The truck guy's cool, but he will never be cool as this tape guy.

Soundwave: popular. Amount of toys: sufficient for its own page.

Toys

The Transformers

Soundwave superior. Nuff said.

• Soundwave and Condor Cassette: Buzzsaw (Decepticon,1984-1986,1990)

• Accessories: Battery/"concussion blaster", battery/rocket launcher, 3 rockets
• Known designers:Hideaki Yoke (TakaraTomy),Shinji Aramaki (concept artist)

Released in the first year of theoriginalTransformers toyline, Soundwave transforms into a realistically-sized blue and silver microcassette recorder, complete with an opening cassette door that can accommodate any of the numerousMini-Cassette figures. He came packaged withBuzzsaw to fully exploit and immediately advertise this interactive gimmick. Soundwave is armed with a shoulder-mounted cannon and a hand-held concussion blaster, which both transform into imitation batteries that store in a compartment on his back while he is in his alternate mode.

A pair of trapezoid-shaped stickers intended to decorate these batteries were repurposed by Hasbro as visible speakers in alt-mode (which end up on the inside of his legs)—it's possible that Buzzsaw was composited over his package art specifically to cover the visible sticker on his gun, so as not to contradict the new suggested sticker placement in theinstructions.^[1]

The earliest releases of Soundwave had solid upper wrists, while those in later assortments have a rectangular gap at the base of the wrist (as shown in the picture to the right). Hasbro re-released Soundwave in 1985 with even more changes. The most immediately-noticeable is that his tape door has a heat-sensitiverubsign instead of the foil Decepticon sigil that was there before. However, there were also a number of other mold changes made to the toy, which got their start in the Japanese Takara release (detailed below).

The popularity of Soundwave and his interactive tape gimmick was evident from an early stage: his toy continued to be sold up through 1986, after the vast majority of his 1984 brethren had been removed from toy shelves; Mini-Cassette partners continued to be produced for him even after this, through 1988; and Soundwave and Buzzsaw were shipped to Australian retail again in 1990. Over the years there have been multiple reissues of Soundwave, and this article lists each distinct edition of the figure under its own heading.

In Europe, Soundwave was released in three different subsequent versions that are most notable due to packaging variations: The first version, released in 1985, was manufactured by Takara and featured aMilton Bradley logo on its packaging; the second version, released in 1986, was also manufactured by Takara, but now featured a Hasbro logo on its packaging; and the third version, also released in 1986, was now manufactured by Ceji (the parent company ofJoustra) and still featured a Hasbro logo on its packaging.^[2] TheMexican release of Soundwave, byIGA, had painted black feet.

• Patent info, price guide, and further reading on Soundwave at Transformerland.com
• More information on Soundwave at TFU.info

• Soundwave (Decepticon,1985)

• Takara ID number:17
• Accessories: Battery/"concussion blaster", battery/rocket launcher, 3 rockets, headphones, microphone

Takara's release of Soundwave in 1985 had some very notable differences from the Hasbro release, the biggest being the addition of a set of headphones and a microphone, both non-functioning, which were part of the originalMicro Change "Cassette Man" set that Hasbro turned into Soundwave. To further emulate Cassette Man, Takara's Soundwave came withRumble, rather than Buzzsaw, and a clear plastic case that he could fit into in tape mode (Cassette Man came with either Rumble, Frenzy or Laserbeak, as different releases and copies varied). Soundwave's rocket launcher has a fully-functional spring-loaded firing mechanism, due to differingsafety laws for projectiles in the US Hasbro had severely weakened the spring's launching strength. He also only came with arubsign on the tape door.

Takara made arunning change to themold, re-sculpting the recessed buttons on Soundwave's pelvis into one solid, protruding piece, and moving the cassette door's hinge from inside the figure's chest to a lower, external position on either side of this new button assembly. This modification became the standard for all subsequent re-uses of the Soundwave mold, including Hasbro 1985's release of the toy.

• Grimlock vs Soundwave (Multi-pack,1985)

• ID number:VSY
• Accessories: Battery/"concussion blaster", battery/rocket launcher, 3 rockets

Takara also released Soundwave in a "versus" set along withGrimlock, lacking the additional headphone and microphone accessories, and now partnered withFrenzy instead of Rumble. The version of Soundwave included in this set was (supposedly) the earlier, pre-running change version with individual buttons on his chest.

The set also included an audio cassette, and has become the rarest of the three "VS" sets Takara produced.

I see a blue 'Con and I want him painted black.

• Soundblaster (Decepticon,1987)

• ID number:D-101
• Accessories: Battery/"concussion blaster", battery/rocket launcher, 3 rockets

Released in the third year of Takara'sFight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformers toy line (theHeadmasters-themed year), Soundwave wasredecoed in a new black and red color scheme, and his chest door wasretooled so that he could now hold two cassettes at once. The figure's stickers, however, retain Soundwave's blue coloration instead of being changed to work with Soundblaster's black.

This time, Soundblaster came packaged withBuzzsaw, who now sported a newsticker which would reveal the weak spot ofFortress Maximus when placed behind Soundblaster's translucent red chest door, in the same manner thatTech Specs decoders worked.

• More information on Soundblaster at TFU.info

"Wingthing, did you swap my gun withTreadshot's? You did, didn't you? Bad bat! No mecha-mosquito ice cream for you tonight!"

• Soundwave with Wingthing (Action Master, 1990)

• Accessories: "Photon negator"
• Known designers:Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Released in the seventh and final year of theTransformers toyline in the US (sixth and not-final in European markets), Soundwave was part of the first wave of individually-cardedAction Masters. This toy is a non-transforming 3¾-inch action figure which combines elements of his cartoon model and original toy. His construction is broadly similar to that used by theG.I. Joe figures of the time, having a swivel neck, shoulders and knees, plus ball-jointed hips attached via a steel rod internally secured by a rubber "o-ring". His hands have standard 3 mm holes which allow him to hold any other accessory in the Action Master line, plus his feet have holes in the bottom to secure him to larger vehicles. On top of that, the hole in his back is compatible with5 mm posts.

He came packaged with his newpartner,Wingthing, who turns into a massive cannon Soundwave can hold, and can also be augmented by attaching Soundwave's "photon negator" rifle.

Soundwave'sinstructions depict a differentweapon than the one the toy actually comes with, showing him withTreadshot's rifle. As a consequence, several toy information websites and identification guides (includingTransformers Generations) depict Soundwave with Treadshot's weapon, using the instructions as a reference (as seen at right).

• More information on Soundwave (Action Master) at TFU.info

Transform Jr

• Soundwave (Gōkin, 1986)

• ID number:17
• Accessories: Cassette, launcher, 2 missiles

Released during the early portion of theTransform Jr toyline when it was still going by the short lived "Transform Gōkin" name,Jr Soundwave is a smaller, simplified version of the original toy, lacking many stickers and paint applications, as well as the larger figure's retractable fists and the spring-activated release for his chest door. The chest door can still be manually opened, though, and Soundwave comes with a cassette partner to fit inside, albeit a non-transforming one (it's basically just a rectangle of clear plastic with a sticker on it; from the pattern on the sticker, it might be Rumble). He comes with only one gun, which can be placed either on his shoulder or in his fist, with two static 'missile' pieces that can be inserted into the front of the gun. He also featuresdie-cast metal parts in his legs.

• More information on Transform Gōkin Soundwave at TFU.info

• Soundblaster (Jr, 1987)

• ID number:D-101
• Accessories: 2 cassettes, launcher, 2 missiles

Just as his larger toy was,Jr Soundwave was redecoed and retooled to become Soundblaster the following year, sporting a black coloration and an enlarged chest door (though the door itself remains colorless, lacking the distinctive red tint of the large Soundblaster figure). Soundblaster retains all of Soundwave's accessories and features, and comes with an extra tape to match his new expanded tape door. The sticker for one of his non-transformable cassette partners remains the same, looking a lot like Rumble. He also comes with a blue tape that might be Frenzy, even though Soundblaster'spackage art now shows Buzzsaw.

• More information on Transform Jr Soundblaster at TFU.info

Generation 2

Colors so loud you can practically hear them.

• Soundwave (Go-Bot,1995)

• Accessories: Gun
• Known designers:Masakatsu Saito (concept artist)

Part of the third wave ofGeneration 2Go-Bots, Soundwave is avery brightredeco ofGearhead, transforming into aNASCAR-style Ford Thunderbird stock car with precision wheels and wire axles, compatible withHot Wheels andMatchbox playsets and tracks (which he was properly sized to fit). Hisexceptionally loud color scheme, being composed of bright shades of fluorescent yellow, pink and blue, is one of the few times fans can actually get away with describing a toy as "neon".

