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Starscream's Brigade

2007-12-26T18:59:47Z

199.91.37.33: /* Detailed synopsis */

{{picsneeded}}

{{episodenav|g1|season=2|46|prev=Cosmic Rust (episode)|next=The Revenge of Bruticus}}

After his latest attempt to overthrow Megatron's rule of the Decepticons, Starscream is banished from HQ, but this time, he hatches a plan...

==Detailed synopsis==
[[Image:Starscreamsbrigade1.jpg|left|thumb|Buh-bye, Screamer.]]
Decades ago, when life existed only in black and white, humans waged war on one another on the island of Guadalcanal in the south Pacific. Some of their wrecked vehicles remained there as of 1985, where our story begins...

Within Decepticon Headquarters, [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] are having a spat. Predictably, it ends with Starscream shooting Megs in the back and proclaiming himself the new leader. Megatron's tougher than that, though, and after waking up a few seconds later, he blasts Starscream and has Laserbeak dump him on Guadalcanal.

Humiliated and infuriated, Starscream stumbles upon the remnants of some old World War II vehicles, which inspire him to create an army of his own. Entering the space bridge by threatening Skywarp, he travels to [[Cybertron (planet)|Cybertron]] and steals the [[personality component]]s of five renegade Decepticons. Installing them into the wrecked vehicles, he transforms them into the [[Combaticon]]s. The quarrelsome warriors threaten to simply beat Starscream to a pulp, until he reveals that their new bodies do not contain energy absorbers, without which they cannot refuel: "No energy, no life." In exchange for the needed equipment, the Combaticons agree to obey Starscream's orders for the moment.

At the unveiling of the [[Optimus Prime Memorial]], Starscream and the Combaticons attack and kidnap [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and [[Cliffjumper (G1)|Cliffjumper]]. At the [[Decepticon space cruiser|Decepticon base]], [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] informs Megatron that the Combaticons' personality components are missing. Assuming the [[Autobot]]s are responsible, Megatron launches an attack on the [[Ark (G1)|Ark]]. However, [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]]'s demand to turn over Jazz and Cliffjumper causes Megatron to suspect Starscream.

[[Image:Starscreamsbrigade2.jpg|right|thumb|We all lost weight on the Subway diet!]]
Starscream and the Combaticons attack the Decepticons while they're attempting to refuel, allowing Starscream to capture [[Dirge (G1)|Dirge]] and [[Ramjet (G1)|Ramjet]] as well, bringing their energy absorber count to four. Megatron, meanwhile, rallies his troops, and moves against Starscream and his army. In the ensuing battle, Megatron's trump card, Devastator, is easily brushed aside when Starscream reveals that the Combaticons can likewise combine into a single titan: [[Bruticus (G1)|Bruticus]]! The massive combiner scoops up Megatron in one hand and forces him to acknowledge Starscream as the new Decepticon leader.

The Autobots use the battle's distraction to rescue Jazz and Cliffjumper; meanwhile, the late-arriving [[Stunticon]]s look over the situation, and decide that Starscream is too likely to continue his rampage. Merging into [[Menasor (G1)|Menasor]], they defeat the unsuspecting Bruticus with one massive punch.

From the resultant crater, Megatron emerges; grabbing Starscream by the throat, he decrees that he and his army are banished from Earth. The usurpers are hauled away by [[Astrotrain (G1)|Astrotrain]] and left stranded on a distant asteroid in deep space... from which Starscream swears vengeance.

==Stats==
'''Original airdate:''' ???

'''Written by:''' [[Michael Charles Hill]]

===Featured Characters===
(''Numbers indicate order of appearance.)
{|border=5 cellpadding=5 cellspacing=5 align=center style="border:#800000"
! style="background:#FFEEEE" | [[Autobots]]
! style="background:#EEEEFE" | [[Decepticons]]
! style="background:antiquewhite" | [[Human|Humans]]
! style="background:#FFEEB8" | Others
|-
| style="background:#FFEEEE" valign="top" |
*

| style="background:#EEEEFE" valign="top" |
*

| style="background:antiquewhite" valign="top" | '''Regulars'''
*

'''Guests'''
*

| style="background:#FFEEB8" valign="top" |

|}

==Notable quotes==

''"NOBODY TURNS THEIR BACK ON ME!"'' 
:-- '''Starscream''', as Megatron turns his back on him.

''"I would like to welcome two members of the Autobot team: Jazz, and Cliffjump."'' 
''"Uh, that's Cliffjumper."'' 
:-- '''Marty Mingkler''' and '''Cliffjumper'''.

''"I see incompetence breeds even more incompetence. HAHAHAHAHAHA!"'' 
:-- '''Megatron''' to Starscream, after the latter fails in his attempt to destroy the Decepticon leader.

''"Now, Megatron: who is the new Decepticon leader?"'' 
''"Uhm... you are."'' 
''"I can't hear you!"'' 
''"You are!"'' 
''"I am now the leader of all Decepticons!"'' 
:-- '''Megatron''' in the grip of Bruticus (literally), and '''Starscream'''.

''"Megatron's in trouble."'' 
''"Who cares."'' 
''"It looks like Starscream's defeated him."'' 
''"So?"'' 
''"So, you think Starscream's going to stop here?"'' 
''"Good point. He never knows when to quit."'' 
''"Stunticons, unite to form Menasor!" '' 
:-- '''Motormaster''', '''Dead End''' and '''Wildrider''', surveying Starscream's victory.

''"Bruticus?"'' 
''"No Starscream, ''not'' Bruticus. It's Megatron - your leader!"'' 
''"Megatron, no, wait, please!"'' 
''"This time, it really is 'goodbye', Starscream! Astrotrain, get him and his giant ally off this planet! ...They are banished from Earth... forever!"'' 
''"You'll regret that you did not destroy me Megatron! I shall have my revenge!"'' 
:-- '''Starscream''' and '''Megatron''' after the Decepticon leader survives Starscream's latest mutiny.

==Other notes==

===Animation and/or technical glitches===
*At several points in the episode, such as when Starscream approaches the Space Bridge, his eye colour changes from red to blue.

===Continuity errors===
* Starscream maintains control of the Combaticons by not installing [[energy absorber]]s into them, thereby preventing them from re-energising. They are however later shown to re-energise anyway when they steal energy from a power plant.

*This episode was aired ''after'' [[Aerial Assault]], which also featured the [[Combaticons]].

===Transformers references===
* Earth builds a [[Optimus Prime Memorial|memorial]] to [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] before he's even dead...[[The Transformers: The Movie (1986)|Ominous]].

===Real-world references===
*Elements of World War II are shown in the episode with the abandoned military vehicles.

===Miscellaneous trivia===
*According to the G1 [[Production Bible]], this episode was titled '''30 Seconds Over Megatron''' before broadcast. [http://transformers.winterchill.com/bible/biblepage88.html]

==External links==
*

{{epstub}}

[[Category: Generation 1 episodes]]<div id="wikia-credits"> From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</div>

Inferno (G1)

2007-12-20T22:57:58Z

199.91.37.33: /* Animated continuity */

{{disambig3|Inferno}}

{{charstub}}

:''Inferno is an [[Autobot]] in the [[Generation 1]] [[continuity family]].''

[[Image:G1Inferno_collectionbox1.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Will probably start fires just to put them out.]]

'''Inferno''' is one gung-ho robot, ready and willing to roll out into the thick of any action at the drop of a hat. If the mission is search and rescue he's one of the best bots to have around, but he's even happier when called on to fight. Nothing gets Inferno's circuits going like a one-on-one with a few Decepticon trouble makers. During his down time he can generally be found hanging out with [[Red Alert (G1)|Red Alert]] and trying his best to keep Red out of trouble.

==Fiction==
===Animated continuity===
:''Voice actor:'' [[Walker Edmiston]] (US), [[Takurō Kitagawa]] (Japan)

[[Image:InsecticonSyndrome_Inferno_fires.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Flashlights of Doom!]]

Inferno appeared without explanation one day as [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] explained their mission to stop the [[Insecticon (G1)|Insecticons]] from attacking the [[Nova Power Planet]]. He was the first to roll out on Prime's orders. During the battle at the power plant, the gun-slinging fire fighter stood by [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]] and shot down [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] before they rushed off to to rescue the human pilots of a downed helicopter. After the super-powered Insecticons crushed Wheeljack and electrocuted Ironhide, Inferno sprayed fire-retardant foam on Wheeljack and loaded him into Prime's trailer as the Autobots retreated. Inferno later participated in the Autobot counter attack at [[Iron Mountain]] where he and the other Autobots were buried under tons of rock. [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] was heard to complain about Inferno ending up on his head whilst they were trapped. {{Storylink|The Insecticon Syndrome}}

[[Image:DinobotIsland_Pt2_InfernospraysCowboys.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Bonanza got a little weird near the end of the series]]

When the [[Dinobot (G1)|Dinobots]] accidently set fire to [[Ark|Autobot headquarters]], Inferno helped Red Alert douse the flames. {{Storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 1}} Later, Inferno did his part to preserve the sanctity of the timestream by spraying cowboys with fire retardant foam. Eh...you had to be there. {{Storylink|Dinobot Island, Part 2}}

[[Image:AutoBerserk_Inferno_RedAlert_friendship.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Why can't I quit you?]]

Later, Inferno was ordered to guard over Red Alert as the Autobots repelled an attack by the Decepticons on the [[Negavator]] super weapon's bunker. Inferno, itching for a fight, abandoned Red Alert despite his paranoid friend's repeated requests for him to stay. Inferno rescued Red Alert when his friend was buried under rubble which had the unfortunate side-effect of damaging Red Alert's logic circuits to the point of overload. Inferno later proved his friendship to Red when he saved Red Alert from himself when the latter, in a state of paranoia, allied himself with [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and the Decepticons. {{Storylink|Auto Berserk}}

Inferno was reunited with his old gal [[Firestar]] when he, [[Ironhide (G1)|Ironhide]] and [[Powerglide]] went to help Optimus Prime rescue [[Elita One (G1)|Elita One]]. {{storylink|The Search for Alpha Trion}}

{{-}}

====Transformers: The Headmasters (Japan only)====

Inferno appeared in a non-speaking role alongside [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]], [[Jazz (G1)|Jazz]], and [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]]. {{Storylink|A Dream is Born, Double Prime}}

===Marvel Comics continuity===
====Generation 1====

:''('''Note''': Events in italics occurred only in the Marvel UK books.)''

''Inferno joined [[Sandstorm (Autobot)|Sandstorm]] and [[Broadside (G1)|Broadside]] as part of a monitoring unit stationed on Earth to keep watch for the threat of super-Decepticon, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]]. Shortly after they arrived, the unit chased off the unrelated threat of a [[Furnacia]]n [[Firebug]], who had arrived on Earth and begun starting fires in human settlements. They exiled it to Mercury in a message pod. {{Storylink|Firebug!}}''

''When Galvatron later resurfaced, the reconnaissance team sent a message to Cybertron and joined up with the [[Wrecker]]s and Decepticon [[Mayhem Attack Squad]] in confronting the time traveler. Unfortunately Galvatron had help (as if he needed it) in the form of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]. The Wreckers and Mayhems were torn to shreds, suffering greater than 50% losses. {{Storylink|Time Wars}} Inferno was one of the few survivors who limped away from the final battle, cut off from any support from Cybertron. The remaining members of the Wreckers and Mayhems pooled resources as the [[Survivors]], living on Earth separately from the planet's active Cybertronian armies. {{Storylink|Survivors!}} After a new squad of Mayhems came to Earth to execute their treacherous former members, however, the Survivors hooked up with [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]]'s [[Earthforce]] as an adjunct team. {{Storylink|Where Wolf?}}''

Inferno was present when [[Prowl (G1)|Prowl]] and Grimlock were loading up their shuttles to go chase after [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] and his gang of less-than-merry men. {{Storylink|A Savage Circle!}} He was later killed on the planet [[Klo]] and then reactivated by the power of the [[Last Autobot]]. {{Storylink|End of the Road! (Marvel US comic)|End of the Road}}

'''Note:''' ''Inferno's US and UK timelines are more difficult to reconcile than most characters, primarily because of how the Survivors story blends from the main UK continuity (Time Wars) straight into the splinter continuity (Earthforce). He shows up totally unannounced on Cybertron after the war with Unicron, and never speaks.''

====Generation 2====

Inferno was working with a squad of Autobots trying to stop [[Jhiaxus]]'s [[Cybertronian]]s from committing genocide on planet [[Ethos]]. Most of his team took heavy fire and apparently died, though, and Inferno himself was crushed under a collapsing building the enemy brought down on top of him. {{Storylink|Escalation}}

===Dreamwave Comics continuity===

Inferno and his good buddy [[Smokescreen (G1)|Smokescreen]] joined up with Grimlock's [[Lightning Strike Coalition]] during the time of the Dark Ages. Some millennia later, after the [[Great Shutdown]], Inferno was one of the first Autobots reactivated and brought around to the idea of a unified Cybertronian populace by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]] and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]]. Joining Red Alert, [[Hoist (G1)|Hoist]], [[Grapple]], [[Skids]], and [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]], he became a charter member of the Autobot High Council, ruling alongside Shockwave in administrative matters while Ultra Magnus focused on more militant concerns. However, the lack of leadership experience by Inferno and most of his fellow council-beings led to them ceding more and more power to Shockwave over the years. They eventually came to their senses and joined in the insurrection against Shockwave led by [[Optimus Prime (G1)|Optimus Prime]] and the Ark's crew. {{Storylink|Revelation}}

===IDW Comics continuity===

Inferno was attending to the fire damage and chaos caused by Megatron's opening assault on [[Kaon]] when a pleasure cruiser fell out of the sky on top of him. It is unknown if he survived. {{Storylink|Megatron Origin}}

==Toys==
===Generation 1===
[[Image:G1_Inferno_toy.jpg|right|thumb|160px|Then he'll start the fire again.]]
*'''Inferno''' (Autobot, 1985)
: ''Japanese ID number:'' '''C-10'''

: Inferno transforms into a Mitsubishi Fuso firetruck. Each of his forearms contains a spring-loaded missile launcher, so he can fire his own fists or silver missiles. He is usually depicted in media has having a missile in place of a hand on his right arm. He is also armed with a small black rifle.

: In 2002, Inferno was re-released as part of [[Takara]]'s [[Transformers Collection]] series. This time he featured [[tampo-graphed]] Autobot symbol and blue eyes instead of yellow. These changes carried over to the [[Comemorative Series]] Inferno, Commemorative Series [[Grapple]], and [[Load Hauler]].

: In 2003, he was released by [[Hasbro]] in the Toys "R" Us [[exclusive]] "[[Commemorative Series]]" line.

: This mold was [[redeco]]ed and partially [[retool]]ed to make the [[Targetmaster]] [[Artfire (G1)|Artfire]], and [[Grapple_(G1)|Grapple]].

*'''Inferno with Hydro-Pack''' (Action Master, 1990)

: A non-transforming action figure with a simplified design, Inferno came with a [[Hydro-Pack]] that could be attached to his back or transformed into a large hand held Laser weapon. He is compatible with all other Action Master weapons and vehicles.

===Generation 2===
*'''Inferno''' (Autobot Hero, 1993)
: For ''Generation 2'', Inferno's original toy was re-used with virtually no deco changes, adding only the "Autobot" [[tampograph]]. His forearms were retooled to remove the spring-loaded launcher mechanism (the chromed missiles from the original releases were also dropped), but he came with a large red water-shooting cannon that clipped to his ladder.

==Trivia==
[[Image:A35.jpg|right|thumb|Inferno moonlights for easy cash.]]

* Inferno's original toy, slightly modified, was [[Knockoff|knocked off]] and used as the titular giant robot in the Korean animated film ''Phoenix King'' (피닉스킹). ''Phoenix King'' was dubbed (horribly) and released in America by Digiview Entertainment as ''[http://www.cyrusfirst.com/guests/digiview/dev/detail.php?p=91 Defenders of Space]'', generally selling for the bargain price of $1.00. Scenes of "Inferno" from this movie were also incorporated into another bargain film distributed by Digiview Entertainment, ''[http://www.cyrusfirst.com/guests/digiview/dev/detail.php?p=201 Space Thunder Kids]''.

* In the late 1990s, a knockoff of ''Generation 2'' Inferno with some yellow parts was sold in discount stores on a card reading "Transformers: Generation 3."

