The Novation BassStation is a compact, lightweight analogue bass synthesizer designed to fill the gap left by Roland's scarce and expensive TB-303 Bassline. This British-made instrument combines the immediacy of hands-on control with the flexibility of modern MIDI integration, making it an ideal choice for both studio work and live performance.
Built around dual digitally-controlled analogue oscillators, the BassStation delivers authentic analogue grit and character while maintaining the reliability and precision of digital control. The instrument features a two-octave keyboard that's transposable through eight octaves, providing sufficient range for bass duties while remaining compact and portable.
The synthesizer's true strength lies in its intuitive interface - every parameter is accessible via dedicated knobs and switches, allowing for real-time sound manipulation without menu diving. The filter section offers both 12dB and 24dB per octave slopes, with the 12dB mode specifically configured to recreate the sonic characteristics of the classic TB-303, complete with its distinctive resonance behavior and modulation characteristics.
Beyond bass duties, the BassStation serves as a capable polyphonic MIDI controller, making it a versatile addition to any setup. Its MIDI implementation allows for seamless integration with sequencers, with parameter changes transmitted as controller data for automation and recording purposes.
The instrument includes seven internal memory locations for patch storage, though the hands-on nature of the controls makes it equally suited to real-time programming. Factory presets cover a range of bass and lead sounds, from sharp acid tones to deep, growling bass patches.
Despite its lightweight construction, the BassStation's controls feel solid and responsive. The keyboard action is described as pleasant and authoritative, belying the instrument's modest physical presence. An optional hand grip accessory connection is provided for enhanced portability.
Technical Specifications
Oscillators
Oscillator 1 & 2:
- Range: C-1 to C2
- Waveforms: Square, Sawtooth, Variable Pulse
- Pulse Width: Variable depth with modulation source options
- Master Tune: ±50 cents
Oscillator 2 Additional Controls:
- Detune: ±50 cents
- Semitone: ±12 semitones (coarse pitch control)
- Octave Range: 16', 8', 4', 2' (four octave positions)
Filter Section
- Type: Low-pass with selectable slope
- Slopes: 12dB/octave and 24dB/octave
- Cutoff Frequency Range: 5Hz to 10kHz
- Resonance: 0 to self-oscillation
- Envelope Amount: Variable ±control
- LFO Modulation: Variable depth control
- Special Feature: 12dB mode configured to emulate TB-303 filter characteristics
Envelopes
Envelope Generators 1 & 2:
- Controls: Full ADSR with velocity sensitivity
- Attack Time: 1ms (fast) to 10 seconds
- Decay Time: 3ms to 10 seconds
- Release Time: 3ms to 10 seconds
- Velocity Control: Adjustable envelope strength based on key velocity
LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator)
- Destinations: Filter cutoff, pulse width, pitch
- Modulation Sources: Available for PWM and filter modulation
Triggering Modes
- Autoglide: Mimics TB-303 "Slide" function - pitch changes without envelope retrigger
- Single: Envelope triggers only on first note played
- Multi: Envelope retriggers with each note played
Effects & Modulation
- Portamento: Progressive gliding between notes (up to 1.5 seconds)
- Pitch Modulation: Envelope-controlled pitch bend (rise or fall from fundamental)
- Pulse Width Modulation: LFO or envelope controlled
Performance Controls
- Keyboard: 2 octaves, transposable through 8 octaves total
- Octave Select: Dedicated buttons for quick octave switching
- Modulation Wheels:
- Pitch wheel (spring-loaded, assignable depth)
- Modulation wheel (free-flowing, assignable to mod/aftertouch/volume)
- Real-time Controls: All synthesis parameters accessible via dedicated knobs/switches
Memory & MIDI
- Internal Memory: 7 patch storage locations
- MIDI Channels: Independent TX and RX channel settings
- MIDI Functions:
- Full parameter transmission as controller data
- Channel changing via keyboard combinations
- Controller assignment configuration
- Patch loading/saving via keyboard interface
- Polyphonic MIDI Controller: Functions as standard MIDI keyboard controller
Connectivity
- Audio Output: Single ¼" jack output
- MIDI: In and Out ports
- Power: 9VDC external adapter
- Special: External Control connector for optional hand grip accessory
Physical Specifications
- Weight: Extremely lightweight (described as "feather-light")
- Form Factor: Compact desktop unit, similar in size to MM10 controller
- Build: Lightweight casing with solid control feel
- Portability: Designed for mobile use with optional strap/grip system
Sound Character
- Oscillator Type: Digitally-controlled analogue oscillators
- Sonic Character: True analogue grit and warmth
- Range: Bass-focused but capable of lead sounds
- TB-303 Emulation: Accurate recreation of classic acid bass characteristics in 12dB filter mode
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