Soundwave was one of only three Go-Bots sold in the TakaraG-2 line, but it was a... weird release. While the car shell is identical to the Hasbro Soundwave, his robot parts are identical to the second-wave opaque version of Gearhead, being red and metallic silver, due to thegang-molding process that produced the Takara-release Go-BotsOptimus Prime andMegatron... and his stylized "T" with theTransformers logotampograph was also applied to them to boot. He also has Gearhead's red face-paint rather than the Hasbro Soundwave black. These three toys were sold on cards that were nigh-identical to the Hasbro cards on the front, rather than the usualG-2 style packaging, with only a small bit of Japanese text on the front in the logo. The back side is stylistically close to theGeneration 2 packaging, but a "generic" cardback used for all three toys and entirely in Japanese. It's unclear why these toys were released this way; it's possible these were sold in convenience stores or some other similar outlet rather than in conventional toy stores/departments. Even more oddly, the Soundwave shown on the cross-sell is the Hasbro-release Soundwave with the maroon-purple and aqua-blue robot parts.

This mold was also used to make various versions ofRobots in DisguiseW.A.R.S. and theUniverse incarnation ofCamshaft. It was planned to be used to makeGeneration 2Greasepit, but that toy was canceled.

This toy was laterrepurposed to be a"next-generation" clone of Soundwave.

• More information on Soundwave (Go-Bot) at TFU.info

His bio actually says this isn't his favorite form. No foolin'. (Maybe-final production sample shown. Good luck ever seeing one of these not carded.)

• Soundwave (Laser Cycle,1995)

Aredeco of theLaser CycleRoad Pig was planned as Soundwave, but like many other planned late-1995Generation 2 redecos, ultimately never saw release. Interestingly, many of these — including Soundwave and fellow Laser Cycle redecoJazz —were solicited in various store catalogues, such as the Sears Wish Book. Some packaged samples of this toy do exist, but there are estimated to be less than a dozen in existence (and if that's a dozen of each of the two, or a dozenaltogether is... unclear).

(Painted prototypes pictured)

Soundwave would have transformed to a blue and silver Harley-Davidson Electra Glide touring motorcycle, with an LED-lit tailpipe that became an arm-mounted weapon in robot mode. While the hand-painted prototypes pictured on the cardback cross-sell show the toys with silver chromed parts (nearly 2/3rds of the bike mode in Soundwave's case), all of the carded samples have plain silver plastic there instead. Curiously, the carded samples also lack any mention of the "Real Action Pop-Ups 3-D Transformer Trading Card" that came with the original Laser Cycles; there's a spot for one (and the instructions) in the bubble, but no card and no callout, raising the question of just how final these carded samples actually are.

This mold was laterretooled to make theMicroman:LED Powers toysRoad Bison andTornado Bison; the retooled mold was then used to make2001Robots in DisguiseAxer andRobotmastersDouble Face.

Proceed on your way to oblivion. This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

Machine Wars

Not my scene, baby!

• Soundwave (Mega,1997)
  • Accessories:electron rocket, radar dish

Originally aKB Toys exclusive,Machine Wars Soundwave is aredeco of thePredatorStalker, transforming into a grey and burgundy tracked electron rocket carrier. His rocket can mount on either shoulder or his back in robot mode, and retains Stalker'sMegavisor gimmick; a panel on the top slides open to reveal a port for the smaller Predator jets to attach to, allowing their Megavisor slides to be viewed through the "scope" of the missile. Stalker's own built-in slide is retained, but is left blank with no unique printing. Also missing from this version of the toy are Stalker's hand-held missile launcher and accompanying ammunition, due tosafety concerns over their small, not-passing-choke-gate-tests size. Soundwave's instructions omit several panels of Stalker's own instructions, including the one that serves as the placement guide for stickers 1 through 7.

This mold was also used to make theUniverseincarnation of Soundwave, and repurposed as aclone of Soundwave.

• More information on Machine Wars Soundwave at TFU.info

The Transformers Collection

No! We're not friends, we're enemies!

• Soundwave (2003)
  • ID number:10
  • Accessories:Laserbeak, tape case, rocket launcher, 3 rockets, concussion blaster

• Known designers:Pat Lee (packaging artist)

The first reissue of Soundwave's original toy was released as part of Takara'sThe Transformers Collection, and this time came withLaserbeak. The toy reinstates Soundwave's chest-mounted Decepticon symbol, relocating the rubsign to the cover of his battery compartment, but otherwise features no notable differences from the original, post-button-remold version of the figure. This was, however, many international fans' first exposure to Soundwave's modified button mold, and it was erroneously assumed by many that the change had been first made for this release as an artifact of modifying the Soundblaster mold back into Soundwave.

• Soundblaster (2005)
  • ID number:18
  • Accessories:Ravage, Buzzsaw, 2 tape cases, rocket launcher, 3 rockets, concussion blaster

Not ones to waste the opportunity now that they had the mold back in action, Takara also reissued Soundblaster as part of theTransformers Collection, sweetening the deal by including not just his original partner Buzzsaw, but also the first reissue ofRavage. Despite the opportunity, they still didn't change the color of Soundblaster's stickers from Soundwave-blue to black.

Smallest Transforming Transformers

Size: small. Taste: big.

• Soundwave (2003-2004)
  • ID number:GTF 05
  • Accessories: Rocket launcher, concussion blaster, battery cover

Standing at only two inches tall,Smallest Transforming Transformers Soundwave is an extremely small-scale replica of his original Generation 1 toy. Although his retracting fists, rotating head and missile accessories are left out, the figure otherwise retains a surprising amount of the original toy's functions and features, including the ability to store his weapons as batteries and an opening chest door. This opening chest accommodates Soundwave's in-package partner,Smallest Transforming Transformers Ravage, who is probablythe smallest Transformer ever.

Soundwave was originally released as part of the firstSmallest Transforming Transformers wave, and was then made available again in the limited-availability "Wave 2.5" the following year, without changes. In both instances, as with the rest of the figures in the line, he was sold inblindpacked packaging.

• More information on Smallest Transforming Transformers Soundwave at TFU.info

Universe (2003)

We dare you to cram Space Case inside his chest.

• Soundwave & Space Case (Ultra Class, 2004)
  • Accessories: Giant missile, radar

Only available in an Ultra-level two-pack withSpace Case,Universe Soundwave is another reuse of thePredatorStalker mold, this time in a mix of purple-blue, waxy yellow, plain grey, and a bit of burgundy. This version of Soundwave features some slight retooling compared to previous uses of the mold. The base of the peg on the missile is slightly thicker, the hole it plugs into is shallower, and the eyepiece now has a more cupped shape. The Megavisor slide features a target reticle with an Autobot insignia in the center. Stalker's projectile launcher and its missiles are once again omitted.

Due to the lack of fiction for either toy in the set, it ispossible that this incarnation is in fact an alternate-universe version of Soundwave, some incarnation ofthat OTHER Soundwave, or possibly even a new character altogether.

• More information onUniverse Soundwave at TFU.info

Titanium Series

He's the "manliest" Soundwave ever!

• Soundwave (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)
  • Accessories: Laserbeak, rocket launcher, concussion blaster, display base

• Known designers:Don Figueroa (concept artist)

Titanium Series Soundwave is based on the original Generation 1 figure, transforming into a microcassette player mode, now looking more like a boombox. He retains the gimmickry of the original toy such as his transforming weapons, which still store as batteries on his back, and his opening chest door that can accommodate the diminutive transforming Laserbeak figure packaged with him. Laserbeak can also perch onto tabs molded on the top of his shoulders. Soundwave comes with the standard display base that all other 6"Titanium Series figures come with, and a unique nameplate.

This figure is plagued by multiple design flaws. In particular, its disproportionate waist makes it look like Soundwave is wearing a diaper, and its legs' poor telescoping engineering makes it virtually impossible for them to stay extended while supporting the weight of the toy, so the toy is barely able to stand up the way it is intended to. The cumulative effect is a Soundwave who is not unlikea baby. Note, however, that the stock photo depicts his waist slightly mistransformed, as the hip joints can shift up towards the waist.

• More information on Titanium Series Soundwave at TFU.info

• Soundblaster (6" Cybertron Heroes, unreleased)
  • Accessories: Ravage, rocket launcher, concussion blaster, display base

A planned redeco ofTitanium Soundwave in his black and red Soundblaster colors, this toy would have come with a newTitanium version ofRavage instead of Laserbeak. Although displayed atBotCon 2007, Soundblaster was ultimately canceled along with many other solicited 6" Cybertron Heroes, but this did not stop him from appearing as a cross-sell on the packaging forTitaniumProwl in late 2008 (which claimed he would have been "also available" as of November 2008), as Hasbro was unwilling to spend the resources on altering the packaging for these already-complete products.

Proceed on your way to oblivion. This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

Classics

Ravage, Laserbeak: Eject. Operation: Reissue.

• Soundwave (Commemorative Edition, 2007, 2012)
  • Accessories: Laserbeak, Battle Ravage, 2 tape cases, rocket launcher, 3 rockets, concussion blaster

Hasbro's first reissue of the original Soundwave toy was originally intended to be part of theirCommemorative Series of Generation 1 reissues, but when that line was cancelled, it was instead released as part of theClassics toyline. The phrase "Commemorative Edition" is prominently displayed on the front and sides of the box, though, and it remained exclusive toToys"R"Us, as all Commemorative Edition toys were. The box itself opens up to reveal a pop-up cutout of Soundwave that is nearly twice the size of the figure in the box.

