync Speed Delay
Shape Sync Speed Delay
Edit
Octave Semi Detune Pitch Mod Source Shape Pulsewidth PWM Source
Octave Semi Detune Pitch Mod Source Shape Pulsewidth PWM Source
Octave Semi Detune Pitch Mod Source Shape Pulsewidth PWM Source
Active
Glide Rate
Mode
Pitch Mod SourceSystem
Volume
Edit Edit
Osc 1
Balance
Osc 2
Balance
Osc 3
Balance
Noise / Ext
Balance
RingMod
Osc1/Osc2
Instruments
Play / O.K.
Multimode Peak
Type Cutoff Mod FM Source Keytrack
Drive
PanMod
Source
Cutoff Resonance Env Velo Pan
Time 1 Level 1 Time 2 Level 2
Attack Decay Sustain Release
Time 3 Sustain Release Rel. Level
Attack Decay Sustain Release
Filter Select
Edit Edit Edit
Volume
Env Velo Mix Mix
Select
Edit Power
Mix Range
Clock
Tempo
EditStart / Stop
Button 1 Button 2
Pitchbend Modulaiton
Grap Control
Select
Shift
Utility
Undo
Compare
Recall
Store
Global
Multi
Xphorm
Sound
Matrix
LFOs Oscillators Mixer Routing FX1 FX2 ArpeggiatorAmpFilter
Envelopes
Sequencer
Amp
EFX
Left
Right
2
1
3
1
Tri Sine
Alt1
Alt2
Saw
Pulse
Tri Sine
Saw
Pulse
2
3
Sync
Filter Pan
PanFilter 2 2
11
78654321 90
Mixer
Osc 1
Ring Mod
Osc 2
Osc 3
Noise/Ext
1
5/9/13
2
6/10/14
3
7/11/15
4
8/12/16
SY N T H E S I Z E R
Picture 1:Front Panel Q Keyboard
햲System Volume rotary. Controls the overall
volume.
햳LFO Section. Contains all the knobs and buttons
associated with the LFOs.
햴Oscillators Section. Contains all the knobs and
buttons associated with the oscillators.
햵Mixer Section. Contains all the knobs and
buttons associated with the mixer.
햶Routing Section. Contains the Filter Routing
Control.
햷Master Section with display, page dial, value
dials, Instrument Select and function buttons.
햸Envelopes, Sequencer and Program Select
Section. Contains all knobs and buttons
associated with the envelopes, the step
sequencer and program selection.
햹Filter Section. Contains all knobs and buttons
associated with the filters.
햺Amplifier Section. Contains all knobs associated
with the amplifier.
햻FX Section. Contains all knobs and buttons
associated with the Effects.
햽Arpeggiator Section. Contains all knobs and
buttons associated with the arpeggiator.
햾Power button with standby LED.
햿Controller Section with pitchbend wheel,
modulation wheel and two assignable buttons.
헀Keyboard Section

Control Features and Connections – Frontpanel Q Rack
7 Waldorf Q User´s Manual
Frontpanel Q Rack
UtilityGlobal
UndoMulti
CompareMatrix
RecallXphorm
StoreSound
Shift
Play OK
PeekMultimode
Alt1
Alt2
Shape
Octave Semi Detune FM Source Pulsewidth PWM Source Level
Balance
Shape Sync Speed Delay
Edit Glide Sync Osc2 Edit Edit
Oscillators Mixer
LFO
AMP FX1 FX2Filter
Envelopes Arpeggiator
Sequencer
Cutoff Resonance Keytrack Type Env Velo Pan Drive
Edit Edit Edit Edit
Attack
Level
Decay
Decay2
Sustain
Sustain2
Release
Mode
Attack
Level
Decay
Decay2
Sustain
Sustain2
Release
Mode
Filter /
Amp
Env 3/4
Hold
One Shot
On
Edit
Edit
Cutoff
Velocity
Option
Step 1-8
Bank A
Step 9-16
Bank B
Step 17-24
Bank C
Step 25-32
Bank D /
Drum Map
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
Tempo
Start/Stop
Pause Hold
Pattern
Sound
Multi
Grab Control
System
Volume
Routing
Mixer Amp
FX
L
R
Pan 2
Pan 1 Filter 1
Filter 2
Volume Velo
Power/Panic
Demo
Card
1
5/9/13
2
6/10/14
3
7/11/15
4
8/12/16
Instruments
햲
햳햴햵
햶
햷
햸햹햺햻햽
햾
2. Frontpanel Q Rack
햲System Volume rotary. Controls the overall
volume.
햳LFO Section. Contains all the knobs and buttons
associated with the LFOs.
햴Oscillators Section. Contains all the knobs and
buttons associated with the oscillators.
햵Mixer Section. Contains all the knobs and
buttons associated with the mixer.
햶Routing Section. Contains the Filter Routing
Control.
햷Master Section with display, page dial, value
dials, Instrument Select and function buttons.
햸Envelopes, Sequencer and Program Select
Section. Contains all knobs and buttons
associated with the envelopes, the step
sequencer and program selection.
햹Filter Section. Contains all knobs and buttons
associated with the filters.
햺Amplifier Section. Contains all knobs associated
with the amplifier.
햻FX Section. Contains all knobs and buttons
associated with the Effects.
햽Arpeggiator Section. Contains all knobs and
buttons associated with the arpeggiator.

