Waldorf Crema Desktop Duo-Timbral String & Ensemble Synthesizer
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Waldorf Crema is a compact and affordable polyphonic string and pad synthesizer that combines the iconic sound of Waldorf Streichfett with modern wavetable, FM and virtual analog synthesis. Designed for creating string ensembles, layered pads and evolving sound textures, Crema offers an inspiring combination of classic character, modern versatility and hands-on control.
As the latest addition to Waldorf's compact product line alongside Protein, Crema brings vintage string machine warmth and contemporary sound design together in a portable, performance ready instrument.
- Two engines – Texture & Lines – providing dual timbres, layered as well individually playable in split
- Layered or split by note range and/or MIDI channel
- Texture engine offers 24 types from three synthesis modes: strings, wavetable and FM
- Strings mode contains full polyphonic string engine from Waldorf Streichfett strings layer
- Wavetable mode uses classic and new Waldorf wavetables with virtual analog filter
- FM mode offers six 4-operator FM algorithms including feedback
- Lines engine contains polyphonic virtual analog synth based on Waldorf Streichfett solo layer
- Two effects slots – reverb and multi-effects – routable in series and parallel
- Reverb effect engine with dedicated controls for optional shimmer
- Multi-effects engine with 14 effects types
- 360 patch memory slots with 130+ factory patches
- Category filter for browsing patch list
- Advanced arpeggiator individually assignable to Texture and/or Lines layers
- Step sequencer with up to 32 steps and scale mode
- Free Waldorf Chutney librarian software for macOS and Windows
- MPE compatible
Texture engine: set the mood
Crema's Texture layer gives you strings, wavetables and FM in one expressive engine. Explore 24 sound types, from the unmistakable warmth of Streichfett strings to Waldorf wavetables and rich FM tones. Morph between sounds, shape their movement and let the classic Streichfett Ensemble go through them.
Lines engine: add character
An eight-voice polyphonic virtual analog engine with two detunable oscillators, pulse or sawtooth waveforms, and modulation options including stereo tremolo, vibrato and PWM. From punchy basses to expressive synth leads, Lines adds contrast, definition and character to your sound.
Let it blend
Two effects processors with flexible serial and parallel routing combine chorus, flanger, phaser, tremolo, drive, delay and reverb with a dedicated shimmer reverb, opening the door to everything from subtle pads to vast, evolving soundscapes.
Organic Flavour
A little imperfection makes a beautiful difference. Turn the Flavour knob to introduce subtle variations in pitch and wave position. Add movement, warmth and organic character to your sound – all with a single turn.
Ready to play
Crema includes over 130 factory sounds created by sound designers including Christian Kleine, LimbicBits, and others. With 360 preset slots and the Chutney Librarian application, sounds can be easily stored, organized and transferred between Crema and a computer.
Design and connectivity
Sharing Waldorf Protein's compact form factor, Crema weighs just under two pounds. It's powered via USB-C and features MIDI via USB and mini TRS input and output, stereo audio outputs and a headphone connection. Crema supports MPE and separate MIDI channels for each engine.
Family member
Alongside Protein, Crema joins Waldorf's compact product line, bringing the timeless character of classic string machines into new sonic Waldorf territory. Some sounds never go out of style – the swelling strings, the shimmering ensembles, the pads that fill a room. Every track needs that final layer, the one that makes it feel finished; Crema is built to create it. Just pour in a chord and let the best part rise to the top.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Waldorf Crema?
The Waldorf Crema is a compact polyphonic string and pad synthesizer that combines the iconic sound of the Waldorf Streichfett with modern wavetable, FM and virtual analog synthesis. It features two sound engines, Texture and Lines, plus reverb and multi-effects slots. With 360 patch memory slots and more than 130 factory patches, it is built for string ensembles, layered pads and evolving textures.
Who is the Waldorf Crema designed for?
Crema is designed for players and producers who want lush string ensembles, layered pads and evolving sound textures in a portable, performance ready instrument. It suits musicians who love vintage string machine warmth but also want contemporary sound design tools like wavetable and FM synthesis. Its compact size makes it a natural fit for small studios and live rigs alike.