* The earliest pictured version of Action Master Inferno is largely different from the final version, but only upon close examination. The early version errs on the side of the original toy in color and design, while the final more closely follows the design of the animation model. Strangely, the early version has a nearly solid black block of a head (possibly to echo the ladder base in which the original's head was contained), as well as generally wider and chunky proportions.

* Inferno was one of many Transformers to be cut out of [[The Transformers: The Movie]]. His scene was cut but the credit for the character remained.

{{-}}

==External links==
* [http://www.tfu.info/1985/Autobot/Inferno/inferno.htm Inferno at TFU.info]

[[Category: Action Masters]]
[[Category: Autobots]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category: Headmasters characters]]
[[Category: Wreckers]]<div id="wikia-credits"> From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</div>

Soundwave (G1)

2007-12-18T17:48:27Z

199.91.37.33: /* Machine Wars */

{{disambig3|Soundwave}}
{{picsneeded|Appearances in fiction}}

:''Soundwave is a [[Decepticon]] in the [[Generation 1]] [[continuity family]]. In the Japanese series, he later took the name '''Soundblaster'''.''

[[Image:Soundwave_mixalot.jpg|thumb|300px|Big butts: preferred. Lying: impossible.]]

'''Soundwave''' is one of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s most reliable troops, and has positioned himself comfortably and irreplaceably in Megatron's upper command structure. He stands at the Decepticon leader's side as a confidant. Though "only" Communications Officer, he is comparable to [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] in rank, and is the only one of the three to display consistent loyalty to Megatron. Soundwave guards his place in the hierarchy fiercely. Other Decepticons (except Megatron) see him as a two-faced snake, since, as Communications Officer, Soundwave hears all, and doesn't hesitate to use blackmail to keep himself high in Megatron's esteem. The other Decepticons wouldn't mind abandoning him on the battlefield {{m-}} if they thought Megatron would let them get away with it.

Soundwave commands [[Mini-Cassette|a legion of cassette troops]] to carry out tasks big and small. He has a symbiotic relationship with them, providing them transportation and a cheap, if cramped, place to live in his chest. Sometimes he lets them all out to watch impromptu gladiator games, or takes them to discotheques. In return, they perform spy and recon missions for him, and make sure no one calls him "unchrasimatic".

He usually has all the personality of a stump (as evidenced by his computer-style speech). He also has no imagination, sending the aforementioned cassettes on operations with mundane names.

{{quote|As you command, Megatron.|Soundwave, eternal loyalist|''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''}}

:''Hungarian name'': '''Fülelő''' ("Listener") 
:''Italian name'': '''Memor''', '''Vizar''' (as Soundblaster) 
:''RTM dub name'': '''New Soundwave''' (as Soundblaster) 
:''French-Canadian name'': '''Radar''', '''Sonore''' (as Action Master)

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
{{note|Events from the UK-only comic stories are in italics.}}
[[Image:Contentedfools.jpg|left|thumb|200px|[[Ravage]], [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], and Soundwave, the first Decepticons.]]

After the Transformers' awakening on Earth, Soundwave served quietly under Megatron, before he was overthrown by [[Shockwave]]. Under Shockwave's command, Soundwave attacked the [[Blackrock Aerospace Plant]] and secured it for Decepticon use. {{storylink|Warrior School!}} The plant's facilities were used to create the [[Constructicons]], who built a massive radio dish that Soundwave used to beam a message back to Cybertron. {{storylink|The Next Best Thing to Being There!}} ''Soundwave assumed leadership of the Decepticons a short time later and led them against the Autobots during the "Dinobot Hunt," during a brief period when both Megatron and Shockwave were missing in action.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}}

When Megatron resurfaced, rendered immobile in a Wyoming coal mine due to lack of fuel, Soundwave sped to his rescue, re-energizing him. {{storylink| I, Robot Master!}} ''Using the splintered state of the Decepticon forces to his advantage, Soundwave worked both sides of the field, reporting to both Megatron and the returned Shockwave, without the other's knowledge. When Shockwave learned that the human [[Buster Witwicky]] had begun to suffer [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]]-induced visions of the [[combiner|next leap in Transformer evolution]], Soundwave reported this to Megatron, prompting him to battle Shockwave for leadership. The Decepticons' human ally, [[Robot Master]], televised the battle, much to Soundwave's distaste, and in order to prevent the Decepticons from looking like fools, interrupted the duel and insisted that they agree to a joint leadership.'' {{storylink|Second Generation!}}

[[Image:Laserbeakwarriorschool.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Fly, my pretties, fly!]]
''When the [[Robot-Master]] hoax the Decepticons were perpetrating was threatened by the investigate work of [[Joy Meadows]], Soundwave was instrumental in ending the conflict that ensued between the Decepticons and the Dinobots by holding the reporter hostage and destroying her footage.'' {{storylink|In the National Interest!}} ''Not long thereafter, when the deranged future Decepticon, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], traveled back in time, Soundwave was intrigued by the fact that he was unable to scan his mind to discern the truth of his identity. Siding with Megatron when conflict erupted, Soundwave and his leader were buried under an avalanche by Galvatron, and then rescued by the Autobots in the name of forming an alliance to defeat their common enemy.'' {{storylink|Target 2006}}

''It would be some time before Soundwave came back to the fore, and his return to the spotlight was an ignominious one. With Megatron having apparently died, Soundwave was now once again under Shockwave's command, and, while patrolling on the Decepticon's mobile island base, found himself attacked and subdued by the time-travelling freelance peace-keeping agent, [[Death's Head]], and tricked into giving up information on the whereabouts of Galvatron.'' {{storylink|Hunters!}} ''Although Death's Head's attempts to track down the Decepticon met with failure, Galvatron was ultimately entombed in lava, where he was later discovered by [[Susan Hoffman]]. Soundwave observed a televised broadcast of her discovery, and he and the [[Combaticon]]s attempted to destroy Galvatron with explosives planted around the volcano in question. After a battle with the [[Throttlebot]]s, Soundwave found that he was unable to remotely detonate the explosives planted around the volcano thanks to Blaster jamming his signal.'' {{storylink|Ladies' Night}}

[[Image:Soundwave uscomics.jpg|thumb|left|G2 before it was cool.]]

When Shockwave was removed from power, Soundwave smoothly transitioned to serving under the new Decepticon leader Ratbat, and helped to operate his [[Realvision]] playback system to decode data from Autobot tapes [[Grand Slam]] and [[Raindance]]. {{storylink|The Flames of Boltax!}} The tapes, it was discovered, contained information on the [[Underbase]], the power of which was soon claimed by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], who immediately targeted the Earth. Soundwave co-led the defense of New York alongside [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], but was deactivated by a blast of cosmic power from Starscream. {{storylink|Dark Star!}}

''It would be some time before Soundwave was operational again, but was back on his feet by the time that Starscream, now a [[Pretender]], was busy doubting his self-worth.'' {{storylink|Fallen Star}} He continued to operate under the command of the new Decepticon Earth commander, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]].

''In 2007, in the alternate future world of [[Earth-120185]], Soundwave was second-in-command of the Decepticon forces under Shockwave, and succeeded him after Death's Head assassinated him on the orders of [[Unicron]].'' {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!}} ''In 2008, Soundwave entered into an alliance with the [[Quintesson]]s, arranging to attack the Autobots as part of a larger plan. He was, however, unaware of the aliens' true plans to take control of Cybertron, and found himself double-crossed when the Quintessons ambushed the Decepticons en route to their attack on the Autobots. The Autobots, led by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], saved Soundwave's forces from the Quintessons, and they joined forces to repel the Quintesson invasion.'' {{storylink|Space Pirates!}} ''Finally, in 2009, Soundwave led the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] back in time to 1989, where they briefly participated in the "Time Wars," before returning to their own time in the midst of the conflict to save their own hides.'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

====Earthforce====

''In the tangent timeline that is home to the Autobot [[Earthforce]] team, Soundwave nominally served on Megatron's side during the Decepticon Civil War, but, once again, was not above exploiting the conflict for his own ends. When an energon shipment was hijacked by Shockwave's forces thanks to information he had given them, Megatron came to suspect the presence of a traitor in his ranks, but ironically assigned Soundwave to identify them. To keep his own duplicity a secret, he sets up [[Wildrider]] to take the fall, and Megatron destroys the [[Stunticon]].'' {{storylink|Secrets}}

''Approached by Starscream with a plan to make them both Decepticon leaders, Soundwave joined forces with the schemer and lured Megatron and Shockwave to an airport, tipping off the Autobots to their location. With the two leaders thus occupied, Soundwave and Starscream take control.'' {{storylink|Internal Affairs!}}'' Subsequently, Soundwave led an all-out attack on the Earthforce base as a diversion, while Starscream attempts to plunder an oil tanker. Starscream meets with failure, however, leading Soundwave to withdraw his forces, and wonder if he should not take leadership for himself alone.'' {{storylink|Divide and Conquer!}} ''Starscream is aware of Soundwave's goals, and when he is attacked by a group of alien assassins, suspects that he has ordered the hit and strikes back at him. Soundwave is able to convince him he is not responsible - in actuality, it was the work of Megatron and Shockwave.'' {{storylink|External Forces!}}

''Learning that human reporter [[Irwin Spoon]] had secured an interview with the Autobots that could potentially resolve public view of the Transformer war. Seeking to prevent this, he has the Stunticons captured the journalist, and although the Autobots are able to rescue him, a carefully planted [[cerebro-shell]] ensures that the story Irwin writes is anything but accurate.'' {{storylink|End of the Road!}}

===Animated continuity===
====''The Transformers''====
:''Voice Actor:'' [[Frank Welker]] (US), [[Issei Masamune]] (Japan)

[[Image:Cybertronsoundwave.jpg|thumb||left|Before the tape recorder, he was a lamp post. It's hard to take him seriously sometimes.]]

Prior to his arrival on Earth, Soundwave had the questionably useful [[altmode]] of a space-age lamp-post. This allowed him to get as close to Autobot headquarters as the street leading into [[Iacon]], but thankfully his chest-dwelling minion [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] could snoop even closer. The loyal Laserbeak overheard talk of the Autobot mission to seek new energy sources off Cybertron, which prompted the fateful Decepticon interception mission that eventually landed both teams on Earth.

Immediately after the Transformers awakened on Earth in 1984, Soundwave played an essential role in the generation of [[energon cube]]s and the formation of plans for a new space cruiser to return the Decepticons to Cybertron. He sounded really cool when he talked about these, too. Soundwave was reformatted as a portable cassette player, which allowed him to dupe a grabby and none-too-questioning [[Spike Witwicky]] into carrying his shrunken form into the [[Ark]] headquarters. This was to happen many times to the seemingly tape-deck addicted citizens of Earth.

Later, he used his mind-reading talents to acquire an [[antimatter]] formula for the Decepticons from the brain of [[Chip Chase]]. One of Soundwave's most notable misadventures came in in 1985, when, operating a plan conceived by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], he brainwashed humans with ultrasonic vibrations inside the Decepticon-built night club [[Dancitron]] in [[New York City]], leading to a confrontation with his Autobot Communications Officer counterpart, [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], beginning a lasting rivalry between the two.

[[Image:Soundwaveg1.jpg|thumb|right|200px|We'll get you next time, Gadget.]]

Soundwave rarely displayed much emotion, and only infrequently exhibited any cunning and self-serving traits. He came across as extremely loyal to Megatron, even going so far as to recover the mortally wounded leader after being left for dead at the Battle of Autobot City in 2005. But while Soundwave was loyal, he was far from stupid, and kept his mouth shut when Megatron was subsequently ejected into space, and although he did suggest himself as a replacement leader, he again loyally served Megatron when he returned as [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]].

In the year 2006, although operating in a less prominent capacity for most of the time, Soundwave played a prominent role in Galvatron's attempt to learn the secret of a sonic weapon on the planet [[Eurhythma]], where sound and music were the way of life, leaving Soundwave entranced by the planet's perfect melodies. Recording each piece of the harmony that formed the devastating sonic effect, Soundwave was defeated when the Eurhythmans countered the harmony with white noise, and was again pulled into a confrontation with Blaster, who erased his recordings.

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformer'' manga=====

While Megatron and the Decepticons engaged the Autobots in battle in Arizona, Soundwave and his cassettes were dispatched to do something unspecified but likely ''evil'' in Tokyo. Optimus Prime dispatched a unit of Autobots, lead by Bumblebee and [[Kenji]] to track them down. He was ultimately defeated when Bumblebee got the drop on him with his patented "Bumble-Kick" and shattered his chest, making it impossible for his cassette forces to return to him, leaving them to be captured as well.

{{note|The manga maintained something resembling continuity: during his appearance in the third issue of the book, Soundwave was shown to have bandages over his chest. Adorable.}}

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformer'' story pages=====

In the second "Anime Theater" story page, titled ''Sick em, Hound!'', the Autobots decided to keep themselves in shape by having a friendly race. Soundwave learned of the race and set up a trap within a narrow canyon. He walled the Autobots up within the canyon and began shooting them all. Luckily, [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] arrived on the scene and delivered a powerful punch to his chest, shattering his tape door. Soundwave immediately fled.

====''Headmasters''====

Shortly after the arrival of the [[Headmaster]]s, Soundwave and Blaster engaged in their final clash in the Arctic circle as the Autobots and Decepticons were in the process of searching for the missing Autobot [[Matrix]] of Leadership. The two opponents inflicted fatal damage on each other, and Soundwave's body exploded even as Blaster collapsed, but his fragments were recovered by his cassettes. Using reconstructive technology from the planet [[Master]], the leader of the Decepticon Headmasters, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] successfully rebuilt and resurrected Soundwave as '''Soundblaster''' - essentially identical to his former self, except for his predominantly black color scheme. As Soundblaster, Soundwave served the same role as he had previously under the leadership of Galvatron and later Scorponok, frequently embarking on spying missions with [[Ratbat]].

=====''Headmasters'' manga=====

After the Decepticons had been vanquished from Earth, [[Scorponok (G1)|Mega Zarak]] ordered Soundblaster to remain on Earth in secret to act as a spy for the Decepticons. Soundblaster made his presence and intentions known almost instantly (not a very good spy) by kicking [[Wheelie]] square in the face and taking the [[Spike Witwicky|Witwicky]] family hostage. Strangely enough, the Autobots considered these acts to be hostile. [[Chromedome]] was left powerless to do anything but surrender, as [[Slugfest]] and [[Overkill]] brutalized [[Spike Witwicky|Spike]] and threatened [[Carly]]. Daniel finally snapped and beat the living crap out of the two Cassette dinosaurs, leaving Soundblaster open to Chromedome's poorly named "Master-Chrome Hurricane Throw to the End of Hell!" Chromedome chucked Soundblaster over the horizon where he landed near the rogue Decepticon, [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]].

===Kid Stuff Talking Story Books continuity===
:''Voice actor:'' Unknown

In ''[[When Continents Collide]]'', [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] calls Soundwave a "blundering tape-filled idiot." This is notable because it is hilarious. Also, Soundwave is really, really whiny in these stories.

{{-}}
===''Beast Wars''===
[[Image:BW_Agenda_Pt3_Soundwave.jpg|thumb|left|180px|Soundwave it is, yesss.]]

Soundwave is shown among the many Transformers strewn about the interior of the Ark when the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] infiltrates the ship on his mission to destroy Optimus Prime.

In the [[3H]] ''Tales of the Beast Wars'' comics, Soundwave is one of the ancient warriors who appears from [[J'nwan]] to help battle the warlord [[Shokaract]].

{{-}}
===Dreamwave Generation 1 continuity===
Soundwave was chosen by Megatron to lead his second assassination team against the new Autobot supreme Commander, Optimus Prime. With the aid of his cassette troops, most notably Ravage, as well as [[Shrapnel]], [[Bombshell]], and [[Kickback]], it was assumed he would have no problem with a young, peace loving Autobot. Soundwave, like many others, underestimated Prime's resolve and was quickly incapacitated. He recovered quickly enough to rescue Megatron after the latter's own battle with Prime.
Soundwave was among the Decepticons who quickly joined Shockwave's forces upon returning to Cybertron. It seems clear, however, that Soundwave had little loyalty to him, as he readily joins up with Starscream when the [[Seeker]] decides to return to Earth and take over. Though Soundwave feigned subservience to Starscream, it is later revealed that he had been serving Megatron the entire time in secret.