Control Features and Connections – Rear Panel
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 8
Rear Panel
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover. No user-
serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified ser vice personnel.
Vorsicht! Gerät nicht öffnen. Gefahr eines Stromschlages. Servicear-
beiten nur von geschultem Fachpersonal durchführen lassen!
CAUTION
This device complies to
the FCC rules part 15
In Thru OutLeft/Stereo Right/Mono Left/Stereo Right/Mono Left/Stereo Right/Mono Tip:1 / Ring:2Stereo12 Coaxial
POWER
100…240VAC
max. 30VA
MIDIMAIN OUT SUB OUT 1 SUB OUT 2 PEDALINPEDAL CV IN D.OUT
/
! !
쐅쐈
쐉

Picture 2:Rear Panel Q Keyboard
쐃Power supply socket 100…240V AC
쐇Control Pedal / CV In jacks for connecting foot
controllers or analog control voltages (only Q
Keyboard)
쐋Stereo External In jack for feeding external audio
signals into the Mixer section.
쐏Main Out jacks. Deliver a stereo line level
output signal for connection to a mixing desk or
amplifier.
쐄Sub Out 1 jacks. Deliver a stereo line level
output signal for connection to a mixing desk or
amplifier.
Sub Out 2 jacks. Deliver a stereo line level
output signal for connection to a mixing desk or
amplifier.
쐆Digital Out jack. S/PDIF type coaxial output for
connection to a digital mixing desk, DAT
recorder or hard disk recording system. Signal is
similar to the Main Out jacks.
쐊Switch Pedal jack (stereo) for connecting one or
two footswitch controllers.
쐎MIDI In jack. Used to receive MIDI data from an
external device.
쐅MIDI Thru jack. Echoes MIDI data received at
the MIDI In.
쐈MIDI Out jack. Used to transmit MIDI data to an
external device.
쐉Card slot. Holds a card of type Q-Card 256 or
higher (located at the front of the Q Rack)

