Cool Video, thanks! I have got 2 questions, please: 1) Can you directly connect the MIDI-controller to your Nord? I ask, because I could not find a USB-B to USB-B cable. Or do you use an external Hub for connecting both? 2) Is there a chance to arpeggiate full chords with the clock? For example the beginning of "Runaway" from Bon Jovi is done with a note-repeat of chords. I could not find any functionality on the Nord to do this and so I though of using an external controller. I own a AKAI MPK mini - but this is not able to do this. Thanks for your answers in advance! Josef
@jogreino1 Thanks for your questions! 1) You cannot directly connect a MIDI controller to the Nord keyboard unless that MIDI controller has a traditional MIDI 5 Pin DIN out connection. You could however, get a "MIDI Host Box" where you'll connect your UBS-based controller into. From there, the box converts the UBS-style connection to a traditional 5 Pin MIDI DIN outbound. You could also invest in a "MIDI router," which provides a ton of flexibility, perfect if you were interested in connecting an iPad later down the line and things of that nature. IT makes a flexible studio piece now and well into the future. *Helpful links - some are affiliate links* MIDI Host Box: CoreMIDI USB MIDI Host High-Speed UMH-21: amzn.to/3ByYTmW MIDI Host/Router/Filter: CME H4MIDI WC: www.cme-pro.com/product/usb-host-midi-interface/ MIDI Host/Router/Filter/Networking: iConnectivity: Interface with 4 in x 4 Out 5-pin DIN-MIDI Ports (mioXM): amzn.to/40wjMZH 2) The notion of arpeggiating full chords (where all held notes play at the same time) is officially known as a "Polyphonic Arpeggiator." This is something that the Nord Wave 2 and Nord Stage 4 both do out of the box. The Electro 6, on the other hand, has no such arpeggiator, let alone a polyphonic arpeggiator. However, to get around this, you have several options: A. You could learn how to play the part with your own hands- assuming you have the chops to do this. I demonstrate this exact song here (paid Patreon post): www.patreon.com/posts/bon-jovi-runaway-48736683?Link& B. Using your great idea here, you could invest in a keyboard controller with a built-in arpeggiator. There are several that do this, but two that come to mind are the following: - AKAI Professional LPK25 - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 25 Responsive Synth Keys: amzn.to/4hlAFvJ (Requires a MIDI host box to connect to your Nord) - Arturia KeyStep 37 (37-key Controller & Sequencer): amzn.to/3F9lKBA (directly connects via MIDI 5 Pin DIN to your Nord). I demonstrate that here in this video, but I didn't touch on the fact that the arp can also play as a polyphonic. Both keyboard controllers mentioned have a so-called "clock," allowing you to adjust the tempo. However, I lean towards the Arturia, for it provides far more options than the AKAI, and it doesn't require a host box! (I own both by the way) Marc 🎹
When i saw your video, i went and got the keystep 37. I needed the pitch bend and arpeggiator for the music that i play with my nord E6d… you convinced me right away. Now that i got it, i cant seem to make it work… do you have a video that explains the basics, like connections, midi, audio, etc…. Appreciate and continue doing what you are doing.
Hello @Lifetrack Audio. Thanks for watching the videos and for being inspired to take things to the next level! For starters, please check out my video on how to get the pitch bend to work: ruclips.net/video/YRYJf2J4fO4/видео.html (if you haven't already seen this one).
Thank you for this Tutorial! I have connected everything like you have said. Piano to "Up" Synth to "lo" Activated external to lo. But both sounds activate while playing the Keystep or the Nord. I hope you can help.. thanks!
@@thaiming649 Excellent! And you can feel free to turn the Global MIDI back on, but make sure your controller sits on the External channel, not the Global channel. So, for example, if you had software or another device where you wanted to instruct the Electro to do a program change, that can only happen using the global channel… Also, some controllers are smart enough to send their notes on one channel and their program changes on another.
