The Novation AFX Station is a limited-edition reimagining of the acclaimed Bass Station II monosynth, created in collaboration with electronic music legend Aphex Twin (Richard D. James). This special edition synthesizer combines the proven analog synthesis capabilities of the Bass Station II with revolutionary AFX Mode functionality and a striking visual redesign.
At its core, the AFX Station delivers powerful two-oscillator analog synthesis with digital control. The instrument features multimode filtering, comprehensive modulation options, step sequencing, and arpeggiation capabilities. What sets it apart is the groundbreaking AFX Mode, which transforms each key into a unique patch, effectively turning the monosynth into a versatile sound design powerhouse capable of serving as an analog drum module, bass machine, or experimental lead synthesizer.
The synthesizer comes pre-loaded with firmware v4.14, introducing advanced features like fixed-duration envelopes, extended sub-oscillator controls, oscillator glide divergence, and microtuning capabilities. The paraphonic mode allows two notes to be played simultaneously, while envelope looping and retrigger functions provide enhanced control for drum synthesis and percussive sounds.
Visually, the AFX Station features a distinctive purple and black color scheme with Aphex Twin's iconic "A" insignia, making it both a professional instrument and collector's item. The front panel includes clearly labeled shortcuts for accessing the advanced features, addressing one of the main usability improvements over the standard Bass Station II.
The instrument ships with 128 new artist-designed patches and seven overlay banks created by renowned sound designers including Noyze Lab, Perplex On, Richard Devine, r beny, and Lightbath. The limited-edition packaging, designed by Weirdcore (a long-time Aphex Twin collaborator), features custom artwork with premium matte and gloss finishes.
Technical Specifications
Synthesis Engine
- Type: Analog synthesis with digital control
- Voices: Monophonic (with paraphonic mode for 2-note polyphony)
- Oscillators: 2 analog oscillators plus sub-oscillator
- Waveforms: Sawtooth, square/pulse, triangle, sine
- Sub-oscillator: Independent tuning with coarse/fine controls
Filter Section
- Type: Multimode analog filter
- Modes: Low-pass, high-pass, band-pass
- Filter tracking: 8 selectable steps (0-100%)
- Modulation: Dedicated filter envelope and LFO
Modulation
- LFOs: 2 digital LFOs
- Envelopes: 2 digital envelopes (amp and filter)
- Envelope modes: ADSR, ASR (Fixsus), looping (1-16 times)
- Modulation matrix: Comprehensive routing options
Special Features
- AFX Mode: Key-based overlay system (25-key range)
- Overlays: 8 preset overlay slots
- Paraphonic mode: Independent oscillator pitch control
- Microtuning: 8 preset tuning tables + custom tuning
- Glide Divergence: Variable oscillator glide offset
- Oscillator Error: Variable pitch randomness for vintage character
Sequencing & Performance
- Step Sequencer: Built-in pattern sequencer
- Arpeggiator: Multiple arpeggio modes
- Presets: 127 patch slots + 128 new AFX patches
- Keyboard: 25 keys
Connectivity
- MIDI: 5-pin DIN In/Out + USB MIDI
- Audio Outputs: Mono line output, headphone output
- Audio Input: External audio input
- Other: Sustain pedal input, USB Type-B for editor support
Software Integration
- Editor: Novation Components web-based editor
- Overlay Editor: Direct AFX mode editing from computer
- Firmware: Pre-installed v4.14 with all latest features
- Updates: Free firmware updates via Components
Physical Specifications
- Design: Purple and black color scheme with Aphex Twin "A" insignia
- Interface: Labeled shortcuts for advanced features
- Packaging: Limited-edition giftbox by Weirdcore with custom artwork
Power Requirements
- Connection: USB bus powered or external power adapter
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, iOS (with appropriate adapters)
Included Content
- 128 new synthesizer patches
- 7 new overlay banks from featured artists
- Custom Weirdcore-designed packaging
- Novation Components software suite
- Comprehensive user documentation
Tags: analog synthesizer
