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.