Contents – Rear Panel
9 Waldorf Q User’s Manual
Contents
Foreword ..........................................................5
Development......................................................5
We would like to thank........................................5
Control Features and Connections....................6
Front Panel Q Keyboard.......................................6
Front Panel Q Rack .............................................7
Rear Panel..........................................................8
Contents ...........................................................9
Introduction ....................................................11
About this Manual.............................................11
Symbols.......................................................11
Highlighted Control Features and Parameters ..11
What to read? ...................................................12
If you are new to the whole subject ................12
If you have experience with synthesizers.........12
If you are a synthesizer hotshot ......................14
General Safety Guidelines..................................15
Suitable Operating Conditions .......................15
Power Supply...............................................15
Operation ....................................................15
Maintenance................................................15
Proper Use...................................................16
Setup and Connection.....................................17
Inventory..........................................................17
Setup ...............................................................17
Connections .....................................................17
Audio Connections............................................19
Digital S/PDIF Output........................................19
External Input....................................................20
Switch Pedal Inputs ...........................................20
Control Pedal/CV Inputs.....................................20
Overview.........................................................21
Memory Structure..............................................21
Memory Card....................................................22
Maintenance................................................22
Basic Operation ..............................................23
Switching on.....................................................23
Switching off.....................................................23
Panic Function..................................................24
System Volume .................................................24
Demo Playback.................................................24
The Master Section............................................25
Selecting Programs ............................................25
Selecting Programs with the Page Dial............26
Selecting Programs with the Number Buttons ..26
Bank Hold ...................................................28
Switching Banks ...........................................28
Selecting Programs on Memory Cards.............28
Category Search ...........................................29
Instruments and Sounds .....................................30
Switching between Instruments......................30
Creating Sound Layers with Instruments..........30
Replacing Sounds in Layers ...........................30
Editing Sounds in Layers................................31
Deactivating Sound Layers.............................31
Editing Parameters.............................................31
Edit Buffers...................................................31
Editing Panel Parameters ...............................32
Editing Alternative Panel Parameters...............33
Control and Button Types..............................33
Editing Display Menu Parameters ...................34
Viewing Parameters without Change – Peek ....35
Comparing Edited Programs...........................35
Recalling Edited Programs .............................36
Storing Programs ..........................................36
Multi Mode ......................................................38
Selecting an Instrument for editing ......................38
Instrument settings ............................................39
Multi settings ....................................................45
Step Sequencer...............................................47
Editing Sequence Patterns ..................................47
Activating the Step Sequencer Controls...........47
Step Selection ..............................................47
Deselecting all Steps.....................................48
Programming Notes or Chords .......................48
Programming a Pause....................................48
Holding Notes over More Than One Step........49
Limiting the Audible Range to One Bank.........49
Changing Modulation Values for Selected Steps49
Changing Modulation Values for All Steps At
Once...........................................................50
Sequencer Panel Controls ..................................50
Sequencer Rotaries............................................51
Sequencer Edit Menu.........................................51
Sound Parameters ..........................................55
Overview of Functions.......................................55
The Tempo .......................................................56
Modulation Speed Levels ...................................57
FM (Frequency Modulation)...........................57
Fast Modulation............................................58
Standard Modulation ....................................59
Xphorm – Interpolating between two sounds........62
Xphorm Edit Menu........................................63
Triggering of Voices...........................................64
Sound Edit Menu..........................................64

Contents – Rear Panel
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 10
Oscillators........................................................66
Oscillator Shapes..........................................66
Wavetable Synthesis .....................................71
Oscillators Panel Controls .............................72
Oscillators Edit Menu....................................78
Glide ...............................................................79
Mixer...............................................................80
Mixer Panel Controls ....................................80
Mixer Edit Menu...........................................82
Routing ............................................................84
Filter ................................................................85
Selecting and Editing Filters ...........................86
Filter Panel Controls......................................87
Filter Edit Menu............................................89
Filter Types.......................................................90
Bypass.........................................................90
24dB Low Pass and 12dB Low Pass ................90
PPG LP Low Pass..........................................90
24dB Band Pass and 12dB Band Pass..............90
24dB High Pass and 12dB High Pass ..............91
24dB Notch and 12dB Notch.........................91
Comb+ and Comb-.......................................92
Amplifier..........................................................96
Amplifier Edit Menu......................................97
Effects ..............................................................98
Effect Panel Controls.....................................98
FX1 and FX2 Edit Menus ...............................98
Bypass.........................................................99
Chorus ........................................................99
Flanger ........................................................99
Phaser .......................................................100
Delay ........................................................101
Overdrive ..................................................102
Five FX ......................................................103
Reverb.......................................................104
Tap Delay..................................................106
5.1 Surround Delay Types ...........................107
Vocoder ....................................................110
Arpeggiator.....................................................113
Arpeggiator Panel Controls ..........................113
Arpeggiator Edit Menu ................................115
Arpeggiator Edit Menu Step Data..................118
Envelopes.......................................................122
Envelope Panel Controls..............................122
ADSR Envelope ..........................................123
ADS1DS2R Envelope ..................................124
One Shot ...................................................125
Loop S1S2 .................................................126
Loop All ....................................................127
Low Frequency Oscillators (LFO) ......................128
Low Frequency Oscillator Panel Controls......128
LFO Edit Menu...........................................129
Modulation Matrix ..........................................131
Matrix Edit Menu........................................131
Modifier Matrix...............................................132
Matrix Edit Menu........................................132
Control Delay .................................................133
Drum Map ..................................................... 134
Drum Map Sound Menu..............................134
Global Parameters ........................................ 136
Global Menu ..................................................136
Utility Menu ...................................................147
MIDI Control.................................................. 149
Channel Based MIDI Messages .........................149
Program Change Messages ..........................149
Note On and Note Off Messages..................149
Aftertouch Messages ...................................149
Poly Pressure Messages ...............................149
Pitchbend Messages....................................150
Modulation Wheel......................................150
Breath Control Messages .............................150
Foot Controller Messages.............................150
Channel Volume Messages..........................150
Pan Messages.............................................150
Sustain Pedal Messages ...............................150
Sostenuto Pedal Messages ...........................150
Footswitches ..............................................150
Pedals .......................................................151
All Notes Off Message.................................151
All Sound Off Message................................151
Reset All Controllers Message ......................151
Influencing / Editing Sounds over MIDI..............151
Controllers as Modulation Sources ...............151
Changing Sound Parameters with Controllers 151
Changing Sound Parameters with SysEx Data 151
System Exclusive Data Transmission..................152
Sending System Exclusive Data ....................152
Receiving System Exclusive Data..................153
Other Functions............................................ 154
Updating the System Software......................154
The HMT Function .....................................156
Tips & Tricks..............................................157
Appendix ...................................................... 158
Technical Data ...............................................158
Index .............................................................159
Midi Signalflow diagram ..................................160
Glossary.........................................................161
Controller Numbers.........................................165
MIDI Implementation Chart..............................169
CE Declaration................................................170

