Soundwave Deep-Sea Explorer [Cyberworld Energon Surge]

@robfromzonebase Soundwave (Deep-Sea Explorer) [Transformers Cyberworld Energon Surge] #zonebase #transformers #cyberworld #energonsurge #seamonster ♬ Square Hammer - Ghost

One of the more fun aspects of Transformers Cyberworld is its imaginative takes on existing characters. With the newer Energon Surge toys, they cranked that concept well past eleven.

Normally, when Soundwave isn't a cassette player (or a modern interpretation of one), he's a communications truck, stealth bomber, drone, or something similarly high-tech. Proving that stranger things happen in the Cyberworld, this version of Soundwave transforms into a hybrid submarine and sea monster.

I should point out that submarines use sonar...

You know...

Sound waves.

While I'm almost instantly sold on robots that turn into monsters, Amazon also delivered my Soundwave just in time for the beginning of the Zone Base Halloween season. Synergy!

There's another reason I love this design, though. It should come as no surprise that I'm a huge fan of Transformers Prime: Beast Hunters, especially Sharkticon Megatron. This Soundwave fits right alongside that figure in the wonderfully strange "Lovecraftian vehicle monster" category. Honestly, I could even see him as some bizarre Quintesson experiment, and I wouldn't be surprised if the Quintessons ended up lurking somewhere behind the events of Cyberworld.

I regularly compare Cyberworld toys to older robot lines, and Soundwave is no exception. He's a larger figure like Grimlock, but thanks to his proportions and construction, he really feels like something from the G1.5 era of Transformers. I joked on social media that Cyberworld feels like G1.5 if it had been adapted into a PC Engine game, and Soundwave is a Prime (hurr hurr) example of that.

His robot mode looks like something straight out of that era, while his alternate mode feels like a boss from Darius or R-Type. Thinking about it, if he were a smaller figure, he'd make a perfect companion to the original G1 Seacons.

I just can't stop comparing him to other things, and that's exactly what I love about him. It's funny how a toy clearly aimed at younger kids makes me think so much more than many of the far more detailed Generations figures.

It's probably unnecessary to mention that Soundwave doesn't have a ton of articulation. In fact, I'm surprised he isn't classified as an Ultimate Cyber Changer. He's basically a giant Cyber Changer already. Honestly, I swear they could shrink his CAD model down and release him as one... just without all the extra gimmicks, obviously.

Speaking of gimmicks, he's got quite a few.

The most obvious are those massive tentacles. The two longer tentacles on his right arm are bendable, allowing you to pose them however you'd like—or wrap them around an unfortunate victim. The three tentacles on his left arm can open, spin, and also grab unsuspecting victims.

When you're a sea monster, you spend a lot of time grabbing victims.

The tentacles on his right arm can even be removed and replaced with the sea monster's head, just in case he wasn't monstrous enough already.

I don't know if it technically counts as a gimmick, but Soundwave also comes with a removable battle mask. It matches the sea monster aesthetic perfectly and even features a little glow-in-the-dark paint. Combined with the monster mouth sculpted beneath his iconic faceplate, it looks absolutely fantastic.

I freaking love this ridiculous toy.

My only real complaint is that I wish the sea monster head stored on his back in a more compact way. As it is, it makes for a rather awkward backpack.

Transformation is simple, once again reminding me of the Cyber Changers. I'm honestly beginning to wonder if this toy started life as one before being enlarged into its final form. The engineering just feels too similar to be a coincidence.

Once transformed, those dangling tentacles give the sea monster mode an incredibly gnarly silhouette that's honestly hard to describe.

This thing is awesome.

The monster's jaws open and close so it can chomp down on another unfortunate victim because, once again, sea monsters and victims simply go together.

Like chocolate and peanut butter in a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup.

Which I sincerely hope you get while trick-or-treating this Halloween because they're delicious.

Unless you're allergic to peanuts.

In which case, I'd like to point out that this is a very awesome toy that could really use a little more teal so everyone would know Soundwave's lair is peanut-free.

The sea monster head also doubles as a cockpit, allowing a Cyber Changer to pilot the submarine. Like the other removable components found on the larger Cyberworld toys, it can also be swapped around and combined with similar parts from other figures to create all sorts of fun combinations.

It goes without saying that this is a very unconventional Soundwave toy, and that's exactly what makes it so special.

The designers simply made a fun toy, and I absolutely love that they did.