Despite both the packaging's claim that it is "identical to the original toy," and the image on the packaging showing a heavily photoshopped Takara reissue Soundwave with a traditional single tape chest door, the figure actually sports the double-wide door and tooling changes of Soundblaster (complete with extra tech-detailing), which allows him to carry both of his pack-in partners, Laserbeak and (Battle) Ravage. Being an odd mismatch of Soundblaster and Soundwave, (Battle) Ravage has all his stickers replaced with tampographs including one showing the weakness ofFortress Maximus, while Laserbeak has pre-applied foil stickers, and Soundwave himself has matte pre-applied stickers. Soundwave also uses a much less saturated metallic blue plastic than the original figure. In an unusual move for a Hasbro release, the set also includes two clear-plastic cassette cases for the two tapes, previously only included with Takara versions of the figures. Per child safety laws, his spring-loaded weapons were neutered.

Sadly, in the Canadian markets, this version of Soundwave was pushed back over a year from the original release date, and very few Toys"R"Us stores had them. Dang.

Soundwave was later re-released in Hasbro's Asian markets in slightly altered packaging that omitted the Toys"R"Us sticker (for obvious reasons) and changed the age recommendation from "Ages 8+" to "Ages 5+".

• More information onClassics Soundwave at TFU.info

Music Label

Soundwave finally enters the digital age after only what, twenty-three years?

• Soundwave Playing Audio Player (2007)

• Accessories: Electric launcher, "Wave Bluster", 2 clenched fists (left & right), 2 gun-holding fists (left & right), 2 eject-button pose fists (left & right), headphones

Released as part of TakaraTomy's smallMusic Label toyline, this incarnation of Soundwave drags the character kicking and screaming into the digital age as a working MP3 player. Despite his new electronic abilities, Soundwave still transforms, in a manner virtually identical to his original Generation 1 figure, no less. He still comes with his trademark pair of weapons (although they no longer double as batteries, since he's got a real one in there now!) plus three sets of hands: two clenched, two for holding his guns, and two posed as if he is pressing his "eject" button.

Soundwave runs on a single AAA battery, lasting for about six hours of continuous play, and operates using a miniSD card; the packaging claims it can only support up to 1GB, but reports indicate it can actually take up to 2GB. The distinctive buttons on Soundwave's pelvis are now working buttons that control the player: play/pause/power, next, previous, volume up and volume down. Naturally, the player also comes with a set of headphones, but an optional accessory, sold separately, can take their place: a set oftransforming headphones in the image of Rumble and Frenzy.

Soundwave was initially released in two color schemes: "Spark Blue", his normal blue and silver colors; and "Sonic White", a mostly white color scheme with some blue detailing, echoing the traditionaliPod color scheme. When the toy received a second production run later in the year, the "Sonic White" version was replaced with a new Soundblaster-inspired "Blaster Black" deco.

The "Sonic White" version was laterrepurposed as the mirror-universeShattered GlassSoundwave.

During one of Hasbro's designer panels atBotCon 2008, an audience member questioned the feasibility of releasing this figure in the2008Universe toy line, butwithout the expensive MP3 player electronics. Bizarrely, Hasbro design directorAaron Archer gave a seemingly prepared statement that did not answer the question at all, and instead stated that Hasbro were unlikely to releaseMusic Label Soundwave in their markets due to the obscurity of the MiniSD memory card format. (For what it's worth, Hasbro'sGreg Lombardo had given an actual answer to the same question atBotCon 2007, when he stated that ML Soundwave's innards are so devoted to electronics that removing them might adversely impact the leftover toy's appearance and stability.)

• More information on Music Label Soundwave (Sonic White) at TFU.info
• More information on Music Label Soundwave (Spark Blue) at TFU.info
• More information on Music Label Soundwave (Blaster Black) at TFU.info

Encore

Laserbeak: Prepare for flight. Operation: Nostalgia.

• Soundwave (2007)
  • ID number:03
  • Accessories: Laserbeak, tape case, rocket launcher, 3 rockets, concussion blaster

The original Soundwave toy was made available once again as part of TakaraTomy'sTransformers Encore series of reissues. Aside from a slightly lighter shade to his blue plastic and similar changes to his accompanying stickers, the figure remained unchanged from its previous reissues.

• Soundblaster (2012)
  • ID number:21
  • Accessories: "Enemy", "Wingthing", tape case, rocket launcher, 3 rockets, concussion blaster

Soundblaster was available again as part of TakaraTomy'sTransformers Encore series of reissues. This release includes two new cassette partners:Enemy andWingthing.

For this release Soundblaster features additional silver paint on his face plate and the sides of his head, metallic red eyes instead of yellow, and the removal of the silver paint on his crest in an effort for animation accuracy. In addition, he has a large Decepticon insignia tampographed on his chest. All the label stickers from the previous releases of Soundblaster have been reproduced via tampographs as well, with the exception of the stickers for his weapons which come preapplied.

The tampographs on the knees and stickers on the weapons are misapplied, being placed in the wrong orientation. The coloration of the blue labels has also been altered to replace some of the blue (but not all) with black. Stock photos depicted Soundblaster with a screen-accurate purple cassette door, although this has never been seen in any actual retail release.

Universe (2008)

• Soundwave (Exclusive, 2009)
  • Series:G1 Series
  • Accessories: Laserbeak, Ravage, Buzzsaw,Ratbat, rocket launcher, 3 rockets, concussion blaster

In 2009, Hasbro released yet another reissue of Soundwave as part of theUniverse line, this time as aHasbro Toy Shop exclusive that was prominently offered atSan Diego Comic-Con 2009. After Hasbro's last reissue of the figure had used the double-sized Soundblaster chest door, this version of Soundwave reinstated his original door, and came packaged with no fewer thanfour tapes: Ravage, Laserbeak, Buzzsaw, andRatbat. On the flipside of theClassics release, the photography on the box shows the Soundblasterdouble chest door as opposed to the single door it actually sports. Compared to various previous reissues, the blue is very slighty darker and the silver plastic has a blue tint to it.

• More information on Universe 2008 Soundwave at TFU.info

United

Let his metallic paint chip off, and he changes continuity families.

• Soundwave Cybertron Mode (December 25, 2010)
  • ID number:UN05
  • Accessories: Rifle, missile launcher

Part of the first wave of theUnited series, Soundwave is a repaint ofWar for Cybertron Deluxe ClassSoundwave.

Retainingexactly the same plastic colors as his WFC toy, Soundwave instead features an extensive metallic blue/violetpaint scheme that covers a majority of his vehicle mode (as well as some robot parts, like his head, for example). The purple highlights on the Hasbro version are replaced with a bright pink, the metallic details on his chest are a milder shade of gold, and his chest insignia is in full color.

Comically, the action-oriented stock photo on the back of his packaging has him mis-transformed. His hinged crotch has not been pegged to his main body, with the result looking like Soundwave wearing a diaper... again.

Kre-O

Easiest Microchanger ever: just remove everything from his torso.

• Sentinel Prime (2011)

• Set number:30687
• Pieces:386
• Kreons: Sentinel Prime, Soundwave, Thundercracker, Fire Chief
• Accessories: Scoped pistol

TheKre-OSentinel Prime construction set comes with a SoundwaveKreon. He has an adorably creepy speaker-mouth under the helmet's faceplate.

• More information on Soundwave at TFU.info

• Soundwave (Custom Kreon, 2013)

• Set number:A6090
• Pieces:36
• Accessories: Rack, large cannon, Seeker arm rifle, scoped pistol, double-barreled pistol, rocket backpack, small wing-pack, curved blade

Part of the first assortment of "Custom Kreons", this version of Soundwave comes with a buildable parts rack on which to hang/store his many many extra pieces. Histampographs are much more heavily-detailed than the original Kreon, based on theoriginal Soundwave toy. His "normal" helmet and grenade launcher arechromed, plus he comes with an extra clear-plastic helmet, torso and legs. He also has a pair of extra arms (originally from theKre-O Battleship aliens), plus a buildable cannon based around the aforementioned chrome gun, a small scoped pistol, a double-barreled blaster, and a two-piece curved-blade sword.

He still has the adorably creepy speaker-mouth.

• Kreon Class of 1984 (Kreon figure set, 2014)

• Set number:B0090
• Voted: Class Gossip
• Accessories: Blaster

This version of Soundwave, part of theKreon Class of 1984, has much more elaborately toy-basedtampographs than his prior versions. He comes with a blue version of the new blaster from theAge of Extinction Kre-O sets, and a back-brace piece that we guess is there for gun-mounting purposes. There's also a bunch of "cassettes" based on the variousRecordicons packed in the box that ostensibly go with him, but are part of the big block of extra accessories and we're just filling space here.

The head under the helmet has no mouth whatsoever, which is somehow creepier than the speaker-mouths of the prior Kreons.

He was only available in theSan Diego Comic-Con 2014exclusive "Kreon Class of 1984" set of thirty Kreons, commemorating the franchise's thirty years. Remaining stock was to be sold online atHasbro Toy Shop, but therewas no remaining stock by the end of the convention.

