The Novation Supernova II Rack delivers the same sonic power as the keyboard version in a streamlined 3U rack-mountable form factor. Despite its more compact size, it retains the full synthesis capabilities of its keyboard counterpart, with identical sound engine, effects, vocoder, and audio processing abilities.

The rack version features the same high-quality analogue sound modeling (ASM) technology, producing authentic analog-style sounds with a distinctively smooth and rich character. From deep basses to complex pads, aggressive leads to delicate FM textures, the Supernova II Rack can handle it all with impressive sonic fidelity.

While it offers fewer physical knobs than the keyboard model, the rack version maintains the same comprehensive editing features through its intuitive menu system, with convenient front-panel controls for the most essential parameters. The sleek metal chassis houses a beautiful blue VFD display that provides clear visual feedback during programming.

The Supernova II Rack includes the same comprehensive effects section as the keyboard version, with the unique ability to maintain program-specific effects even in multitimbral performances. This powerful feature, combined with the eight separate audio outputs, makes the rack version particularly well-suited for studio production work. Like the keyboard model, the rack version is available in Standard (24-voice), Pro (36-voice), and Pro X (48-voice) variants to suit different requirements and budgets.

Technical Specifications

• Synthesis System: Analogue Sound Modelling (ASM)
• Polyphony: 24 voices (expandable)
• Expandability: Optional 12-voice or 24-voice expansion cards available
• Form Factor: 3U rack module
• Sound Engine per Program:
  • 3 oscillators (each capable of emulating two detuned sawtooth oscillators)
  • 2 ring modulators (sourced from Oscillators 1+3 and 2+3)
  • 1 noise generator
  • Virtual oscillator for sync sounds
• Oscillator Features:
  • 6-octave range in semitone steps
  • Fine tuning between +63/-64 cents
  • Waveforms: Saw and Square (with variable pulse width)
  • Hardness control for harmonic shaping
  • FM capabilities with 8 different FM/Ring mod algorithms
• LFOs: 2 per voice with:
  • 4 waveforms (square, saw, triangle, sample/hold)
  • Speed variable up to kHz range
  • MIDI clock sync capability
  • Modulation delay
  • DC offset control
• Envelopes: 3 per voice:
  • Envelope 1: Dedicated to amplitude
  • Envelopes 2 & 3: Assignable via modulation matrix
  • ADSR with Sustain Rate and Sustain Time parameters
  • Attack/Decay repeat functionality
• Filter Types: 18 different types including:
  • Low-pass, band-pass, high-pass
  • Split/formant types (special)
  • Slopes: 12dB, 18dB, or 24dB per octave
  • Resonance with self-oscillation capability
  • Filter overdrive with variable curve
  • QNorm control for resonance behavior
• Modulation System: Matrix with over 130 possible routings
• Effects (per Program):
  • Distortion
  • Comb Filter
  • EQ (bass/treble)
  • Reverb
  • Chorus/Flanger/Phaser/Quad Chorus/Ensemble/Rotary Speaker
  • Delay (MIDI sync capable)
  • Pan
  • 19 effects algorithms for various serial/parallel configurations
• Vocoder: 42-band with sibilance modes and spectrum analyzer
• Arpeggiator:
  • Up to 64 steps
  • Monophonic or polyphonic patterns
  • Direction, Speed, Gate time, Range and Latching controls
  • Real-time transposition
  • MIDI clock sync
• Memory:
  • 1024 Programs in 8 banks (512 factory presets)
  • 512 Performances in 4 banks (256 factory presets)
  • 400 Drum Programs
  • 8 Drum Maps (4 factory presets)
  • 128 Favourites locations (accessible via MIDI)
• Audio Inputs:
  • 2 balanced inputs (rear panel) with independent gain control (+60dB to -8dB)
  • 2 additional audio inputs on front panel (override rear inputs)
• Audio Outputs: 8 assignable outputs (configured as 4 stereo pairs)
• Headphone Output: 2 (one on front panel, one on rear panel)
• MIDI: In, Out, Thru
• Additional Inputs:
  • Footswitch inputs (shared with audio inputs)
  • Continuous control pedal input
• Digital I/O: Optional S/PDIF/ADAT card
• Multitimbrality: 8-part
• OS: Flash-upgradable via MIDI
• Physical: Metal chassis
• Display: Blue VFD (Vacuum Fluorescent Display)
• Power: Built-in power supply