Introduction – About this Manual
11 Waldorf Q User’s Manual
Introduction
About this Manual
This manual was written to help you to become familiar with the Waldorf microQ. It will also aid
experienced users with routine tasks.
Since this manual is valid for the keyboard- as well as the rack-version, we will separately point out
the particular differences. Hence we will talk only of the Q within the manual. To avoid confusion,
the terminology in this manual is based on the Q parameter names. You will find a glossary at the end
of the manual; it explains the various terms used.
We also used a uniform set of symbols to show you topics of particular interest or significance.
Important terms are highlighted in bold letters.
Symbols
Caution – The comments that follow this symbol will help you avoid errors and malfunctions.
☞Instruction – Follow these guidelines to execute a desired function.
Info – Additional information on a given topic.
Example – Real-world examples to try out.
Highlighted Control Features and Parameters
All of the Q’s buttons, controls and parameters are highlighted in bold letters throughout the manual.
Example:
•Press the Play button.
Also, each section and the main control elements have position numbers …which refer to the
pictures at the beginning of this manual. The connectors on the rear panel are referred by position
numbers …. We suggest you make a copy of these pages to have it at hand when needed.
The Q’s different modes and parameter pages are illustrated in a depiction of the display:
Inst:1 Sound:A001
Zeitlos T
The value range of a continuous parameter is indicated from low to high with both values shown in
italic letters, separated by three dots. Example:
Semi -12…+12

Introduction – What to read?
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 12
What to read?
The biggest problem with any manual is to find a way to cover both the needs of an absolute expert
and a beginner alike. There are people who read a manual cover to cover while others don’t even
touch it. The latter is the worst choice, especially when the manual describes a Waldorf instrument.
To ensure that everyone finds the information he needs to work with the Q, we collected the
following information to tell you which chapters you should read at the very least.
On page 159 you will find an index table with the corresponding page hint.
If you are new to the whole subject
Is this your first or second synthesizer? Then you should first read the whole manual once. You don’t
need to do that while you’re exploring the Q - you can also read it as you would read a good book.
But read it. You don’t need to understand everything but after you’ve read the manual, you know
where to find a particular topic. Then it’s time to go deep into the Q and when you’re stuck, you will
find the answer quickly and easily.
Furthermore, we recommend the purchase of a good book explaining synthesizers and sound
synthesis in general. This book might help you when you don’t understand a certain term that is used
in the manual. The appendix of the Q manual contains a glossary but it is possible that you want or
need even deeper explanation. A good book explaining analog sound synthesis named “Analog
Sound Synthesis” can be obtained from the German publisher WIZOO. You can find further info
about it and other books covering similar topics at: http://www.wizoo.com
If you have experience with synthesizers
Do you own a couple of synthesizers, and have you edited some sounds to fit your needs? Then make
sure to read at least the following chapters:
Section Chapter Sub-Chapter
Introduction General Safety Guidelines all chapters
Setup and Connection Audio Connections
Digital S/PDIF Output
Switching off,
Panic Function
Selecting Programs all chapters
Instruments and Sounds all chapters
Basic Operation
Editing Parameters all chapters
Multi Parameters all chaptersMulti Mode
Instrument Parameters all chapters
Step Sequencer all chapters
The Tempo
Clock
Modulation Speed Levels
Xphorm
Sound Parameters
Oscillators FM and FM Source
Wavetable Oscillators
Pulsewidth
PWM and PWM Source
PitchMod and PitchMod Source
Sync, Keytrack

