Get ready for a showdown, LEGO’s new LEGO Transformers Soundwave has arrived, transforming from stoic Decepticon into a nostalgic cassette player, complete with voice effects and mini Transformers. This blog post covers the full package, from features and build details to an honest verdict. Whether you’re new to the LEGO Transformers line or a die-hard fan of G1, this one is worth a close look.
Release Date:
- Insiders Early Access: 1 August 2025
- General Sale: 4 August 2025
MSRP / Price Range: £159.99 / €179.99 / $189.99
Edition Size / Production Run: Standard retail release
Manufacturer / License:The LEGO Group under license from Hasbro
What’s included in the LEGO Transformers Soundwave set?
Inside the box you get 1,505 pieces that build into a fully articulated, transformable Soundwave figure. He stands around 33 cm tall in robot mode and can convert into a classic cassette deck—yes, that 80s brick you or your dad used to record mixtapes on.
You also get two micro builds—Ravage and Laserbeak—that transform into cassette tapes and actually fit into Soundwave’s chest, just like in the original cartoon. There’s also a display plaque showing off his power stats, a laser blaster, and shoulder-mounted rocket pod to complete the look.
The build quality is solid, and articulation has clearly been prioritised—poseable arms, legs, hips and more make this a dynamic display piece. Plus, the printed detailing and restrained sticker use keep things clean and accurate.
Features and build details for LEGO Soundwave Transformers
Let’s talk about the sound brick. Unlike Optimus or Bumblebee, Soundwave comes with a fully integrated sound feature that plays voice clips and music from the 1980s cartoon. Press a button on the cassette deck and you’ll hear classic phrases in that unmistakable robotic monotone. It’s not Frank Welker’s voice, but it hits the right nostalgic notes.
As with earlier LEGO Transformers sets, this is a proper transformation, not a rebuild. With a few twists and turns, Soundwave shifts from robot to cassette player and back again, with no loose parts or fiddly reconstruction. It’s cleverly engineered and satisfying to flip between modes.
The Ravage and Laserbeak builds are small but smart. Each transforms into a brick-built cassette that can be stored inside Soundwave’s chest compartment. LEGO nailed the nostalgia on this front, packing in plenty of character with minimal pieces.
Transformers Soundwave LEGO brick set, History & Nostalgia
For the uninitiated, Soundwave was one of the most iconic Decepticons from the original G1 Transformers series. A loyal enforcer for Megatron, he communicated in that low, emotionless drawl and deployed mini-cassette sidekicks like Ravage, Rumble, Frenzy and Laserbeak. These cassette minions would pop out from his chest and wreak havoc, spying or sabotaging Autobot plans.
The original toy was released by Takara in the 1980s, and the character has remained a fan favourite ever since. He was more than just cool looking—Soundwave was efficient, loyal, and just a little terrifying. The LEGO version pays tribute to all of that, especially with the cassette storage and G1-accurate design.
Best LEGO Transformers sets, Soundwave edition
In the growing line of LEGO Transformers, Soundwave feels like a natural next step. If you’ve already built Optimus Prime or checked out our review of LEGO Icons Bumblebee, this one lands somewhere between them in complexity but ahead in flair. The sound features and character integration elevate it above previous entries.
Where Bumblebee offered a compact and charming build, and Optimus focused on scale and clean transformation, Soundwave blends both into a premium package. For those looking to round out their Autobot vs Decepticon display, this is the villain you want.
Should you buy LEGO Soundwave Transformers set?
Pros:
- Integrated sound brick with authentic 80s-style voice lines
- Highly articulated and screen-accurate design
- Includes transforming Ravage and Laserbeak cassette figures
- No rebuild needed to switch modes
Cons:
- On the pricey side compared to earlier Transformers sets
- Slightly fewer parts than Optimus, but makes up for it with extra features
If you’re a Transformers fan, this is almost a no-brainer. It hits the nostalgia, includes some brilliant micro builds, and looks great on a shelf. If you’re more into play features, the sound brick gives it a leg up over other display-focused builds. If you’re unsure, maybe start smaller with Bumblebee or our other retro pick, the LEGO Arcade Machine 40805.
LEGO Soundwave Transformers pre-order, release date & where to buy
This set launches to LEGO Insiders on 1 August 2025, with full release on 4 August 2025. It will be available through LEGO stores and LEGO.com. If you want to buy LEGO Soundwave Transformers set early, join the LEGO Insiders programme for early access.
Given the popularity of both Transformers and LEGO Icons builds, expect this one to fly off shelves quickly, especially with the sound gimmick drawing attention.
Final word
LEGO Transformers Soundwave delivers on its promise—great design, functional transformation, and authentic nostalgia packed into one brick-built villain. It’s a perfect blend of form and function, and a strong contender in the conversation around best LEGO Transformers sets.
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