Great explanation! Thanks!…Can rhythm frequency of arpeggios (slow vs fast) be synchronized also with an external rhythm/drum source, like playing in a live band situation?
@martinl1804. Yes, so long as the band is playing to a click track (from a drum machine for example), that same unit can drive the Nord keyboard clock via MIDI. As the drum machine is adjusted in tempo, the Nord keyboard will follow along in tempo. On the Nord keyboard, you'll need to set the keyboard to "sync with the master clock." FYI: I have all full training on all this with courses found on my website: www.MyKeysToMusic.com
@freewheelin1234 Unfortunately, the Nord Electro 3 came out long before Nord invented the "External to Low" feature we see on the Nord Electro 6. You do have a feature on the Nord Electro 3 that allows you to externally control the lower manual of the organ engine only on a separate MIDI channel, but that's about it. You have no separate MIDI control for the synth engine (which is where the magic happens in the video above). So, to recap, you can still control the entire keyboard from a controller like the one you see in the video, but you can't target a separate engine independently (except for the organ). In other words, the answer is "no" with a tiny exception in the organ engine which at the end of the day, isn't exactly ideal for playing a song like Hungry LIke the Wolf or others like it. I hope that helps clear things up. By the way, I owned an Electro 3 for a long time - it was my first Nord keyboard and served me well over many years of live performances - it's a workhorse!
@cfp999 The Duran Duran sound was something I sampled directly from the Nord Stage 3. It started with the "Wave Clarinet 1" (from the Wavetable family on the NS3) along with some additional filter settings. I still have the sample in my library. I can post it on my store for like $5 if you are interested.
Love the channel and thanks for all the info. Definitely helping me make an informed purchase before I buy. Could a Minilogue XD perform the same tasks as the Arturia in this vid? I already own a Minilogue and am debating whether I want a 6D or Stage 3. Thanks for your time!
Hello @D Chapin Thanks for your comment and glad you like the channel! So, the Minilogue XD (which I also own) cannot send out arpeggiation patterns through MIDI. The built-in arpeggiator on most keyboards (the Korg XD included) can only drive the arpeggiator using its internal sounds. They don't typically send that out via MIDI. Keyboard controllers on the other hand are made to do this out of the box (since they have no such internal sounds on their own to power). So, no, you can't do this same thing with the Korg Minilogue XD unfortunately. I wish you could! In fact, had this been possible from the XD, I likely wouldn't have purchased the Arturia! However, the Arturia has come in handy in a few other places where I need a lot of capability in a small package/footprint. Now the decision between an Electro 6 or a Stage 3 is an important one (and perhaps a hard one to make). If you haven't already seen my comparison video, it would be a good one for you to check out: ruclips.net/video/av3GxXakeaM/видео.html If I were you, I would strongly consider the Stage 3 over the Electro 6 in your situation since you may already be somewhat familiar with synths and you are a synth fan being the ower of the Korg already. And I believe you can't underestimate the power to have the flexibility synth/sample with a piano/organ all in a single package like a Stage 3. In addition, the Stage 3 has the "Extern" option that will drive your Korg beautifully giving you an option to add the Korg to your rig and bring things over the edge. Lethal combo right there. Here is the video on the power of the Extern section: ruclips.net/video/YyfWnqmsshM/видео.html
Thanks so much for the in depth reply. It’s such a big decision and your channel has been my main source of information. I did watch your comparison video….multiple time 🙂 I’ll watch the other link you posted and you are definitely making me lean towards the Stage 3. Thank you again and keep doing what you’re doing! I will be fully diving into your channel after I purchase my Nord!
@@dchapin2353 This sounds good. If you want to see the true power of the Stage 3, check out my Discovery videos here on the channel starting with the first: ruclips.net/video/hbRgMZpwp_Y/видео.html
Such a good video and excellent explanations..! As a potential NordStage buyer in the future, I wonder if NordStage has the arpeggiator as well? If yes, is there any big difference between that one and this one on the Electro?
