Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Amazon
$3,299.00
Reverb
$2,399.00 New
$1,150.00 Used
zZounds
$3,599.00
B&H
5.0 (2)
$3,299.00
Thomann
4.0 (2)
$3,599.00
Vintage King
$3,299.00

Average Price: $2,949

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Melbourne Instruments NINA". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 10, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Get ready to explore a new frontier in sound design with the Melbourne Instruments NINA. This 12-voice analog polyphonic synthesizer doesn't just offer rich, thick sound and hands-on control; it revolutionizes the way you interact with your instrument. The NINA's motorized control surface is a game-changer, updating its knobs to reflect preset changes in real-time, ensuring an intuitive and seamless experience whether you're on stage or in the studio.

Under the hood, the NINA boasts a fully analog signal path, combining two analog VCOs and one digital wavetable oscillator per voice. This setup offers deep, dynamic sound possibilities, further amplified by a 4-pole transistor low-pass ladder filter with overdrive capabilities. The modulation matrix, featuring 16 sources and 28 destinations, allows for intricate sound sculpting with ease. Plus, the NINA's patch morphing capability lets you create evolving soundscapes that keep your audience captivated.

Whether you're crafting lush pads or gritty basslines, the NINA's extensive effects section, including reverb, delay, and chorus, ensures you're always in the sonic sweet spot. With more than 400 preset sounds ready to go, your creative journey can begin as soon as you plug it in. Add in the polyphonic step sequencer, arpeggiator, and robust connectivity options, and you have a synthesizer that's not just an instrument, but a creative partner.

Key Features:

  • 12-voice polyphony with fully analog signal path
  • Motorized controls for seamless preset changes and real-time updates
  • 2 analog VCOs and 1 digital wavetable oscillator per voice
  • 4-pole transistor low-pass ladder filter with overdrive
  • Modulation matrix with 16 sources and 28 destinations
  • Patch morphing for unique sound evolution
  • Extensive effects section with reverb, delay, and chorus
  • Polyphonic step sequencer and arpeggiator
  • MIDI In/Out/Thru and USB connectivity

Owner's manual

Melbourne Instruments NINA User Manual

Product specs

Available since July 2024
Design Desktop
Polyphony 12
Sound Generation Analogue
Storage Medium Internal
USB-port Yes
Effects Yes
Arpeggiator Yes
Number of Analog Outputs 4
Digital Output No
Display Yes
Optional Expansions N/A
Special Features Motor Poti

FAQs

Is the Melbourne Instruments NINA polyphonic or monophonic?

The Melbourne Instruments NINA is a polyphonic synthesizer with 12 voices, allowing you to play complex chords and layered sounds.

What makes the motorized controls on the Melbourne Instruments NINA unique?

The motorized controls on the NINA allow for precise automation and recall of settings, providing a dynamic and interactive performance experience.

Does the Melbourne Instruments NINA have built-in effects?

Yes, the Melbourne Instruments NINA includes built-in effects, enhancing its sound design capabilities directly within the synth.

Can the Melbourne Instruments NINA be connected via USB?

Yes, the NINA features a USB port for easy connectivity with computers and other MIDI devices.

How many analog outputs does the Melbourne Instruments NINA have?

The Melbourne Instruments NINA is equipped with four analog outputs, offering flexible routing options for live and studio setups.

Does the Melbourne Instruments NINA include an arpeggiator?

Yes, the NINA comes with an integrated arpeggiator, adding rhythmic complexity to your sound creations.

loopop

loopop

Motorized synth knobs: Gimmick or Gamechanger? // NINA by Melbourne Instruments Review and tutorial

Video thumbnail for Motorized synth knobs: Gimmick or Gamechanger? // NINA by Melbourne Instruments Review and tutorial by loopop

Motorized synth knobs: Gimmick or Gamechanger? // NINA by Melbourne Instruments Review and tutorial

loopop

loopop

Video thumbnail for Melbourne Instruments NINA: Not just a pretty face! by Matt Johnson Jamiroquai

Melbourne Instruments NINA: Not just a pretty face!

Matt Johnson Jamiroquai

Matt Johnson Jamiroquai

Video thumbnail for Melbourne Instruments NINA: The Motorized Future of Multi-Timbral Synths is Here! by Store DJ

Melbourne Instruments NINA: The Motorized Future of Multi-Timbral Synths is Here!

Store DJ

Store DJ

Video thumbnail for Melbourne Instruments NINA: The best Synthesizer ever? REVIEW by Wine&Synths

Melbourne Instruments NINA: The best Synthesizer ever? REVIEW

Wine&Synths

Wine&Synths

Video thumbnail for MELBOURNE INSTRUMENTS NINA: Revolutionary Motorized Controls! by B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

MELBOURNE INSTRUMENTS NINA: Revolutionary Motorized Controls!