• More information on Class of 1984 Soundwave at TFU.info

• Knight Soundwave (Kreon Warrior, 2015)

• Set number:B0955
• Collection:2
• Accessories: Stand-plate, clip-on bird, double-bladed pike, orc shield

Part of the second wave of Kreon Warriors, "Knight Soundwave" is a fantasy-medieval version of the Decepticon. He has a clip-on wooden "Laserbeak"-y bird, but it's not specifically labeled as "Laserbeak". His shield also bears a coat of arms featuring two bird heads and a feline head. What couldthat mean? Hmmmmm....

His helmet and accessories all hail from theKre-O Dungeons & Dragons sets.

Like all the Kreons released that year (at normal retail at least), he uses the new 2015-tooling Kreon body, which basically involves small construction changes on every part below the head, making them largely incompatible with the prior Kreon parts (heads still work fine), but the new tooling adds some extra functionality and structural support.

The Kreon Warriors were only released in Canada, Australia, and various Asian markets. The individual bags had also abandoned any kind of coding that identified the contents. This means getting the one you want from an unopened bag involves either trying to feel out the unique parts, or just buying the whole dang case.

And be a juke. Box. Vil-lain.

• Wiseguy Soundwave (Kreon Warrior, 2015)

• Set number:B0955
• Collection:2
• Accessories: Stand-plate, clip-on bird, 2 pistols

Soundwave's second Kreon Warrior, also part of the second collection, is part of the "Wiseguy" theme, 1920s gangster-styled Kreons. He sports a slicked-back gray wig, dual pistols, and a clip-on bird that's painted likeLaserbeak and probablyis meant to be Laserbeak but is not actually labeled "Laserbeak". His bodytampographs suggest that he would turn into an old-timey jukebox. Awesome!

The lack of US distribution and lack of bag codes holds up here too.

• Autobot Ratchet Vs. Soundwave (Battle Changer 2-pack, 2015)

• Set number:B1507
• Accessories: Blaster rifle
• Known designers:Evan Brooks (Hasbro)^[3]

Battle Changers Soundwave uses a standard Kreon torso with built-up limbs and backpack that let him transform into a Cybertronian stealth-fighter-ish thing (somewhat resembling theCybertron incarnation of Soundwave) without needing to be disassembled.

The core Soundwave build is slighter than the other Battle Changers, but his parts count is filled out with four different partners.Frenzy andRumble become twin-blaster pods that can be mounted on his wings or legs.Laserbeak becomes chest armor for Soundwave's robot mode, or a set of tailfins for spaceship mode. AndRavage just kinda hangs on Soundwave's jet-mode underside, but becomes a backpack with over-the-shoulder blasters for Soundwave's robot mode.

Soundwave and pals were only available in a "Vs." pack withRatchet. All of the 2015TransformersKre-O product was skipped by retailers in the US (at first), seeing release in Canada, Australia and various Asian markets. In late 2015, much of the line was finally released at discount in the US through TJ Maxx and Marshalls stores, including this set.

Masterpiece

Laserbeak, eject. Operation: let the fandom rejoice.

• Soundwave (January 26,2013/September 28, 2013/2019)
  • ID number:MP-13
  • Accessories: Condor "case", energon cube & lid (three in total in the Amazon.co.jp version), display panel, concussion blaster,Megatron gun (consists of pistol, scope, silencer, & stock), sensor

• Known designers:Shogo Hasui (TakaraTomy)

Masterpiece Soundwave is a more intricately engineered version of his Generation 1 design, transforming into his classic tape deck alternate mode, but substantially thicker. His chest compartment still opens, of course, and remains scaled to accommodate the originalGeneration 1 mini-cassette figures, as well as the newMasterpiece mini-cassette figures, such as his pack-in partner, Condor. A spring-loaded panel inside his chest can be pushed back in increments to allow Soundwave to hold up to three cassettes at once; after one is removed, pressing a button on his back slides the panel forward, pushing the remaining cassettes up and putting the next into position, ready to be removed when his chest door is opened again. However, this feature is sofinnicky that hisinstructions actually have to include a little segment telling owners whatnot to do with the toy to make sure it works.

Soundwave comes with his traditional concussion blaster weapon, and his non-firing rocket launcher is now an integrated, non-removable piece. Unlike the Generation 1 toy, both cannon and launcher do not become batteries for his alternate mode, instead storing on his back. He also comes with the wrist-mounted sensor from "Fire on the Mountain", and his forearm panel opens up to reveal sculpted speakers. He also comes with aretool of the Megatron gunoriginally released withMasterpieceMP-01 Convoy.

Additionally, Soundwave comes with an empty energon cube which can plug into his chest panel, and a grid-patterned display panel that also fits over his chest door. His instruction booklet includes two images that can be cut out and slipped between Soundwave's chest and the display panel to simulate readouts displayed in "More than Meets the Eye": theDecepticon space cruiser's blueprints and intel reports hacked fromTeletraan I.

Soundwave and his accessories can also interact with the otherMasterpiece mini-cassette figures in many other ways. Laserbeak orBuzzsaw can perch onto the tabs on Soundwave's shoulders and forearms. Soundwave can also wearMasterpieceRumble and/orFrenzy's piledrivers on his forearms as cannons, and can store one set of Rumble or Frenzy's guns in compartments on Soundwave's feet/at the back of his tapedeck mode. Additionally, Soundwave's sensor can combine with Rumble and Frenzy's piledrivers to form the link cable used by Soundwave to hook up to a larger monitor inThe Transformers: The Movie.

The edition purchased viaAmazon.com in Japan came with two additional energon cubes. The Asian version includes a commemorative coin contained in a package looking like Soundwave's tapedeck mode.

For this release, some Soundwaves suffer from apaint error, leaving the small upside-down triangle on his forehead crest unpainted, though it is animation accurate.

Soundwave was re-released on September 28th, 2013 and again in 2019. The minor quality control issues with the re-release were lessened or not as widespread as the initial release. The 2019 re-release features slightly darker blue plastic, and painted red eyes.

... And Megatron makes seven Decepticons in one box.

• Soundwave (2013/2016)
  • ID number:MP-02
  • 09 OF 30
  • Accessories: Five microcassette cases, two Frenzy piledrivers, Frenzy piledriver mount, left & right Frenzy "Thruster Guns", two Rumble piledrivers, Rumble piledriver mount, left & right Rumble "Thruster Guns", energon cube & lid, display panel, concussion blaster,Megatron gun (consists of pistol, scope, silencer, & stock), sensor

The Hasbro release of Masterpiece Soundwave features a slightly different deco than the Takara version, such as a yellow visor instead of a red one, and leaving the Rumble/Frenzy gun storage panels on his feet unpainted. All of the accessories included with the Takara release are ported over to the Hasbro set (with the exception of the cut-out images for use with his display panel), plus all five of theMasterpiece microcassettes. The cassettes also feature different decoes than their Takara counterparts (see their own articles for details), and their cases are cast in clear plastic instead of the translucent hot pink the Japanese versions came with. His highly truncated instructions omit any explanation of virtually all of his accessories, action features, and interactions with his minions. Finally, he has a designated number as part of theThrilling 30 line.

Soundwave is exclusive toToys"R"Us stores. He was released earlier (with fellowMasterpieceAcid Storm) in limited numbers at San Diego Comic Con 2013.

Soundwave was also reissued in 2016 by Hasbro Asia underGenerations co-branding, packaged with a mini die cast cassette player based on his alt mode. Some of the images in this picture were plagiarized for the promotion. As it was originally issued underMasterpiece, it would be easier to list this down here instead of reproducing it under theGenerations section.

Ratbat eject, Operation: black paint job.

• Soundblaster (March 23, 2014)
  • ID number:MP-13B
  • Accessories: Ratbat "case", red energon cube & lid, purple display panel, concussion blaster, translucent redMegatron gun (consists of pistol, scope, silencer, & stock), sensor

• Known designers:Shogo Hasui (TakaraTomy)

Following tradition,Masterpiece Soundblaster is a black redeco of the first MP Soundwave figure. While the chest door is cast in toy accurate red, the additional display panel is cast in translucent purple allowing for optional cartoon accuracy. Soundblaster includes all of the other accessories included with Soundwave as well, with the energon cube and Megatron gun now being cast entirely in translucent red plastic, as well as Ratbat.

Construct-Bots

• Soundwave (Elite, 2013)
  • Pieces:48

• Known designers:Andrew Scribner (deco artist)

Part ofConstruct-Bots Wave 1 Elites, Soundwave can transform into a jet vaguely resembling his Unicron Trilogy incarnation. He is armed with two guns (depicted as gold in stock photography, but blue on the actual toy) and two weapons, resembling his Generation 1 shoulder cannon, that become engines in jet mode.

He also comes with a translucent purple storage tray complete with lid and Decepticon insignia.

• More information onConstruct-Bots Soundwave at TFU.info

"Laserbeak: Eject. Operation: Hammer Time!"

• Arsenal Pack Soundwave (2014)
  • Pieces:58

Arsenal Pack Soundwave would have been a slight redeco of the previous release, changing the light blue pieces to purple. He also would have included new accessories, such as an orange hammer and four black guns.

