Novation Digital Music Systems

Content sourced from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Novation is a British music gear maker founded in 1992 by Ian Jannaway and Mark Thompson as Novation Electronic Music Systems. Today it operates as Novation Digital Music Systems Ltd., part of Focusrite, and is based in the United Kingdom. The company designs MIDI controllers (with and without keyboards), synthesizers (analogue and virtual analogue), grid-based performance controllers, and grooveboxes, serving both studios and live performers.

Key moments and products
- Early innovations: MM10 (1992) portable keyboard controller; Bass Station (1993) an analogue monosynth; Drum Station (1995) using analogue modelling; the powerful Supernova line (1998) among the first high-end virtual analogue synths.
- 2000s expansion: X-Station (2004) combined synth, audio interface, and controller; Automap software (2005) mapped hardware controls to software; ReMOTE and SL series controllers (2006–2009) popularized hands-on DAW control.
- Launchpad era and grid control: Launchpad (2009) introduced a grid of illuminated pads for Ableton Live; Dicer (2010) and Twitch (2011) extended DJ and performance control.
- Hybrid and high-end synths: UltraNova (2010) and MiniNova (2012) expanded the Nova family; Peak (2017) brought a major digital/analog hybrid synth; Summit (2019) added a larger, bi-timbral option with rich sound design.
- Standalone and portable gear: Circuit grooveboxes (2015) offered standalone, grid-based sequencing with built-in synth engines; Circuit Tracks and Circuit Rhythm followed (2021) for sequencing and sample-based production.
- Key controller lines: Launchkey (2013) and Launchkey MK3 (2020) integrate tightly with Ableton Live, adding hands-on control, standalone modes, and expanded DAW integration. The FLkey line (2022) targets FL Studio users. The SL/RemotE line has continued to offer deep DAW control and modular options.
- Collaborations and updates: Aphex Twin worked with Novation on the AFX Station (2020); ongoing updates keep the Launchpad family, Circuit series, and high-end synths in active use.
- Recent and ongoing: Launchkey MK4 (2024) updated for broader DAW integration; Launchpad Pro/MkII and Mini Mk3 variants expanded the grid controller family; ongoing development emphasizes workflow, portability, and hybrid production setups.

Notable use and impact
Novation’s instruments have been used by a wide range of artists, including Orbital, Jean Michel Jarre, Aphex Twin, Wu-Tang Clan (referenced in music), and many other producers and live performers. The company has helped popularize grid-based performance controllers and portable, all-in-one hardware for both studio creation and live shows.

Today
Novation remains a major force in both hardware controllers and compact synthesizers, bridging software and standalone hardware for beginners and professionals alike. Its products aim to deliver intuitive workflow, hands-on control, and versatile sound design across a broad spectrum of electronic music. In 2025, the GForce Bass Station software emulator further extends the classic Bass Station sound to modern DAWs.