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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 ต.ค. 2024
- Well maybe not everyone, but the Novation X-Station which comes in 25 and 49 key versions is an extremely versatile tool which can turn its hand to pretty much any musical situation.
Novation X-Station 25 review: The synth for everyone.
I bought mine in 2006, and it's great shape for the wrong reason: I just didn't learn to use it. I've been playing with it again this past month, and have had a blast with it. I even have my four year old girl playing with it. Great fun, great sound. Nice overview!
vagabundouno Thanks Vaga. Yeah I like this synth but I found it annoyingly confusing to operate. The sound engine is good though, I think it could do almost anything:) gf
Mine collected dust for several years, but then I started using it again and really enjoying it. Trance Attack is an awesome sound, the keyboard is nice to use.
Indeed. Big, robust sounds :)
Hey dude, I actually own one of these Novation X-Station 25 keyboards - I bought it around 2005-2006. I always liked it, but you just showed me some features that I never even used! I'm going to get it out and start playing around with it! Thank you so much - great job here! 😃 - Andrew Colyer, New York
Thanks Andrew Collier of New York :) - Glynn Masterman, Canberra.
I wish most current affordable synths had this much tactile control. Really hate menu diving
This is dope I just bought a used one today for $100 and it was in perfect shape.
I love messages about bargains people get! Thanks for watching, Carl :) Gearfacts
I had the midi-controller only Remote 25 and it was amazing back in the day for controlling soft synths. It included a ton of synth control templates that made it invaluable for use as a midi controller.
Just Ace.
Totally agree
They released a free software update that turned the Remote 25 into an X-Station. I converted mine. Amazing!
I have three variants 25 , 49, 61keys, very good keys.. Great audio interface with dsp..
I just got another one (the one is in this vieo left the studio years ago) so I'll make an updated video.
A (very) broken version of this appeared at $40! I think I'll just wait for it to go lower. If it even boots up, it may be a good option at a lower price as a sound module.
These are very cool, wish they'd release a 2nd version for now!
Yeah this is a good point you've made. There are so many great devices out there that have never been re-issued or updated in any way. Instead companies redesign things unnecessarily and end up with often inferior products. I wish they'd just build on what they've got. Oh well! Thanks for watching Gearfacts :)
Actually they kinda did. The Mininova and especially the Ultranova sort of updated versions of this machine. The synth engine is basically the same, with some extra bits, mainly the vocoder. The Ultranova also has a very advanced interface, although it lacks in immediate control of all parameters and xlr sockets on the back for mics. All in all, the X-Station is an amazing and underrated piece of gear.
Every video I've seen about the x-station shows people playing as if it was monophonic, I haven't seen anyone playing a chord! and so I have to ask: Is this instrument monophonic? because I already know it has 8 voice polyphony. So, what is the matter people? Is the polyphony used up by constructing the sounds? Why doesn't anyone play chords?
I have one. It's polyphonic. Chords can be played. Although, some of the presets are monophonic, If I remember correctly. Idk why it's always demo-ed like a monosynth. It's a pretty versitle little piece of gear. I never use it as a controller, because I have other ones. I just run audio out into my interface. If you see one for a good price, I recommend picking one up. Pro tip: If it doesn't have the a.c. adapter with it; no worries. You can power it through usb connected to a 5V 2.0 A phone charger; If you plan to use it as a stand alone synth.
It's polyphonic but if I remember correctly it only has like 8 voices.
@@toastangler So, last year I got the 61 keys version for 250 euros (fair enough price for me) and I can honestly say I love it. It has this cheap 00s sound that I adore and I believe one day will be sought after.. Bright supersaw-like patches, aggressive basses, the works! A real keeper. And with its original power cord which is also chargeable, like a ups! I use it non-stop with my other gear and I noticed that it has the best keybed ever. Just wanted to share this with you, after our chat 1 year ago, 'cause basically you convinced me to give it a try and it has been very rewarding. Thanks.
@@thejollyjoker187, You're welcome! I'm glad you are enjoying yours!