It's packed with personality, wonderfully creative, and just plain enjoyable.

Cyberworld may not be everyone's cup of tea, and that's perfectly okay.

Because those of us who love it...

Really love it.

I'd be shocked if this mold didn't receive a repaint at some point. Soundblaster is the obvious choice, but honestly, I'd love to see something even stranger. A Piranacon-inspired deco? Sign me up. Teal and purple would look absolutely incredible on this sculpt.

If it already looks this good in traditional Soundwave colors, imagine what it could do with a truly aquatic color scheme.

I literally cannot stop gushing about this guy...

...which, for a sea monster submarine named Soundwave, is pretty remarkable.

Soundwave Dreadnok Thunder Machine with Ravage, Zartan, and Zarana [G.I. JOE x Transformers]

The G.I. JOE X Transformers Collaborative series has turned out some really neat toys, but there’s one I find specifically neater than the others. And that’s the subject of today’s post: Soundwave. Not just any Soundwave though — this one turns into the Thunder Machine! The Dreadnoks have always been among my favorite groups in G.I. JOE, so this particular team-up hits all sorts of thematic high notes for me. It also happens to be a pretty great toy, which makes for prime posting material.

I actually picked this set up at Ross last year around this time. Those in the know are well aware of the phenomenon of liquidation stores — particularly Ross — getting boatloads of semi-recent toys and selling them dirt cheap around Christmas time. This yearly tradition is fondly known as RossCon among toy nerds, and man… getting this set for twenty-something dollars still feels like I committed a crime.

The set isn’t just Soundwave either — he comes with a few extras worth talking about first. Zartan and Zarana are included at a compatible 3¾-inch scale, and they’re even packed on traditional cards inside the box. While these are recreations of the original figures, the presentation gives the whole package a fantastic vintage feel, especially paired with the box that resembles a classic G.I. JOE release.

I do wish Zandar had been included to round out the Dreadnok siblings, and I’m honestly surprised Thrasher — the original Thunder Machine driver — didn’t make the cut. That said, I’m very happy we got two figures instead of the one you might expect.

Both figures come with accessories. Zartan includes his pistol, mask, and backpack — which can actually hold the mask. I don’t know who he’s fooling, Zartan slips the mask under his hood and behold: Liam Neeson. Truly, the master of disguise. Zarana comes with her backpack and that wonderfully weird rifle with the spinning blade on the tip. Both figures also include display stands.

Also included is a surprisingly well-done Ravage. Recent Ravage releases have left a lot to be desired, but this one is genuinely solid. He even transforms into a cassette that fits into Soundwave’s chest. I didn’t realize this at first, but he’s apparently a recolor of the Masterpiece Ravage mold! It’s been so long since I’ve handled mine that I didn’t make the connection — but yeah, no wonder he’s so good.

Ravage isn’t in his usual black and silver colors either; he’s blue and red. While that works nicely for a Cobra-aligned version of the character, it’s actually based on Ravage’s pre-production concept colors from the original Transformers cartoon. It also makes him resemble Howlback or the blue Microcassette Robo MC-02 Jaguar from the Microman Micro Change line. So no — this isn’t just another Ravage among the sea of Ravage toys. He’s quietly carrying a whole chunk of Transformers history. His trademark rockets are molded into his hindquarters, and he comes with a collar and chain accessory that Zartan or Zarana can hold.

Soundwave himself is big. I’d say he’s around Leader Class size, but there’s more mass here than you’d expect. Despite transforming into the Thunder Machine, he still retains a lot of classic Soundwave design cues — including his cassette door chest, which opens to store Ravage. Since Ravage is a Masterpiece cassette, Soundwave could probably hold any MP scaled cassette. Neat.

He’s also very well articulated, allowing for some expressive poses. The Thunder Machine kibble integrates into robot mode fairly well. The roll cage attaches to his lower legs, giving him an almost hockey-goalie look. The vehicle’s front fenders sit on his forearms, creating a unique armored appearance, while the wheels mostly stay out of the way. The roof forms a backpack with a long antenna sticking out — it’s removable if you’d rather not have it there. I kind of wish it doubled as a weapon. Imagine him whipping Autobot ass with that thing.

Several Thunder Machine features convert into weapons. The front dual Gatling gun becomes a handheld chain gun of doom. The barrels rotate and move the ammo belt as they spin, which is oddly satisfying. The massive rocket engine becomes Soundwave’s shoulder cannon, and it’s huge. It honestly makes me think of the Machine Wars version of Soundwave. He also comes with a big military knife, which I find weirdly endearing. Like, if he can’t hit you with bullets or rockets, he’ll just stab you. I imagine him sitting around sharpening sticks with it.

