description Novation Summit Overview
The Novation Summit is a 16-voice, bi-timbral polyphonic synthesizer that excels in both sound design and live performance. It utilizes Novation's FPGA-based 'New Oxford' oscillators, which provide the clarity of digital with the warmth of analog. With a massive control surface, high-quality effects, and deep modulation capabilities, it is a true powerhouse for any studio. The ability to split and layer sounds makes it an ideal choice for keyboardists who need to cover multiple parts in a live setting, while its deep synthesis engine satisfies even the most demanding sound designers.
info Novation Summit Specifications
| Midi | USB and 5-pin DIN MIDI In/Out |
| Power | External DC power supply included |
| Filter | 4-pole low-pass with resonance, multimode (lowpass, bandpass, highpass) |
| Weight | 15kg (33 lbs) |
| Cv/Gate | 4x CV outputs, 1x Gate output |
| Effects | Reverb, delay, chorus, distortion, EQ, and compressor |
| Keyboard | 61 keys, semi-weighted with channel aftertouch |
| Polyphony | 16 voices |
| Waveforms | 16 selectable per oscillator including analog-style shapes, wavetables, and noise |
| Dimensions | 1000mm x 300mm x 110mm |
| Timbrality | Bi-timbral (2 layers per patch) |
| Arpeggiator | Yes, with multiple modes and tap tempo |
| Oscillators | 3 per voice, FPGA-based New Oxford engine |
| Program Memory | 512 programs |
balance Novation Summit Pros & Cons
- FPGA-based New Oxford oscillators deliver pristine digital clarity with authentic analog warmth and character
- 16-voice polyphony enables thick, lush pads and complex chord voicings without voice stealing
- Bi-timbral architecture allows layering two complete patches for rich, evolving textures in a single instrument
- Comprehensive modulation matrix with three oscillators per voice enables intricate sound design possibilities
- Professional-grade effects suite including reverb, delay, distortion, chorus, and EQ eliminates need for external processing
- 61-key semi-weighted keyboard with channel aftertouch provides expressive real-time performance control
- Premium price point places it at higher investment level for hobbyist musicians and home studios
- Weight of approximately 15kg makes it less portable for gigging musicians requiring mobility
- Menu-driven interface requires learning curve to access deeper parameters and functions
- Single small LCD screen limits visual feedback compared to modern synths with color displays
- No built-in step sequencer restricts compositional workflow to arpeggiator and external sequencing
help Novation Summit FAQ
How does the Novation Summit differ from the Novation Peak synthesizer?
The Summit offers 16-voice polyphony versus the Peak's 8 voices, features a larger 61-key keyboard with aftertouch, includes more robust effects processing, and provides enhanced modulation capabilities with its bi-timbral architecture for layered sound creation.
Can the Novation Summit function as a standalone synthesizer without a computer?
Yes, the Summit operates completely independently as a hardware synthesizer with its own oscillator engine, filter section, effects, and arpeggiator. It can receive MIDI from any MIDI controller or hardware sequencer via USB or traditional 5-pin DIN connections.
What types of sounds is the Summit best suited for producing?
The Summit excels at rich pads, evolving textures, powerful leads, deep basses, and ambient soundscapes thanks to its analog-filtered oscillators, extensive modulation routing, and high-quality effects. Its bi-timbral design particularly shines for cinematic and electronic music production.
Does the Summit support CV/Gate control for modular integration?
Yes, the Summit includes dedicated CV/Gate outputs on the rear panel, allowing direct connection to Eurorack systems and vintage analog equipment. This enables integration into hybrid modular setups and control of external analog synthesizers.
What is Novation Summit?
How good is Novation Summit?
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What is Novation Summit best for?
Professional musicians, sound designers, and producers seeking a versatile, high-quality polyphonic synthesizer for studio composition and live performance with complex sound design requirements.
How does Novation Summit compare to The Rocky Horror Picture Show?
Is Novation Summit worth it in 2026?
What are the key specifications of Novation Summit?
- MIDI: USB and 5-pin DIN MIDI In/Out
- Power: External DC power supply included
- Filter: 4-pole low-pass with resonance, multimode (lowpass, bandpass, highpass)
- Weight: 15kg (33 lbs)
- CV/Gate: 4x CV outputs, 1x Gate output
- Effects: Reverb, delay, chorus, distortion, EQ, and compressor
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