Proceed on your way to oblivion. This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

Bot Shots

Looks like"Operation: Bot Shots" failed.

• Soundwave (2013)
  • Number:B015
    • Fist strength:???
    • Blaster strength:???
    • Sword strength:368

Presumably part of Wave 4 ofBot Shots Series 2, Soundwave is a Flip Shot. His robot mode is directly based in hisGeneration 1 counterpart, while his vehicle mode is kind of a garbage truck with giant boomboxes in the sides.

Proceed on your way to oblivion. This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

Linkin Park × Transformers

Give me reason
To fill this hole

• Transformers Linkin Park Soundwave: Special Edition (September 23, 2013)
  • Accessories: Buzzsaw, Laserbeak, Ravage, Ratbat, 4 tape cases, rocket launcher, 3 rockets, concussion blaster

Linkin Park Soundwave is a gold and blackredeco of Soundwave. He's packaged with Linkin Park gold redecoes ofRavage,Ratbat,Laserbeak, andBuzzsaw (the last two of which are completely identical) on a flocked-purple plastic tray inside a special commemorative box. He has no stickers, factory-applied or otherwise, but has a tampographed Linkin Park logo and Decepticon symbol. Linkin Park Soundwave: Special Edition was exclusive to "SURU", a music store owned by Linkin Park DJ Joseph Hahn. The figure was limited to 2000 pieces.

Hero Mashers

Soundwave Beefier.

• Soundwave (Battle Upgrade, 2014)
  • Pieces:14
  • Accessories: Missile launcher, missile, shoulder-cannon, blaster/blade, left & right gun pods, "Sideswipe" left forearm

Part of the second wave of "Battle Upgrade"Hero Mashers toys, Soundwave is a non-transforming action figure with ratchet-joints, about six inches tall. He has multiple peg-holes all over that can be used to mount anyHero Mashers accessory.

He is designed with a removable head, forearms, thighs, and lower legs, all of which use the same clip-peg/hole joint. This means his pieces can be swapped around in any order, as well as swapped with any otherHero Mashers figure... which includes figures fromMarvel Comics,Star Wars, andJurassic World, meaning you can make some pretty freaky combinations.

While he is (roughly) the same size as a standard Hero Masher, his largerprice point is made up for with more parts and gimmicks. He comes with both of his classic "battery" weapons, with the handgun being a spring-loaded missile launcher. He also comes withSideswipe's left arm, based on theWar for Cybertron version of the character, with a smaller version of the "Path Blaster" cannon as part of the design.

• More information onHero Mashers Soundwave at TFU.info

Platinum Edition

Laserbeak, eject. Operation: Hideous lack of taste

• Soundwave Year Of The Goat Edition (2015)
  • Accessories: Five microcassette cases, two Frenzy piledrivers, Frenzy piledriver mount, left & right Frenzy "Thruster Guns", two Rumble piledrivers, Rumble piledriver mount, left & right Rumble "Thruster Guns", energon cube & lid, display panel, concussion blaster,Megatron gun (consists of pistol, scope, silencer, & stock), sensor

ThisToys"R"Usexclusive set packs in a redeco of theMasterpiece Soundwave mold (see below), with all of that release's Hasbro accessories, but is molded in a mix of orange and translucent plastic.

He also comes with similarly-decoed versions ofMasterpieceLaserbeak,Buzzsaw,Ravage,Decepticon Rumble, andDecepticon Frenzy.

• More information on Year of the Goat Soundwave at TFU.info

Q-Transformers

• Soundwave (August 29, 2015)
  • ID number:QT-27

A retool ofQT-09 Optimus Prime,Q-Transformers Soundwave transforms from asuper deformed Nissan GT-R R35 to a cute little robot. Unlike mostQ-Transformers retools which only have new heads, Soundwave also sports newly molded legs in place of Prime's iconic truck-bed-legs.

• Decepticons 3-Figure Set (2016)
  • ID number:QTFS-02

During the secondQ-Transformers series, the Soundwave toy was available in a three-pack alongsideMegatron andShockwave. He is identical to the originalQ-Transformers toy.

Titans Return

Broadcasting live from Iacon Square Gardens

• Soundblaster & Soundwave (Leader Class, 2016)
  • Accessories:Soundblaster Titan Master partner, rifle, shoulder cannon, spotlight/rocket-sled

• Known designers:John Warden (Hasbro),Emiliano Santalucia (concept artist)

Aredeco andretool ofAutobot Blaster (you may have expected this), Soundwave is part of the second wave of Leader ClassTitans Return figures, transforming from robot to soundbar^[4] to stage mode and back (or even his Cybertronian lamppost mode in theGeneration 1 cartoon if you're feeling fiddly). In addition to Blaster's rifle and recolored rocket-sled, Soundwave also comes with his signature cannon "battery", which can plug into his shoulder, or store on his back while he in alt mode. He includes aTitan Master partner,Soundblaster, who can turn into his head or man Soundwave's 'stage' mode. Soundwave is also capable of holding Legends Class 'spy-tablet' figures in his chest compartment. Unlike most Titans Return toys, Soundwave doesn't have an obvious place to store Soundblaster when he's in stereo mode, although he can be inserted into the underside of the rocket sled, which in turn can be stored inside Soundwave's body, at the cost of available space for any of the Legends figures. Soundwave also features many (nonfunctional but realistic-size) device ports on his back and legs, such as dual-prong power ports, headphone jacks and USB ports.

Soundwave's instruction sheet contains an error where it says that his base mode is compatible with otherTitans Return toys' base modes: it has Powermaster Optimus Prime labeled as "Autobot Blaster". Some toys have stress marks on the hatch that opens to hide his head in base and stereo mode even before opening the box.

The Hasbro Asia exclusive giveaway sticker sheet can be used to enhance the figure's details.^[5]

This mold was redecoed intoGolden Lagoon Soundwave, and further retooled intoBumblebeeSoundwave.

Xiaomi / Transformers

This device is not compatible withyour version ofYatter.

• Soundwave (2016)
  • Accessories: 2 blaster parts, shield, drone/ wing pack

The result of a team-up betweenHasbro and Chinese consumer electronics companyXiaomi, Soundwave transforms from an officially licensed Mi Pad 2 tablet to a Voyager-sized robot in 30 steps. The transformation is accomplished through a series of clever folds and wraps to achieve a three-dimensional robot mode from such a flat and thin alternate mode. The robot mode lacks neck movement but otherwise features decent articulation with tiny ratchet joints. He is armed with a large blaster rifle, a shield, and even aRatbat-like minion that is formed from some of his kibble. The head sculpt shares a lot of similar structures with theMovie version of Soundwave, but with facial elements from G1 Soundwave. Hisinstruction booklet is die-cut into a Decepticon symbol. As an added little easter egg, the Mi Pad logo is sculpted into the base of his robot mode neck, though it is covered when the halves of his head are aligned in robot mode.

The figure's production was funded primarily through crowdfunding. Backers could pledge a minimum of 169 Yuan (or $26) to receive the figure if their funding goal was met. The amount of pledges more than tripled their goal amount which lead to a second release of the figure.

Whether by design or coincidence, the Mi Pad's camera ends up on the robot mode's right shoulder where Soundwave usually has his iconic shoulder cannon.

• Article and promotional video available on engadget.com
  

Shattered screen for increased accuracy.

• Transformers Evolution Soundwave (2016)
  • Accessories: 2 blaster parts, shield, drone/ wing pack

This Soundwave is a redeco of the figure above, replacing gold with silver, and removing all traces of the Xiaomi branding on both the packaging and the figure, down to retooling the logo off the inner neck joint. Soundwave was available at Hasbro’s booth in San Diego Comic-Con 2016, and subsequently on HasbroToyShop.com. Amusingly, on the latter website this toy's listing name is "Transformers Evolution Soundwave Alternate If Needed: Transformers Soundwave Convention Exclusive Figure Featuring Tablet Mode"[sic].

Legends

It's been a while...since I got my new body.

• Soundwave (December 28,2016)
  • ID number:LG36
  • Accessories: Rifle, Rocket Sled/Spotlight, Headmaster

Legends Soundwave is a redeco ofTitans Return Leader Class Soundwave, who is a retool of Blaster. Soundwave also features a deco based on both his toy and his cartoon appearances. Notably, his small Headmaster form's colors are based onSoundblaster (no, not thatSoundblaster), his rebuilt form.

War for Cybertron: Siege

"Well, I mean, we can't sell astreet lamp..."

Operation: Jamming in the darkest times.