Transformation to vehicle mode is fairly straightforward — I didn’t even need the instructions. A few glances at the back of the box were enough to figure it out. The roll cage and chain gun need to be plugged in, and Zartan and Zarana fit easily inside the cabin to drive. Figures can also stand behind the dual chain gun or ride along various points on the vehicle’s exterior.

I had a little trouble getting some parts into place at first, but that was on me — a bit of extra adjusting solved it. Once complete, the Thunder Machine is stable and sturdy. This is a very well-made Transformer, and honestly pretty impressive.

A really nice touch is the vehicle’s design itself. The Thunder Machine is a Mad Max-style mishmash of parts with a rocket engine, and the front end is made from licensed Pontiac Firebird components. That’s such a small detail that could’ve easily been ignored, but it wasn’t.

This is a genuinely premium feeling toy — one I somehow got away with buying for way too little money. Soundwave is visually impressive, loaded with extras, and incredibly unique. What an awesome way to end one hell of a year.

Soundwave with Ravage (Special Galaxy Type) [Defender Version 03-Heavy Metal War]

Buying Blokees by the box tends to get you at least one special version. Defender Versions you get 12 in the box, at least 1 will be one of the various specials. *Neat!* In 03 Heavy Metal War, I got the Special Galaxy Type Soundwave. He's in a metallic paint and comes with Ravage. *Awesome!* Being Halloween time, it's the perfect time to focus on a Ravage toy and this is a good one to take a look at. The Defender Type design fits Soundwave's classic design pretty well.

His classic boxy design combined with the Defender cuteness looks really good. It's got the standard articulation you expect from a Defender... which is a pretty good bit. These little shits can really move. Nicely enough, he's got both his traditional shoulder Concussion Blaster and Rocket Launcher. No generic laser like several of the others have. These weapons were made from the original G1 toy's batteries and are a part of Soundwave's classic image. At this point I shouldn't be surprised in regards to Blokees attention to detail, but I would have been fine if he came with the regular laser. The extra mile taken is much appreciated, however. This is a nice little mini-figure after assembled. The Special Galaxy Type is painted in a metallic paint that just makes him feel more premium. It's super shiny.

Also as a special version, a tiny Ravage is included. Ravage is static and non-articulated, but his inclusion is just really freaking neat! Like, when you think of Soundwave, Ravage is almost always in that mental picture. I don't think I've ever had anything negative to say about a Blokees product, they're definitely in my favorite category when talking about the current state of Transformers. While I'm enamored by anything they do, I think at this point Defender Types may be my favorite thing they do. This little blind box model kit with it's extras feels more important than whatever high end unit is available is out at the moment. Just look at that Ravage!

Soundwave [Studio Series/Deluxe Class]

Prior to the Bumblebee movie, Dark of the Moon was my favorite of the Transformers live action movies. So various Studio Series releases of the characters from that film tend to catch my eye. The Mrs. probably didn't know that when she picked up this Soundwave for me as a Christmas gift last year. It was originally released in 2019 with a Target Exclusive reissue last year.

I had completely missed out on it's initial release and the universe just made it happen. Neat! Soundwave was pretty cool looking in all his movie appearances, but his DOTM look was really slick. He changes into a licensed Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, which is a really expensive car. According to Google, in 2011 (when the movie was released) it cost from $169,800 to $275,000. I hope nobody scratched it during filming. 

Yikes.

This is a very well done representation of Soundwave from DOTM, looking like he just walked off the screen and very sleek. He comes with a tiny Laserbeak whom can perch on his arm or top of the car. In robot mode, Soundwave is very articulated and can be put into all sorts of poses. Like all the Bay era film designs, there are a lot of sharp points and edges. These are present... but cast in a softer plastic for safety reasons. He is very well sculpted and there is a lot of detail. More than you'd expect for a standard retail figure. I guess Mercedes had requirements for their licensees.

