The Melbourne Instruments Nina represents an unusual approach to analog synthesis, featuring the world's first implementation of motorised knobs in a desktop synthesizer. This flagship instrument from the Australian manufacturer combines cutting-edge haptic technology with sophisticated analog and digital synthesis capabilities.
The Nina is a hybrid analog-digital 12-voice polyphonic synthesizer that seamlessly blends wavetable and conventional subtractive synthesis. Its standout feature is the grid of brushless drone motors powering each knob, allowing them to physically move and reconfigure themselves during preset changes, creating a mesmerizing and functional display of automation.
Built around fully discrete, in-house designed circuitry, the Nina offers a unique sonic character that sets it apart from mass-market instruments. The synthesizer features a sophisticated architecture with two analog oscillators, a digital wavetable oscillator, and a classic 4-pole Moog-style ladder filter, all wrapped in a tank-like 5.5kg chassis with professional-grade build quality.
The Nina's motorised knobs utilize magnetic field technology to dynamically change their physical characteristics - seamlessly switching between smooth continuous control and stepped operation, with programmable detents and variable resistance depending on their current function. This innovative approach provides genuine haptic feedback while maintaining the classic knob-per-function workflow that synthesists prefer.
Beyond the motorised controls, the Nina excels as a performance instrument with comprehensive MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) support, four-layer multitimbral capability, and an innovative A/B morphing system that allows real-time blending between two complete parameter sets. The onboard effects section includes high-quality chorus, reverb, and delay, plus a unique "Stereo Infinite Panning" system that creates psychoacoustic width beyond conventional stereo imaging.
Technical Specifications
Architecture & Voices
- Polyphony: 12 voices
- Synthesis Types: Hybrid analog-digital (subtractive + wavetable)
- Multitimbrality: 4-layer multitimbral capability
- Circuitry: Fully discrete analog circuits (custom designed)
Oscillators
- Analog Oscillators: 2 custom VCOs
- Variable waveforms: Square to Triangle to Saw
- Adjustable pulse width and wave shape
- Integrated sub-oscillator on VCO 1
- Digital Oscillator: 1 wavetable oscillator (VCO 3)
- Factory wavetables included
- Custom wavetable import/export support
- Compatible with most soft-synth wavetable formats
Filter
- Type: 4-pole analog ladder filter (Moog-style)
- Discrete analog circuitry
Envelopes
Modulation
- Modulation Matrix: Full matrix with visual feedback via motorised knobs
- LFO: Integrated modulation sources
- Real-time parameter morphing: A/B preset morphing system
Effects
- Chorus: 2 types optimized for stereo spread
- Reverb: 5 algorithms (Room, 2x Plate, 2x Hall) with shimmer option
- Delay: Sync-capable, 60ms-1.8s delay time with low-pass filter
- Drive: Bipolar drive control with attenuation capability
- Stereo Infinite Panning: Custom 4-quadrant VCA psychoacoustic panning
- Spin: 3D stereo movement effect
Motorised Control System
- Motor Type: Brushless drone motors (magnetic field based)
- Knob Count: Full panel of motorised knobs
- Characteristics: Variable resistance, programmable detents, stepped/smooth operation
- Response: Lightning-fast preset recall and real-time morphing
- Haptic Feedback: Dynamic knob characteristics based on parameter type
Audio I/O
- Outputs: 4 audio outputs (DC-coupled)
- Inputs: 4 audio inputs (DC-coupled, line/CV level)
- Microphone Input: 1 hybrid XLR-jack input (mic level capable)
- Signal Processing: External audio can be routed through internal effects and filter
MIDI & Control
- MIDI: In, Out, Thru (5-pin DIN)
- USB: 1x USB-C port, 2x USB-A ports
- MPE Support: Full MIDI Polyphonic Expression compatibility
- Controller Support: Wide range of controller types and styles
Interface
- Display: Single screen labeled "Computer"
- Navigation: Data encoder with menu system
- Buttons: Backlit "soft key" buttons throughout panel
- Sequencer: Onboard sequencer with preset bank quick-access
Physical Specifications
- Dimensions: Front panel approximately 45 x 23cm
- Weight: 5.5kg
- Construction: Chunky metal side panels, tank-like build quality
- Mounting: 19-inch rack ears included
- Power Requirements: 8A current draw
Additional Features
- Noise Generator: White/pink noise plus ring modulation of VCO pulse widths
- Aux Input Routing: External audio integration through noise generator section
- A/B Morphing: Real-time morphing between two complete parameter sets
- Preset Management: Visual preset recall via motorised knob positioning
- Multitimbral Editing: Knobs snap to show parameters for each timbral layer
Connectivity & Integration
- External Processing: Route external audio through Nina's filter and effects
- CV Inputs: DC-coupled inputs accept control voltage
- Professional I/O: Balanced and unbalanced audio connections
- Computer Integration: USB connectivity for wavetable management and MIDI
The Melbourne Instruments Nina stands as a flagship instrument that pushes the boundaries of synthesizer design, combining revolutionary motorised control technology with sophisticated analog synthesis capabilities, making it equally suited for studio production and live performance applications.