{{-}}
===Devil's Due G.I.Joe vs. Transformers comics===
{{charstub}}

===IDW comics continuity===
{{spoiler}}
Long before the war began, Soundwave was the personal assistant to Senator [[Ratbat]]. When [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] caught Ratbat's eye as a champion of the illegal underground gladiatorial matches, Ratbat sent Soundwave to offer Megatron funding and weapons technology. When [[Bumper (G1)|two]] [[Fastback|Autobots]] were discovered listening in on their conversation, Soundwave dispatched Ravage, Buzzsaw, and Laserbeak to capture them. Some time later, Soundwave was assigned to find a warrior with flight capabilities. He found the [[Seeker]]s Starscream, Skywarp, and Thundercracker. During a recruitment rally where Megatron attempted to kill [[Decimus|Senator Decimus]], a raid by the Autobots under [[Sentinel Prime]] resulted in the partcipants being arrested. Soundwave, however, was freed under [[Senate]] directive, something which greatly angered the Prime. Soundwave had apparently switched loyalties at this time, becoming one of Megatron's own in not only helping Starscream exterminate Kaon senators but also to the extent that he destroyed Ratbat's original body nd forced him into the relatively weak cassette form, forcing him into the Decepticons. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Centuries later, after [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] disappeared, Megatron assigned [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] to delve into his research and relay all the information back to him. As the Decepticon leader did not fully trust Bludgeon, he also assigned Soundwave to spy on him. Soundwave followed Bludgeon and his team as they left for Earth in 1984 and established a base within Mt. St. Helens, eventually discovering that they intended to resurrect [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]]. Though he tried to stop them, [[Iguanus]] used an experimental cannon from Shockwave's arsenal to lock him in his alt mode while they instigated a volcanic eruption. He was eventually recovered by a team of unwitting humans who sold him to a pawn shop. He remains sitting in the window to this day. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

{{note|In a reponse to his Script (W)rap blog [http://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2007/11/05/script-wrap-14/#comment-1864], Simon Furman has reported that Soundwave will make a brief appearence in ''[[Devastation issue 4|Devastation]]'' issue 4.}}

{{-}}
==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Soundwave''' (Decepticon, 1984/1985, 2003)
:*''Japanese ID number:'' '''17''', '''TFC-10'''

[[Image:G1Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Soundwave superior. 'Nuf said.]]

: Soundwave transforms into a realistically-sized microcassette recorder of indeterminate manufacture, and includes weapons that turn into imitation batteries to power his nonexistent circuitry. [[Takara]]'s release of Soundwave in the ''[[Transformers]]'' line was nearly identical to the ''[[Microchange]]'' "MC-10 Cassette Man" toy on which he was based. This meant that along with being packaged with [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (previously a red "MC-01 Micross"), he came with a set of non-functioning headphones that allowed you to not listen to the silence not recorded on his non-functioning tapes with the non-functioning microphone. [[Hasbro]] packaged Soundwave with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] rather than Rumble, and omitted the other non-functioning accessories.

: Soundwave was included in the VS-Y versus pack along with Rumble and [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]].

: For 2003, Soundwave was reissued as part of Takara's [[Transformers Collection]] "book-box" series. This iteration of Soundwave came packaged with [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]].

{{-}}
*'''Soundblaster''' (Decepticon, 1987, 2005)
:*''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-101''', '''TFC-18'''

[[Image:G1Soundblaster_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Once you go black, you can never go b—]]

: As part of the Japanese ''[[Headmasters (franchise)|Headmasters]]'' series, Soundwave was [[redeco]]ed and [[retool]]ed so that he could hold two Cassettes in his chest at once. Soundblaster's tape door was cast in transparent red plastic to allow the information on the "readout" decal, unique to the ''Headmasters'' decos of the cassettes, to be seen, functioning in the same manner as the Tech Specs decoders. The readouts of the Decepticon cassettes showed the "weak points" of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]. Soundblaster came packaged with Buzzsaw.

: Soundblaster saw reissue in the Transformers Collection series in 2005, packaged together with Buzzsaw and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]].

{{-}}
*'''Soundwave with Wingthing''' (Action Master, 1990)

[[Image:G1_ActionMaster_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|—uh, never mind.]]

: [[Action Master]] Soundwave is a non-transforming action figure who combines elements of his cartoon model and original toy. He is compatible with any other Action Master weapon or vehicle. He came packaged with his new partner [[Wingthing]].

{{-}}
===Generation 2===
*'''Soundwave''' (Go-Bot, 1995)

[[Image:G2_Gobot_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|The goggles do nothing.]]

: A [[redeco]] of the [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bot]] [[Gearhead]], Soundwave transforms into a Ford Thunderbird stock car with precision wheels and wire axles, compatible with "Hot Wheels" and "Matchbox" playsets and tracks (which he was properly sized to fit).

: Notably, his color scheme is very '''loud''', being bright shades of fluorescent yellow, pink and blue. This is one time fans can actually get away with describing a toy's color scheme as [[neon]].

{{-}}
===Machine Wars===
*'''Soundwave''' (Mega, 1997)

[[Image:MW_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Not my scene, baby!]]

: ''[[Machine Wars]]'' Soundwave was a [[redeco]] of the [[Predator]] [[Stalker]] minus Stalker's handgun and its missiles and with the sighting gimmick having been removed from the missile. In this incarnation Soundwave transforms into tracked missile carrier.

{{-}}

===Smallest Transformers===
*'''Soundwave and Ravage''' (2003)

[[Image:SmallestTF_Soundwave_toy.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Small in size. Big in taste!]]

: Like all of the ''[[Smallest Transformers]]'', this version of Soundwave is a tiny replica of his G1 form. He came with ''Smallest Transformers'' Ravage, who is probably ''the'' smallest Transformer ever.

{{-}}

===Universe===
*'''Soundwave & Space Case''' (Ultra, 2004)

[[Image:Universe_Soundwave&Space-Case_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Soundwave: superior. Space Case: inferior.]]

: The ''Machine Wars'' version of Soundwave was redecoed for release in the ''[[Universe]]'' line in an Ultra-level two-pack with [[Space Case]]. Due to the lack of fiction, it is ''possible'' that this incarnation is in fact an alternate-universe version of Soundwave, or possibly a new character altogether.

{{-}}
===Titanium series===
*'''Soundwave''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)

[[Image:Titanium_CybHeroes_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Steel Band]]

: A new representation of his G1 form, this Soundwave transforms into a slightly redesigned version of his original microcassette player mode. He also comes with a VERY tiny Laserbeak that transforms into a black rectangle vaguely resembling a microcassette and is almost (but not quite) as small as ''Smallest TF'' Ravage. He can also fit inside of Soundwave's chest. Both of Soundwave's guns resemble batteries and fit into the battery compartment on his back.

:This mold was to be redecoed as Soundblaster with a new Ravage tape partner, but as of writing has not been released.

===Classics===
*'''Soundwave''' (Commemorative Edition, 2007)

[[Image:Classics_Commemorative_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Ravage, Laserbeak: Eject. Operation: Reissue.]]

: Despite having packaging that claims ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' Soundwave is "Identical to the original toy", this version is actually a redeco of the [[Transformers Collection]] Sound''blaster'' reissue in Soundwave's original colors. Like the Soundblaster reissue, ''Classics'' Soundwave is packaged with "Battle" Ravage, as well as Laserbeak, recolored from Soundblaster's Buzzsaw. In a move rare for a US release of this toy, the set included two [[Takara]] clear plastic cassette cases. Exclusive to Toys 'R' Us stores, Soundwave had been intended for the [[Commemorative Series]], but after the cancellation of that line he was added to ''Classics'', although the phrase "Commemorative Edition" is prominently displayed on the front and sides of the box.

{{note|It is interesting to note that while the actual product uses the Soundblaster mold, the package photos show Soundwave with the single-tape door mold used for Takara's TFC-10 reissue.}}

===Music Label===
*'''Soundwave Playing Audio Player''' (2007)
[[Image:Music label soundwave.jpg|right|thumb|150px|SOUNDWAVE: SUPERIOR. ALL OTHER MUSIC PLAYERS: INFERIOR.]]

: Released by [[TakaraTomy]]'s Music Label (which also puts out a not-half-as-cool Convoy iPod stand), Soundwave is an MP3 player which takes a miniSD card. The box says it can take up to 1 GB, but many claims have shown it can support upwards to 2 GB. Uses 1 AAA battery. An optional accessory, sold separately, feature headphones that transform into [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]. The player also features a transformation almost entirely accurate to his G1 appearance. He also comes with two sets of hands, his shoulder cannon, and a sidearm.

{{-}}
===Attacktix===
*'''Soundwave''' (Booster, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix_G1Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|I like big blasters and I can not lie!]]
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}

===Unreleased===
:In ''Generation 2'', a [[redeco]] of the [[Laser Cycle]] [[Road Pig]] was planned as Soundwave, but ultimately never released, one of many planned redecos that never made it. Some packaged samples do exist.

==Trivia==
*According to an interview in the magazine ''Otaku USA'' (issue 3, pg. 102-3), the original Microchange toy and the accompanying cassettes were at least partially designed by famed mecha designer and anime director [[Shinji 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 deluxe [[Insecticon]]s, [[Reflector]], and [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]].

* Including the ''[[Microchange]]'' "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 initial ''Transformers'' release by Hasbro, the "Cassette Man" text was removed.
** When Takara's Soundwave was released, the hinge was remolded so the bottom of the door attached to the outside of the robot, on either side of the "buttons", which had also been remolded.
** The Soundblaster version had a door that retained the external hinge and added the capacity for holding a second cassette.

[[Image:Soundwavecommercial.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Say hello to my leetle friend!]]

* 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.)

* Animation from early ''Transformers'' commercials featured a Soundwave model colored in very light blue, versus the dark blue used later. Also, instead of the cassettes ejecting themselves from his chest, he reached into his chest compartment with his own fingers and threw the (tiny) tapes into the air.

* Soundwave's distinctive voice proved to be one of G1's most memorable aspects. The highly-processed voice began with Frank Welker basically doing his Dr. Claw voice. Whether due variations in the performance or the processing, the final result varied quite a bit across Soundwave's three seasons on the show. Occasionally, as in the episodes [[Roll For It]] and [[Webworld]], the processing was left out and Welker's actual voice can be heard.

* The Marvel US comics chose a purple scheme for Soundwave. This could have been an error, an early look for him that was dropped in other media, or perhaps an attempt to distinguish him from the other Decepticons, who were mostly blue (especially since blacks also ended up as blues in the industry's then-limited color palette). The Marvel UK comics colored him blue like everywhere else.

[[Image:Bm soundwave.jpg|thumb|right|Soundwave gets [[slag (slang)|slagged]] by Vehicons, and Nightscream escapes. How's that for injustice?{{storylink|Forbidden Fruit}}]]

* Soundwave's computer model was used for one of the generic transformers in Beast Machines seen in [[Nightscream]]'s flashback being cornered by [[Vehicon]] drones just before Nightscream fled into the lower levels of Cybertron. Though the model was recolored, it was still really 'Soundwavey,' causing much confusion among fans.

* Later, Soundwave's character model showed up numerous times in various color schemes as a generic background character in [[Armada (cartoon)|Armada]].

* [[Sideways]] listened to music using a tape deck resembling Soundwave in the [[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]] cartoon. Later, after a new [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]] was found, ''Cybertron'' [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]] held tape deck Soundwave in his arms.

*In the Japanese dub of the [[Generation 1 (television series)|Generation 1 cartoon]] as well as the [[manga]], all of Soundwave's cassette forces which could talk referred to him as "big brother". It should probably be noted, though, that this is a fairly common way to refer to others you admire and such in Japanese. Then again, it's also seen as a cute term of endearment from girls and young women, so... yeah. Take it as you will. Whatever it says about his relationship with them, it does give new meaning to the phrase [[Wikipedia:Big Brother (Nineteen Eighty-Four)|"Big Brother is watching over you"]].

{{-}}
==External links==
* [http://www.tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Soundwave/soundwave.htm Soundwave at TFU.info]

* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Soundwave Soundwave's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category: Action Masters]]
[[Category: Attacktix]]
[[Category: Classics characters]]
[[Category: Decepticon leaders]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category: Go-Bots]]
[[Category: Headmasters characters]]
[[Category: Letters page answerers]]
[[Category: Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category: MyClone]]
[[Category: Robot Heroes]]
[[Category: Scientists]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]
[[Category: Universe characters]]
[[Category: Unreleased toys]]<div id="wikia-credits"> From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</div>

Soundwave (G1)

2007-12-18T17:47:30Z

199.91.37.33: /* Attacktix */

{{disambig3|Soundwave}}
{{picsneeded|Appearances in fiction}}

:''Soundwave is a [[Decepticon]] in the [[Generation 1]] [[continuity family]]. In the Japanese series, he later took the name '''Soundblaster'''.''

[[Image:Soundwave_mixalot.jpg|thumb|300px|Big butts: preferred. Lying: impossible.]]

'''Soundwave''' is one of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s most reliable troops, and has positioned himself comfortably and irreplaceably in Megatron's upper command structure. He stands at the Decepticon leader's side as a confidant. Though "only" Communications Officer, he is comparable to [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] in rank, and is the only one of the three to display consistent loyalty to Megatron. Soundwave guards his place in the hierarchy fiercely. Other Decepticons (except Megatron) see him as a two-faced snake, since, as Communications Officer, Soundwave hears all, and doesn't hesitate to use blackmail to keep himself high in Megatron's esteem. The other Decepticons wouldn't mind abandoning him on the battlefield {{m-}} if they thought Megatron would let them get away with it.

Soundwave commands [[Mini-Cassette|a legion of cassette troops]] to carry out tasks big and small. He has a symbiotic relationship with them, providing them transportation and a cheap, if cramped, place to live in his chest. Sometimes he lets them all out to watch impromptu gladiator games, or takes them to discotheques. In return, they perform spy and recon missions for him, and make sure no one calls him "unchrasimatic".

He usually has all the personality of a stump (as evidenced by his computer-style speech). He also has no imagination, sending the aforementioned cassettes on operations with mundane names.

{{quote|As you command, Megatron.|Soundwave, eternal loyalist|''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''}}

:''Hungarian name'': '''Fülelő''' ("Listener") 
:''Italian name'': '''Memor''', '''Vizar''' (as Soundblaster) 
:''RTM dub name'': '''New Soundwave''' (as Soundblaster) 
:''French-Canadian name'': '''Radar''', '''Sonore''' (as Action Master)

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
{{note|Events from the UK-only comic stories are in italics.}}
[[Image:Contentedfools.jpg|left|thumb|200px|[[Ravage]], [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], and Soundwave, the first Decepticons.]]

After the Transformers' awakening on Earth, Soundwave served quietly under Megatron, before he was overthrown by [[Shockwave]]. Under Shockwave's command, Soundwave attacked the [[Blackrock Aerospace Plant]] and secured it for Decepticon use. {{storylink|Warrior School!}} The plant's facilities were used to create the [[Constructicons]], who built a massive radio dish that Soundwave used to beam a message back to Cybertron. {{storylink|The Next Best Thing to Being There!}} ''Soundwave assumed leadership of the Decepticons a short time later and led them against the Autobots during the "Dinobot Hunt," during a brief period when both Megatron and Shockwave were missing in action.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}}

When Megatron resurfaced, rendered immobile in a Wyoming coal mine due to lack of fuel, Soundwave sped to his rescue, re-energizing him. {{storylink| I, Robot Master!}} ''Using the splintered state of the Decepticon forces to his advantage, Soundwave worked both sides of the field, reporting to both Megatron and the returned Shockwave, without the other's knowledge. When Shockwave learned that the human [[Buster Witwicky]] had begun to suffer [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]]-induced visions of the [[combiner|next leap in Transformer evolution]], Soundwave reported this to Megatron, prompting him to battle Shockwave for leadership. The Decepticons' human ally, [[Robot Master]], televised the battle, much to Soundwave's distaste, and in order to prevent the Decepticons from looking like fools, interrupted the duel and insisted that they agree to a joint leadership.'' {{storylink|Second Generation!}}

[[Image:Laserbeakwarriorschool.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Fly, my pretties, fly!]]
''When the [[Robot-Master]] hoax the Decepticons were perpetrating was threatened by the investigate work of [[Joy Meadows]], Soundwave was instrumental in ending the conflict that ensued between the Decepticons and the Dinobots by holding the reporter hostage and destroying her footage.'' {{storylink|In the National Interest!}} ''Not long thereafter, when the deranged future Decepticon, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], traveled back in time, Soundwave was intrigued by the fact that he was unable to scan his mind to discern the truth of his identity. Siding with Megatron when conflict erupted, Soundwave and his leader were buried under an avalanche by Galvatron, and then rescued by the Autobots in the name of forming an alliance to defeat their common enemy.'' {{storylink|Target 2006}}

''It would be some time before Soundwave came back to the fore, and his return to the spotlight was an ignominious one. With Megatron having apparently died, Soundwave was now once again under Shockwave's command, and, while patrolling on the Decepticon's mobile island base, found himself attacked and subdued by the time-travelling freelance peace-keeping agent, [[Death's Head]], and tricked into giving up information on the whereabouts of Galvatron.'' {{storylink|Hunters!}} ''Although Death's Head's attempts to track down the Decepticon met with failure, Galvatron was ultimately entombed in lava, where he was later discovered by [[Susan Hoffman]]. Soundwave observed a televised broadcast of her discovery, and he and the [[Combaticon]]s attempted to destroy Galvatron with explosives planted around the volcano in question. After a battle with the [[Throttlebot]]s, Soundwave found that he was unable to remotely detonate the explosives planted around the volcano thanks to Blaster jamming his signal.'' {{storylink|Ladies' Night}}

[[Image:Soundwave uscomics.jpg|thumb|left|G2 before it was cool.]]