Transformation is the standard car mode layout you can expect, but man it is a tight fit. There's hardly any wiggle room getting everything into place and that can be frustrating. You might notice in the pics mine doesn't look completely connected in car mode. That's because it isn't, I have no clue what black magic it takes to get everything to align properly, but I gave up after taking too long trying to get everything into place. His robot mode hips are between the forearms in car mode and that tight fit meant something was clearly off just a touch right there and I could not figure it out. Even with some gaps in the panels, that is one sleek looking vehicle. Thanks to various pictures online, I don't have to imagine just how sleeker it is without those hips causing a problem. Despite the frustration, I really enjoy this figure. Studio Series is supposed to be the higher quality representation of the on screen characters and it's shows here.

Soundwave [Galaxy Version 03 The Autobot Run]

Whenever Transformers is brought up, Soundwave is one of the trademark characters to be mentioned immediately in the conversation. It's to no surprise either, he's just that cool. You've got a guy who turns into a cassette player that ejects cassettes that turn into little robots. That's as rad as it gets, then add in his signature reverb voice and he's just as iconic as it gets. It doesn't hurt that his face is the symbol of the Decepticons. This Blokees version is pretty great. It's the standard Soundwave we're all used to and that's all it takes to be outstanding.

He just looks extra by being, of course he is extra compared to your normal Blokees figure. The trademark tape door chest is present and it opens! Being a non-transforming model kit, you'd assume it's just be a sticker... but nope! There's even a little cassette to insert! The tape doesn't transform, but that's still a great little touch. He has both his rifle and shoulder cannon. Man, I swear everything about Soundwave is a trademark. I've always thought these guns formed from the tape players batteries were awesome. Of course, there's the standard open and closed hands as well as display stand with symbols you'd expect from a Blokees. Speaking of, that specific Blokees style you'd expect really lends itself to the specific look of Soundwave.

BIOS- Soundwave

"Are you ready to rock?"

After a couple of years working alongside Laserbeak, Soundwave realized it was time for a change. His new partner, Ratbat, lets him lay down multiple tracks of sound at a time, creating frequencies that can do more than just control other robots. Now, Soundwave is into straight-up mind control. Using complex synth beats he can make people - and even the Autobots - do whatever he wants.

-Invented a note that can actually rock a robot's face off.
-Recently got really into old Earth westerns.
-Ratbat synth mode fires lightning bolts.

Soundwave [AMK Mini Series]

If you ask a random person what they remember about Transformers, usually someone will bring up Soundwave. He's one of the more iconic characters from the franchise thanks to his way cool cassette partners and trademark speech pattern. It also doesn't hurt that his head is the design of the villain faction. This AMK Mini Series model of him is a really great representation of the character with plenty of articulation and hand alternatives (open, closed, or pointing) for classic poses and lot's of expressiveness. Soundwave is also packing his trademark shoulder and handheld guns. Unfortunately there's no cassette minions included to round out the package. Considering he doesn't transform, that's not surprising and it doesn't take away from the figure. Like the other Mini kits, parts snap together quickly and easily. These are really simple models that result in great results

Bios: Soundwave

"From the sky to the sea, they will fear and respect me."

Function: Warrior

Soundwave is a welcome aly to the forces. Bat mode makes him ideal for stealth aerial recon missions. Ultra-sensitive internal radar can detect even the slightest disturbances. Alligator jaws penetrate every known alloy. Tail sends seismic circuit-disrupting shockwave through terra firma. Like his fellow Mutant warriors, Soundwave is dark and brooding; has a tendency to be overly dramatic.

Strength: 6.8 Intelligence: 6.7 Speed: 8.4 Endurance: 5.3
Rank: 5.0 Courage: 8.9 Firepower: 7.7 Skill: 7.9

Soundwave (EarthSpark/1 Step Flip Changers)

I've been a fan of 1 Step Changers/Turbochangers since they were introduced, so it's no surprise that I jumped on the new EarthSpark versions. There's a difference with this new type. Despite the extremely simple transformations, the prior ones required manual change. These new toys do not. You simply push the robot over or flip it in the air and it will self convert into alt mode. It's a super neat gimmick and fun to play with. Unfortunately, they don't have any articulation (so far). The older Turbochangers had very limited articulation, but it was still there. That's probably my only complaint about these going in.

I like Soundwave a lot and tend to get as many of his toys as I can. Given that and his super cool design in EarthSpark... this was a must have. Soundwave's design is a mixture of his Cybertron toy and Armada Thunderwing with some super robot flair. With the right colors, he'd blend right on in on  a shelf with late Takara G1 or Brave toys. I like this little bot and want to get more toys of his design. I mentioned Armada Thunderwing above, which is funny as I'd really like a Tacticon version. This design just looks like it'd work well in a tiny toy. As is, Soundwave is a pleasant Flip Changer. I do wish there was arm articulation, but it's not a deal breaker in a low price gimmick toy. These make good desk bots to occasionally play with and clear out some mental fudge. Man, he looks like a 16 bit game character.