Introduction – What to read?
13 Waldorf Q User’s Manual
Glide Mode
Mixer Balance
RingMod
Noise / Ext. Balance
N/E Select F1 / F2 Feed
Routing
Filter Selecting and Editing Filters
CutoffMod and CutoffMod Source
FM and FM Source
Drive
Env
Velo
Pan
PanMod and PanMod Source
Filter Types Notch
Comb + and Comb -
Amplifier Velo
AmpMod and AmpMod Source
Effects Introduction
Mix
FX Types
Vocoder all Chapters
Arpeggiator Edit Menu all chapters
Arpeggiator Edit Menu Step
Data
all chapters
Envelopes Mode
ADS1DS2R Envelope
One Shot Envelope
LoopS1S2 Envelope
Loop All Envelope
LFOs Sync
Delay
Keytrack
Fade
Clocked
Phase
Modulation Matrix all chapters
Modifier Matrix all chapters
Sound Parameters
Drum Map all chapters
Global Parameters Global Menu Sysex Device ID
Clock
HMT function
Controller Send
Input Gain
Mix In parameter
Channel Based MIDI
Messages
Program Change Messages
Poly Pressure Messages
Sostenuto Pedal Messages
Footswitches
Pedals
Influencing and Editing
Sounds over MIDI
all chapters
MIDI Control
Other Functions Updating the System Software
Table 1: Suggested chapters for advanced users

Introduction – What to read?
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 14
If you are a synthesizer hotshot
Do you own a whole bunch of various synthesizers of all flavours, analog, digital, sample playback,
and know how to create and modify sounds, multis and other patch types on them? Do you already
own any Waldorf synthesizers so that you are familiar with their structure and terminology. Then
make sure to read at least the following chapters. They describe the extraordinary features and
functions of the Q.
Section Chapter Sub-Chapter
Introduction General Safety Guidelines Power Supply
Setup and Connection External Input
Switching off
Panic Function
Selecting Programs Sound Selection by Category
Instruments and Sounds all chapters
Basic Operation
Editing Parameters all chapters
Multi Parameters Ctrl W…ZMulti Mode
Instrument Parameters Selecting an Instrument for editing
Instrument settings
Step Sequencer all chapters
The Tempo
Clock
Modulation Speed Levels
Xphorm
Oscillators FM and FM Source
Wavetable Oscillators
Mixer Balance
Noise / Ext. Balance
N/E Select F1 / F2 Feed
Routing
Filter Selecting and Editing Filters
FM and FM Source
Pan, PanMod and PanMod Source
Filter Types Comb + and Comb -
Effects FX Types
Vocoder all chapters
Arpeggiator Edit Menu all chapters
Arpeggiator Edit Menu Step
Data
all chapters
Envelopes Mode
ADS1DS2R Envelope
One Shot Envelope
LoopS1S2 Envelope
Loop All Envelope
LFOs Sync, Fade, Clocked, Phase
Modulation Matrix all chapters
Sound Parameters
Modifier Matrix all chapters
Global Parameters Global Menu Global MIDI Channel, Sysex ID
Clock, Controller Send
Input Gain, Mix In parameter
Table 2: Suggested chapters for synthesizer cracks

