Novation MiniNova – Compact 37-Key Synth with Vocoder & VocalTune
MiniNova packs the full power of Novation’s UltraNova engine into a pocket-sized keyboard. With vibrant performance controls and vocal processing tools, it delivers huge sound in a highly portable, stage-ready format.
Key Features
- UltraNova sound engine: Three oscillators per voice with a mix of virtual analog and wavetables, 18-voice polyphony
- Vocoder & VocalTune: Talk or sing into the included mic and warp your voice into melodies or polished, in-key tonalities
- 256 preset sounds, plus 128 user slots: Browse instantly by type or genre; customize and save your own patches
- Live performance tools: Eight backlit “Animate” buttons trigger modulation and real-time sound warping; arpeggiator with tempo control
- Effects engine: Up to five effects per voice, including distortion, chorus/phaser, delay, reverb, compressor, EQ, and the signature Gator gate
- Compact control layout: 37 mini synth-action keys, pitch/mod wheels, large filter knob, and navigation via a 16-character LCD display
Customer Benefits
MiniNova delivers studio-quality synthesis in a gig-ready, backpack-sized form factor. Whether you're sculpting evolving pads or performing vocal-infused leads live, its hands-on controls and expressive tools keep creativity in motion.
Quick Specs
- Keys: 37 mini, synth-action, velocity sensitive
- Polyphony: 18 voices
- Oscillators & Types: 3 per voice, with conventional waveforms, 36 wavetables, and digital shapes
- Effects per Voice: Up to 5 (e.g. distortion, chorus, delay, reverb, compressor, EQ, Gator gate)
- Controls: Animate buttons (x8), filter knob, arpeggiator controls, pitch/mod wheels
- Sound Memory: 256 factory presets + 128 user slots
- Display: 16-character LCD
- Connectivity: USB (bus or 9 V DC), MIDI In/Out, XLR mic in, line in/out, headphone, sustain pedal input
- Dimensions: ~56 × 25 × 7.5 cm
- Weight: ~2.5 kg
What’s in the Box
- Novation MiniNova synthesizer
- Gooseneck microphone
- 9 V DC power adapter
- Software pack including patches and editor tool
Use Cases / Ideal For
Perfect for gigging keyboardists, electronic music producers, and live performers who want quick, expressive access to cutting-edge synthesis and vocal effects—without lugging a large rig.
Compatibility
Functions as a MIDI controller via USB or MIDI I/O. Comes with a Patch Librarian for library management and deeper editing. Vocoder and VocalTune are mic-enabled, and the line input supports guitar or external audio processing.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Ultra-powerful sound engine in a compact design
- Vocoder and VocalTune create unique vocal textures live
- Instant sound tweaking via Animate buttons and filter knob
- Plenty of presets and saving space for custom tones
⚠️ Cons:
- No aftertouch on keys—expressiveness relies on controls
- Mini keys may feel cramped for players used to full-size keybeds
The Novation MiniNova captures the soul of its larger sibling in a pure, portable form—powerful tone, vocal effects, and performance tools in one neat package.