Superior to the Core

I picked up Core Class Soundwave this past weekend. I really like this new size class Kingdom introduced. Seeing as it's continuing in Legacy and being worked into Studio Series, I'm not the only one. Soundwave is a really nice toy for what's is the new basic size.

He's pleasantly articulation. Mostly due to transformation, but I'm not complaining. In fact, it almost makes him comparable to the Microman figures he originated from. Soundwave turns into his traditional cassette player and even has an opening door complete with Laserbeak in tape mode!

Laserbeak doesn't transform, but it's still a nice extra. I have no complaints with this figure whatsoever. I do wish his robot mode feet tucked away better in alt mode from abetter looking tape player. So far Core Class has had some really great figures. I'm really looking forward to more as it's been great so far. This one though, is going to be pretty hard to beat.

Tales Of The Beast Hunters - Chapter 2: Soundwave

Tales of the Beast Hunters - Chapter 2

There is no transmission so secure that it will not yield to the tender decryption of Soundwave. Such is the case with the conversation between Bumblebee and Wheeljack, and so, within minutes of the two Autobots blasting off for the distant asteroid belt, Megatron and Predaking also set course for the ancient weapons cache. Soundwave remains on Earth, patiently monitoring Autobot transmissions, assuring his leader that they are indeed alone. It is an opportunity to not only destroy this pair of Autobots, but also to secure weapons that ensure victory over the rest - an opportunity arranged with patient satisfaction by the Decepticon data master.

Making Soundwaves

After Christmas, like many of you, I was doing a gift card shopping spree. While doing so, I lucked up upon the new deluxe Cyberverse Soundwave figure. I've liked the warrior class version of Soundwave and jumped at the nicer toy.

The design is a cool mix of traditional G1 Soundwave and Euro G1/Early G2 styling. The old school nature of the warrior class toys made him feel like one of those late G1 European toys lost in time. The deluxe is like a modern Generations update of that toy. 

Soundwave comes with Laserbeak who turns into a cassette that can be loaded into his chest. However Soundwave turns into a type of armored truck instead of a tape deck. They don't make those anymore, shit happens. I do like this truck a lot. Not sure if it'd make a good communications truck, but it looks cool.

Like I said, Laserbeak can store in Soundwave's chest. What I didn't say was he can also perch on his arm or shoulder via a peg. There's also an action effect thingy that you can plug into his radar dish or gun. That's to show a sonic attack emitting from the dish or gun. It's in his name. It's a sound wave.

Laserbeak is pretty basic and hollow. Considering he's not much more than an accessory, I guess that's understandable. It would have been nice if he was a little better. He makes me think of those trays Coke vendors have the bottles in while they refill the cooler at Circle K. Like if one of those was broken and it kinda looked like a bird.

Soundwave himself is a decent figure. He's got a good bit of articulation and his transformation isn't too hard. There's some hollow parts from storage in alt mode present in robot mode. There's also that big backpack that's the trucks roof. It's a little in the way. Honestly it just feels like he needed another pass over in the design stages. Not bad though, just could have been a little better. 

It's hard not to like this version of Soundwave, those design cues just look so good. I'd love to see some repaints inspired by his Machine Wars toy or even a Stalker made from this toy. The thought of a Ghostbusters version just popped in my head and I can't ignore it. A little far fetched... but I kinda thing it'd be awesome. Admittedly, I have Ghostbusters on my mind. As usual. Afterlife yo.

Soundwave Superior

Another of my Christmas gifts from the Mrs. was the new Netflix War for Cybertron Soundwave. Like all other Netflix Transformers toys, he's exclusive to Walmart and quite the hot commodity right now. While most of the Netflix lines is repaints of prior Siege and Earthrise toys, Soundwave is a remold of his Siege toy. In Siege he had a pretty G1 faithful robot mode and turned into some kind of space ship. Now with a few remolded parts, he can turn into a very faithful version of his G1 tape player mode. 

This gives fans the best homage of the original Soundwave as a Generations toy. Prior to that was the Masterpiece toy which can command a pretty high price these days and may not be as easy to find. Now you can easily go to your local Walmart and pick one up for $40. Not a bad deal at all. Now the only issue is if he's in stock, which results may vary.

