Novation Peak 8-Voice Polyphonic Desktop Synthesizer

The Novation Peak is a powerful 8-voice polyphonic desktop synthesizer that combines the character of analogue synthesis with the flexibility of modern digital sound generation. Each voice features three FPGA-based New Oxford Oscillators, capable of producing analogue-style waveforms, wavetable sounds, and FM textures, followed by an analogue signal path featuring a resonant multi-mode filter, analogue VCAs, and multiple stages of distortion. The result is a versatile synthesizer capable of producing everything from warm analogue-style pads and rich basses to aggressive leads and complex evolving textures.

Each of Peak's three oscillators provides traditional sine, triangle, sawtooth, and pulse waveforms alongside an extensive collection of digital wavetables. Oscillator shaping, virtual sync, density, detuning, and FM-style modulation allow sounds to be taken far beyond traditional subtractive synthesis. The analogue filter provides low-pass, high-pass, and band-pass modes with selectable 12 dB or 24 dB slopes, resonance, modulation, and pre-filter overdrive, while additional distortion can be applied later in the signal path for further tonal shaping.

Peak's extensive modulation architecture includes a 16-slot modulation matrix with two sources per slot, multiple LFOs, dedicated amp and modulation envelopes, and direct panel controls for frequently used assignments. A comprehensive digital effects section adds chorus, delay, and reverb, while the built-in arpeggiator provides 33 patterns and key latch functionality. With MIDI In, Out, and Thru, USB MIDI, CV input, pedal connections, stereo outputs, and a headphone output, Peak integrates easily into both hardware-based and computer-based production environments.

Key Features

• 8-voice polyphonic desktop synthesizer

• Three FPGA-based New Oxford Oscillators per voice

• Analogue-style waveforms, 60 digital wavetables, and FM synthesis capabilities

• Analogue signal path with resonant multi-mode filter and analogue VCAs

• Low-pass, high-pass, and band-pass filter modes

• Selectable 12 dB and 24 dB filter slopes

• Three stages of analogue distortion for each voice

• Extensive 16-slot modulation matrix with two sources per slot

• Four LFOs with extensive modulation routing

• Dedicated amp envelope and two modulation envelopes

• Wavetable Editor with custom wavetable creation and Live Edit functionality

• Polyphonic aftertouch support for expressive external controllers

• Built-in chorus, delay, and reverb effects

• 33-pattern arpeggiator with key latch

• 512 patch storage locations, including 256 factory patches

• Two dedicated Animate buttons for expressive performance control

• MIDI In, Out, and Thru connectivity

• CV input for integration with Eurorack and other CV-compatible equipment

• USB MIDI connectivity for computer-based production

• Stereo outputs and dedicated headphone output

• Premium metal chassis with American walnut end cheeks

Specifications

• Type: 8-Voice Polyphonic Desktop Synthesizer

• Polyphony: 8 Voices

• Oscillators: 3 per Voice

• Oscillator Technology: FPGA-Based Numerically Controlled Oscillators (NCOs)

• Waveforms: Sine, Triangle, Sawtooth, Pulse, plus 60 Wavetables

• Noise Generator: Yes

• Ring Modulator: Yes

• Filter: Analogue State-Variable OTA Filter

• Filter Modes: Low-Pass, Band-Pass, High-Pass

• Filter Slopes: 12 dB / 24 dB

• LFOs: 4

• Envelopes: 1 Amp + 2 Modulation Envelopes

• Modulation Matrix: 16 Slots, 2 Sources per Slot

• Effects: Chorus, Delay, Reverb, Analogue Distortion

• Arpeggiator: 33 Patterns with Key Latch

• Patch Memory: 512 Patches

• Factory Patches: 256

• MIDI: MIDI In / Out / Thru

• USB: USB-B 2.0 MIDI

• CV: 3.5 mm CV Input

• Pedal Connections: 2 × 1/4-inch Pedal Inputs

• Audio Outputs: 2 × 1/4-inch Left/Right Outputs

• Headphone Output: 1 × 1/4-inch Jack

• Display: OLED

• Dimensions (W × D × H): 233 × 464 × 70.5 mm

• Weight: Approx. 3.5 kg

• Power: 12 V DC, 1 A

The Novation Peak is an exceptionally versatile synthesizer for producers, sound designers, and performers who want the warmth and response of analogue processing combined with the precision and flexibility of digital synthesis. Its three-oscillator architecture, extensive wavetable capabilities, deep modulation system, analogue filter and distortion stages, and high-quality effects make Peak a powerful centerpiece for modern electronic music production and professional sound design.