• Soundwave (Voyager Class,2019)
  • Hasbro ID number:WFC-S25
  • TakaraTomy ID number:SG-24
  • TakaraTomy release date:May 31, 2019
  • Hidden message code:LAMPPOST
  • Accessories: "HI-KEPConcussion Blaster," "LR-HDSonic Cannon," and "EMTX Blitz Charge Blaster" (all combine to form "USW HF Sonic Compression Mega-Blaster")

• Known designers:Aaron Gray (Hasbro),Emiliano Santalucia (concept artist),AJ Piejko-Brown (packaging)

Part of the second wave ofSiege Voyager Class figures, Soundwave transforms from aheavily G1-inspired robot to a rather unfocused "Patrol Hovercraft" and back. As noted by Hasbro designerJohn Warden, he also has an "Easter egg" third mode—a “Cybertronian Sensor Lamp” inspired by his appearance in "More than Meets the Eye, Part 1".^[6] While not shown in the directions, lineart for this mode can be found on the left side flap of the bottom of the box, as well as the right side of the box when a black light is shone on it. An additionalfan-made boombox mode was canonized in the stop-motion short "The Bot Dance Off". The boombox mode makes use of molded details on his foot covers, swinging them around to flank his chest from hovercraft mode, along with straightening out the boosters. While this works to approximate his original G1 Cassette player mode, very little actually locks into place for it.

Soundwave features an opening chest compartment that can accommodate his usualCassettesMini-ConsDeployer Mini-ConsMicromastersLaserbeak andRavage, who are sold separately in the Micromasters assortment, and has his left index finger molded out so that he can be posed pressing his own 'eject' button, as well as slots on his arms for Laserbeak to (loosely) perch on. AlthoughRatbat &Rumble, andFrenzy &Wingthing (as well as the two redecos included with the latter two;Skar andKnok) aredesigned to fit into Siege Soundwave's chest, the fit is incredibly snug and risks the figures getting stuck.Eject,Shattered Glass Rewind,positive polarity universe Rewind,Studio Series Rumble (Blue), andStudio Series Frenzy (Red) are also compatible with his chest compartment.

He also includes three weapons compatible with theC.O.M.B.A.T. System, two of which are based on his classic sonic blaster and shoulder cannon. The third is shaped like the original Megatron's alt mode gun-barrel and can in fact be attached toSiege orEarthrise Megatron's back to mimic the cartoon appearance. All three weapons can combine to form the "USW HF Sonic Compression Mega-Blaster". Compared to his contemporaries in theSiege line, Soundwave is absolutelyslathered in 'battle damage' paint applications all over his body, and unless one does thiscarefully, any attempts to remove said paint will result in his design-origin paint details being removed as well.

Soundwave features alight-piped yellow visor as an homage tohis Generation 1 toy. His alternate mode is also slightly mistransformed in the secondary stock photos, with the entire lower body twisted around.

There are also tabs on the sides of his chest, just in front of his arms, that appear to line up with the notches on the inside of his thruster blocks that seem to have been intended to allow them to fold flush against the sides of his vehicle mode, rather than being held above it by their struts. However, this is not possible as a result of the struts clashing against other parts even if they are modified to allow a wider range of movement.

This mold was used forSiegeSoundblaster.

This toy is one of the items that was released as part of Hasbro'sTransformers 35th Anniversary promotional mailer box.^[7]

Vintage G1

• Soundwave & Condor Cassette: Buzzsaw (June 2019)
  • Accessories: Buzzsaw, rocket launcher, 3 rockets,concussion blaster

Vintage G1 Soundwave is aWalmart-exclusive reissue of theGeneration 1 toy, including "Condor CassetteBuzzsaw." Like most other reissues (including Hasbro's previousUniverse release), it appears to be based on the running change Japanese version of the original figure, with a door that can only hold one cassette but still with the unified buttons. This release features flat gold paint on the tape door rather than the chrome gold finish of previous releases. In addition, it features a sticker sheet, unlike previous reissues which had the stickers pre-applied.

The figure does not include arubsign, asVintage G1Starscream andHot Rod do. Recreating the original G1 look-and-feel, the box photos perpetuate the30+ year old error of placing two black and red stickers intended for the weapons onto Soundwave's legs/front face of the cassette player mode; these are not affixed in-package, enabling the buyer to make their own choice as to where the stickers should be placed.

Golden Lagoon

Get down girl, go 'head, get down.

• Soundwave (February 10,2019)
  • Hasbro ID number:GL-04
  • Accessories:Headmaster, rifle, shoulder cannon, spotlight/rocket sled

Golden Lagoon Soundwave is a redeco of theTitans Return Leader Class figure, now in a gold and gold-chromed color scheme, based on his appearance in theepisode of the name. Unlike in said episode, his tape door remains clear, rather than gold opaque. He retains his previous base mode and comes with a removable Headmaster for his head.

This figure debuted at WinterWonder Festival 2019 before being made available atTakaraTomy Mall onFebruary 28, 2019. It was later rereleased byHasbro Pulse in the USA in January 2021.

This toy also appeared inGenerations Selects Special Comic as a member of theGolden Age, who may or may not be named "Soundwave".

War for Cybertron Trilogy

Now let's see Laserbeak pop out ofthis tape deck.

• Deluxe Centurion Drone (Deluxe Class with accessories pack,2020)

A non-transforming accessory (duh!) of Soundwave in his tape deck form is included in theWar for Cybertron TrilogyDeluxe Centurion Drone Weaponizer Pack set. UnlikeReflector, Soundwave features (minimal) painted details but lacks a5 mm post handle that would allow other figures to hold him. Instead, he has a 3mm hole on his underside that allows him to peg into the various 3mm posts present on manyWar for Cybertron Trilogy figures or even on the tips of their weapons.

You want the guy you saw on Netflix? That's not who's in the Netflix box. You'll pay extra for a Netflix box fora different reason.

• Soundwave (Battle 3-Pack, 2020)
  • TakaraTomy ID number:WFC-14
  • TakaraTomy release date:February 20,2021
  • Accessories: Concussion Blaster, Sonic Cannon, Charge Blaster (all combine to form Mega-Blaster),Laserbeak andRavageMicromasters

Concurrent with theEarthrise toyline and season of the NetflixWar for Cybertron Trilogy cartoon, this version of Soundwave is an extensive retool of hisSiege figure with new parts (approximately 70% of the originalSiege mold has been replaced) that allow him to transform into his iconic tape deck mode, but strangely has the red accents on his weapons and forearms removed. His sculpted detail is based on theMasterpiece toy. Unlike the other Voyager Class toys, Soundwave is spotless, much like the majority of theEarthrise toyline. Soundwave also comes with his signature tapes,Laserbeak andRavage, both of which were redecoed with cassette-styled details and received new heads. He retains the chest door tooling from the original version of the mold instead of the Soundblaster retool, and still features the pinned-swivel landing struts on his forearms from the originalSiege mold, although they serve no purpose for the retool's transformation. Unlike in the stock render (prominently featured on the packaging's backside), the final Soundwave toy features a red visor.

There are many reported cases whereall of his unpaintable joints are prone tophotodegradation. This includes both plastic colors, with the gray pieces, typically his elbows and thighs, taking on a yellow tint, while more rarely his blue plastic parts eventually discolor into green. There have been more extreme examples of this discoloration documented as well, with the gray pieces turning completely cheese-colored yellow, while the blue pieces discolor into black.

Like all of the Netflix-branded subset ofWar for Cybertron Trilogy toys, Soundwave was a Walmart exclusive in the United States and Canada.

Soundwave is one of two puzzling Netflix-branded figures that have become extra rare and valuable for a mutual set of confusing reasons; the other isBumblebee. Most Netflix figures try to depict characters as they appeared in theWar for Cybertron Trilogy cartoon, favoring Cybertronianalternate modes and extra battle damage, but that was not the goal for Soundwave and Bumblebee. Instead, with clean paint jobs and never-seen-on-Netflix Earth alternate modes, they might be the most Generation 1-faithful available versions of their characters in theGenerations toyline era.

Netflix Soundwave was retooled intoShattered Glass CollectionSoundwave. The mold was also redecoed, sans the Ravage Micromaster, intoDramatic Capture SeriesSoundwave.

Authentics

• Soundwave (Alpha, 2020)
  • Accessories: Shoulder cannon, RADAR dish

Authentics Soundwave is a Voyager-sized toy based on hisevergreen design. He transforms into an armored vehicle in just a few steps. Despite the vehicle mode being nearly identical to theCyberverse Warrior Class toy, this figure has a completely unique transformation scheme. The vehicle mode hood, RADAR dish, and cannon all come detached in package. The cannon can be placed in either hand, or in a slot on the right shoulder as most Soundwave's do.

He is mistransformed in hisstock photography, he has actual feet which can fold out from behind his shins.

Built like abrick, figurativelyand literally.

• Soundwave (Titan Changer, 2023)

• Accessories: Shoulder cannon

Released in the fourth wave ofAuthentics Titan Changers, Soundwave transforms from robot to armored vehicle in a few steps. He includes his shoulder cannon and features an opening chest door, thought it opens up to store his head in vehicle mode rather than any cassette minions.

• Soundwave (2024)

Released as an Amazon exclusive, theCyberverse Warrior Class Soundwave toy was reissued with no changes as part of anAuthentics-branded 3-pack with similarly unchanged versions of Warrior ClassStarscream andShockwave.

War for Cybertron: Kingdom

After 18 years... a Laserbeak that is comparable in size tothe world's smallest Ravage!