Introduction – General Safety Guidelines
15 Waldorf Q User’s Manual
General Safety Guidelines
Please read the following safety tips carefully! They include several precautions you should
always observe when dealing with electronic equipment. Read all of the instructions before
operating your device.
Suitable Operating Conditions
•Use the device in enclosed rooms only.
•Never use the device under damp conditions such as in bathrooms, washrooms or around
indoor swimming pools.
•Do not use the device in extremely dusty or dirty environments.
•Make sure that adequate ventilation is available at all sides of the device.
•Do not place the device near heat sources such as radiators.
•Do not expose the device to direct sunlight.
•Do not expose the device to extreme vibrations.
Power Supply
•The internal power supply of the Q has an automatic current switch. It can be connected
without any additional transformer to AC power outlets with currents from 100V to 240V
AC. If the available power outlet doesn’t provide this current, consult a qualified
technician.
•Never use a different power cable than the one that came with the Q.
•Never install a different plug. If the included cable is not equipped with a suitable plug for
your local sockets, take the Q and the cable to a qualified electrician.
•Unplug the device when you are not using it for longer periods.
•Never touch the plug with wet hands.
•Always pull the plug when unplugging the device, never the cable.
Operation
•Never place objects containing liquids on or near the device.
•Place the device on a stable base only. Use a suitable platform or rack.
•Make sure no foreign objects find their way into the chassis. If for some reason this should
occur, switch the power off, unplug the device and consult a qualified repair center.
•This device, used on its own or with amplifiers, speakers or headphones, can generate
volume levels that may do irreparable damage to your hearing. For this reason you should
keep the volume at tolerable levels.
Maintenance
•Do not open the device or remove the cover. Refer all service and repair tasks to qualified
personnel. The interior of the chassis contains no components that require user
maintenance.

Introduction – General Safety Guidelines
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 16
•Use only a dry, soft cloth or brush to clean the device. Never use alcohol, cleaning
solutions or similar chemicals. They will damage the surface of the chassis.
Proper Use
This device is designed exclusively to produce low-frequency audio signals for the purpose of
generating sound. Any other use is prohibited and voids the warranty extended by Waldorf
Electronics GmbH. Waldorf Electronics GmbH is not liable for damages due to incorrect use.
Don´t let your Q beside children or animals. This could leads into critical interactions.

Setup and Connection – Inventory
17 Waldorf Q User’s Manual
Setup and Connection
Inventory
The Waldorf Q comes complete with:
•the Q or the Q Rack
•power supply cable
•this manual
Please ensure all the items above were included. If something is missing, contact your local dealer.
We recommend that you save the original packing material for future transport.
Make sure you fill out the warranty card and send it to the appropriate distributor or the
address printed on the card. This is the only way we can keep you informed of updates and
upgrades. Other available services are listed on the warranty card.
Setup
Place the Q on a clean, even surface. If you choose to take the device on the road, we suggest
transporting it in a special keyboard or rack case, which should be available from your dealer. We
recommended the installation in a stable 19" rack for the Q Rack version
Connections
In order to get started with your Q you will need an AC power outlet, a mixing console, an amp and
an audio monitor such as a speaker cabinet. The Q Rack also needs to connect with a MIDI master
keyboard.
You can also use a computer or sequencer to make use of the Q’s MIDI features.

Setup and Connection – Connections
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 18
In Thru Out
MIDIMAIN OUT SUB OUT 1 SUB OUT 2 PEDALIN
Left/Stereo Right/Mono
D.OUT
Left/Stereo Right/Mono Left/Stereo Right/Mono
PEDAL / CV IN
Tip:1 / Ring:2Stereo1 2 Coaxial
Digital Output
S/PDIF Format
Switch Pedals
Switch 1: Tip /
Ground
Switch 2: Ring /
Ground
Out In
Control Pedals
Tip / Ground:
47k Ω Potentiometer
Ring: +5V
Main Output
to mixing desk,
headphone or
amplifier
Left/Stereo:
Tip: Left Signal
Ring: Right Signal
Sub Output 2
to mixing desk or
amplifier
Left/Stereo:
Tip: Left Signal
Ring: Right Signal
External In
from mixing desk or
audio source
Tip: Left Signal
Ring: Right Signal
Sub Output 1
to mixing desk or
amplifier
Left/Stereo:
Tip: Left Signal
Ring: Right Signal
MIDI Thru
to MIDI In of further
tone generators
MIDI In
from MIDI Out of a
Computer or other
MIDI Controller
MIDI Out
to MIDI In of a
Computer or tone
generator
Connections
☞To connect the devices:
1. Turn all units off.
2. Connect the Q’s main audio outputs Main Out to your mixing console. Optionally
connect the auxilliary audio outputs Sub Out 1 and Sub Out 2 too.
3. Connect the power supply cable that came with the Q with the Power Supply  jack.
4. Plug the other side of the power supply cable into a suitable AC power outlet.
5. The Q should power up itself. If not, switch on the Q with the Power button .