Like I said, he's a very faithful recreation of the Soundwave from G1 and looks very much like his cartoon appearance. He even comes with a Laserbeak and Ravage. Those are direct reissues of the Siege versions as far as I can tell. I'm a big fan of the Laserbeak, though Ravage is a much blockier cat than you expect going in. I don't mind it, but there's no ignoring it either.

Soundwave can store a single cassette in his tape door and the eject button opens the door as you'd expect going in. The transformation from robot to tape deck is pretty simple and not very much different from the original G1/Microman toy. You do have to get a few things exactly right or he won't tab together correctly. It's not too hard thankfully.

Soundwave overall is pretty great. I already really liked the Siege version. I can't really complain about an improved version of it. He's classic G1 Soundwave with modern toy upgrades such as plentiful articulation. When you buy this, you know 100% what you're buying it for and you're getting exactly that. 

I'm not sure if he can still change into the spaceship mode the original Siege toy has. I didn't even bother trying, I already have that toy (and Soundblaster) and wanted this for the obvious reasons. I don't really have anything to complain about either. Though have seen some complaints about some of the random gaps in robot mode from part storage in alt mode.

That's kinda a 'is what it is' thing with Transformers though, just going to happen sometimes. I've seen others complain that it's another G1 update, which is another 'is what it is' thing. Hasbro is a big successful company, their going to do what makes them money. That's just how the world works. It is what it is.

For me, Soundwave is another one of those classic characters I just can't get enough of. I don't mind when they get experimental with him or when they do something like this. He's one of the more iconic parts of Transformers and as the line approaches 40 years it's legacy is going to be more and more important. They'll make a brand new looking Batman and release a traditional one right after. They'll be a new bad guy in Star Wars and a updated Darth Vader figure on the hooks as well. That's just how legacy brands work and I don't have a problem with that. I'm happy to have another updated classic Soundwave.

R.E.D Soundwave Can Push His Own Eject Button

After waiting for quite some time, Transformers R.E.D (Robot Enhanced Design) figures finally started showing up at my local Walmart stores. The wife picked me up the Soundwave on a recent stop for a few things and it's nice to finally have one of these guys in hand. I've mentioned a few times in prior posts about my looking forward to them, so I won't go much into that intentionally in this post. When she handed me the box I had gotten so used to them not being at the store that actually having one I was truly surprised. 

For the last time, these toys do not Transform. I don't want that to be the focus whenever I talk about these. That's not the point. These are show accurate versions of the characters that have the features nicer action figures intended for adult collectors generally have. I get it. The lines name is Transformers. I know. It is what it is and these are what the are.

Ok then.

Out of the box, Soundwave is a solid feeling figure with quite a bit of articulation. You can put him in a variety of poses, no shit. Included in the box is his signature shoulder cannon and laser gun as well as alternate hands and Laserbeak in cassette form. Soundwave has four different hands. Two fists and two that allow for holding his laser gun and pointing to mimic the famous pushing eject pose. 

The hands can be swapped out with a simple peg system that locks the hand into place. I did have a little trouble keeping his shoulder cannon in place. Not sure if that's a plastic issue or maybe mine was a little tighter fit. Hell, it could have been just me. Same with getting that gun in his hands, that took a little more work than I thought it would. Either the plastic was to rigid or my fingers were too big. I can't do anything right. Shut up.

I said recreate the eject button pose right? You totally can and the eject button even works! Just push that mofo and the chest door opens! 

I'm totally serious, it fucking does!

 

Since it does that we might as well have a tape for commanding to eject. In this case we get Laserbeak, who's usually the first for Soundwave to deploy. It could have just been a little plastic cassette tape painted in his colors, but instead they sculpted the underside of the tape so his birdy robot parts can be seen. They literally didn't have to do that, but it adds a little more niceness to the toy. Laserbeak can be stored inside Soundwave's chest and ejected. Hell yeah.

I doubt these new R.E.D figures will take SCF's place in my heart. They're on the way to being a proper replacement for a line that's been over for a pretty long time though. So far from what I've seen and with Soundwave here in hand the sculpting is pretty similar. It feels like a natural evolution of that Mega SCF I keep comparing these too. 

