Novation Supernova
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Novation |
| Year released | 1998 |
| Synthesis type | Virtual Analog |
| Architecture | Digital |
| Polyphony | 20-voice polyphonic |
| Notable users | The Chemical Brothers, Orbital, The Crystal Method |
| Known for | A powerful multitimbral virtual-analog rack with huge polyphony |
Overview
The Novation Supernova is a digital synthesizer released in 1998. It is a virtual analog instrument, meaning it uses digital signal processing to emulate the behavior of analog synthesizers. Available as a rack-mounted module and later as a keyboard version, the Supernova is known for its high polyphony—20 voices—and its multitimbral capability, allowing multiple sounds to be played simultaneously. It belongs to the category of workstations and virtual analog synths, and it was designed for musicians who needed a versatile, powerful sound source for live performance and studio work. The Supernova builds on Novation's earlier Super Bass Station and DrumStation, and it became a flagship product for the company. Its architecture is digital, with a synthesis engine that offers three oscillators per voice, multiple filter types, and a comprehensive effects section. The instrument was widely used in electronic dance music and remains a sought-after piece for its rich, warm sound and extensive programmability.
History & design
Novation, a British company founded in the late 1980s, initially gained attention with the MM10 and Bass Station. In the mid-1990s, they released the Super Bass Station and DrumStation, which were analog modeling devices. The Supernova, introduced in 1998, was their most ambitious synthesizer to date. It was designed to compete with other virtual analog synths like the Clavia Nord Lead and Access Virus. The Supernova was available in two forms: a rack-mounted module (Supernova Rack) and a keyboard version (Supernova II). The design focused on providing a large number of voices and multitimbral parts, making it suitable for complex arrangements. The front panel features a straightforward interface with knobs and buttons for direct access to parameters. The Supernova II added more features, including a vocoder and expanded effects. The original Supernova was discontinued, but its legacy continued with the Supernova II and later Novation products like the Nova and Supernova II. The design philosophy emphasized hands-on control and sonic flexibility.
How it works
The Supernova uses digital signal processing to generate sound. Each of its 20 voices can produce up to three oscillators. These oscillators generate basic waveforms like sawtooth, square, triangle, and sine, as well as more complex digital waveforms. The oscillators can be detuned or synchronized for classic analog-style sounds. The signal then passes through a filter section, which offers low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and notch filters with resonance control. The filter can self-oscillate, adding to the sonic possibilities. After filtering, the signal goes to an amplifier with its own envelope generator. Modulation is handled by multiple LFOs and envelope generators, which can be routed to various parameters. The Supernova also includes a comprehensive effects processor with reverb, chorus, delay, and distortion. The multitimbral engine allows up to eight parts to be played simultaneously, each with its own patch and MIDI channel. This makes it possible to use the Supernova as a complete music production hub. The digital architecture ensures stable tuning and consistent performance across all voices.
Signature sound
The Supernova is often described as having a warm, rich, and slightly aggressive sound. Its oscillators and filters are capable of producing everything from smooth pads to harsh leads and deep basses. The filter, in particular, is praised for its musical resonance and ability to self-oscillate, which can create screaming lead sounds. The effects section adds depth and space, with a reverb that can sound lush and a chorus that thickens the sound. The Supernova's high polyphony allows for complex, layered patches without voice stealing, which is a significant advantage for live performance. Its multitimbral capability means it can produce an entire track's worth of sounds at once. The sound is often associated with the trance and techno genres of the late 1990s and early 2000s, but it is versatile enough for many styles. The Supernova II improved on the original with a more refined sound and additional features like a vocoder, but the original Supernova remains a classic for its distinctive character.
Notable users & recordings
The Novation Supernova has been used by a number of prominent electronic music artists. The Chemical Brothers, known for their big beat sound, have used the Supernova in their productions. Orbital, the British electronic duo, also incorporated it into their setup. The Crystal Method, an American electronic music duo, have used the Supernova as part of their gear. These artists helped popularize the Supernova's sound in the late 1990s and early 2000s. While specific recordings are not always documented, the Supernova's presence can be heard in the electronic music of that era. Its use by these acts demonstrates its appeal to professional musicians who needed a reliable, versatile synthesizer for both studio and stage. The Supernova's multitimbral capabilities made it especially useful for live performances where multiple sounds were needed simultaneously. Its inclusion in the rigs of these influential artists contributed to its reputation as a powerful virtual analog instrument.
Legacy & influence
The Supernova was a significant product for Novation and helped establish the company as a major player in the synthesizer market. It was one of the first virtual analog synths to offer such high polyphony and multitimbral capability, setting a benchmark for others. Its success led to the Supernova II, which further refined the design and added features like a vocoder. The Supernova's engine also influenced later Novation products, such as the Nova and the Supernova II. In the years since its release, the Supernova has become a sought-after instrument on the second-hand market, appreciated for its sound and capabilities. It is remembered as a classic of the virtual analog era, alongside synths like the Nord Lead and Access Virus. Its impact on electronic music production is evident in its continued use by musicians and its presence in many studios. The Supernova's design philosophy of combining high polyphony with multitimbral operation has been adopted by many subsequent synthesizers.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is the difference between the Supernova and the Supernova II? A: The Supernova II is an updated version with more features, including a vocoder, additional effects, and a slightly different sound engine. The original Supernova has 20 voices, while the Supernova II has 24 voices. Q: Can the Supernova be used as a controller keyboard? A: The keyboard version of the Supernova can send MIDI data, so it can be used to control other MIDI devices, but it does not have dedicated controller features like aftertouch or multiple zones. Q: Is the Supernova still supported by Novation? A: Novation no longer produces the Supernova, but they may still offer some support for legacy products. However, users often rely on community forums and third-party resources for troubleshooting and patches. The Supernova remains a popular choice for those seeking a classic virtual analog sound.