Acid and Bass: Automating the Novation Bass Station II with Web MIDI
The Novation Bass Station II is a modern classic. Known for its aggressive dual-oscillator analog engine, multi-mode filter (Acid and Classic), and built-in distortion/filter-mod circuits, it is a go-to monosynth for thick basslines, ripping leads, and acid sequences.
While playing its physical keys is satisfying, driving the Bass Station II from an external step-sequencer is where it truly shines. Drawing automation curves for its filter cutoff, resonance, distortion, and envelope modulation lets you construct complex, morphing basslines that respond perfectly in real-time.
In this guide, we will show you how to connect, set up, and automate the Novation Bass Station II with the closeby.1 Web MIDI Sequencer.
The Power of Bass Station II Automation
The Bass Station II supports extensive MIDI Control Change (CC) mapping, allowing you to sequence and automate:
- Acid Filter Modulation: Sweeping the cutoff while adjusting the filter envelope depth to get that signature rubbery acid bassline feel.
- Dynamic Distortion: Increasing the analog distortion circuit (distortion/limiter) during intense builds to add grit and harmonics.
- Pulse Width LFOs: Shifting oscillator pulse widths to create organic movement in simple bass sounds.
Step-by-Step Connection & Setup
Follow these steps to connect your Bass Station II to closeby.1:
1. Connect via USB or MIDI
Connect a standard USB-B cable from the Bass Station II to your computer. (USB also provides power, though we recommend using the external power adapter for maximum stability). Alternatively, run standard MIDI cables from your MIDI interface's MIDI OUT to the Bass Station II's MIDI IN.
2. Configure MIDI Settings
By default, the Bass Station II transmits and receives on MIDI Channel 1. To verify or change this:
- Press the Function key on the Bass Station II.
- Press the MIDI Chan key (low C# key).
- Use the Value +/- buttons to change the channel.
- Press the Function key again to exit.
3. Load the Profile in closeby.one
- Open closeby.one Studio in your browser.
- Select your bass track.
- Choose the Novation Bass Station II Instrument Profile.
- Set the MIDI Output to match your Bass Station II USB or MIDI interface.
- Set the MIDI Channel to match the synth's configuration.
Key MIDI CC Parameters for Automation
The Bass Station II maps these parameters to standard MIDI CCs:
| Parameter | MIDI CC | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Cutoff | CC 16 | Filter frequency (highly responsive) |
| Filter Resonance | CC 17 | Filter resonance feedback |
| Osc 1 Pitch | CC 33 | Pitch offset of Oscillator 1 |
| Osc 1 PW | CC 34 | Pulse width of Oscillator 1 |
| Osc 2 Pitch | CC 37 | Pitch offset of Oscillator 2 |
| Osc 2 PW | CC 38 | Pulse width of Oscillator 2 |
| Distortion | CC 83 | Post-filter analog distortion depth |
| Filter Mod Env | CC 85 | Depth of Envelope modulation to filter |
Creative Tips: The Evolving Acid Line
To create a classic evolving acid line:
- Draw a simple 16-step bass pattern using short, gated notes.
- In closeby.1's automation lane, select Filter Cutoff (CC 16) and draw a rising saw-tooth pattern.
- Draw a slower, rising curve on Distortion (CC 83) so that as the filter opens, the sound becomes progressively grittier.
- Hit play, and tweak the physical Resonance knob on the Bass Station II to hear the harmonics scream!
Connect your Bass Station II to closeby.1 today to start building powerful, automated analog basslines!