Novation, established in 1992 in High Wycombe, England, is a leading manufacturer of electronic music equipment, known for its innovative and high-quality MIDI controllers, synthesizers, and performance tools. The company was founded with the mission to create instruments that inspire musicians and producers to explore new creative possibilities. Over the years, Novation has become synonymous with innovation in electronic music, helping shape the sound of modern music production and live performance.

The company’s first major product, the MM10, was a portable MIDI controller designed to work with the Yamaha QY10 music workstation, and it quickly gained attention for its compact design and functionality. However, it was the release of the Bass Station synthesizer in 1993 that truly put Novation on the map. The Bass Station, with its classic analog sound and real-time controls, became an instant hit, especially among dance music producers looking for a versatile and powerful synth that could deliver the deep, resonant bass tones characteristic of the genre.

Building on this success, Novation continued to innovate with products like the Supernova, a virtual analog synthesizer that offered unparalleled sound quality and a wide range of features. The Supernova became a favorite among professional musicians and producers, earning Novation a reputation for creating instruments that were both powerful and user-friendly.

In 2009, Novation released what would become one of its most iconic products: the Launchpad. Developed in collaboration with Ableton, the Launchpad is a grid-based MIDI controller that allows musicians to trigger clips, control effects, and perform live in an intuitive and highly visual way. The Launchpad quickly became a staple for electronic music producers and live performers, helping to popularize grid-based controllers and changing the way electronic music was made and performed.

Today, Novation’s product range includes a variety of tools designed to meet the needs of modern musicians, from portable MIDI controllers like the Launchkey and Launchpad series to powerful synthesizers such as the Peak and the Summit. These products are known for their build quality, innovative features, and ease of use, making them accessible to both beginners and professionals alike. Novation's instruments are designed to integrate seamlessly with popular music production software, enabling musicians to create and perform with minimal technical barriers.

Novation is also recognized for its commitment to fostering creativity and education in music production. The company regularly releases firmware updates, sound packs, and tutorial content to help users get the most out of their gear. Additionally, Novation’s online community and customer support are highly regarded, providing a platform for users to share ideas, learn new techniques, and connect with other musicians around the world.

The company serves a diverse customer base, including bedroom producers, professional studio engineers, live performers, and DJs. Novation’s products are used in a wide range of music genres, from electronic dance music (EDM) and hip-hop to pop and experimental music, reflecting the versatility and creative potential of their instruments.

Key products in Novation’s lineup include the Launchpad Pro, an advanced version of the original Launchpad with added functionality and RGB lighting; the Circuit, a standalone groovebox that combines a drum machine, synthesizer, and sequencer in one; and the Peak, a hybrid analog/digital synthesizer that offers a rich, versatile sound palette with deep modulation capabilities. The Summit, a flagship synthesizer, combines two Peak engines and provides a wide range of sounds and controls for both studio and live use.

As part of the Focusrite Group, Novation continues to push the boundaries of music technology, developing new tools that inspire creativity and innovation in music production. With a legacy spanning over three decades, Novation remains a trusted name in the music industry, dedicated to helping musicians of all levels explore, create, and perform with confidence and creativity.