Novation Summit: Bi-timbral Hybrid Synth for Stage and Studio
· re:union Radio editorial · 2 min read
The Novation Summit combines analog filters with digital FPGA oscillators – 16-voice, multi-timbral, with wavetable editor for producers and performers.
The Novation Summit is a bi-timbral hybrid synthesizer that connects digital oscillators with analog filter stages. As an evolution of the Peak architecture, it houses two independent sound engines in one enclosure – designed for producers and performers working both on stage and in the studio.
At a glance
- 16-voice polyphonic, 3 oscillators per voice
- Digital FPGA oscillators (New Oxford Oscillators) with wavetable and FM synthesis
- Analog state-variable OTA filter per voice, 12/24 dB, with dual filter mode
- Multi-timbral engine: two independent patches in split, layer, or dual mode
Digital where it counts, analog where it matters
Novation itself describes the Summit's concept with the principles “Digital where it counts” and “Analogue where it matters.” The oscillators are generated via FPGA and allow for both classic wavetable and FM synthesis, including its own wavetable editor with drawing tools. For sound shaping, the Summit relies on an analog dual-filter design with state-variable OTA circuitry and analog VCAs – combined per voice with three stages of analog distortion.
16 voices, two patches simultaneously
With 16-voice polyphony and three oscillators per voice, the Summit has plenty of sound material at its disposal. The multi-timbral engine loads two independent patches in parallel, which can be split, layered, or stacked as a dual patch – practical for live sets where bass and pad are needed simultaneously. An arpeggiator with 33 patterns and microtuning via Scala import complete the performance features.
Effects and operation
For sound processing, analog distortion, three chorus types, a delay with 16 sync options including low-pass/high-pass damping, and reverb are available. Firmware version 2.0 added flanger, phlanger, and a lo-fi delay. The Summit is operated via 50 rotary knobs, 8 sliders, and an OLED display – Novation thus emphasizes direct hardware access without menu diving.
| Polyphony | 16 voices, 3 oscillators/voice |
|---|---|
| Filter | State-variable OTA, 12/24 dB, Dual filter (9 combinations) |
| Keyboard | 61 keys, 5 octaves |
| Memory | 512 patch storage locations (256 factory presets) |
| Connections | MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, 2× 1/4" stereo outputs, 2× Aux-Out, 2× inputs, headphones, 2× pedal, CV input |
| Dimensions | 998.5 × 92 × 303.5 mm |
“Peak powered up” – Novation on the evolution of the Peak architecture in the Summit.
If you use the Summit's sound architecture live, you'll benefit from robust transitions between sounds – similar to harmonic mixing with the EQ, where control over sound layers makes all the difference. If you integrate the Summit into your DJ set, you can additionally secure tonal transitions using the Camelot Wheel.
FAQ
Is the Novation Summit polyphonic?
Yes, the Summit offers 16-voice polyphony with three oscillators per voice.
Can the Summit be played multi-timbrally?
Yes, its engine loads two independent patches simultaneously, which can be split, layered, or combined as a dual patch.
Source: Novation, Summit product page.