When Shockwave was removed from power, Soundwave smoothly transitioned to serving under the new Decepticon leader Ratbat, and helped to operate his [[Realvision]] playback system to decode data from Autobot tapes [[Grand Slam]] and [[Raindance]]. {{storylink|The Flames of Boltax!}} The tapes, it was discovered, contained information on the [[Underbase]], the power of which was soon claimed by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], who immediately targeted the Earth. Soundwave co-led the defense of New York alongside [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], but was deactivated by a blast of cosmic power from Starscream. {{storylink|Dark Star!}}

''It would be some time before Soundwave was operational again, but was back on his feet by the time that Starscream, now a [[Pretender]], was busy doubting his self-worth.'' {{storylink|Fallen Star}} He continued to operate under the command of the new Decepticon Earth commander, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]].

''In 2007, in the alternate future world of [[Earth-120185]], Soundwave was second-in-command of the Decepticon forces under Shockwave, and succeeded him after Death's Head assassinated him on the orders of [[Unicron]].'' {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!}} ''In 2008, Soundwave entered into an alliance with the [[Quintesson]]s, arranging to attack the Autobots as part of a larger plan. He was, however, unaware of the aliens' true plans to take control of Cybertron, and found himself double-crossed when the Quintessons ambushed the Decepticons en route to their attack on the Autobots. The Autobots, led by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], saved Soundwave's forces from the Quintessons, and they joined forces to repel the Quintesson invasion.'' {{storylink|Space Pirates!}} ''Finally, in 2009, Soundwave led the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] back in time to 1989, where they briefly participated in the "Time Wars," before returning to their own time in the midst of the conflict to save their own hides.'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

====Earthforce====

''In the tangent timeline that is home to the Autobot [[Earthforce]] team, Soundwave nominally served on Megatron's side during the Decepticon Civil War, but, once again, was not above exploiting the conflict for his own ends. When an energon shipment was hijacked by Shockwave's forces thanks to information he had given them, Megatron came to suspect the presence of a traitor in his ranks, but ironically assigned Soundwave to identify them. To keep his own duplicity a secret, he sets up [[Wildrider]] to take the fall, and Megatron destroys the [[Stunticon]].'' {{storylink|Secrets}}

''Approached by Starscream with a plan to make them both Decepticon leaders, Soundwave joined forces with the schemer and lured Megatron and Shockwave to an airport, tipping off the Autobots to their location. With the two leaders thus occupied, Soundwave and Starscream take control.'' {{storylink|Internal Affairs!}}'' Subsequently, Soundwave led an all-out attack on the Earthforce base as a diversion, while Starscream attempts to plunder an oil tanker. Starscream meets with failure, however, leading Soundwave to withdraw his forces, and wonder if he should not take leadership for himself alone.'' {{storylink|Divide and Conquer!}} ''Starscream is aware of Soundwave's goals, and when he is attacked by a group of alien assassins, suspects that he has ordered the hit and strikes back at him. Soundwave is able to convince him he is not responsible - in actuality, it was the work of Megatron and Shockwave.'' {{storylink|External Forces!}}

''Learning that human reporter [[Irwin Spoon]] had secured an interview with the Autobots that could potentially resolve public view of the Transformer war. Seeking to prevent this, he has the Stunticons captured the journalist, and although the Autobots are able to rescue him, a carefully planted [[cerebro-shell]] ensures that the story Irwin writes is anything but accurate.'' {{storylink|End of the Road!}}

===Animated continuity===
====''The Transformers''====
:''Voice Actor:'' [[Frank Welker]] (US), [[Issei Masamune]] (Japan)

[[Image:Cybertronsoundwave.jpg|thumb||left|Before the tape recorder, he was a lamp post. It's hard to take him seriously sometimes.]]

Prior to his arrival on Earth, Soundwave had the questionably useful [[altmode]] of a space-age lamp-post. This allowed him to get as close to Autobot headquarters as the street leading into [[Iacon]], but thankfully his chest-dwelling minion [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] could snoop even closer. The loyal Laserbeak overheard talk of the Autobot mission to seek new energy sources off Cybertron, which prompted the fateful Decepticon interception mission that eventually landed both teams on Earth.

Immediately after the Transformers awakened on Earth in 1984, Soundwave played an essential role in the generation of [[energon cube]]s and the formation of plans for a new space cruiser to return the Decepticons to Cybertron. He sounded really cool when he talked about these, too. Soundwave was reformatted as a portable cassette player, which allowed him to dupe a grabby and none-too-questioning [[Spike Witwicky]] into carrying his shrunken form into the [[Ark]] headquarters. This was to happen many times to the seemingly tape-deck addicted citizens of Earth.

Later, he used his mind-reading talents to acquire an [[antimatter]] formula for the Decepticons from the brain of [[Chip Chase]]. One of Soundwave's most notable misadventures came in in 1985, when, operating a plan conceived by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], he brainwashed humans with ultrasonic vibrations inside the Decepticon-built night club [[Dancitron]] in [[New York City]], leading to a confrontation with his Autobot Communications Officer counterpart, [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], beginning a lasting rivalry between the two.

[[Image:Soundwaveg1.jpg|thumb|right|200px|We'll get you next time, Gadget.]]

Soundwave rarely displayed much emotion, and only infrequently exhibited any cunning and self-serving traits. He came across as extremely loyal to Megatron, even going so far as to recover the mortally wounded leader after being left for dead at the Battle of Autobot City in 2005. But while Soundwave was loyal, he was far from stupid, and kept his mouth shut when Megatron was subsequently ejected into space, and although he did suggest himself as a replacement leader, he again loyally served Megatron when he returned as [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]].

In the year 2006, although operating in a less prominent capacity for most of the time, Soundwave played a prominent role in Galvatron's attempt to learn the secret of a sonic weapon on the planet [[Eurhythma]], where sound and music were the way of life, leaving Soundwave entranced by the planet's perfect melodies. Recording each piece of the harmony that formed the devastating sonic effect, Soundwave was defeated when the Eurhythmans countered the harmony with white noise, and was again pulled into a confrontation with Blaster, who erased his recordings.

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformer'' manga=====

While Megatron and the Decepticons engaged the Autobots in battle in Arizona, Soundwave and his cassettes were dispatched to do something unspecified but likely ''evil'' in Tokyo. Optimus Prime dispatched a unit of Autobots, lead by Bumblebee and [[Kenji]] to track them down. He was ultimately defeated when Bumblebee got the drop on him with his patented "Bumble-Kick" and shattered his chest, making it impossible for his cassette forces to return to him, leaving them to be captured as well.

{{note|The manga maintained something resembling continuity: during his appearance in the third issue of the book, Soundwave was shown to have bandages over his chest. Adorable.}}

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformer'' story pages=====

In the second "Anime Theater" story page, titled ''Sick em, Hound!'', the Autobots decided to keep themselves in shape by having a friendly race. Soundwave learned of the race and set up a trap within a narrow canyon. He walled the Autobots up within the canyon and began shooting them all. Luckily, [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] arrived on the scene and delivered a powerful punch to his chest, shattering his tape door. Soundwave immediately fled.

====''Headmasters''====

Shortly after the arrival of the [[Headmaster]]s, Soundwave and Blaster engaged in their final clash in the Arctic circle as the Autobots and Decepticons were in the process of searching for the missing Autobot [[Matrix]] of Leadership. The two opponents inflicted fatal damage on each other, and Soundwave's body exploded even as Blaster collapsed, but his fragments were recovered by his cassettes. Using reconstructive technology from the planet [[Master]], the leader of the Decepticon Headmasters, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] successfully rebuilt and resurrected Soundwave as '''Soundblaster''' - essentially identical to his former self, except for his predominantly black color scheme. As Soundblaster, Soundwave served the same role as he had previously under the leadership of Galvatron and later Scorponok, frequently embarking on spying missions with [[Ratbat]].

=====''Headmasters'' manga=====

After the Decepticons had been vanquished from Earth, [[Scorponok (G1)|Mega Zarak]] ordered Soundblaster to remain on Earth in secret to act as a spy for the Decepticons. Soundblaster made his presence and intentions known almost instantly (not a very good spy) by kicking [[Wheelie]] square in the face and taking the [[Spike Witwicky|Witwicky]] family hostage. Strangely enough, the Autobots considered these acts to be hostile. [[Chromedome]] was left powerless to do anything but surrender, as [[Slugfest]] and [[Overkill]] brutalized [[Spike Witwicky|Spike]] and threatened [[Carly]]. Daniel finally snapped and beat the living crap out of the two Cassette dinosaurs, leaving Soundblaster open to Chromedome's poorly named "Master-Chrome Hurricane Throw to the End of Hell!" Chromedome chucked Soundblaster over the horizon where he landed near the rogue Decepticon, [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]].

===Kid Stuff Talking Story Books continuity===
:''Voice actor:'' Unknown

In ''[[When Continents Collide]]'', [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] calls Soundwave a "blundering tape-filled idiot." This is notable because it is hilarious. Also, Soundwave is really, really whiny in these stories.

{{-}}
===''Beast Wars''===
[[Image:BW_Agenda_Pt3_Soundwave.jpg|thumb|left|180px|Soundwave it is, yesss.]]

Soundwave is shown among the many Transformers strewn about the interior of the Ark when the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] infiltrates the ship on his mission to destroy Optimus Prime.

In the [[3H]] ''Tales of the Beast Wars'' comics, Soundwave is one of the ancient warriors who appears from [[J'nwan]] to help battle the warlord [[Shokaract]].

{{-}}
===Dreamwave Generation 1 continuity===
Soundwave was chosen by Megatron to lead his second assassination team against the new Autobot supreme Commander, Optimus Prime. With the aid of his cassette troops, most notably Ravage, as well as [[Shrapnel]], [[Bombshell]], and [[Kickback]], it was assumed he would have no problem with a young, peace loving Autobot. Soundwave, like many others, underestimated Prime's resolve and was quickly incapacitated. He recovered quickly enough to rescue Megatron after the latter's own battle with Prime.
Soundwave was among the Decepticons who quickly joined Shockwave's forces upon returning to Cybertron. It seems clear, however, that Soundwave had little loyalty to him, as he readily joins up with Starscream when the [[Seeker]] decides to return to Earth and take over. Though Soundwave feigned subservience to Starscream, it is later revealed that he had been serving Megatron the entire time in secret.

{{-}}
===Devil's Due G.I.Joe vs. Transformers comics===
{{charstub}}

===IDW comics continuity===
{{spoiler}}
Long before the war began, Soundwave was the personal assistant to Senator [[Ratbat]]. When [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] caught Ratbat's eye as a champion of the illegal underground gladiatorial matches, Ratbat sent Soundwave to offer Megatron funding and weapons technology. When [[Bumper (G1)|two]] [[Fastback|Autobots]] were discovered listening in on their conversation, Soundwave dispatched Ravage, Buzzsaw, and Laserbeak to capture them. Some time later, Soundwave was assigned to find a warrior with flight capabilities. He found the [[Seeker]]s Starscream, Skywarp, and Thundercracker. During a recruitment rally where Megatron attempted to kill [[Decimus|Senator Decimus]], a raid by the Autobots under [[Sentinel Prime]] resulted in the partcipants being arrested. Soundwave, however, was freed under [[Senate]] directive, something which greatly angered the Prime. Soundwave had apparently switched loyalties at this time, becoming one of Megatron's own in not only helping Starscream exterminate Kaon senators but also to the extent that he destroyed Ratbat's original body nd forced him into the relatively weak cassette form, forcing him into the Decepticons. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Centuries later, after [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] disappeared, Megatron assigned [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] to delve into his research and relay all the information back to him. As the Decepticon leader did not fully trust Bludgeon, he also assigned Soundwave to spy on him. Soundwave followed Bludgeon and his team as they left for Earth in 1984 and established a base within Mt. St. Helens, eventually discovering that they intended to resurrect [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]]. Though he tried to stop them, [[Iguanus]] used an experimental cannon from Shockwave's arsenal to lock him in his alt mode while they instigated a volcanic eruption. He was eventually recovered by a team of unwitting humans who sold him to a pawn shop. He remains sitting in the window to this day. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

{{note|In a reponse to his Script (W)rap blog [http://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2007/11/05/script-wrap-14/#comment-1864], Simon Furman has reported that Soundwave will make a brief appearence in ''[[Devastation issue 4|Devastation]]'' issue 4.}}

{{-}}
==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Soundwave''' (Decepticon, 1984/1985, 2003)
:*''Japanese ID number:'' '''17''', '''TFC-10'''

[[Image:G1Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Soundwave superior. 'Nuf said.]]

: Soundwave transforms into a realistically-sized microcassette recorder of indeterminate manufacture, and includes weapons that turn into imitation batteries to power his nonexistent circuitry. [[Takara]]'s release of Soundwave in the ''[[Transformers]]'' line was nearly identical to the ''[[Microchange]]'' "MC-10 Cassette Man" toy on which he was based. This meant that along with being packaged with [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (previously a red "MC-01 Micross"), he came with a set of non-functioning headphones that allowed you to not listen to the silence not recorded on his non-functioning tapes with the non-functioning microphone. [[Hasbro]] packaged Soundwave with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] rather than Rumble, and omitted the other non-functioning accessories.

: Soundwave was included in the VS-Y versus pack along with Rumble and [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]].

: For 2003, Soundwave was reissued as part of Takara's [[Transformers Collection]] "book-box" series. This iteration of Soundwave came packaged with [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]].

{{-}}
*'''Soundblaster''' (Decepticon, 1987, 2005)
:*''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-101''', '''TFC-18'''

[[Image:G1Soundblaster_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Once you go black, you can never go b—]]

: As part of the Japanese ''[[Headmasters (franchise)|Headmasters]]'' series, Soundwave was [[redeco]]ed and [[retool]]ed so that he could hold two Cassettes in his chest at once. Soundblaster's tape door was cast in transparent red plastic to allow the information on the "readout" decal, unique to the ''Headmasters'' decos of the cassettes, to be seen, functioning in the same manner as the Tech Specs decoders. The readouts of the Decepticon cassettes showed the "weak points" of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]. Soundblaster came packaged with Buzzsaw.

: Soundblaster saw reissue in the Transformers Collection series in 2005, packaged together with Buzzsaw and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]].

{{-}}
*'''Soundwave with Wingthing''' (Action Master, 1990)

[[Image:G1_ActionMaster_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|—uh, never mind.]]

: [[Action Master]] Soundwave is a non-transforming action figure who combines elements of his cartoon model and original toy. He is compatible with any other Action Master weapon or vehicle. He came packaged with his new partner [[Wingthing]].

{{-}}
===Generation 2===
*'''Soundwave''' (Go-Bot, 1995)

[[Image:G2_Gobot_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|The goggles do nothing.]]

: A [[redeco]] of the [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bot]] [[Gearhead]], Soundwave transforms into a Ford Thunderbird stock car with precision wheels and wire axles, compatible with "Hot Wheels" and "Matchbox" playsets and tracks (which he was properly sized to fit).

: Notably, his color scheme is very '''loud''', being bright shades of fluorescent yellow, pink and blue. This is one time fans can actually get away with describing a toy's color scheme as [[neon]].