How does the Waldorf Crema compare to the Waldorf Streichfett?
Crema carries forward the Streichfett sound, with a Strings mode that contains the full polyphonic string engine from the Streichfett strings layer. Its Lines engine is a polyphonic virtual analog synth based on the Streichfett solo layer. Crema builds on that foundation with wavetable and FM synthesis modes, two effects slots, an arpeggiator, a step sequencer and MPE compatibility.
How many voices of polyphony does the Waldorf Crema have?
The Texture layer offers full polyphony in Strings mode and 12-voice polyphony in its other modes. The Lines layer provides 8-voice polyphony.
What sound engines and synthesis types does the Waldorf Crema offer?
The Texture engine offers 24 types across three synthesis modes: strings, wavetable and FM. Wavetable mode uses classic and new Waldorf wavetables with a virtual analog filter, while FM mode provides six 4-operator FM algorithms including feedback. The Lines engine adds a polyphonic virtual analog synth based on the Streichfett solo layer.
Can I split or layer two sounds on the Waldorf Crema?
Yes. The Texture and Lines engines can be layered together or split by note range, MIDI channel, or both. Each engine is also individually playable, giving you two independent timbres to work with.
Does the Waldorf Crema have an arpeggiator and step sequencer?
Yes. Crema includes an advanced arpeggiator that can be individually assigned to the Texture layer, the Lines layer, or both. It also has a step sequencer with up to 32 steps and a scale mode.
Is the Waldorf Crema compatible with MPE controllers?
Yes, the Waldorf Crema is MPE compatible, so you can play it from an MPE controller for more expressive performances. It also responds to aftertouch.
How do I connect the Waldorf Crema to my DAW or MIDI gear?
Crema's USB-C port handles MIDI, power and firmware updates, and a USB-C to USB-C cable and USB isolator are included. For traditional MIDI gear, it has MIDI In and Out with two included 1/8" to 5-pin MIDI adapters. The free Waldorf Chutney librarian software for macOS and Windows helps manage patches, which can also be imported and exported via MIDI SysEx.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | WAL-CREMA |
| Vendor | Waldorf |
| Aftertouch | Yes |
| Analog Digital | Digital |
| Built In Speakers | No |
| Included From Manufacturer |
2 × 1/8" to 5-pin MIDI adapters USB-C to USB-C cable USB isolator |
| Number of Keys | None |
| MIDI | In, Out, and USB |
| Monophonic/Polyphonic | Polyphonic |
| MPN | AMS-CREMA |
| Product Unique Features |
|
| Number of Patches/Programs |
360 patch memory slots 130+ factory patches Category filter for patch list Import and export patches via MIDI SySex |
| Voices of Polyphony |
Texture layer: Strings full polyphony, otherwise 12-voice polyphony Lines layer: 8-voice polyphony |
| Oscillators per Voice | Varies by sound engine |
| Multitimbral Capability |
2 timbral layers: Texture and Lines MIDI split by note and/or channel |
| Effects |
2 effect slots routable in series or parallel FX1: chorus, phaser, flanger, drive, tremolo, delay FX2: reverb + shimmer |
| Sequencer |
Up to 32 steps Scale mode |
| Arpeggiator | Advanced arpeggiator |
| USB Port (to Host) |
MIDI Firmware updates Power |
| Audio Outputs |
Dual stereo 1/4" output 1/8" stereo headphone output |
| Width | 9.92" |
| Depth | 6.69" |
| Height | 1.89" including controls |
| Product Weight | 1.98 lb |
Waldorf 1-year Limited Warranty
Waldorf Music provides a one-year warranty covering defects in material and workmanship from the original purchase date. During this period, the company will repair or replace faulty products at no cost, provided the defect is confirmed by Waldorf Music or an authorized service center. Customers must contact their dealer or distributor before sending the product, which should be shipped in its original packaging with insurance. The warranty excludes damage from abuse, improper conditions, or unauthorized repairs and covers only defects that occur under normal operating conditions. More information can be found on Waldorf's website.
Ground shipping is FREE to the 48 contiguous United States for orders $99 and up.*
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