Giorgio Moroder approves of this very capable synth.
He is a close personal friend :) GF
Could you please do a video on the Novation XioSynth? It's often compared to the X Station. I was fortunate enough to find one for $150.
No problem, here you go: th-cam.com/video/H5_3GvUGdLM/w-d-xo.html
Do you know if there is a fader of sorts? Basically, if I was playing live, would I be able to play into the headphones first to check the sound, and then move to the speaker output for the audience to hear? Thank you!
Not sure, you'd have to get the manual online sorry!
Could this work as audio interface and synth, but controlled not from PC but external MIDI sequencer ?
Yes I think it could be rigged up that way without too much trouble :) GF
"quick fx," you say.. as opposed to what?
Slow effects ;) Just kidding, I mean it's a one-touch process to access the effects section. Some synths require menu-diving.
Does this have a sequencer?? And what about the midi out? Do you think it will control the VolcaFM input?? And what about using the audio inputs without a computer, do they work??
it doesn't have sequencer, only arpeggiator, but it comes with various rhythmic patters with various velocity notes. You can't change them, but in overall you can play with them. X-Station can control synths via MIDI easily. And I would say more that it can RECORD your volca, because it comes with built-in 2 channel audio interface with FX section :)
but can it control the volca? I tried using my midi usb keyboard (so I wouldn't have to use the fidgety Volga keyboard) but ofcourse it isn't powered on its own. So was wondering if the Xstation would work as keys for the FM? :) Wanna be SUPER portable :D P.S. why don't u make a complete overview/tutorial? Would be super usefull and probably bring some life back to these units as I see them being sold more and more often :)
how is it possible to access there ARP rhythms? + It's probably not possible to record any ext ins without a computer right??
@@boimesa8190 Yes, it can control Volca. You can use computer to create custom controller preset (e.g. MIDI mapping) and control parameters of Volca using knobs on X-Station, because it works as a very versatile controller as well. The basic config you can do fast is set them to the same MIDI channel, plug MIDI cable from X-Stations MIDI out to Volcas MIDI in. For example, Volca's channel is 2, so X-Station's keyboard should be set to channel 2 as well.
X-Station can run on batteries, via Power supply or be powered via USB.
ARP patterns are pre-defined and you can select them in ARP menu on the synth. I would highly suggest to get PDF manual for X-station and read it. It's very complex machine and can do A LOT of things, so it's better to read manual to at least understand how it works and what kind of features are there.
Is EVERY parameter available on the front panel OR is there still quite some of the modulation in the menu?
And what are the differences between this and the XioSynth sound design wise (fm etc)?
And does this also have a software editor for importing and exporting patches?
Hi, there are more parameters available in the menu, but they all relate to the 'instant' functions on the front panel. The should of the X-station and Xio I found to be almost identical. I've had both but neither of them came with software as they were second-hand. I'm sure you could get the related software for free from Novation's website though :) #gearfacts
could it be a good bang for the bucks today? I'm afraid about flimsy controls (sliders, pots)
It's physical quality will be fine for many years ...I think the sound is a little bit 90's though /GF
On mine, the rotary encoders seem to have suffered with age
The pots do suffer with age but it is a swiss army knife. I can't think of a better 25 key bang for buck. I bought 2 of them. ; - )
I have this synth, it's a bit muddy in the mid-low end.
Didn't notice that myself, but it's a useful observation :) #gearfacts
Just got one... all parameters in Synth mode show “no control”. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Hmmm all I can suggest is to search google for the manual (search "novation x-station PDF") ...maybe try factory reset as a potential quick fix?
HOW TO GIVE A FACTORY RESET?
support.novationmusic.com/hc/en-gb/articles/206866529-How-do-I-reset-the-X-Station-to-its-factory-settings-#:~:text=Press%20the%20'global'%20button%20on,'play%2Fsynth'%20button.
i have a 61 i never use got it in a trade i might breakl it out now
Do it, trooper :) Gearfacts