The Waldorf Streichfett is a compact hardware string synthesizer that revives the classic sound of vintage string machines in a modern, reliable package. With dimensions of just 185 x 185 mm, this desktop module won't take up much space in any studio setup. The Streichfett combines authentic string ensemble sounds with complementary solo voices, providing a range of lush pads, choral effects, and synthesizer timbres that capture the essence of instruments from the 1970s.
Released before the larger STVC (String Synthesizer & Vocoder), the Streichfett serves as the foundation upon which the STVC was later built, focusing exclusively on string synthesis without the vocoder functionality. Its character particularly resembles the Eminent 310 Unique, which provided the organ/strings sounds for Jean Michel Jarre's "Oxygene."
Key Features
The Streichfett combines two distinct sound engines with simple but effective effects:
Strings Section
The fully polyphonic Strings section generates rich ensemble sounds through additive synthesis. The Registration knob selects from a wavetable of additive waveforms, offering everything from square-wave-like tones to string ensembles and choral patches. An AR (Attack-Release) envelope generator shapes the sound, placing the Streichfett closer to Logan territory than Solina in terms of character.
Sounds can be set to 8', 4', or 8'+4' footages, and enhanced with the crucial chorus/ensemble controls (playfully labeled "MOJO" on the circuit board). These offer three settings: Chorus (for slow modulation), String (for faster modulation), and a combination of both for the full ensemble effect.
Solo Section
The eight-note polyphonic Solo section offers a range of synth-like sounds based primarily on pulse waves with preset dynamic filtering. A knob equivalent to the Strings' Registration control selects between five sound categories: Bass, E-piano, Clavi, Synth, and Pluto. Sounds can be shaped with either AD (Attack-Decay) or ASR envelopes, and include a Tremolo effect that transforms to auto-panning in stereo mode.
A key-split function allows the Solo section to be played above or below a definable split point, though the Solo is always layered with the Strings section unless MIDI channel routing is used as a workaround.
Effects
The Streichfett includes three simple but effective effects:
- Animate - Modulates the Strings section's position in the wavetable
- Phaser - Applies a subtle phasing effect to the Strings section only
- Reverb - Treats both the Strings and Solo sections, ranging from bathroom ambience to cathedral-like spaces
Sound Capabilities
The Streichfett excels at producing lush, warm string ensemble sounds reminiscent of the mid-to-late 1970s. While it doesn't perfectly replicate specific vintage models like the ARP Omni 2, Logan String Melody II, or Roland RS202, it offers its own character that particularly resembles the Eminent 310 Unique.
Beyond traditional string sounds, the instrument can produce choral pads, eerie timbres, unusual organ sounds, and various synth voices. The Solo section, while limited compared to modern synthesizers, provides useful complementary sounds including bass, keys, and lead tones that work well in combination with the lush Strings section.
Construction & Design
The Streichfett features a plastic chassis with steel top and rear panels, following the same physical format as Waldorf's Rocket synth and 2-Pole filter. Its minimalist circuit board contains remarkably few components, making for an elegant and efficient design. With its low power requirement of just 80mA, the unit can be powered directly via USB, eliminating the need for a separate power supply (though one is included).
Technical Specifications
Sound Generation
Strings Section
- Waveform Generator: String/organ/choral wavetable
- Polyphony: 128 voices (fully polyphonic)
- Footages: 8', 4', or 8'+4'
- Envelope: AR (Attack-Release) contour generator
- Effects: Chorus/ensemble with three settings:
- Chorus (slow modulation)
- String (faster modulation)
- Combined (full ensemble effect)
- Technology: Based on master-oscillator/divide-down architecture like vintage string synths
Solo Section
- Waveform Generator: Bass/e-piano/clavi/synth/Pluto wavetable
- Polyphony: 8 voices
- Envelope: Switchable between AD (Attack-Decay) and ASR (Attack-Sustain-Release)
- Attack with percussive thunk between 8 and 10 o'clock positions
- Effects: Tremolo (mono) or auto-panning (stereo)
- Key Split Modes: Upper/Lower/All
Effects
- Animate: Modulates the Strings section's position in the wavetable
- Knob controls modulation depth and rate simultaneously
- Phaser: Applied to Strings section only
- Knob controls depth, rate, and feedback amount simultaneously
- Reverb: Global effect applied to both Strings and Solo sections
- Knob controls mix, size, and damping simultaneously
Controls&Interface
- Controls: Knobs and switches mounted on a single circuit board
- Memory: 12 patch memories arranged in three banks (A1 to C4)
- Memory Storage: Every panel parameter plus modulation wheel position
MIDI Implementation
- All panel controls send and receive MIDI CCs
- Sustain pedal support (CC64, works only in ASR mode of Solo section)
- Pitch bend (range settable through special control combination)
- Program change messages for patch selection
- SysEx for system settings
Additional Features
- Split Functionality: Solo section always layered with Strings on primary MIDI channel
- Workaround: Strings alone on primary channel, Solo alone on channel above primary
- Bonus Software: Complementary download of Waldorf Edition LE
- Includes simplified versions of Waldorf Attack percussion synth, D-Pole filter, and PPG Wave 2.V soft synth
Connectivity
- Audio Outputs: Stereo on twin quarter-inch TS jacks
- Headphones: 3.5mm TRS jack
- MIDI: In/Out on five-pin DIN and USB
- Power: Via USB (5V DC from supplied PSU)
- USB: MIDI In/Out only (no audio over USB)
Physical Specifications
- Dimensions: 185 × 185 mm
- Construction: Plastic chassis with steel top and rear panels
- Power Consumption: 80mA