Maybe unfairly as I've taken other similar ideas separately as their own thing and not compared them to something I've held in high regards as a fan. The mind works as it's going to work I suppose. It's that SCF mindset though that's been kicking in since the introduction of these guys and the one I can't shake. I don't think I want to either. Even though I'm not hunting down blind boxes and ordering figures from Hobby link Japan... it's a similar kind of fun with the figure. I know that probably doesn't make sense to anybody but me, but this is a blog and a not a review. Y'all just reading my thoughts and the occasional bad joke. It's hardly an expose. You think Laserbeak shits in Soundwave's chest?

I like my R.E.D Soundwave toy. It would be pretty cool to have a shelf of these guys representing the classic cast. I generally don't do the big displays, I kinda just stick them on a shelf where they fit. With these guys though... I'm kinda tempted. I don't know if it'll fade later, but right now my enthusiasm is pretty high for the R.E.D line. Soundwave is a pretty good representation of how he appeared in the classic cartoon and a nice figure in general. Which is what I wanted, so yay me.

Soundwave Is A Discount Store Alpha

They call these larger 7 inch Authentics 'Alpha' class. I don't know why. They do the naming, I do the buying. Call it taco class for all I care. Recently my wife picked me up the Authentics Alpha Class Soundwave from the Dollar General near her work. Thankfully so as I've been looking for him. As far as the Authentics figures have gone, I've been getting the Alpha (7 inch) and Bravo (5 inch) class figures happily. For a low price they're just the thing. I haven't bothers with the Titan Changers or that big ass Bumblebee. I may later, just right now I don't feel compelled to. 

Like other Authentics, Soundwave uses the 'Evergreen' design. Evergreen is a newer Transformers design aesthetic used for oddball things like gift cards and random toys without being attached to a current cartoon. It's basically traditional Transformers, just a little modernized. Safe to throw on that party balloon or discount toy that may be on a shelf for a few years without looking dated. I think it's a pretty good idea. You've got generic Spider-Man, Generic Batman... why not generic Transformers? 

Soundwave as a robot isn't too bad. He's a discount store toy sold for a low price and there's some cost cutting measures in full view. He's $10 for a 7 inch toy, which is about the size of a Generations Voyager class Transformers. Those sell for $30 for perspective. Soundwave is pretty hollow. Like, know how the buildings in a movie studio are just a facade? The walls you see are the only ones they've built and that's the level of hollowness Soundwave has going on here. It doesn't bother me much. I know for the discount price there's going to be some cost cutting measures. I know a cup of ramen noodles isn't the same as an expensive steak dinner and I'm not going to kid myself about it. At the same time, I still love a good cup of ramen noodles. This cheap Soundwave? Yeah, I dig him. He's cool.

 

They don't make tape players anymore. I'm sorry, it's just a fact and those don't change unfortunately. Modern toys of Soundwave are generally tasked with working around that and a common alt mode for him is a communications truck of sorts. That's what they did here and it works pretty well. It's blocky and works with his role as communications officer. 

This particular communications truck is some kind of armored sports crossover SUV. Considering the low cost of the toy, it's a pretty solid alt mode with hardly any visible lines. You transform Soundwave by arranging his arms and legs much as you normally do car based Transformes and his backpack snaps over to create the hood. All you really have to do extra is arrange his gun and uh... sound receiver dish (?) into place on the roof of the truck. 

I'm kind of not sure what to make of the truck. It looks good, but could use a little extra color that the discount store toy budget isn't going to allow for. Thanks to it's angles I can't get Machine Wars Soundwave out of my head when I look at it. Stalker from Euro G1, Machine Wars or Universe Soundwave. That toy mold. The colors those toys came in are the ones I'd really like to see on this toy. It'll never happen, but it'd be neat. I see this truck and think there's another toy coming that'll use the mold tooling. Blaster or Sounblaster probably.

 

I mentioned his gun and communications thingy right? They can be used in a variety of ways. Either held in hands, on shoulder mounted pegs, or the roof of the truck. The communications dish thingy has a flat peg with specific flat peg holes for it's placement... but still fits just fine in round holes. The gun has a standard round peg and won't fit in the square holes. I shouldn't have to explain that, but there's always that one dude.

If you put the gun in Soundwave's shoulders like I have in the picture up top, you'll get a more classic Soundwave look. It looks right in hand ready to blast somebody too. The plastic used on the toy is different than what's used on normal retail Transformers. It's pretty hard and despite the hollowness of the toy gives it a feeling of solidness. You can probably see the stress lines on the gun in the picture. They were like that right out of the package without any visible reason why. It's not broke and there's no white in the plastic that would lead me to believe the plastic is weakened. I have no clue.