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for Melbourne Instruments NINA Gets Even Better! - v1.4 New Features (Demo w Osmose) by Mike Pensini

Melbourne Instruments NINA Gets Even Better! - v1.4 New Features (Demo w Osmose)

Mike Pensini

Mike Pensini

Video thumbnail for NAMM 2024 - Melbourne Instruments - Nina Updates by sonicstate

NAMM 2024 - Melbourne Instruments - Nina Updates

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for Melbourne Instruments - Nina. by The Unperson

Melbourne Instruments - Nina.

The Unperson

The Unperson

Video thumbnail for The Amazing NINA synth - Must be heard to be believed! by School of Synthesis

The Amazing NINA synth - Must be heard to be believed!

School of Synthesis

School of Synthesis

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Melbourne Instruments NINA.

Features and functionality

  • The motorized knobs adjust resistance and provide tactile feedback, enhancing intuitive sound sculpting and patch morphing.

    Source
  • The motorized knobs on the NINA are brushless magnetic, ensuring durability by minimizing mechanical wear and tear.

    Source
  • Owners note the knobs feel 'loose' when powered off and 'firm up' due to magnetic resistance when powered, enhancing tactile feedback.

    Source
  • The Access Virus TI2, as an alternative, boasts over 4000 patch slots and supports knob-per-function, appealing to users prioritizing extensive sound design options.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the multitimbrality combined with motorized knobs eliminates the usual confusion seen in other synths with multi-timbral capabilities.

    Source
  • One user equated the NINA's cost to a UDO Super 6, suggesting the price is justified for those seeking a 12-voice hybrid synth.

    Source
  • Some users report restoring used Access Virus TI2 units by cleaning and replacing pots and buttons, finding them "like new" and highly reliable post-maintenance.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Motorized knobs allow for faster programming by focusing on knob position without additional visual distractions, enhancing workflow efficiency.

    Source
  • The NINA's individual outputs are appreciated by users for live performance flexibility, offering distinct routing options.

    Source

Other

  • While some synths use endless encoders, users appreciate the visual and tactile correspondence of motorized knobs for immediate preset recall.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The NINA's analog motorized knobs avoid the 'steppiness' of digital encoders, providing a smoother control experience compared to synths like the Hydrasynth.

    Source
  • Owners looking for Nina alternatives consider the Waldorf Iridium and Access Virus TI2 for their multitimbral capabilities and extensive modulation destinations.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Pre-owned Access Virus TI2 units are praised for their value, often found under $1100, providing a cost-effective alternative for those seeking advanced synthesis features.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Melbourne Instruments Nina

soundonsound.com

Melbourne Instruments' NINA is a groundbreaking synth that marries motorised knobs with impressive sound capabilities. While its hefty price tag and power consumption may raise eyebrows, the innovative design and versatile I/O options make it a worthy investment for serious musicians. The standout Morph function and multilayered synthesis capabilities offer a creative playground, though the reliance on a complex menu system might deter some users. Ultimately, NINA sets a high bar for future synths, showcasing that tactile engagement can coexist with modern technology without feeling gimmicky.

positive

Review: Melbourne Instruments NINA 

mixdownmag.com.au

Melbourne Instruments' NINA is a standout debut in the synth world, boasting an impressive array of features and a robust build that promises longevity. Its motorised encoders and morphing capabilities offer a unique tactile experience, making sound design intuitive and exciting. The lush onboard effects further enhance its appeal, while its multi-timbral capabilities cater to serious sound designers. However, while the synth excels in many areas, there's an underlying concern about its performance limits when pushed to extremes. Despite this, the NINA shines as a bold entry into the market, making it a worthy investment for those seeking quality and innovation in synthesis.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dam-Funk uses Melbourne Instruments NINA

Dam-Funk

Music Producer

Master Blazter

...
Verified via Photo

"On March 20, 2023, Dam-Funk shared a photo on Instagram featuring the Melbourne Instruments NINA synthesizer."

G

Gill Princen

Portland

...
Verified via YouTube

Gill Princen uses the Melbourne Instruments NINA synthesizer in numerous tracks, as demonstrated in Portland's live performance on 2 Meter Sessions, hosted by Jan Douwe Kroeske. The session showcases Portland's music, featuring Gill Princen on electronics.

Album Usage

The Melbourne Instruments NINA has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Melbourne Instruments NINA, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Boss BD-2 Blues Driver
Boss BD-2 Blues Driver Overdrive Effects Pedals
1

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