The Ultranova represents Novation's return to their synthesizer roots, combining classic features with modern functionality. This virtual analogue keyboard synthesizer features advanced oscillators, dual filters, effects, and an innovative "Touch Animation" feature. It also functions as a USB audio interface and includes a microphone for vocoding.

The synth offers a three-octave velocity and aftertouch-sensitive keyboard, with a straightforward interface centered around eight rotary encoders and a clear LCD display. Despite having fewer knobs than some competitors, the interface remains logical and efficient for sound design.

Under the hood, the Ultranova packs impressive specs: three oscillators with traditional analog-modeled waveforms, 20 digital waves, and 36 wavetables; three LFOs (plus one for vibrato); six envelopes; two filters with 14 different types; five effects; and a 20-slot modulation matrix. While it's monotimbral (unlike previous Novation synths), it offers up to 18-note polyphony.

Sound organization includes four banks of 128 patches each, categorized into nine genres and 14 categories ranging from bass to SFX.

Technical Specifications:

• 20-voice polyphony (monotimbral)
• 3 oscillators with multiple waveforms (Saw, Square, Sine, Pulse, Wavetable, etc.)
• 3 LFOs with various waveforms and sync options
• 6 envelopes
• Dual filters with 14 types
• 5-chain effects (Distortion, Compressor, Chorus/Phase, Delay, Reverb, Gator, EQ)
• Memory: 256 patches RAM, 128 patches ROM
• 33 arpeggiator patterns
• Chord memory function
• 12-band vocoder with included gooseneck mic
• 37-key velocity and aftertouch-sensitive keyboard

Design features include a durable blue plastic construction with illuminated mod wheel and pitch-bender (with optional lighting). The interface centers around a 2x27-character LCD with rubber buttons and rotary encoders, maintaining simplicity without sacrificing functionality.

Connectivity includes:

• Two balanced audio inputs
• Four unbalanced outputs
• MIDI In/Out/Thru
• USB audio interface capabilities (2-in/4-out)
• USB power
• S/PDIF output
• Headphone socket
• Sustain and expression pedal inputs

The Ultranova successfully combines portability with professional features, making it a versatile instrument for both studio and live use. Its USB audio interface capabilities and comprehensive synthesis engine provide excellent value for modern music production needs.

The synth integrates seamlessly with Digital Audio Workstations through its editor plug-in, which provides comprehensive visual control over all parameters. The included Automap functionality allows the encoders to control DAW functions and software synthesizers.

The Ultranova successfully bridges the gap between hardware and software synthesis, offering an engaging performance instrument that's equally capable as a studio tool. While it may not match the knob-per-function interface of some competitors, its deep synthesis engine, DAW integration, and additional features make it a compelling package for modern music production.

Tags: digital synthesizer