{{-}}
===Machine Wars===
*'''Soundwave''' (Mega, 1997)

[[Image:MW_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|]]

: ''[[Machine Wars]]'' Soundwave was a [[redeco]] of the [[Predator]] [[Stalker]] minus Stalker's handgun and its missiles and with the sighting gimmick having been removed from the missile. In this incarnation Soundwave transforms into tracked missile carrier.

{{-}}
===Smallest Transformers===
*'''Soundwave and Ravage''' (2003)

[[Image:SmallestTF_Soundwave_toy.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Small in size. Big in taste!]]

: Like all of the ''[[Smallest Transformers]]'', this version of Soundwave is a tiny replica of his G1 form. He came with ''Smallest Transformers'' Ravage, who is probably ''the'' smallest Transformer ever.

{{-}}

===Universe===
*'''Soundwave & Space Case''' (Ultra, 2004)

[[Image:Universe_Soundwave&Space-Case_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Soundwave: superior. Space Case: inferior.]]

: The ''Machine Wars'' version of Soundwave was redecoed for release in the ''[[Universe]]'' line in an Ultra-level two-pack with [[Space Case]]. Due to the lack of fiction, it is ''possible'' that this incarnation is in fact an alternate-universe version of Soundwave, or possibly a new character altogether.

{{-}}
===Titanium series===
*'''Soundwave''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)

[[Image:Titanium_CybHeroes_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Steel Band]]

: A new representation of his G1 form, this Soundwave transforms into a slightly redesigned version of his original microcassette player mode. He also comes with a VERY tiny Laserbeak that transforms into a black rectangle vaguely resembling a microcassette and is almost (but not quite) as small as ''Smallest TF'' Ravage. He can also fit inside of Soundwave's chest. Both of Soundwave's guns resemble batteries and fit into the battery compartment on his back.

:This mold was to be redecoed as Soundblaster with a new Ravage tape partner, but as of writing has not been released.

===Classics===
*'''Soundwave''' (Commemorative Edition, 2007)

[[Image:Classics_Commemorative_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Ravage, Laserbeak: Eject. Operation: Reissue.]]

: Despite having packaging that claims ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' Soundwave is "Identical to the original toy", this version is actually a redeco of the [[Transformers Collection]] Sound''blaster'' reissue in Soundwave's original colors. Like the Soundblaster reissue, ''Classics'' Soundwave is packaged with "Battle" Ravage, as well as Laserbeak, recolored from Soundblaster's Buzzsaw. In a move rare for a US release of this toy, the set included two [[Takara]] clear plastic cassette cases. Exclusive to Toys 'R' Us stores, Soundwave had been intended for the [[Commemorative Series]], but after the cancellation of that line he was added to ''Classics'', although the phrase "Commemorative Edition" is prominently displayed on the front and sides of the box.

{{note|It is interesting to note that while the actual product uses the Soundblaster mold, the package photos show Soundwave with the single-tape door mold used for Takara's TFC-10 reissue.}}

===Music Label===
*'''Soundwave Playing Audio Player''' (2007)
[[Image:Music label soundwave.jpg|right|thumb|150px|SOUNDWAVE: SUPERIOR. ALL OTHER MUSIC PLAYERS: INFERIOR.]]

: Released by [[TakaraTomy]]'s Music Label (which also puts out a not-half-as-cool Convoy iPod stand), Soundwave is an MP3 player which takes a miniSD card. The box says it can take up to 1 GB, but many claims have shown it can support upwards to 2 GB. Uses 1 AAA battery. An optional accessory, sold separately, feature headphones that transform into [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]. The player also features a transformation almost entirely accurate to his G1 appearance. He also comes with two sets of hands, his shoulder cannon, and a sidearm.

{{-}}
===Attacktix===
*'''Soundwave''' (Booster, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix_G1Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|I like big blasters and I can not lie!]]
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}

===Unreleased===
:In ''Generation 2'', a [[redeco]] of the [[Laser Cycle]] [[Road Pig]] was planned as Soundwave, but ultimately never released, one of many planned redecos that never made it. Some packaged samples do exist.

==Trivia==
*According to an interview in the magazine ''Otaku USA'' (issue 3, pg. 102-3), the original Microchange toy and the accompanying cassettes were at least partially designed by famed mecha designer and anime director [[Shinji 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 deluxe [[Insecticon]]s, [[Reflector]], and [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]].

* Including the ''[[Microchange]]'' "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 initial ''Transformers'' release by Hasbro, the "Cassette Man" text was removed.
** When Takara's Soundwave was released, the hinge was remolded so the bottom of the door attached to the outside of the robot, on either side of the "buttons", which had also been remolded.
** The Soundblaster version had a door that retained the external hinge and added the capacity for holding a second cassette.

[[Image:Soundwavecommercial.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Say hello to my leetle friend!]]

* 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.)

* Animation from early ''Transformers'' commercials featured a Soundwave model colored in very light blue, versus the dark blue used later. Also, instead of the cassettes ejecting themselves from his chest, he reached into his chest compartment with his own fingers and threw the (tiny) tapes into the air.

* Soundwave's distinctive voice proved to be one of G1's most memorable aspects. The highly-processed voice began with Frank Welker basically doing his Dr. Claw voice. Whether due variations in the performance or the processing, the final result varied quite a bit across Soundwave's three seasons on the show. Occasionally, as in the episodes [[Roll For It]] and [[Webworld]], the processing was left out and Welker's actual voice can be heard.

* The Marvel US comics chose a purple scheme for Soundwave. This could have been an error, an early look for him that was dropped in other media, or perhaps an attempt to distinguish him from the other Decepticons, who were mostly blue (especially since blacks also ended up as blues in the industry's then-limited color palette). The Marvel UK comics colored him blue like everywhere else.

[[Image:Bm soundwave.jpg|thumb|right|Soundwave gets [[slag (slang)|slagged]] by Vehicons, and Nightscream escapes. How's that for injustice?{{storylink|Forbidden Fruit}}]]

* Soundwave's computer model was used for one of the generic transformers in Beast Machines seen in [[Nightscream]]'s flashback being cornered by [[Vehicon]] drones just before Nightscream fled into the lower levels of Cybertron. Though the model was recolored, it was still really 'Soundwavey,' causing much confusion among fans.

* Later, Soundwave's character model showed up numerous times in various color schemes as a generic background character in [[Armada (cartoon)|Armada]].

* [[Sideways]] listened to music using a tape deck resembling Soundwave in the [[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]] cartoon. Later, after a new [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]] was found, ''Cybertron'' [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]] held tape deck Soundwave in his arms.

*In the Japanese dub of the [[Generation 1 (television series)|Generation 1 cartoon]] as well as the [[manga]], all of Soundwave's cassette forces which could talk referred to him as "big brother". It should probably be noted, though, that this is a fairly common way to refer to others you admire and such in Japanese. Then again, it's also seen as a cute term of endearment from girls and young women, so... yeah. Take it as you will. Whatever it says about his relationship with them, it does give new meaning to the phrase [[Wikipedia:Big Brother (Nineteen Eighty-Four)|"Big Brother is watching over you"]].

{{-}}
==External links==
* [http://www.tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Soundwave/soundwave.htm Soundwave at TFU.info]

* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Soundwave Soundwave's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category: Action Masters]]
[[Category: Attacktix]]
[[Category: Classics characters]]
[[Category: Decepticon leaders]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category: Go-Bots]]
[[Category: Headmasters characters]]
[[Category: Letters page answerers]]
[[Category: Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category: MyClone]]
[[Category: Robot Heroes]]
[[Category: Scientists]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]
[[Category: Universe characters]]
[[Category: Unreleased toys]]<div id="wikia-credits"> From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</div>

Soundwave (G1)

2007-12-18T17:45:26Z

199.91.37.33: /* Titanium series */

{{disambig3|Soundwave}}
{{picsneeded|Appearances in fiction}}

:''Soundwave is a [[Decepticon]] in the [[Generation 1]] [[continuity family]]. In the Japanese series, he later took the name '''Soundblaster'''.''

[[Image:Soundwave_mixalot.jpg|thumb|300px|Big butts: preferred. Lying: impossible.]]

'''Soundwave''' is one of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s most reliable troops, and has positioned himself comfortably and irreplaceably in Megatron's upper command structure. He stands at the Decepticon leader's side as a confidant. Though "only" Communications Officer, he is comparable to [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] in rank, and is the only one of the three to display consistent loyalty to Megatron. Soundwave guards his place in the hierarchy fiercely. Other Decepticons (except Megatron) see him as a two-faced snake, since, as Communications Officer, Soundwave hears all, and doesn't hesitate to use blackmail to keep himself high in Megatron's esteem. The other Decepticons wouldn't mind abandoning him on the battlefield {{m-}} if they thought Megatron would let them get away with it.

Soundwave commands [[Mini-Cassette|a legion of cassette troops]] to carry out tasks big and small. He has a symbiotic relationship with them, providing them transportation and a cheap, if cramped, place to live in his chest. Sometimes he lets them all out to watch impromptu gladiator games, or takes them to discotheques. In return, they perform spy and recon missions for him, and make sure no one calls him "unchrasimatic".

He usually has all the personality of a stump (as evidenced by his computer-style speech). He also has no imagination, sending the aforementioned cassettes on operations with mundane names.

{{quote|As you command, Megatron.|Soundwave, eternal loyalist|''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''}}

:''Hungarian name'': '''Fülelő''' ("Listener") 
:''Italian name'': '''Memor''', '''Vizar''' (as Soundblaster) 
:''RTM dub name'': '''New Soundwave''' (as Soundblaster) 
:''French-Canadian name'': '''Radar''', '''Sonore''' (as Action Master)

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
{{note|Events from the UK-only comic stories are in italics.}}
[[Image:Contentedfools.jpg|left|thumb|200px|[[Ravage]], [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], and Soundwave, the first Decepticons.]]

After the Transformers' awakening on Earth, Soundwave served quietly under Megatron, before he was overthrown by [[Shockwave]]. Under Shockwave's command, Soundwave attacked the [[Blackrock Aerospace Plant]] and secured it for Decepticon use. {{storylink|Warrior School!}} The plant's facilities were used to create the [[Constructicons]], who built a massive radio dish that Soundwave used to beam a message back to Cybertron. {{storylink|The Next Best Thing to Being There!}} ''Soundwave assumed leadership of the Decepticons a short time later and led them against the Autobots during the "Dinobot Hunt," during a brief period when both Megatron and Shockwave were missing in action.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}}

When Megatron resurfaced, rendered immobile in a Wyoming coal mine due to lack of fuel, Soundwave sped to his rescue, re-energizing him. {{storylink| I, Robot Master!}} ''Using the splintered state of the Decepticon forces to his advantage, Soundwave worked both sides of the field, reporting to both Megatron and the returned Shockwave, without the other's knowledge. When Shockwave learned that the human [[Buster Witwicky]] had begun to suffer [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]]-induced visions of the [[combiner|next leap in Transformer evolution]], Soundwave reported this to Megatron, prompting him to battle Shockwave for leadership. The Decepticons' human ally, [[Robot Master]], televised the battle, much to Soundwave's distaste, and in order to prevent the Decepticons from looking like fools, interrupted the duel and insisted that they agree to a joint leadership.'' {{storylink|Second Generation!}}

[[Image:Laserbeakwarriorschool.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Fly, my pretties, fly!]]
''When the [[Robot-Master]] hoax the Decepticons were perpetrating was threatened by the investigate work of [[Joy Meadows]], Soundwave was instrumental in ending the conflict that ensued between the Decepticons and the Dinobots by holding the reporter hostage and destroying her footage.'' {{storylink|In the National Interest!}} ''Not long thereafter, when the deranged future Decepticon, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], traveled back in time, Soundwave was intrigued by the fact that he was unable to scan his mind to discern the truth of his identity. Siding with Megatron when conflict erupted, Soundwave and his leader were buried under an avalanche by Galvatron, and then rescued by the Autobots in the name of forming an alliance to defeat their common enemy.'' {{storylink|Target 2006}}

''It would be some time before Soundwave came back to the fore, and his return to the spotlight was an ignominious one. With Megatron having apparently died, Soundwave was now once again under Shockwave's command, and, while patrolling on the Decepticon's mobile island base, found himself attacked and subdued by the time-travelling freelance peace-keeping agent, [[Death's Head]], and tricked into giving up information on the whereabouts of Galvatron.'' {{storylink|Hunters!}} ''Although Death's Head's attempts to track down the Decepticon met with failure, Galvatron was ultimately entombed in lava, where he was later discovered by [[Susan Hoffman]]. Soundwave observed a televised broadcast of her discovery, and he and the [[Combaticon]]s attempted to destroy Galvatron with explosives planted around the volcano in question. After a battle with the [[Throttlebot]]s, Soundwave found that he was unable to remotely detonate the explosives planted around the volcano thanks to Blaster jamming his signal.'' {{storylink|Ladies' Night}}

[[Image:Soundwave uscomics.jpg|thumb|left|G2 before it was cool.]]

When Shockwave was removed from power, Soundwave smoothly transitioned to serving under the new Decepticon leader Ratbat, and helped to operate his [[Realvision]] playback system to decode data from Autobot tapes [[Grand Slam]] and [[Raindance]]. {{storylink|The Flames of Boltax!}} The tapes, it was discovered, contained information on the [[Underbase]], the power of which was soon claimed by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], who immediately targeted the Earth. Soundwave co-led the defense of New York alongside [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], but was deactivated by a blast of cosmic power from Starscream. {{storylink|Dark Star!}}

''It would be some time before Soundwave was operational again, but was back on his feet by the time that Starscream, now a [[Pretender]], was busy doubting his self-worth.'' {{storylink|Fallen Star}} He continued to operate under the command of the new Decepticon Earth commander, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]].

''In 2007, in the alternate future world of [[Earth-120185]], Soundwave was second-in-command of the Decepticon forces under Shockwave, and succeeded him after Death's Head assassinated him on the orders of [[Unicron]].'' {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!}} ''In 2008, Soundwave entered into an alliance with the [[Quintesson]]s, arranging to attack the Autobots as part of a larger plan. He was, however, unaware of the aliens' true plans to take control of Cybertron, and found himself double-crossed when the Quintessons ambushed the Decepticons en route to their attack on the Autobots. The Autobots, led by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], saved Soundwave's forces from the Quintessons, and they joined forces to repel the Quintesson invasion.'' {{storylink|Space Pirates!}} ''Finally, in 2009, Soundwave led the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] back in time to 1989, where they briefly participated in the "Time Wars," before returning to their own time in the midst of the conflict to save their own hides.'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

====Earthforce====

''In the tangent timeline that is home to the Autobot [[Earthforce]] team, Soundwave nominally served on Megatron's side during the Decepticon Civil War, but, once again, was not above exploiting the conflict for his own ends. When an energon shipment was hijacked by Shockwave's forces thanks to information he had given them, Megatron came to suspect the presence of a traitor in his ranks, but ironically assigned Soundwave to identify them. To keep his own duplicity a secret, he sets up [[Wildrider]] to take the fall, and Megatron destroys the [[Stunticon]].'' {{storylink|Secrets}}

''Approached by Starscream with a plan to make them both Decepticon leaders, Soundwave joined forces with the schemer and lured Megatron and Shockwave to an airport, tipping off the Autobots to their location. With the two leaders thus occupied, Soundwave and Starscream take control.'' {{storylink|Internal Affairs!}}'' Subsequently, Soundwave led an all-out attack on the Earthforce base as a diversion, while Starscream attempts to plunder an oil tanker. Starscream meets with failure, however, leading Soundwave to withdraw his forces, and wonder if he should not take leadership for himself alone.'' {{storylink|Divide and Conquer!}} ''Starscream is aware of Soundwave's goals, and when he is attacked by a group of alien assassins, suspects that he has ordered the hit and strikes back at him. Soundwave is able to convince him he is not responsible - in actuality, it was the work of Megatron and Shockwave.'' {{storylink|External Forces!}}

''Learning that human reporter [[Irwin Spoon]] had secured an interview with the Autobots that could potentially resolve public view of the Transformer war. Seeking to prevent this, he has the Stunticons captured the journalist, and although the Autobots are able to rescue him, a carefully planted [[cerebro-shell]] ensures that the story Irwin writes is anything but accurate.'' {{storylink|End of the Road!}}

===Animated continuity===
====''The Transformers''====
:''Voice Actor:'' [[Frank Welker]] (US), [[Issei Masamune]] (Japan)

[[Image:Cybertronsoundwave.jpg|thumb||left|Before the tape recorder, he was a lamp post. It's hard to take him seriously sometimes.]]

