OVERVIEW
Novation's X-Station combines a high-end synthesizer, a full featured MIDI remote controller, an audio and MIDI interface, plus a multi-effects processor all in a keyboard with semi-weighted, full-size keys and aftertouch. The X-Station also features a joystick and assignable X/Y touch pad controller to give you extra dimensions of expression for your productions. In addition, it runs of USB power, a power supply or batteries making the X-Station fully portable.

FEATURES
AUDIO AND MIDI INTERFACE
The X-Station is your all-in-one audio and MIDI solution. It includes an audio interface with two phantom-powered, hi-quality converters, two Neutrik combined XLR and jack sockets, digital S/PDIF out, and more. Dedicated headphone and monitoring connections with separate controls even allow you to work without a mixer. In addition, the onboard DSP effects processor provides instant, zero-latency multi-effects (Delay/Reverb/Chorus-Phaser/Compressor/Distortion/EQ) for monitoring or recording applications. Each audio channel has its own effects chain. You can even record audio with effects on one channel - and use the synthesizer on the second at the same time. What's more, the X-Station's built in MIDI Interface (1 x MIDI In; 2 x MIDI Out) allows you to integrate external MIDI Gear as well.

SYTHESIZER
The X-Station synth is a 3-oscillator virtual analog synthesizer is based on the renowned Novation KS-series and is 8-voice polyphonic. The extensive control interface provides instant access to all key parameters, making it ideal for production and live performances. In addition, the fully integrated synthesizer connects to you system and runs off USB eliminating the need for numerous messy cords and wires.

EFFECTS
The X-Station's 2 channels of onboard multi-effects allows up to 6 effects to be used simultaneously on each channel. Choose from Delay/Reverb/Chorus-Phaser/Compressor/Distortion/ or EQ.The effects can be routed for monitoring only (like giving the singer some Reverb while recording) or just for recording and what's more, you can use the synth and effects at the same time.

MIDI CONTROLLER
X-Station offers a total of 55 assignable physical controls, including 3 Encoders, 16 pots, 9 sliders and 22 buttons. It also features dedicated controls in the Audio section and templates can have up to 150 virtual controls in total using the shift functions.

OUR OPINION
If you are looking for an all-in-one production tool that offers synth, MIDI, and interface capabilities, look no further than the the X-Station. Loaded with features and the Novation brand name (known for their high-quality synths), the X-Station series is really in a league of its own. Features like the vast array of effects, and full-size, semi-weighted keys and more are a great asset when performing or working on tracks, plus the portability and interface capabilities make the X-Station a worthwhile investment that can grow with you and your studio.

- virtual analog hardware synthesizer based on Novation KS-engine with 200 presets
- multi-effects processor with up to 6 simultaneous effects on each channel: Reverb / Chorus or Phaser / Delay / Compressor / Distortion and EQ
- MIDI remote control surface, all controls assignable. Each template can control up to 150 virtual controls. Program storage for 40 templates. Factory presets for packages including Reason, Native Instruments Plug-Ins, Cubase, Logic, Sonar, Live etc
- keyboard with 25 semi-weighted, full-size keys (49 and 61 versions available soon) and aftertouch
- 24-bit simultaneous 2 channel audio I/O (44.1 / 48 Khz)
- dual low noise, high bandwidth audio pre-amps ( >70 dB headroom) with phantom power
- separate controls for Line Levels and Headphones, zero latency headphone monitoring and SPDIF digital out
- USB MIDI Interface with 1 In and 2 Outs
- can be powered via Batteries, USB or power supply (included)
- recharges suitable batteries via USB
- Phantom Power also delivered via USB or batteries

• manufacturer's website

reviewed by snackmaster