Novation Bass Station II Analog Synthesizer

The Novation Bass Station II Analog Synthesizer is the definitive modern analogue monosynth — a 25-key instrument that draws a direct lineage from the original Bass Station designed by synthesis pioneer Chris Huggett in the early 1990s, while extending its capabilities far beyond anything its predecessor could offer. Two analogue DCOs feed into a uniquely dual-filter architecture: the Classic Filter, a state-variable design offering low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass modes at 12 or 24dB, and the dedicated Acid Filter, a resonant low-pass circuit optimised for the squelching, self-oscillating character that defines an entire genre of electronic music. Combined with filter overdrive, post-filter distortion, a ring modulator, and a sub-oscillator, the Bass Station II delivers a tonal range that moves from silky analogue warmth through growling grit to outright sonic aggression.

Paraphonic Mode, AFX Mode, and Expansive Sequencing

What elevates the Novation Bass Station II Analog Synthesizer beyond a conventional analogue monosynth is the breadth of its performance and compositional tools. Paraphonic Mode, introduced in the v2.5 firmware update, allows two simultaneous notes to be played through a single shared filter and amplifier path — unlocking intervals, power chords, and two-voice textures that no standard monosynth can achieve. AFX Mode, developed in collaboration with Aphex Twin, assigns a unique patch to each of the 25 keys, transforming the instrument into a multi-timbral performance surface of distinct sounds accessible from a single keyboard. As a result, the Bass Station II becomes not just a bass synth but a deeply expressive live performance instrument.

The onboard 32-step arpeggiator with swing and a 32-step sequencer with four memories (each storing up to 32 notes) provide powerful pattern-based composition tools without requiring a computer. Two LFOs with four waveforms each, two envelope generators, portamento, velocity-sensitive keys with assignable aftertouch, and -5/+4 octave shift round out an impressive feature set. Connectivity includes USB-B, 5-pin MIDI In/Out, mono ¼” output, ¼” headphone, ¼” external audio input, and ¼” sustain pedal jack. The Bass Station II can be powered by USB or via the included 9V DC 300mA power supply. Whether you’re designing bass lines, leads, or textural sound design, the Novation Bass Station II is available at Marshall Music South Africa as the essential analogue synthesizer for every serious studio and stage rig.

Tech Specs

• Keys: 25 full-size, velocity-sensitive with assignable aftertouch
• Oscillators: 2 analogue DCOs + sub-oscillator
• Waveforms per oscillator: 4 (sine, triangle, sawtooth, square)
• Filters: Classic Filter (state-variable LP/BP/HP, 12/24dB) + Acid Filter (LP, resonant)
• Filter overdrive: Yes
• Post-filter distortion: Yes
• Ring modulator: Yes (osc 1 × osc 2)
• LFOs: 2 (4 waveforms each)
• Envelopes: 2
• Arpeggiator: 32-step with swing
• Sequencer: 32-step, 4 memories (up to 32 notes each)
• Portamento: Yes
• AFX Mode: Yes (unique patch per key, Aphex Twin collaboration)
• Paraphonic Mode: Yes (v2.5 firmware, 2 simultaneous notes)
• Patch memory: 64 factory + 64 user
• Controls: Pitch wheel, modulation wheel, -5/+4 octave shift
• Connectivity: USB-B, 5-pin MIDI In/Out, ¼” mono output, ¼” headphone, ¼” external input, ¼” sustain pedal
• Power: USB or 9V DC 300mA (supply included)
• Dimensions: 457 × 273 × 76 mm
• Weight: 2.48 kg

Novation

Founded in Oxford, England in 1992, Novation has spent more than three decades at the forefront of electronic music instrument design. The company built its reputation on accessible, performance-focused hardware — from the original Bass Station, one of the first truly affordable analogue synthesizers, to the BassStation II that brought those circuits into the modern era, through to the pioneering Launchpad, a grid controller that became synonymous with clip-based performance in Ableton Live. Today, Novation’s catalogue spans analogue and digital synthesizers, keyboard controllers, and grid controllers, all united by a philosophy of making music creation immediate, expressive, and creatively inspiring. Under the Focusrite Group umbrella, Novation continues to innovate, combining thoughtful hardware design with deep DAW integration and an industry-leading software bundle that ensures every product delivers value from the moment it is unboxed. Marshall Music South Africa stocks the full Novation range.

Learn more about Novation

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Why Buy From Marshall Music

At Marshall Music, we’re all passionate and highly experienced musicians that love what we do. Family run and family owned for over 35 years, we stock a huge variety of the very best brands in the world of musical instruments, music technology, professional audio and accessories. At Marshall Music, you’ll get the right advice – exactly what you need to make the best possible purchasing decision. We’ll do all we can to make sure you get the right thing at the right price as efficiently as possible – leaving you with a smile on your face!