I'm pretty happy with Soundwave overall. He might be hollow, but he's a big chunky robot toy and I do love those. Without any doubt he's Soundwave and he nails the classic look. Like I said, for the low price these Authentics are just the thing and fun to buy. He's got a fair amount of articulation and I had fun playing around with him in my living room. You really can't ask for more than that. Unless you're an asshole.

Bios- Action Master Soundwave

Cries and screams are music to my ears!

A smooth-talking opportunist who uses his eavesdropping abilities on friends and foes alike. Equipped with advanced radio wave and energy sensors, photographic memory and newly improved 2,000 mile range transmission capability. Wingthing, his loyal, lethal cohort, is all too eager to carry out Soundwave's every vengeful whim and diabolical scheme. Upon command, Wingthing turns into a metal-piercing concussion cannon. It's difficult to say which one is more despised by the other Decepticons.

Latam Fan Summit Studio Series Reveals

 

Transformers Studio Series –51 Deluxe Class Transformers: Dark of the Moon Soundwave (HASBRO/Ages 8 and Up/ Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/ Available:01/01/2020)The 51 Deluxe Class SOUNDWAVE is a 4.5-inch collectible action figure inspired by the Transformers: Dark of the MoonSerengeti Hideout scene where SOUNDWAVE and LASERBEAK patiently await orders from MEGATRON. This Studio Series 51 Deluxe Class Transformers: Dark of the Moon SOUNDWAVE figure is highly articulated, features vivid, movie-inspired deco and converts from robot to car mode in 19 steps. Fans can use the removable backdrop to pose and display the SOUNDWAVE scene with their own style. Also included is 1 detailed LASERBEAK figure accessory that attaches to SOUNDWAVE’s arm. Reach past the big screen and build the ultimate TRANSFORMERS collection with Studio Series figures, inspired by iconic movie scenes and designed with specs and details to reflect the TRANSFORMERS movie universe. Each Studio Series figure sold separately and subject to availability at most major toy retailers on01/01/2020

Great Value BotCon 2019 Soundwave

News floated out this morning of a Soundwave seemingly joining Optimus in this years Walmart vintage Transformers selection. So far this years selection of G1 reissues is pretty fun and well suited for the 35th anniversary of Transformers (despite the lack of hoopla being made for the occasion). If I'm going to speculate the selection based on the 2018 batch, that's 2 average sized figures (one a little bigger), a larger figure or gift set, and 4 basic sized figures. Optimus seems to be taking Hot Rods spot in that with the omission of his trailer and Soundwave seemingly taking Starscream's place.

These would be similar sized boxes on that store shelf and hopefully for around the same price (there's been a lot of throwing numbers around, but I'm waiting for the actual price). So wondering who the larger figure/set would be and going by the reissues Takara has put out in more recent years as a guideline of what molds are most likely available. I'm wondering if maybe a Bruticus box set isn't too much of a stretch to expect for a gift set or maybe a Skylinx for a larger figure. Kinda hope more cassettes get released for the smaller sized guys to match up with Soundwave. Though I'd not be surprised if there's more Minicars as they'd probably try to keep the numbers of good guys/bad guys somewhat equal. I kinda hope they'd shoot for something a little bigger, but not too bigfor the larger figure to keep the price down. Something like Sixshot would be awesome.

I always see a lot of folks hope they wish for ~insert random slightly obscure or rare character~, but I don't see that really happening. I'd love to, but realistically they're going for the nostalgia crowd. Sure Transformers fans are a sure thing, but the more mainstream crowd that's likely to buy a G1 Transformer in retro packaging is going for Optimus, Starscream, or any of the other generally recognizable bots. I'd love something like Turbomasters... but that's a stretch.

I had a bunch of fun buying the last batch at Walmart and even though I've got multiple of some of these guys, look forward to walking into a Walmart after work and finding Soundwave sitting there on the shelf. That's a lot of fun for me. I don't look forward to explaining the term Great Value BotCon though, but will continue to use it. It's not my fault some people are oblivious to an obvious joke.

Bumblebee trailer (even newer one)

It's extremely hard to not get excited for this movie.

Pepsi is more than meets the eye!

I had completely forgotten about this commercial until seeing it again just now. I remember marveling how much the Coke machine looked like Soundwave. 

I swear it's just a coincidence that I prefer Pepsi!