Prior to his arrival on Earth, Soundwave had the questionably useful [[altmode]] of a space-age lamp-post. This allowed him to get as close to Autobot headquarters as the street leading into [[Iacon]], but thankfully his chest-dwelling minion [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] could snoop even closer. The loyal Laserbeak overheard talk of the Autobot mission to seek new energy sources off Cybertron, which prompted the fateful Decepticon interception mission that eventually landed both teams on Earth.

Immediately after the Transformers awakened on Earth in 1984, Soundwave played an essential role in the generation of [[energon cube]]s and the formation of plans for a new space cruiser to return the Decepticons to Cybertron. He sounded really cool when he talked about these, too. Soundwave was reformatted as a portable cassette player, which allowed him to dupe a grabby and none-too-questioning [[Spike Witwicky]] into carrying his shrunken form into the [[Ark]] headquarters. This was to happen many times to the seemingly tape-deck addicted citizens of Earth.

Later, he used his mind-reading talents to acquire an [[antimatter]] formula for the Decepticons from the brain of [[Chip Chase]]. One of Soundwave's most notable misadventures came in in 1985, when, operating a plan conceived by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], he brainwashed humans with ultrasonic vibrations inside the Decepticon-built night club [[Dancitron]] in [[New York City]], leading to a confrontation with his Autobot Communications Officer counterpart, [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], beginning a lasting rivalry between the two.

[[Image:Soundwaveg1.jpg|thumb|right|200px|We'll get you next time, Gadget.]]

Soundwave rarely displayed much emotion, and only infrequently exhibited any cunning and self-serving traits. He came across as extremely loyal to Megatron, even going so far as to recover the mortally wounded leader after being left for dead at the Battle of Autobot City in 2005. But while Soundwave was loyal, he was far from stupid, and kept his mouth shut when Megatron was subsequently ejected into space, and although he did suggest himself as a replacement leader, he again loyally served Megatron when he returned as [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]].

In the year 2006, although operating in a less prominent capacity for most of the time, Soundwave played a prominent role in Galvatron's attempt to learn the secret of a sonic weapon on the planet [[Eurhythma]], where sound and music were the way of life, leaving Soundwave entranced by the planet's perfect melodies. Recording each piece of the harmony that formed the devastating sonic effect, Soundwave was defeated when the Eurhythmans countered the harmony with white noise, and was again pulled into a confrontation with Blaster, who erased his recordings.

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformer'' manga=====

While Megatron and the Decepticons engaged the Autobots in battle in Arizona, Soundwave and his cassettes were dispatched to do something unspecified but likely ''evil'' in Tokyo. Optimus Prime dispatched a unit of Autobots, lead by Bumblebee and [[Kenji]] to track them down. He was ultimately defeated when Bumblebee got the drop on him with his patented "Bumble-Kick" and shattered his chest, making it impossible for his cassette forces to return to him, leaving them to be captured as well.

{{note|The manga maintained something resembling continuity: during his appearance in the third issue of the book, Soundwave was shown to have bandages over his chest. Adorable.}}

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformer'' story pages=====

In the second "Anime Theater" story page, titled ''Sick em, Hound!'', the Autobots decided to keep themselves in shape by having a friendly race. Soundwave learned of the race and set up a trap within a narrow canyon. He walled the Autobots up within the canyon and began shooting them all. Luckily, [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] arrived on the scene and delivered a powerful punch to his chest, shattering his tape door. Soundwave immediately fled.

====''Headmasters''====

Shortly after the arrival of the [[Headmaster]]s, Soundwave and Blaster engaged in their final clash in the Arctic circle as the Autobots and Decepticons were in the process of searching for the missing Autobot [[Matrix]] of Leadership. The two opponents inflicted fatal damage on each other, and Soundwave's body exploded even as Blaster collapsed, but his fragments were recovered by his cassettes. Using reconstructive technology from the planet [[Master]], the leader of the Decepticon Headmasters, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] successfully rebuilt and resurrected Soundwave as '''Soundblaster''' - essentially identical to his former self, except for his predominantly black color scheme. As Soundblaster, Soundwave served the same role as he had previously under the leadership of Galvatron and later Scorponok, frequently embarking on spying missions with [[Ratbat]].

=====''Headmasters'' manga=====

After the Decepticons had been vanquished from Earth, [[Scorponok (G1)|Mega Zarak]] ordered Soundblaster to remain on Earth in secret to act as a spy for the Decepticons. Soundblaster made his presence and intentions known almost instantly (not a very good spy) by kicking [[Wheelie]] square in the face and taking the [[Spike Witwicky|Witwicky]] family hostage. Strangely enough, the Autobots considered these acts to be hostile. [[Chromedome]] was left powerless to do anything but surrender, as [[Slugfest]] and [[Overkill]] brutalized [[Spike Witwicky|Spike]] and threatened [[Carly]]. Daniel finally snapped and beat the living crap out of the two Cassette dinosaurs, leaving Soundblaster open to Chromedome's poorly named "Master-Chrome Hurricane Throw to the End of Hell!" Chromedome chucked Soundblaster over the horizon where he landed near the rogue Decepticon, [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]].

===Kid Stuff Talking Story Books continuity===
:''Voice actor:'' Unknown

In ''[[When Continents Collide]]'', [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] calls Soundwave a "blundering tape-filled idiot." This is notable because it is hilarious. Also, Soundwave is really, really whiny in these stories.

{{-}}
===''Beast Wars''===
[[Image:BW_Agenda_Pt3_Soundwave.jpg|thumb|left|180px|Soundwave it is, yesss.]]

Soundwave is shown among the many Transformers strewn about the interior of the Ark when the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] infiltrates the ship on his mission to destroy Optimus Prime.

In the [[3H]] ''Tales of the Beast Wars'' comics, Soundwave is one of the ancient warriors who appears from [[J'nwan]] to help battle the warlord [[Shokaract]].

{{-}}
===Dreamwave Generation 1 continuity===
Soundwave was chosen by Megatron to lead his second assassination team against the new Autobot supreme Commander, Optimus Prime. With the aid of his cassette troops, most notably Ravage, as well as [[Shrapnel]], [[Bombshell]], and [[Kickback]], it was assumed he would have no problem with a young, peace loving Autobot. Soundwave, like many others, underestimated Prime's resolve and was quickly incapacitated. He recovered quickly enough to rescue Megatron after the latter's own battle with Prime.
Soundwave was among the Decepticons who quickly joined Shockwave's forces upon returning to Cybertron. It seems clear, however, that Soundwave had little loyalty to him, as he readily joins up with Starscream when the [[Seeker]] decides to return to Earth and take over. Though Soundwave feigned subservience to Starscream, it is later revealed that he had been serving Megatron the entire time in secret.

{{-}}
===Devil's Due G.I.Joe vs. Transformers comics===
{{charstub}}

===IDW comics continuity===
{{spoiler}}
Long before the war began, Soundwave was the personal assistant to Senator [[Ratbat]]. When [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] caught Ratbat's eye as a champion of the illegal underground gladiatorial matches, Ratbat sent Soundwave to offer Megatron funding and weapons technology. When [[Bumper (G1)|two]] [[Fastback|Autobots]] were discovered listening in on their conversation, Soundwave dispatched Ravage, Buzzsaw, and Laserbeak to capture them. Some time later, Soundwave was assigned to find a warrior with flight capabilities. He found the [[Seeker]]s Starscream, Skywarp, and Thundercracker. During a recruitment rally where Megatron attempted to kill [[Decimus|Senator Decimus]], a raid by the Autobots under [[Sentinel Prime]] resulted in the partcipants being arrested. Soundwave, however, was freed under [[Senate]] directive, something which greatly angered the Prime. Soundwave had apparently switched loyalties at this time, becoming one of Megatron's own in not only helping Starscream exterminate Kaon senators but also to the extent that he destroyed Ratbat's original body nd forced him into the relatively weak cassette form, forcing him into the Decepticons. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Centuries later, after [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] disappeared, Megatron assigned [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] to delve into his research and relay all the information back to him. As the Decepticon leader did not fully trust Bludgeon, he also assigned Soundwave to spy on him. Soundwave followed Bludgeon and his team as they left for Earth in 1984 and established a base within Mt. St. Helens, eventually discovering that they intended to resurrect [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]]. Though he tried to stop them, [[Iguanus]] used an experimental cannon from Shockwave's arsenal to lock him in his alt mode while they instigated a volcanic eruption. He was eventually recovered by a team of unwitting humans who sold him to a pawn shop. He remains sitting in the window to this day. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

{{note|In a reponse to his Script (W)rap blog [http://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2007/11/05/script-wrap-14/#comment-1864], Simon Furman has reported that Soundwave will make a brief appearence in ''[[Devastation issue 4|Devastation]]'' issue 4.}}

{{-}}
==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Soundwave''' (Decepticon, 1984/1985, 2003)
:*''Japanese ID number:'' '''17''', '''TFC-10'''

[[Image:G1Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Soundwave superior. 'Nuf said.]]

: Soundwave transforms into a realistically-sized microcassette recorder of indeterminate manufacture, and includes weapons that turn into imitation batteries to power his nonexistent circuitry. [[Takara]]'s release of Soundwave in the ''[[Transformers]]'' line was nearly identical to the ''[[Microchange]]'' "MC-10 Cassette Man" toy on which he was based. This meant that along with being packaged with [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (previously a red "MC-01 Micross"), he came with a set of non-functioning headphones that allowed you to not listen to the silence not recorded on his non-functioning tapes with the non-functioning microphone. [[Hasbro]] packaged Soundwave with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] rather than Rumble, and omitted the other non-functioning accessories.

: Soundwave was included in the VS-Y versus pack along with Rumble and [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]].

: For 2003, Soundwave was reissued as part of Takara's [[Transformers Collection]] "book-box" series. This iteration of Soundwave came packaged with [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]].

{{-}}
*'''Soundblaster''' (Decepticon, 1987, 2005)
:*''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-101''', '''TFC-18'''

[[Image:G1Soundblaster_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Once you go black, you can never go b—]]

: As part of the Japanese ''[[Headmasters (franchise)|Headmasters]]'' series, Soundwave was [[redeco]]ed and [[retool]]ed so that he could hold two Cassettes in his chest at once. Soundblaster's tape door was cast in transparent red plastic to allow the information on the "readout" decal, unique to the ''Headmasters'' decos of the cassettes, to be seen, functioning in the same manner as the Tech Specs decoders. The readouts of the Decepticon cassettes showed the "weak points" of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]. Soundblaster came packaged with Buzzsaw.

: Soundblaster saw reissue in the Transformers Collection series in 2005, packaged together with Buzzsaw and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]].

{{-}}
*'''Soundwave with Wingthing''' (Action Master, 1990)

[[Image:G1_ActionMaster_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|—uh, never mind.]]

: [[Action Master]] Soundwave is a non-transforming action figure who combines elements of his cartoon model and original toy. He is compatible with any other Action Master weapon or vehicle. He came packaged with his new partner [[Wingthing]].

{{-}}
===Generation 2===
*'''Soundwave''' (Go-Bot, 1995)

[[Image:G2_Gobot_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|The goggles do nothing.]]

: A [[redeco]] of the [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bot]] [[Gearhead]], Soundwave transforms into a Ford Thunderbird stock car with precision wheels and wire axles, compatible with "Hot Wheels" and "Matchbox" playsets and tracks (which he was properly sized to fit).

: Notably, his color scheme is very '''loud''', being bright shades of fluorescent yellow, pink and blue. This is one time fans can actually get away with describing a toy's color scheme as [[neon]].

{{-}}
===Machine Wars===
*'''Soundwave''' (Mega, 1997)

[[Image:MW_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|]]

: ''[[Machine Wars]]'' Soundwave was a [[redeco]] of the [[Predator]] [[Stalker]] minus Stalker's handgun and its missiles and with the sighting gimmick having been removed from the missile. In this incarnation Soundwave transforms into tracked missile carrier.

{{-}}
===Smallest Transformers===
*'''Soundwave and Ravage''' (2003)

[[Image:SmallestTF_Soundwave_toy.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Small in size. Big in taste!]]

: Like all of the ''[[Smallest Transformers]]'', this version of Soundwave is a tiny replica of his G1 form. He came with ''Smallest Transformers'' Ravage, who is probably ''the'' smallest Transformer ever.

{{-}}

===Universe===
*'''Soundwave & Space Case''' (Ultra, 2004)

[[Image:Universe_Soundwave&Space-Case_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Soundwave: superior. Space Case: inferior.]]

: The ''Machine Wars'' version of Soundwave was redecoed for release in the ''[[Universe]]'' line in an Ultra-level two-pack with [[Space Case]]. Due to the lack of fiction, it is ''possible'' that this incarnation is in fact an alternate-universe version of Soundwave, or possibly a new character altogether.

{{-}}
===Titanium series===
*'''Soundwave''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)

[[Image:Titanium_CybHeroes_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Steel Band]]

: A new representation of his G1 form, this Soundwave transforms into a slightly redesigned version of his original microcassette player mode. He also comes with a VERY tiny Laserbeak that transforms into a black rectangle vaguely resembling a microcassette and is almost (but not quite) as small as ''Smallest TF'' Ravage. He can also fit inside of Soundwave's chest. Both of Soundwave's guns resemble batteries and fit into the battery compartment on his back.

:This mold was to be redecoed as Soundblaster with a new Ravage tape partner, but as of writing has not been released.

===Classics===
*'''Soundwave''' (Commemorative Edition, 2007)

[[Image:Classics_Commemorative_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Ravage, Laserbeak: Eject. Operation: Reissue.]]

: Despite having packaging that claims ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' Soundwave is "Identical to the original toy", this version is actually a redeco of the [[Transformers Collection]] Sound''blaster'' reissue in Soundwave's original colors. Like the Soundblaster reissue, ''Classics'' Soundwave is packaged with "Battle" Ravage, as well as Laserbeak, recolored from Soundblaster's Buzzsaw. In a move rare for a US release of this toy, the set included two [[Takara]] clear plastic cassette cases. Exclusive to Toys 'R' Us stores, Soundwave had been intended for the [[Commemorative Series]], but after the cancellation of that line he was added to ''Classics'', although the phrase "Commemorative Edition" is prominently displayed on the front and sides of the box.

{{note|It is interesting to note that while the actual product uses the Soundblaster mold, the package photos show Soundwave with the single-tape door mold used for Takara's TFC-10 reissue.}}

===Music Label===
*'''Soundwave Playing Audio Player''' (2007)
[[Image:Music label soundwave.jpg|right|thumb|150px|SOUNDWAVE: SUPERIOR. ALL OTHER MUSIC PLAYERS: INFERIOR.]]

: Released by [[TakaraTomy]]'s Music Label (which also puts out a not-half-as-cool Convoy iPod stand), Soundwave is an MP3 player which takes a miniSD card. The box says it can take up to 1 GB, but many claims have shown it can support upwards to 2 GB. Uses 1 AAA battery. An optional accessory, sold separately, feature headphones that transform into [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]. The player also features a transformation almost entirely accurate to his G1 appearance. He also comes with two sets of hands, his shoulder cannon, and a sidearm.

{{-}}
===Attacktix===
*'''Soundwave''' (Booster, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix_G1Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|]]
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}
===Unreleased===
:In ''Generation 2'', a [[redeco]] of the [[Laser Cycle]] [[Road Pig]] was planned as Soundwave, but ultimately never released, one of many planned redecos that never made it. Some packaged samples do exist.

==Trivia==
*According to an interview in the magazine ''Otaku USA'' (issue 3, pg. 102-3), the original Microchange toy and the accompanying cassettes were at least partially designed by famed mecha designer and anime director [[Shinji 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 deluxe [[Insecticon]]s, [[Reflector]], and [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]].

* Including the ''[[Microchange]]'' "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 initial ''Transformers'' release by Hasbro, the "Cassette Man" text was removed.
** When Takara's Soundwave was released, the hinge was remolded so the bottom of the door attached to the outside of the robot, on either side of the "buttons", which had also been remolded.
** The Soundblaster version had a door that retained the external hinge and added the capacity for holding a second cassette.

[[Image:Soundwavecommercial.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Say hello to my leetle friend!]]

* 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.)

* Animation from early ''Transformers'' commercials featured a Soundwave model colored in very light blue, versus the dark blue used later. Also, instead of the cassettes ejecting themselves from his chest, he reached into his chest compartment with his own fingers and threw the (tiny) tapes into the air.

