Novation UltraNova

^# 39

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$335.02 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (81)

18 Reviews

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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$383.00 - $449.99

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Find out who is using Novation UltraNova

8 community setups

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31 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jul 07, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 7, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (17)

$335.02 6 available Used

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Average Price: $477

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Novation UltraNova is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

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High-end

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Description

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Update The new Novation UltraNova 2023 Ultimate Patches download adds 333 fresh sounds.

The UltraNova is a ‘Nova’ series analogue-modelling synthesizer with a powerful effects processor. It is a single-part synth, taking the Supernova II synth engine as a starting point and updating it. It now includes wavetable synthesis, more powerful filters, a software editor and a new touch-sense performance mode.

Product specs

Brand	Novation
Model	UltraNova 37-Key 20-Voice Synthesizer
Finish	Blue
Year	2010
Categories	Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Slim
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI
Number of Keys	37 Keys
Polyphony	20 Voices

FAQs

Is the Novation UltraNova synthesizer polyphonic?: Yes, the Novation UltraNova is a polyphonic synthesizer with 20 voices, allowing you to play complex chords and layers.
Does the Novation UltraNova feature aftertouch?: Yes, the Novation UltraNova includes a keybed with aftertouch, providing expressive control over the sound dynamics and modulation.
How does the Novation UltraNova connect to other devices?: The UltraNova offers MIDI Input, Output, Through, and USB MIDI connectivity, making it easy to integrate with other MIDI devices and DAWs.
What are the standout features of the Novation UltraNova's sound engine?: The UltraNova features a powerful sound engine with wavetable synthesis, advanced modulation capabilities, and onboard effects, ideal for creating a wide range of sounds.
Can the Novation UltraNova be used as a MIDI controller?: Yes, the UltraNova can function as a MIDI controller, with assignable controls and USB connectivity for seamless integration with your DAW.

Videos

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Sweetwater

Novation UltraNova Synthesizer Demo — Daniel Fisher

Sweetwater

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Novation UltraNova Synthesizer | Gear4music demo

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sonicstate

Novation UltraNova - natural patches

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Novation // UltraNova: Creating sounds

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Novation // UltraNova: The synth engine

Novation

Novation Ultranova Part. 1 | No Talking |

DKS SYNTH LAB

Novation // UltraNova: Inputs and Outputs

Novation

NOVATION ULTRANOVA - Playing Some Favourite Pad Presets

David Thom Creations

Reviews

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PROS

Sound architecture allows for versatile sound design
Touch encoders add unique control over parameters
Capable of complex modulation with 20 slots and multiple LFOs/envelopes
Excellent VST editor and patch librarian for easy editing
Wide range of factory presets and external patches available
Durable build quality, despite plastic case
Can be bus-powered for portability
Full-size keys and stylish design suitable for live performance
Integrates well as a MIDI controller
Features like chord mode and sequencer enhance playability

CONS

Small screen and limited keys may restrict playability
Some users find the synth engine less rich compared to competitors
VST plugin editor can be unreliable
DAW integration can be challenging for some users
Monotimbral nature limits layering sounds
Plastic case feels less premium
Requires memorization of abbreviations for navigation
Some users report issues with USB powering
Vocoder microphone not included, requiring separate purchase
Limited effect types compared to user expectations

Owner Insights

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

Use cases and applications

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It's favored for creating drones and ambient sounds, offering extensive modulation options to craft intricate soundscapes.
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The UltraNova excels in creating natural-sounding orchestral patches and complex ambient/experimental pads, leveraging its 20 modulation slots.
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Owners mention the UltraNova as suited for bright, brash styles like EDM and Synthwave, though it may need external processing for warmth in genres like Techno or House.
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Features and functionality

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The UltraNova includes wavetable synthesis, allowing subtle waveform changes for more dynamic sound design.
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The UltraNova's digital filters are lauded for their versatility, with the qnorm value significantly altering filter character.
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The UltraNova is noted for having a deep modulation matrix with numerous sources and destinations, appealing to those who enjoy complex sound design.
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The vocoder requires an external mic; both XLR and 1/4-inch inputs are supported, providing flexibility in mic choice.
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Includes interesting oscillators not common in many synths, like unique saw and square waves and three organ sounds.
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The UltraNova can function as an audio interface and has a USB power option, though full functionality is unlocked with a dedicated power supply.
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Build quality

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The screen may flicker occasionally, with some users expressing dissatisfaction with its quality.
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Despite being lightweight, the plastic casing is fragile, making it unsuitable for rough handling or frequent transport without care.
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The plastic is reportedly weak, with knobs becoming sticky and requiring weekly cleaning to maintain smooth operation.
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User experience

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The touch-sensitive knobs are a unique feature, though firmware 2.0 reportedly limits their activation to 2 seconds.
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The lightweight build is praised for portable use, such as creating patches comfortably while sitting on a couch.
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Owners find the menu diving cumbersome and assignable knobs confusing to use, which can hinder creative flow during sound design.
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Despite its digital nature, it's described as easy to use for performance due to its excellent controller capabilities and full-sized keys with aftertouch.
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Comparisons

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Users prefer the UltraNova's sound over the Bass Station and Mono Station, noting its ability to produce trippy ambient pads like the Supernova.
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Compared to older Novation models like the Nova, the UltraNova is seen as less robust but offers a similar sound profile and greater modulation capabilities.
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Value and pricing

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A purchase price of $100 is highlighted as an exceptional deal, especially given the UltraNova's discontinued status and original retail price.
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 18 Reviews and 81 Ratings

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chuno_rock

155

over 5 years ago

A total machine!

synth, controller, 2 channel interface, aftertouch, sensitive keys, touch asignable knobs and a very large etc. wonderfull device, exellent capabylities.

Roles:

Guitarist Keyboardist Composer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Blues

tutui

502

about 8 years ago

My friend uses one

My friend, also a producer, uses one in his home studio. Presets sounds good, it seems to be a capable synth for every style of electronic music.

rude_nate

113

almost 9 years ago

Good at what it does

It doesn't produce very professional-sounding tones. They sound kind of cheap and plasticky like a little kid's toy. I have found a few slightly better patches online. Love the controls but the tones aren't that great.

lahnvv

almost 11 years ago

It's Just okay. At least for a starter Synth

It's really got no Ear Grabbing Sounds. The Arpeggiator is average and it doesn't last much Hardware wise but It's an Okay Synth. At least for a start.