Setup and Connection – Audio Connections
19 Waldorf Q User’s Manual
6. Then switch on the computer (if connected), the mixing console and finally the amplifier.
7. To play the Q Rack you need a MIDI master keyboard. Please connect the Q Rack´s MIDI
In jack with the MIDI Out jack of the keyboard. Instead of this you can also connect
the Q Rack to a MIDI computer system.
If you want to use a computer with a sequencer software, connect your computers MIDI Out
jack to the Q’s MIDI In jack and the computers MIDI In jack to the Q’s MIDI Out jack . To
check the correct reception of MIDI Data, send any MIDI Events to the Q; the Peek LED lights
up on any incoming MIDI Message. If this is not the case please check the MIDI connection to
the Q.
Audio Connections
The Q provides three analog stereo audio outputs that can be used individually. All outputs are
affected by the setting of the System Volume  control. If you choose to send only one mono or
stereo signal to your mixer, use the Main Out jacks. You can connect each output stereophonically
or monophonically as follows:
☞To connect an output stereophonically with two mono cables:
•Connect the Left and Right jack with 1/4-inch mono plugs.
☞To connect an output stereophonically with one stereo cable:
•Only connect the Left/Stereo jack of the output with a 1/4-inch stereo plug. Don’t plug
any cable into the Right/Mono jack of the output pair.
☞To connect an output monophonically:
•Only connect the Right/Mono jack of the output pair with a 1/4 inch mono plug. Don’t
plug any cable into the Left/Stereo jack of the output pair.
☞To connect a headphone:
•Connect the headphone with the Left/Stereo jack of the Main Out .
If you do not choose to connect a mixing console, you can patch the Q’s output signals directly
to an amp. Use an input usually called Aux or Tape input.
Before connecting and disconnecting the Q to a power supply source, turn your amp’s
volume control all the way down to avoid damage due to on/off switching noise.
The Q produces a high level output signal (see “Technical Data” on page 158). Please take
care that the connected playback device is suitable for the high level of an electronic
instrument. Never use the mic or phono input of the connected amp!
Digital S/PDIF Output
In addition to the 6 analog audio outputs, the Q is equipped with an S/PDIF type digital output 
(44.1 kHz, 16 Bit signal). You can use this output to connect the Q to a digital mixing console or to
record the sound signal on a DAT machine or hard disk recording system. The signal on the digital
out connector is always identical to the Main Out jacks .

Setup and Connection – External Input
Waldorf Q User’s Manual 20
External Input
The Q offers a stereo External In jack that can be used to feed an external signal into the mixer
section. Therefore, the signal can be processed via the filters and the effects section in the same way
as the oscillators.
As the external signal is treated like any other sound source within the Q, it is necessary to
trigger the Amplifier Envelope to get the signal passed through. To do so, notes must be sent to
the Q’s sound generation, either by playing on the keyboard, receiving MIDI notes or via the
internal step sequencer or arpeggiator. You can also send an external audio signal directly to
the Q´s FX section by using the Mix In to parameter in the Global menu.
Switch Pedal Inputs
The Q features two inputs for switch pedals. These switch pedals can be of any type, you can i.e. use
foot switches, sustain pedals etc. It also doesn’t matter if the pedal or switch is open or closed in
either pressed or non-pressed state. You can adjust the behaviour of each pedal separately in the
Global menu.
The Switch Pedal Jack on the Q is a stereophonic 1/4 inch phono jack. You can connect one
switch pedal to it with a monophonic 1/4 inch phono plug or two switches using a stereophonic plug.
If you do so, the plug has to be connected as follows:
•Footswitch 1 is connected to the tip and the ground.
•Footswitch 2 is connected to the ring and the ground.
You can use an adapter that routes a stereo 1/4 inch phono plug to two mono 1/4 inch phono jacks.
Control Pedal/CV Inputs (only Q Keyboard)
The Q features two inputs for control pedals or control voltages.
If a control pedal is used, a potentiometer of 47KOhms or higher is recommended. This covers almost
any type of control pedal on the market. It doesn’t matter in which direction the control pedal works,
this can be adjusted in the Global menu later.
If CV is used, make sure to match these specifications:
•Tip: CV in (internally connected to +5V by a 4K7 Resistor)
•Ring: internally connected to +5V by a 4K7 Resistor.
•Input Voltage Range: 0 to 5V
It doesn’t matter if the incoming CV is linear or logarithmic, this can be adjusted in the Global menu
as well as the initial offset and the overall gain.