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Average Price: $500

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$1501+

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Description

The Novation KS4 synthesizer is a versatile powerhouse perfect for musicians who crave expressive sound capabilities combined with intuitive controls. This four-octave synthesizer is a part of Novation's esteemed KS series and is celebrated for its 24-voice polyphony, allowing for rich, layered soundscapes. Whether in the studio or on stage, the KS4 offers a tactile experience with its hands-on interface, making it a go-to choice for both novice and seasoned synthesists.

Equipped with a plethora of features, the KS4 stands out with its dual multi-mode filters, offering a wide range of sound-shaping possibilities. The synth's onboard effects include reverb, delay, chorus, and distortion, which add depth and character to any performance. With its built-in arpeggiator and sequencer, creating complex rhythms and patterns becomes an effortless task. The KS4 also boasts a robust MIDI implementation, ensuring seamless integration into any setup.

For those who value connectivity, the KS4 doesn't disappoint. Featuring multiple outputs and inputs, it is designed to fit comfortably into both modern and vintage setups. Its USB connectivity ensures compatibility with your favorite DAWs for easy recording and performance.

Key Features:

  • 61-key, velocity-sensitive keyboard
  • 24-voice polyphony for complex sound layering
  • Dual multi-mode filters for advanced sound shaping
  • Onboard effects: reverb, delay, chorus, and distortion
  • Built-in arpeggiator and sequencer
  • Comprehensive MIDI implementation
  • USB connectivity for easy DAW integration
  • Multiple audio outputs and inputs for versatile connectivity

Product specs

Brand Novation
Model KS4 49-Key 16-Voice Synthesizer
Finish Silver
Year 2002
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 49 Keys
Polyphony 16 Voices

FAQs

Is the Novation KS4 a polyphonic synthesizer?

Yes, the Novation KS4 is a polyphonic synthesizer with 16 voices, allowing you to play complex chords and layered sounds simultaneously.

What type of keys does the Novation KS4 have?

The Novation KS4 features a 49-key full-size keyboard with synth action, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience suitable for various styles.

Does the Novation KS4 have MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the Novation KS4 offers MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it compatible with other MIDI-equipped devices for versatile studio and live setups.

What is the main synthesis method used in the Novation KS4?

The Novation KS4 is a digital synthesizer, utilizing digital signal processing to create a wide range of sounds and textures.

What is the intended use of the Novation KS4 synthesizer?

The Novation KS4 is designed for musicians and producers looking for a versatile digital synthesizer capable of producing rich, layered sounds in studio and live environments.

orsheeboo

orsheeboo

Novation KS4 demonstration

Video thumbnail for Novation KS4 demonstration by orsheeboo

Novation KS4 demonstration

orsheeboo

orsheeboo

Video thumbnail for DEMO NOVATION KS4 SYNTHESIZER HD by PianoVintage

DEMO NOVATION KS4 SYNTHESIZER HD

PianoVintage

PianoVintage

Video thumbnail for NOVATION KS 4 by Damiano Della Torre by Damiano Della Torre

NOVATION KS 4 by Damiano Della Torre

Damiano Della Torre

Damiano Della Torre

Video thumbnail for Novation KS4 Sound demo. by Movie Nostalgy

Novation KS4 Sound demo.

Movie Nostalgy

Movie Nostalgy

Video thumbnail for Novation Classics: KS4 Synthesizer (2002) by NovationTV Deutschland

Novation Classics: KS4 Synthesizer (2002)

NovationTV Deutschland

NovationTV Deutschland

Video thumbnail for NOVATION KS4 SYNTHESIZER- DRUM&BASS by PianoVintage

NOVATION KS4 SYNTHESIZER- DRUM&BASS

PianoVintage

PianoVintage

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation KS4.

Features and functionality

  • The Novation KS4 cuts the delay effect when adjusting delay time live to prevent glitching, unlike the Z1 which crackles and pops.

    Source
  • The KS4 shares the same synth engine as the X-Synth and Xiosynth but includes a better interface and supports multitimbrality.

    Source
  • The Novation KS4 does not require software for operation, making it suitable for those who prefer hardware-only setups at gigs.

    Source
  • The KS4's synth engine is based on the Supernova, providing a robust platform for sound design.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Lowering oscillator levels to about 75 can address internal clipping and crackling in deep bass patches on the KS4.

    Source

User experience

  • Novation synthesizers like the KS4 are praised for having excellent manuals that clearly explain controls, enhancing the user experience.

    Source
  • An owner has created and shared 100 custom patches available for free, showcasing the community support and customization options available.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners recommend the KS4 for creating gnarly basses and lush pads, highlighting its versatility across different sound types.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Novation KS4 & KS5

soundonsound.com

The Novation KS4 is a strong successor to the K-Station, offering more features, a better keyboard, and multitimbrality without compromising user-friendliness. With improved polyphony, additional waveforms, and drum maps, it's versatile for various musical styles. Hypersync and the enhanced filter add to its appeal, making it more than just an upgrade. While the lack of 'pass-through' knob mode and fiddly waveform selection are minor drawbacks, the KS4's sound quality rivals top digital synths, justifying its price. Overall, it's a compelling choice for those seeking a powerful and accessible virtual-analog synth.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
finetales

Great VA

Awesome synth. One of the sleepers of Novation's old lineup. It isn't just a cut down Supernova; it has its own sound. They don't come up for sale very often so nab it (or the KS Rack version) when you can.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tycho uses Novation KS4

Tycho

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Tycho

...
Verified via MusicTech

in the "Warming Up" section of the interview where Scott talks about his Neve Gear, the Novation KS4 can be seen below the pedals and the Minimoog in the image

See how Howard Jones uses Novation KS4

Howard Jones

Singer, Keyboardist

The Conspirators

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see clearly a pair of Novation KS-4 in his digital rig 2:56

See how Brad Cole uses Novation KS4

Brad Cole

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this shot the KS4 can clearly be seen in Brad's rig above the ruby red Korg Karma.

See how Michael Sochynsky uses Novation KS4

Michael Sochynsky

Keyboardist

Genghis Tron

...
Verified via Flickr

In a photograph captured by Blairly Legal on Flickr, Michael Sochynsky, the keyboardist for Genghis Tron, can be seen playing a Novation KS4 synthesizer during a live performance.

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 Novation KS4, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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1
Universal Audio OX
Universal Audio OX Guitar Power Attenuators
1

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