• Soundwave (Core Class,2021)
  • Hasbro ID number:WFC-K21
  • TakaraTomy ID number:KD EX-11
  • TakaraTomy release date:January 29,2022
  • Accessories: Sonic Cannon, Concussion Blaster,Laserbeak

• Known designers:Mark Maher (Hasbro),Shogo Hasui (TakaraTomy)

Part of the third wave ofKingdom Core Class toys, Soundwave is a Legends-sized toy that takes many cues from his largerWar for Cybertron Trilogy toy, sculpt-wise. He turns into a closer approximation of his original microcassette recorder mode, utilizing a transformation closer to theGeneration 1 Soundwave toy. Due to design limitations, Soundwave's feet stick out in boombox mode, though they can be mistransformed to achieve a more rectangular recorder, albeit leaving large gaps in the sides. Soundwave features his Concussion Blaster and Sonic Cannon, which can store on his back in recorder mode. In true Soundwave fashion, the included non-transforming Laserbeak cassette can store inside Soundwave's chest compartment, though the cassette door has to be manually opened unlike Soundwave's otherWar for Cybertron Trilogy toys.

Unlike the rest of the Core Class brethren, Soundwave does not come with aflight stand-compatible 3mm hole on his rear hip.

The Hasbro stock photo of the recorder mode is slightly mistransformed: According to the instructions, his head must be rotated 180 degrees before tucking it away to conceal his face in alternate mode. Failing to do so will also make it difficult to pull his head back out, as there is a small tab on the back of his head to help the process.

Unlike every otherTransformers toy revealed atHasbro Pulse Fan Fest 2021, Soundwave andDracodon were not available for pre-order after the virtual panel. Initially set for aJanuary 29,2022 release by TakaraTomy, Soundwave was delayed to March 2022.

Generations Selects

• Behold, Galvatron! Unicron Companion Pack (Leader Class, 2022)

Thesecond tiny accessory-packed Soundwave in theWar for Cybertron Trilogy franchise is this immobile and non-transforming robot-modeminifigure, barely 10mm tall, scaled to interact with the immenseWar for Cybertron Trilogy Unicron figure and its clear display base. This was one of a set of 14 minifigures in the "Unicron Companion Pack" that was included with the"reformatting" version of Galvatron. The set wasexclusive toHasbro Pulse.

Legacy

Sadly, not a re-release of the harder-to-obtainWar for Cybertron Trilogy Soundwave.

• Soundwave (Voyager Class,2022)

• Accessories: "Concussion Blaster", "Sonic Cannon", "Charge Blaster" (all combine to form "Mega-Blaster")

Part of the second wave ofLegacy Voyager Class toys, Soundwave is apackage refresh of hisSiegetoy, now redecoed to lose the battle damage paint applications, much likeGalvatron from the same line, although the blue plastic used in this release isslightly darker than the originalSiege figure.

This figure was officially revealed by Hasbro on theApril 12,2022 Fan First Tuesday.

• Soundwave (Core Class, 2022)

• Accessories: "Sonic Cannon", "Concussion Blaster",Laserbeak
• Known designers:Mark Maher (Hasbro),Shogo Hasui (TakaraTomy)

Part of the third wave ofLegacy Core Class toys, Soundwave is apackage refresh of the previousKingdom Core Class figure, with no other changes besides his packaging. The new robot mode package art depicts Soundwave's skirt flap being able to split unlike the actual toy, as well as filling in the gaps under his forearms. In an oversight by Hasbro, Laserbeak is stored inside Soundwave's chest, meaning that one could steal the minion by simply moving the paper tie and opening his chest up.^[8] This is probably due to only one person being in charge of all box engineering for the brand, leading to layouts being rushed.^[9]

"New Soundwave": Model not to scale.

• Soundblaster (Core Class, 2022)

• TakaraTomy ID number:TL-29
• TakaraTomy release date:May 27, 2023
• Accessories: "Sonic Cannon", "Concussion Blaster",Buzzsaw
• Known designers:Evan Brooks (Hasbro),Shogo Hasui (TakaraTomy)^[10]

Part of the first wave ofLegacy: Evolution Core Class toys, Soundblaster is an anime-accurate redeco of the aforementioned Core Class toy, coming with redecoed versions of his weapons. He also includes a tiny, non-transforming version of cassette Buzzsaw that fits into his chest, itself a redeco of Laserbeak. Like with the previous wave's Soundwave, Buzzsaw is stored inside Soundblaster's chest in packaging.

This toy represents the clone Soundblaster in Hasbro material^[11] and the rebuilt Soundwave in TakaraTomy material.^[12]

• Machine translation ofLegacy Evolution Soundblaster's TakaraTomy bio

You're just buying me for thegold bird, aren't you?

• G1 Universe Soundwave, G1 Universe Decepticon Rumble, G1 Universe Buzzsaw, G1 Universe Ravage (Leader Class,2024)

• TakaraTomy name:Soundwave Set (サウンドウェーブセット)
• TakaraTomy ID number:TL-84
• TakaraTomy release date:2025January 25
• Accessories: Concussion Blaster, Sonic Cannon, Charge Blaster (all combine to form Mega-Blaster)
• Known designers:Mark Maher (Hasbro)^[13]

Legacy: United "G1 Universe Soundwave" is a redeco of the aboveWar for Cybertron TrilogySoundwave, now including three cassettes:G1 Universe Ravage,G1 Universe Buzzsaw, andG1 Universe Rumble. The inclusion of Rumble marks the first release of this specific Soundwave figure to come with a cassette figure that isn't derived from either of the Micromaster Laserbeak or the Ravage molds introduced inSiege, though they're still used here for the included figures of Buzzsaw and Ravage, respectively.

This version of Soundwave uses gold for the chest door trim and adds the red stripes on his blasters and forearms. His silver paint accents have also been adjusted to better match his unpainted gray plastic.

This release features the molded ridges in the hip joints used on theDramatic Capture Series release, forcing the figure into a slight A-stance.

This set makes the unusual move of being a multi-pack of figures from smallersize classes sold as a regular Leader Class release. However, official listings still call it "Voyager Class G1 Universe Soundwave". Soundwave's package art is reused from the aboveLegacy Core Soundwave, unlike his cassettes which received new art.

He was revealed on Mark Maher's Instagram onJune 13,2024, as part of a week ofLegacy United reveals, being put up for pre-order the same day.

• Designer commentary onLegacy: United Soundwave from Mark Maher on Instagram

Collaborative

"It's the Ramshankle, and you know dang well, it's made out of old vehicles that we couldn't sell!"

• Soundwave Dreadnok Thunder Machine with Zartan and Zarana (2024)
  • Crossover with:G.I. Joe
  • Accessories: Knife, cannon, 2 gunbarrels, 2 grill guards, antenna, chain leash

• Known designers:Evan Brooks andBrian Parrish (Hasbro),^[14]Shuhei Umezu (TakaraTomy),Mario Carreiro (packaging)^[15]

Collaborative Soundwave transforms, as his name suggests, into aDreadnokThunder Machine. His dual chaingun features rubber ammo belts that can be "fed" into the gun via a simple gear system. He includes a large Bowie knife which he can hold, or store on his leg. Also included is arecolor ofMasterpiece Ravage in blue and red, a reference to pre-production concept art of Ravage for the original cartoon.

Much like previousG.I. JoeCollaborative releases, he comes with retro-styled G.I. Joe figures, those beingZarana andZartan, who can ride in his vehicle mode or man his turret. The inside of his vehicle mode doors have molded notches for storing Zartan and Zarana's weapons.

Soundwave's chest door is button-activated and can accommodateMasterpiece mini-cassette figures like the one included with him, as well as originalGeneration 1 cassettes.

He features mildpartsforming wherein the front roll-cage of his vehicle mode must be removed, split, and attached as kibble in robot mode. Minor assembly is required, as his chaingun barrels and vehicle antenna need to be attached.

His packaging featuresGM licensing and namedrops the Camaro, the Corvette and their associated symbols. The toy itself, however, features a molded Pontiac symbol and a Firebird's front end as part of its vehicle mode. Stock renders of the figure depict Soundwave with a second knife stored on his leg, though the toy itself only includes one.

Though designated for a 2024 release, pre-orders for Soundwave arrived early in late 2023.

Dramatic Capture Series

Fortunately, a premium re-release of the harder-to-obtainWar for Cybertron Trilogy Soundwave… that doesn't come with Ravage.

• Nemesis Bridge (2024)

• Release date:March 2024
• Accessories: Concussion Blaster, Sonic Cannon, Charge Blaster
• Known designers:Hisashi Yuki (TakaraTomy)

Released as the first entry of theDramatic Capture Series line by TakaraTomy, this Soundwave is a redeco (andvery minor retool)^[16] of theWar for Cybertron Trilogymold in more Generation 1 cartoon-accurate colors, and he only comes withLaserbeak. This version uses a consistent gold for the cassette door and adds silver to his forearms and red accents to his shoulders, forearms, and shoulder cannon, but not his handheld blaster. He uses a darker clear red visor that mostly neuters his light-piping. The aforementioned retool is rather unusual, adding ridges on the inside of his hip pieces that prevent the legs from standing straight, only in an A-stance.