* Soundwave's distinctive voice proved to be one of G1's most memorable aspects. The highly-processed voice began with Frank Welker basically doing his Dr. Claw voice. Whether due variations in the performance or the processing, the final result varied quite a bit across Soundwave's three seasons on the show. Occasionally, as in the episodes [[Roll For It]] and [[Webworld]], the processing was left out and Welker's actual voice can be heard.

* The Marvel US comics chose a purple scheme for Soundwave. This could have been an error, an early look for him that was dropped in other media, or perhaps an attempt to distinguish him from the other Decepticons, who were mostly blue (especially since blacks also ended up as blues in the industry's then-limited color palette). The Marvel UK comics colored him blue like everywhere else.

[[Image:Bm soundwave.jpg|thumb|right|Soundwave gets [[slag (slang)|slagged]] by Vehicons, and Nightscream escapes. How's that for injustice?{{storylink|Forbidden Fruit}}]]

* Soundwave's computer model was used for one of the generic transformers in Beast Machines seen in [[Nightscream]]'s flashback being cornered by [[Vehicon]] drones just before Nightscream fled into the lower levels of Cybertron. Though the model was recolored, it was still really 'Soundwavey,' causing much confusion among fans.

* Later, Soundwave's character model showed up numerous times in various color schemes as a generic background character in [[Armada (cartoon)|Armada]].

* [[Sideways]] listened to music using a tape deck resembling Soundwave in the [[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]] cartoon. Later, after a new [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]] was found, ''Cybertron'' [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]] held tape deck Soundwave in his arms.

*In the Japanese dub of the [[Generation 1 (television series)|Generation 1 cartoon]] as well as the [[manga]], all of Soundwave's cassette forces which could talk referred to him as "big brother". It should probably be noted, though, that this is a fairly common way to refer to others you admire and such in Japanese. Then again, it's also seen as a cute term of endearment from girls and young women, so... yeah. Take it as you will. Whatever it says about his relationship with them, it does give new meaning to the phrase [[Wikipedia:Big Brother (Nineteen Eighty-Four)|"Big Brother is watching over you"]].

{{-}}
==External links==
* [http://www.tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Soundwave/soundwave.htm Soundwave at TFU.info]

* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Soundwave Soundwave's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category: Action Masters]]
[[Category: Attacktix]]
[[Category: Classics characters]]
[[Category: Decepticon leaders]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category: Go-Bots]]
[[Category: Headmasters characters]]
[[Category: Letters page answerers]]
[[Category: Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category: MyClone]]
[[Category: Robot Heroes]]
[[Category: Scientists]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]
[[Category: Universe characters]]
[[Category: Unreleased toys]]<div id="wikia-credits"> From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</div>

Soundwave (G1)

2007-12-18T17:23:29Z

199.91.37.33: /* Smallest Transformers */

{{disambig3|Soundwave}}
{{picsneeded|Appearances in fiction}}

:''Soundwave is a [[Decepticon]] in the [[Generation 1]] [[continuity family]]. In the Japanese series, he later took the name '''Soundblaster'''.''

[[Image:Soundwave_mixalot.jpg|thumb|300px|Big butts: preferred. Lying: impossible.]]

'''Soundwave''' is one of [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]]'s most reliable troops, and has positioned himself comfortably and irreplaceably in Megatron's upper command structure. He stands at the Decepticon leader's side as a confidant. Though "only" Communications Officer, he is comparable to [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]] and [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] in rank, and is the only one of the three to display consistent loyalty to Megatron. Soundwave guards his place in the hierarchy fiercely. Other Decepticons (except Megatron) see him as a two-faced snake, since, as Communications Officer, Soundwave hears all, and doesn't hesitate to use blackmail to keep himself high in Megatron's esteem. The other Decepticons wouldn't mind abandoning him on the battlefield {{m-}} if they thought Megatron would let them get away with it.

Soundwave commands [[Mini-Cassette|a legion of cassette troops]] to carry out tasks big and small. He has a symbiotic relationship with them, providing them transportation and a cheap, if cramped, place to live in his chest. Sometimes he lets them all out to watch impromptu gladiator games, or takes them to discotheques. In return, they perform spy and recon missions for him, and make sure no one calls him "unchrasimatic".

He usually has all the personality of a stump (as evidenced by his computer-style speech). He also has no imagination, sending the aforementioned cassettes on operations with mundane names.

{{quote|As you command, Megatron.|Soundwave, eternal loyalist|''[[The Transformers: The Movie]]''}}

:''Hungarian name'': '''Fülelő''' ("Listener") 
:''Italian name'': '''Memor''', '''Vizar''' (as Soundblaster) 
:''RTM dub name'': '''New Soundwave''' (as Soundblaster) 
:''French-Canadian name'': '''Radar''', '''Sonore''' (as Action Master)

==Fiction==
===Marvel Comics continuity===
{{note|Events from the UK-only comic stories are in italics.}}
[[Image:Contentedfools.jpg|left|thumb|200px|[[Ravage]], [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]], and Soundwave, the first Decepticons.]]

After the Transformers' awakening on Earth, Soundwave served quietly under Megatron, before he was overthrown by [[Shockwave]]. Under Shockwave's command, Soundwave attacked the [[Blackrock Aerospace Plant]] and secured it for Decepticon use. {{storylink|Warrior School!}} The plant's facilities were used to create the [[Constructicons]], who built a massive radio dish that Soundwave used to beam a message back to Cybertron. {{storylink|The Next Best Thing to Being There!}} ''Soundwave assumed leadership of the Decepticons a short time later and led them against the Autobots during the "Dinobot Hunt," during a brief period when both Megatron and Shockwave were missing in action.'' {{storylink|Dinobot Hunt!}}

When Megatron resurfaced, rendered immobile in a Wyoming coal mine due to lack of fuel, Soundwave sped to his rescue, re-energizing him. {{storylink| I, Robot Master!}} ''Using the splintered state of the Decepticon forces to his advantage, Soundwave worked both sides of the field, reporting to both Megatron and the returned Shockwave, without the other's knowledge. When Shockwave learned that the human [[Buster Witwicky]] had begun to suffer [[Matrix of Leadership|Matrix]]-induced visions of the [[combiner|next leap in Transformer evolution]], Soundwave reported this to Megatron, prompting him to battle Shockwave for leadership. The Decepticons' human ally, [[Robot Master]], televised the battle, much to Soundwave's distaste, and in order to prevent the Decepticons from looking like fools, interrupted the duel and insisted that they agree to a joint leadership.'' {{storylink|Second Generation!}}

[[Image:Laserbeakwarriorschool.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Fly, my pretties, fly!]]
''When the [[Robot-Master]] hoax the Decepticons were perpetrating was threatened by the investigate work of [[Joy Meadows]], Soundwave was instrumental in ending the conflict that ensued between the Decepticons and the Dinobots by holding the reporter hostage and destroying her footage.'' {{storylink|In the National Interest!}} ''Not long thereafter, when the deranged future Decepticon, [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]], traveled back in time, Soundwave was intrigued by the fact that he was unable to scan his mind to discern the truth of his identity. Siding with Megatron when conflict erupted, Soundwave and his leader were buried under an avalanche by Galvatron, and then rescued by the Autobots in the name of forming an alliance to defeat their common enemy.'' {{storylink|Target 2006}}

''It would be some time before Soundwave came back to the fore, and his return to the spotlight was an ignominious one. With Megatron having apparently died, Soundwave was now once again under Shockwave's command, and, while patrolling on the Decepticon's mobile island base, found himself attacked and subdued by the time-travelling freelance peace-keeping agent, [[Death's Head]], and tricked into giving up information on the whereabouts of Galvatron.'' {{storylink|Hunters!}} ''Although Death's Head's attempts to track down the Decepticon met with failure, Galvatron was ultimately entombed in lava, where he was later discovered by [[Susan Hoffman]]. Soundwave observed a televised broadcast of her discovery, and he and the [[Combaticon]]s attempted to destroy Galvatron with explosives planted around the volcano in question. After a battle with the [[Throttlebot]]s, Soundwave found that he was unable to remotely detonate the explosives planted around the volcano thanks to Blaster jamming his signal.'' {{storylink|Ladies' Night}}

[[Image:Soundwave uscomics.jpg|thumb|left|G2 before it was cool.]]

When Shockwave was removed from power, Soundwave smoothly transitioned to serving under the new Decepticon leader Ratbat, and helped to operate his [[Realvision]] playback system to decode data from Autobot tapes [[Grand Slam]] and [[Raindance]]. {{storylink|The Flames of Boltax!}} The tapes, it was discovered, contained information on the [[Underbase]], the power of which was soon claimed by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], who immediately targeted the Earth. Soundwave co-led the defense of New York alongside [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]], but was deactivated by a blast of cosmic power from Starscream. {{storylink|Dark Star!}}

''It would be some time before Soundwave was operational again, but was back on his feet by the time that Starscream, now a [[Pretender]], was busy doubting his self-worth.'' {{storylink|Fallen Star}} He continued to operate under the command of the new Decepticon Earth commander, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]].

''In 2007, in the alternate future world of [[Earth-120185]], Soundwave was second-in-command of the Decepticon forces under Shockwave, and succeeded him after Death's Head assassinated him on the orders of [[Unicron]].'' {{storylink|The Legacy of Unicron!}} ''In 2008, Soundwave entered into an alliance with the [[Quintesson]]s, arranging to attack the Autobots as part of a larger plan. He was, however, unaware of the aliens' true plans to take control of Cybertron, and found himself double-crossed when the Quintessons ambushed the Decepticons en route to their attack on the Autobots. The Autobots, led by [[Ultra Magnus (G1)|Ultra Magnus]], saved Soundwave's forces from the Quintessons, and they joined forces to repel the Quintesson invasion.'' {{storylink|Space Pirates!}} ''Finally, in 2009, Soundwave led the [[Terrorcon (G1)|Terrorcons]] back in time to 1989, where they briefly participated in the "Time Wars," before returning to their own time in the midst of the conflict to save their own hides.'' {{storylink|Time Wars}}

====Earthforce====

''In the tangent timeline that is home to the Autobot [[Earthforce]] team, Soundwave nominally served on Megatron's side during the Decepticon Civil War, but, once again, was not above exploiting the conflict for his own ends. When an energon shipment was hijacked by Shockwave's forces thanks to information he had given them, Megatron came to suspect the presence of a traitor in his ranks, but ironically assigned Soundwave to identify them. To keep his own duplicity a secret, he sets up [[Wildrider]] to take the fall, and Megatron destroys the [[Stunticon]].'' {{storylink|Secrets}}

''Approached by Starscream with a plan to make them both Decepticon leaders, Soundwave joined forces with the schemer and lured Megatron and Shockwave to an airport, tipping off the Autobots to their location. With the two leaders thus occupied, Soundwave and Starscream take control.'' {{storylink|Internal Affairs!}}'' Subsequently, Soundwave led an all-out attack on the Earthforce base as a diversion, while Starscream attempts to plunder an oil tanker. Starscream meets with failure, however, leading Soundwave to withdraw his forces, and wonder if he should not take leadership for himself alone.'' {{storylink|Divide and Conquer!}} ''Starscream is aware of Soundwave's goals, and when he is attacked by a group of alien assassins, suspects that he has ordered the hit and strikes back at him. Soundwave is able to convince him he is not responsible - in actuality, it was the work of Megatron and Shockwave.'' {{storylink|External Forces!}}

''Learning that human reporter [[Irwin Spoon]] had secured an interview with the Autobots that could potentially resolve public view of the Transformer war. Seeking to prevent this, he has the Stunticons captured the journalist, and although the Autobots are able to rescue him, a carefully planted [[cerebro-shell]] ensures that the story Irwin writes is anything but accurate.'' {{storylink|End of the Road!}}

===Animated continuity===
====''The Transformers''====
:''Voice Actor:'' [[Frank Welker]] (US), [[Issei Masamune]] (Japan)

[[Image:Cybertronsoundwave.jpg|thumb||left|Before the tape recorder, he was a lamp post. It's hard to take him seriously sometimes.]]

Prior to his arrival on Earth, Soundwave had the questionably useful [[altmode]] of a space-age lamp-post. This allowed him to get as close to Autobot headquarters as the street leading into [[Iacon]], but thankfully his chest-dwelling minion [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]] could snoop even closer. The loyal Laserbeak overheard talk of the Autobot mission to seek new energy sources off Cybertron, which prompted the fateful Decepticon interception mission that eventually landed both teams on Earth.

Immediately after the Transformers awakened on Earth in 1984, Soundwave played an essential role in the generation of [[energon cube]]s and the formation of plans for a new space cruiser to return the Decepticons to Cybertron. He sounded really cool when he talked about these, too. Soundwave was reformatted as a portable cassette player, which allowed him to dupe a grabby and none-too-questioning [[Spike Witwicky]] into carrying his shrunken form into the [[Ark]] headquarters. This was to happen many times to the seemingly tape-deck addicted citizens of Earth.

Later, he used his mind-reading talents to acquire an [[antimatter]] formula for the Decepticons from the brain of [[Chip Chase]]. One of Soundwave's most notable misadventures came in in 1985, when, operating a plan conceived by [[Starscream (G1)|Starscream]], he brainwashed humans with ultrasonic vibrations inside the Decepticon-built night club [[Dancitron]] in [[New York City]], leading to a confrontation with his Autobot Communications Officer counterpart, [[Blaster (G1)|Blaster]], beginning a lasting rivalry between the two.

[[Image:Soundwaveg1.jpg|thumb|right|200px|We'll get you next time, Gadget.]]

Soundwave rarely displayed much emotion, and only infrequently exhibited any cunning and self-serving traits. He came across as extremely loyal to Megatron, even going so far as to recover the mortally wounded leader after being left for dead at the Battle of Autobot City in 2005. But while Soundwave was loyal, he was far from stupid, and kept his mouth shut when Megatron was subsequently ejected into space, and although he did suggest himself as a replacement leader, he again loyally served Megatron when he returned as [[Galvatron (G1)|Galvatron]].

In the year 2006, although operating in a less prominent capacity for most of the time, Soundwave played a prominent role in Galvatron's attempt to learn the secret of a sonic weapon on the planet [[Eurhythma]], where sound and music were the way of life, leaving Soundwave entranced by the planet's perfect melodies. Recording each piece of the harmony that formed the devastating sonic effect, Soundwave was defeated when the Eurhythmans countered the harmony with white noise, and was again pulled into a confrontation with Blaster, who erased his recordings.

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformer'' manga=====

While Megatron and the Decepticons engaged the Autobots in battle in Arizona, Soundwave and his cassettes were dispatched to do something unspecified but likely ''evil'' in Tokyo. Optimus Prime dispatched a unit of Autobots, lead by Bumblebee and [[Kenji]] to track them down. He was ultimately defeated when Bumblebee got the drop on him with his patented "Bumble-Kick" and shattered his chest, making it impossible for his cassette forces to return to him, leaving them to be captured as well.

{{note|The manga maintained something resembling continuity: during his appearance in the third issue of the book, Soundwave was shown to have bandages over his chest. Adorable.}}

=====''Fight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformer'' story pages=====

In the second "Anime Theater" story page, titled ''Sick em, Hound!'', the Autobots decided to keep themselves in shape by having a friendly race. Soundwave learned of the race and set up a trap within a narrow canyon. He walled the Autobots up within the canyon and began shooting them all. Luckily, [[Hound (G1)|Hound]] arrived on the scene and delivered a powerful punch to his chest, shattering his tape door. Soundwave immediately fled.

====''Headmasters''====

Shortly after the arrival of the [[Headmaster]]s, Soundwave and Blaster engaged in their final clash in the Arctic circle as the Autobots and Decepticons were in the process of searching for the missing Autobot [[Matrix]] of Leadership. The two opponents inflicted fatal damage on each other, and Soundwave's body exploded even as Blaster collapsed, but his fragments were recovered by his cassettes. Using reconstructive technology from the planet [[Master]], the leader of the Decepticon Headmasters, [[Scorponok (G1)|Scorponok]] successfully rebuilt and resurrected Soundwave as '''Soundblaster''' - essentially identical to his former self, except for his predominantly black color scheme. As Soundblaster, Soundwave served the same role as he had previously under the leadership of Galvatron and later Scorponok, frequently embarking on spying missions with [[Ratbat]].