Soundwave is packaged withShockwave andMegatron. Also included is a throne/command chair, a reuse ofStudio SeriesCoronation Starscream's throne, which was based on the command chair of theNemesis's bridge to begin with.

• Decepticons Part 2 (2026)

• Release date: February 2026

The laterDramatic Capture Series set "Decepticons Part 2" consisted ofSkywarp,Kickback,Bombshell, andShrapnel. Included among its accessories was a Soundwave tape deck, a slight redeco ofthe version that had first been included with theCenturion DroidWeaponizer pack.

This item is currently scheduled for release, but is not yet available at mass retail.

Transformers Retro

• Soundwave Laserbeak & Ravage (2024)

• Accessories: Rocket launcher, 3 rockets, concussion blaster

TheWalmart-exclusiveTransformers Retro line released yet another version of Soundwave to coincide with the franchise's 40th anniversary. This set aims for unprecedentedshow-accuracy: for the first time in the long history of the mold, Soundwave's weapons, tape deck buttons, and the trim around his cassette door are no longer chromed, and the figure'splastic is a matte, less "sparkly" variety than usual. The Decepticon symbol on his chest is far larger. It seems the mechanism for Soundwave has been retooled, as the buttons on his waist stick out a bit more and the hinge on the door has been moved further outside.

Soundwave came with similarly modified versions ofLaserbeak andRavage. The set was revealed as part of Walmart Collector Con, with orders available as ofOctober 13, 2023.

Reactivate

• Optimus Prime & Soundwave (2024)

• Accessories: Cannon, rocket launcher

Reactivate Soundwave is a Deluxe-sized figure that transforms from a robot into a post-apocalyptic armored SUV with a deployable satellite dish, based on his appearance in the cancelledTransformers: Reactivate video game. Soundwave was only available withOptimus Prime. He includes 2 guns, one of which is on an articulated post so it can angle up and down.

LEGO

Ravage, Laserbeak, eject. Operation: mog all of the previous LEGO Transformers with my working knees.

• Transformers: Soundwave (Icons,2025)
  • Release date:August 4, 2025
  • Set Number:10358
  • Pieces:1,505
  • Accessories:Concussion blaster, Rocket launcher,Laserbeak,Ravage, alternate eye pieces, cassette recorder micro-build, alternate tape door for micro-build, Display plaque

• Known designers:Aron Gerencsér,Joe Kyde andYoel Mazur (LEGO),Anthony Palamaro (prints/stickers),Elysha Zaide andJackson Koeper (sound design)^[17]

The fourth collaboration betweenHasbro andLEGO, 10358 Transformers: Soundwave is a fully brick-built model of the Decepticon warrior. Released under LEGO'sIcons theme, Soundwave is the firstDecepticon in the line. As with the previously releasedOptimus Prime andBumblebee, Soundwave is fully transformable into his classic micro-cassette recorder alternate mode without the need forpartsforming. His weapons store on the back of the recorder. The includedRavage andLaserbeak are also able to transform (though their weapons do have to be removed) into their cassette modes to store in Soundwave's chest, which pops open by pressing his eject button. Soundwave introduces a new window piece for his tape door.

Similar to the otherIcons Transformers sets, Soundwave includes anUltimate Collector's Series-like plaque with his name (in both English and Ancient Autobot), function,Tech Specs, and motto. Unlike the other set's plaques which feature the character's original G1 motto, Soundwave's has been replaced with the kid-friendlier "Soundwave superior!". Also included is a small build of his recorder mode (a reference to hismass-shifting) that attaches to the plaque, along with two printed tiles of Ravage's or Laserbeak's cassette modes to attach to the tape deck. The unused tile can be stored in a slot behind the plaque.

As with other LEGO mechs, Soundwave is somewhat limited in terms of his articulation range compared to most standard Transformers figures — though, notably; he is the first LEGO Transformer to feature proper knee articulation, allowing you to do an almost 90 degrees bend! Sadly, due to his weight, it is difficult to actually make much use of this in terms of poseability, as his center of mass doesn't lend itself well to dynamic poses. He also doesn't have any forwards and backwards leg motion, so there's that. Neatly enough, thanks to the modified 1x1 plates with bar handles, the included Ravage also has working knees!

In another first for LEGOTransformers sets, Soundwave includes one of LEGO's "sound brick" pieces, activated by pressing the "Play" button on his waist. He includes the most sounds in a sound brick at time of his release, featuring phrases and sounds from the cartoon alongside new lines such as "Decepticons are awesome!" (a play on LEGO's "Everything is Awesome"). The sounds are organized in three "stories", book-ended with the commercial break jingle. The sound brick itself can be accessed by removing a few pieces on Soundwave's rear, and features a tiled mosaic of his face on top.

He also includes alternate eye pieces if one wishes to display him with the yellow eyes of hisoriginal toy or the red eyes of the cartoon. The stickers in the set can be omitted to give Soundwave a more cartoon-ish appearance or applied to give him toy-based details.

• More information on 10358 Transformers: Soundwave at Brickset
• Designer commentary on LEGO Soundwave from Aron Gerencsér on Instagram
• Reveal presentation for LEGO Soundwave on the LEGO website'

Studio Series

Operation: Indirect YouTube Sponsorship.

• Soundwave (Leader Class,2026)

• Movie:The Transformers: The Movie
• Accessories: Shoulder cannon,Concussion blaster
• Known designers:Evan Brooks (Hasbro),Koki Yamada (TakaraTomy)^[18]

Part of the first wave of 2026Studio Series Leader Class figures, Soundwave transforms into his classic cassette recorder mode and features a design that focuses oncartoon accuracy compared to theWar for Cybertron Trilogy's Voyager Class version. Despite this, his alt mode lacks the white strip along the bottom that it has in the cartoon and most other toys. He comes with all-new versions ofLaserbeak,Ravage, andBuzzsaw, although the latter doesn't actually appear in the movie. He is scaled to match the height of Studio SeriesBlaster, as well as to fit in better with Studio SeriesMegatron that had been released the previous year.

Soundwave can accommodate the Mini-Cassette styled figures from past lines such as theWar for Cybertron Trilogy, as well as the Studio Series releases ofRumble andFrenzy.^[19]

The official Hasbrostock photo of Soundwave's tape deck mode has a missing piece in the lower left corner. In a rather amusing error, the rearof the packaging features a screencap of Soundwave from the movie... complete with a small "Play (K)" pop-up, left in from the paused YouTube video, which nobody edited out of the final image.

MPG

I guess Soundwave did leave Megatron behind in Autobot City after all...

• Soundwave and Condor (2026)

• ID number:MPG-19
• Accessories: Condor "case", energon cube & lid (three in total), display panel, concussion blaster, sensor

Released as part of theMPG line, "Soundwave and Condor" is a redeco of the above MP-13 figure which aims to be more animation accurate. The figure still includes Laserbeak, and the same accessories as the original release with the exception of the Megatron gun mode, which has been replaced with an additional energon cube.

This figure was first revealed on September 25, with preorders set to go live October 8 for a release date in May 2026.

This item is currently scheduled for release, but is not yet available at mass retail.

Notes

• According to an interview in the magazineOtaku USA (issue 3, pg. 102-3), the original Micro Change toy and the accompanying cassettes were at least partially designed by famed mecha designer and anime directorShinji Aramaki. He did not come up with the transformation scheme, but designed most of the outward appearance and details. He also worked on the toys that became the DeluxeInsecticons,Reflector, andPerceptor.
• Including theMicro Change "Cassette Man" version, the original Soundwave mold has sported at least four different tape doors:
  • The original MC-10 version had a cassette door that had "Cassette Man" emblazoned on it and featured a hinge that was internal to the robot's body.
  • For the initialTransformers release by Hasbro, the "Cassette Man" text was removed.
  • WhenTakara released theTransformers version of Soundwave in Japan, theyretooled the hinge so the bottom of the door attached to the outside of the robot, on either side of the "buttons", which had also been retooled. Both versions of Soundwave were available in Japan, making the retool a running changevariant.
  • The Soundblaster version had a door that retained the external hinge and added the capacity for holding a second cassette.

Pimp My Ride.

• The Decepticon faction insignia appears to be roughly based on Soundwave's head.
• Though Soundwave's toy is a microcassette recorder, his fictional appearances depict him as a stereo cassette deck or Walkman. (Likewise, his microcassette tapes are depicted as regular audio cassettes.)
• "Years ago",Don Figueroa created a concept drawing for a potential SUV-esque Soundwave toy forClassics.^[20] Presumably, this toy would have been Voyager-sized.^[21] Despite thefandom's immediate assumptions,Transformers Animated character designerDerrick J. Wyatt has said that this particular design didnot in fact influence theAnimated version of Soundwave, meaning any resemblance between the two is coincidental.
• The "Stealth Bumblebee" set includes a tiny buildable "cassette recorder" that includes a sticker of Soundwave's recorder mode. You wanna say it's Soundwave? Go right on ahead. It's what theKre-O manga did, after all.
• Some of the writers ofAsk Vector Prime planned to characterize the2003Universe Soundwave toy and its package-mateSpace Case asfemale characters and part of the2001Robots in Disguise continuity family.

References