=====''Headmasters'' manga=====

After the Decepticons had been vanquished from Earth, [[Scorponok (G1)|Mega Zarak]] ordered Soundblaster to remain on Earth in secret to act as a spy for the Decepticons. Soundblaster made his presence and intentions known almost instantly (not a very good spy) by kicking [[Wheelie]] square in the face and taking the [[Spike Witwicky|Witwicky]] family hostage. Strangely enough, the Autobots considered these acts to be hostile. [[Chromedome]] was left powerless to do anything but surrender, as [[Slugfest]] and [[Overkill]] brutalized [[Spike Witwicky|Spike]] and threatened [[Carly]]. Daniel finally snapped and beat the living crap out of the two Cassette dinosaurs, leaving Soundblaster open to Chromedome's poorly named "Master-Chrome Hurricane Throw to the End of Hell!" Chromedome chucked Soundblaster over the horizon where he landed near the rogue Decepticon, [[Sixshot (G1)|Sixshot]].

===Kid Stuff Talking Story Books continuity===
:''Voice actor:'' Unknown

In ''[[When Continents Collide]]'', [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] calls Soundwave a "blundering tape-filled idiot." This is notable because it is hilarious. Also, Soundwave is really, really whiny in these stories.

{{-}}
===''Beast Wars''===
[[Image:BW_Agenda_Pt3_Soundwave.jpg|thumb|left|180px|Soundwave it is, yesss.]]

Soundwave is shown among the many Transformers strewn about the interior of the Ark when the [[Predacon (BW)|Predacon]] [[Megatron (BW)|Megatron]] infiltrates the ship on his mission to destroy Optimus Prime.

In the [[3H]] ''Tales of the Beast Wars'' comics, Soundwave is one of the ancient warriors who appears from [[J'nwan]] to help battle the warlord [[Shokaract]].

{{-}}
===Dreamwave Generation 1 continuity===
Soundwave was chosen by Megatron to lead his second assassination team against the new Autobot supreme Commander, Optimus Prime. With the aid of his cassette troops, most notably Ravage, as well as [[Shrapnel]], [[Bombshell]], and [[Kickback]], it was assumed he would have no problem with a young, peace loving Autobot. Soundwave, like many others, underestimated Prime's resolve and was quickly incapacitated. He recovered quickly enough to rescue Megatron after the latter's own battle with Prime.
Soundwave was among the Decepticons who quickly joined Shockwave's forces upon returning to Cybertron. It seems clear, however, that Soundwave had little loyalty to him, as he readily joins up with Starscream when the [[Seeker]] decides to return to Earth and take over. Though Soundwave feigned subservience to Starscream, it is later revealed that he had been serving Megatron the entire time in secret.

{{-}}
===Devil's Due G.I.Joe vs. Transformers comics===
{{charstub}}

===IDW comics continuity===
{{spoiler}}
Long before the war began, Soundwave was the personal assistant to Senator [[Ratbat]]. When [[Megatron (G1)|Megatron]] caught Ratbat's eye as a champion of the illegal underground gladiatorial matches, Ratbat sent Soundwave to offer Megatron funding and weapons technology. When [[Bumper (G1)|two]] [[Fastback|Autobots]] were discovered listening in on their conversation, Soundwave dispatched Ravage, Buzzsaw, and Laserbeak to capture them. Some time later, Soundwave was assigned to find a warrior with flight capabilities. He found the [[Seeker]]s Starscream, Skywarp, and Thundercracker. During a recruitment rally where Megatron attempted to kill [[Decimus|Senator Decimus]], a raid by the Autobots under [[Sentinel Prime]] resulted in the partcipants being arrested. Soundwave, however, was freed under [[Senate]] directive, something which greatly angered the Prime. Soundwave had apparently switched loyalties at this time, becoming one of Megatron's own in not only helping Starscream exterminate Kaon senators but also to the extent that he destroyed Ratbat's original body nd forced him into the relatively weak cassette form, forcing him into the Decepticons. {{storylink|Megatron Origin}}

Centuries later, after [[Shockwave (G1)|Shockwave]] disappeared, Megatron assigned [[Bludgeon (G1)|Bludgeon]] to delve into his research and relay all the information back to him. As the Decepticon leader did not fully trust Bludgeon, he also assigned Soundwave to spy on him. Soundwave followed Bludgeon and his team as they left for Earth in 1984 and established a base within Mt. St. Helens, eventually discovering that they intended to resurrect [[Thunderwing (G1)|Thunderwing]]. Though he tried to stop them, [[Iguanus]] used an experimental cannon from Shockwave's arsenal to lock him in his alt mode while they instigated a volcanic eruption. He was eventually recovered by a team of unwitting humans who sold him to a pawn shop. He remains sitting in the window to this day. {{storylink|Spotlight: Soundwave}}

{{note|In a reponse to his Script (W)rap blog [http://simonfurman.wordpress.com/2007/11/05/script-wrap-14/#comment-1864], Simon Furman has reported that Soundwave will make a brief appearence in ''[[Devastation issue 4|Devastation]]'' issue 4.}}

{{-}}
==Toys==
===Generation 1===
*'''Soundwave''' (Decepticon, 1984/1985, 2003)
:*''Japanese ID number:'' '''17''', '''TFC-10'''

[[Image:G1Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Soundwave superior. 'Nuf said.]]

: Soundwave transforms into a realistically-sized microcassette recorder of indeterminate manufacture, and includes weapons that turn into imitation batteries to power his nonexistent circuitry. [[Takara]]'s release of Soundwave in the ''[[Transformers]]'' line was nearly identical to the ''[[Microchange]]'' "MC-10 Cassette Man" toy on which he was based. This meant that along with being packaged with [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]] (previously a red "MC-01 Micross"), he came with a set of non-functioning headphones that allowed you to not listen to the silence not recorded on his non-functioning tapes with the non-functioning microphone. [[Hasbro]] packaged Soundwave with [[Buzzsaw (G1)|Buzzsaw]] rather than Rumble, and omitted the other non-functioning accessories.

: Soundwave was included in the VS-Y versus pack along with Rumble and [[Grimlock (G1)|Grimlock]].

: For 2003, Soundwave was reissued as part of Takara's [[Transformers Collection]] "book-box" series. This iteration of Soundwave came packaged with [[Laserbeak (G1)|Laserbeak]].

{{-}}
*'''Soundblaster''' (Decepticon, 1987, 2005)
:*''Japanese ID number:'' '''D-101''', '''TFC-18'''

[[Image:G1Soundblaster_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Once you go black, you can never go b—]]

: As part of the Japanese ''[[Headmasters (franchise)|Headmasters]]'' series, Soundwave was [[redeco]]ed and [[retool]]ed so that he could hold two Cassettes in his chest at once. Soundblaster's tape door was cast in transparent red plastic to allow the information on the "readout" decal, unique to the ''Headmasters'' decos of the cassettes, to be seen, functioning in the same manner as the Tech Specs decoders. The readouts of the Decepticon cassettes showed the "weak points" of [[Fortress Maximus (G1)|Fortress Maximus]]. Soundblaster came packaged with Buzzsaw.

: Soundblaster saw reissue in the Transformers Collection series in 2005, packaged together with Buzzsaw and [[Ravage (G1)|Ravage]].

{{-}}
*'''Soundwave with Wingthing''' (Action Master, 1990)

[[Image:G1_ActionMaster_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|—uh, never mind.]]

: [[Action Master]] Soundwave is a non-transforming action figure who combines elements of his cartoon model and original toy. He is compatible with any other Action Master weapon or vehicle. He came packaged with his new partner [[Wingthing]].

{{-}}
===Generation 2===
*'''Soundwave''' (Go-Bot, 1995)

[[Image:G2_Gobot_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|The goggles do nothing.]]

: A [[redeco]] of the [[Go-Bot (G2)|Go-Bot]] [[Gearhead]], Soundwave transforms into a Ford Thunderbird stock car with precision wheels and wire axles, compatible with "Hot Wheels" and "Matchbox" playsets and tracks (which he was properly sized to fit).

: Notably, his color scheme is very '''loud''', being bright shades of fluorescent yellow, pink and blue. This is one time fans can actually get away with describing a toy's color scheme as [[neon]].

{{-}}
===Machine Wars===
*'''Soundwave''' (Mega, 1997)

[[Image:MW_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|]]

: ''[[Machine Wars]]'' Soundwave was a [[redeco]] of the [[Predator]] [[Stalker]] minus Stalker's handgun and its missiles and with the sighting gimmick having been removed from the missile. In this incarnation Soundwave transforms into tracked missile carrier.

{{-}}
===Smallest Transformers===
*'''Soundwave and Ravage''' (2003)

[[Image:SmallestTF_Soundwave_toy.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Small in size. Big in taste!]]

: Like all of the ''[[Smallest Transformers]]'', this version of Soundwave is a tiny replica of his G1 form. He came with ''Smallest Transformers'' Ravage, who is probably ''the'' smallest Transformer ever.

{{-}}

===Universe===
*'''Soundwave & Space Case''' (Ultra, 2004)

[[Image:Universe_Soundwave&Space-Case_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|Soundwave: superior. Space Case: inferior.]]

: The ''Machine Wars'' version of Soundwave was redecoed for release in the ''[[Universe]]'' line in an Ultra-level two-pack with [[Space Case]]. Due to the lack of fiction, it is ''possible'' that this incarnation is in fact an alternate-universe version of Soundwave, or possibly a new character altogether.

{{-}}
===Titanium series===
*'''Soundwave''' (6" Cybertron Heroes, 2006)

[[Image:Titanium_CybHeroes_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|right|150px|]]

: A new representation of his G1 form, this Soundwave transforms into a slightly redesigned version of his original microcassette player mode. He also comes with a VERY tiny Laserbeak that transforms into a black rectangle vaguely resembling a microcassette and is almost (but not quite) as small as ''Smallest TF'' Ravage. He can also fit inside of Soundwave's chest. Both of Soundwave's guns resemble batteries and fit into the battery compartment on his back.

:This mold was to be redecoed as Soundblaster with a new Ravage tape partner, but as of writing has not been released.

===Classics===
*'''Soundwave''' (Commemorative Edition, 2007)

[[Image:Classics_Commemorative_Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Ravage, Laserbeak: Eject. Operation: Reissue.]]

: Despite having packaging that claims ''[[Classics (2006)|Classics]]'' Soundwave is "Identical to the original toy", this version is actually a redeco of the [[Transformers Collection]] Sound''blaster'' reissue in Soundwave's original colors. Like the Soundblaster reissue, ''Classics'' Soundwave is packaged with "Battle" Ravage, as well as Laserbeak, recolored from Soundblaster's Buzzsaw. In a move rare for a US release of this toy, the set included two [[Takara]] clear plastic cassette cases. Exclusive to Toys 'R' Us stores, Soundwave had been intended for the [[Commemorative Series]], but after the cancellation of that line he was added to ''Classics'', although the phrase "Commemorative Edition" is prominently displayed on the front and sides of the box.

{{note|It is interesting to note that while the actual product uses the Soundblaster mold, the package photos show Soundwave with the single-tape door mold used for Takara's TFC-10 reissue.}}

===Music Label===
*'''Soundwave Playing Audio Player''' (2007)
[[Image:Music label soundwave.jpg|right|thumb|150px|SOUNDWAVE: SUPERIOR. ALL OTHER MUSIC PLAYERS: INFERIOR.]]

: Released by [[TakaraTomy]]'s Music Label (which also puts out a not-half-as-cool Convoy iPod stand), Soundwave is an MP3 player which takes a miniSD card. The box says it can take up to 1 GB, but many claims have shown it can support upwards to 2 GB. Uses 1 AAA battery. An optional accessory, sold separately, feature headphones that transform into [[Frenzy (G1)|Frenzy]] and [[Rumble (G1)|Rumble]]. The player also features a transformation almost entirely accurate to his G1 appearance. He also comes with two sets of hands, his shoulder cannon, and a sidearm.

{{-}}
===Attacktix===
*'''Soundwave''' (Booster, 2007)
[[Image:Attacktix_G1Soundwave_toy.jpg|thumb|left|150px|]]
{{comingsoontoy}}
{{-}}
===Unreleased===
:In ''Generation 2'', a [[redeco]] of the [[Laser Cycle]] [[Road Pig]] was planned as Soundwave, but ultimately never released, one of many planned redecos that never made it. Some packaged samples do exist.

==Trivia==
*According to an interview in the magazine ''Otaku USA'' (issue 3, pg. 102-3), the original Microchange toy and the accompanying cassettes were at least partially designed by famed mecha designer and anime director [[Shinji 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 deluxe [[Insecticon]]s, [[Reflector]], and [[Perceptor (G1)|Perceptor]].

* Including the ''[[Microchange]]'' "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 initial ''Transformers'' release by Hasbro, the "Cassette Man" text was removed.
** When Takara's Soundwave was released, the hinge was remolded so the bottom of the door attached to the outside of the robot, on either side of the "buttons", which had also been remolded.
** The Soundblaster version had a door that retained the external hinge and added the capacity for holding a second cassette.

[[Image:Soundwavecommercial.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Say hello to my leetle friend!]]

* 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.)

* Animation from early ''Transformers'' commercials featured a Soundwave model colored in very light blue, versus the dark blue used later. Also, instead of the cassettes ejecting themselves from his chest, he reached into his chest compartment with his own fingers and threw the (tiny) tapes into the air.

* Soundwave's distinctive voice proved to be one of G1's most memorable aspects. The highly-processed voice began with Frank Welker basically doing his Dr. Claw voice. Whether due variations in the performance or the processing, the final result varied quite a bit across Soundwave's three seasons on the show. Occasionally, as in the episodes [[Roll For It]] and [[Webworld]], the processing was left out and Welker's actual voice can be heard.

* The Marvel US comics chose a purple scheme for Soundwave. This could have been an error, an early look for him that was dropped in other media, or perhaps an attempt to distinguish him from the other Decepticons, who were mostly blue (especially since blacks also ended up as blues in the industry's then-limited color palette). The Marvel UK comics colored him blue like everywhere else.

[[Image:Bm soundwave.jpg|thumb|right|Soundwave gets [[slag (slang)|slagged]] by Vehicons, and Nightscream escapes. How's that for injustice?{{storylink|Forbidden Fruit}}]]

* Soundwave's computer model was used for one of the generic transformers in Beast Machines seen in [[Nightscream]]'s flashback being cornered by [[Vehicon]] drones just before Nightscream fled into the lower levels of Cybertron. Though the model was recolored, it was still really 'Soundwavey,' causing much confusion among fans.

* Later, Soundwave's character model showed up numerous times in various color schemes as a generic background character in [[Armada (cartoon)|Armada]].

* [[Sideways]] listened to music using a tape deck resembling Soundwave in the [[Cybertron (cartoon)|Cybertron]] cartoon. Later, after a new [[Planet X (Cybertron)|Planet X]] was found, ''Cybertron'' [[Soundwave (Cybertron)|Soundwave]] held tape deck Soundwave in his arms.

*In the Japanese dub of the [[Generation 1 (television series)|Generation 1 cartoon]] as well as the [[manga]], all of Soundwave's cassette forces which could talk referred to him as "big brother". It should probably be noted, though, that this is a fairly common way to refer to others you admire and such in Japanese. Then again, it's also seen as a cute term of endearment from girls and young women, so... yeah. Take it as you will. Whatever it says about his relationship with them, it does give new meaning to the phrase [[Wikipedia:Big Brother (Nineteen Eighty-Four)|"Big Brother is watching over you"]].

{{-}}
==External links==
* [http://www.tfu.info/1984/Decepticon/Soundwave/soundwave.htm Soundwave at TFU.info]

* [http://www.ntfa.net/universe/english/index.php?act=view&char=Soundwave Soundwave's Universe profile at NTFA.net]

[[Category: Action Masters]]
[[Category: Attacktix]]
[[Category: Classics characters]]
[[Category: Decepticon leaders]]
[[Category: Generation 1 characters]]
[[Category: Generation 2 characters]]
[[Category: Go-Bots]]
[[Category: Headmasters characters]]
[[Category: Letters page answerers]]
[[Category: Machine Wars characters]]
[[Category: MyClone]]
[[Category: Robot Heroes]]
[[Category: Scientists]]
[[Category: Titanium Series]]
[[Category: Universe characters]]
[[Category: Unreleased toys]]<div id="wikia-credits"> From [http://transformers.wikia.com Teletraan I: The Transformers Wiki], a [http://www.wikia.com Wikia] wiki.</div>