Thank you so much Игорь Sun So, the Nord Stage 3 has an arpeggiator yes but the Electro does not. If you haven't already checked out my comparison video between the Stage 3 and the Electro, you can check it out here: ruclips.net/video/av3GxXakeaM/видео.html. Then I created another detailed video comparing the Stage 3 with the Nord Wave 2 here: ruclips.net/video/Sph6hWPVAMI/видео.html. Thanks for watching and good luck with your decision. 🤔🎹
Is that the 61 or 73 note version of the nord electro? I like the affordable price of the 61 version and I'm by far not a seasoned keyboard player so i am considering it. However, it's probably nicer to have more keys especially for pianos. What are your thoughts? Thank you!
Hello @Samuel Bonello Thanks for your questions. What I'm using here is the 61 key version. I do find the 61 keys (versus the 73 keys) a small comprise while playing live or playing piano parts. There are times where you just need the extra octave to make the job easier. However, I think that limitation affects me more during a live performance than it does when I'm playing at home or doing these videos. With that said, if you have the room (the space) and the budget for 73 keys, go for it. Had I to do it all over again and if the Electro was my main and/or only keyboard to use, I would go 73. But in my case, I already had the Stage 3 73 so the Electro 61 was perfect for what I needed. It's also very lightweight which should not be underestimated especially if you plan to use it here and there around the house or on a gig. If you plan to study some of the piano classics, the 73 is going to serve you better. I think in the end, you'll make it work no matter which one you choose. There are people that can do amazing things having only a 37 key keyboard controller and then you find they become the master of the octave up and down buttons right? If your goal is to create music that focuses on solo piano as the main instrument (think piano ballads) you'll have a noticeable advantage with more keys. If however, your goal is to play lead keyboard parts and accompaniment for rock music, I think you can get by with 61. I have done a few gigs with the 61 version as my only keyboard. I found it "workable" but not ideal. If however, I had to play that same gig while also holding down the keyboard bass with the split keyboard, I would have really wished I had the 73 key. If you find you are the kind of guy that likes to have a bass in the left-hand split with a piano in the right, go 73. That will give you plenty of range for the bass while allowing you to have your piano high notes for the solo part available without having to push the octave-up button. Then again, you can really get used to using the octave buttons right in the middle of a solo. You click it once or twice within an 8 measure solo and you're good to go. It's really not that hard and the crowd doesn't even realize what they just witnessed - it's very seamless once you know how to make that transition. Oh, and in this video, I compare the entire Electro family if you haven't already seen it. The 76 key is still an option although quite a bit heavier and the keys are more resistant which is a love/hate thing per individual: ruclips.net/video/SHNM17h_z2Q/видео.html Finally, make sure you are not a candidate for Nord the Stage 3 before pulling the trigger on the Electro 6. If you've ever longed for a versatile synth to go along with the piano and organ, the Stage 3 is the way to go. I realize that is a different animal, but the flexibility triples once you go Stage 3. I compare the Stage versus the Electro here: ruclips.net/video/av3GxXakeaM/видео.html Good luck - I know this is one of those tough decisions. Drop a line with more questions or once you've made a decision. 🏄♂️
@@MyKeysToMusic Dear Marc, thank-you for your quick and nonetheless detailed reply! My aim for the new keyboard would be to practice, record and compose basic melodies in a solo project / band setup. My current setup consists of various analogue synthesizers with my main workhorse being the Prophet 6. Whilst I love the sounds of these instruments, I do find myself sometimes lacking the more classical sounds of a piano to practice basic chords and melodies. My primary goal for a new keyboard would be to fill this space. I do very much like the sampled options of the soundlibrary too. Whilst the Nord keyboards with more features seem more attractive - budget is a concern and I am verging more towards the Electro 6D 61 since a used model is quite affordable at circa 1350 Euros. The Stage 3 is extremely attractive, and if I could afford I would opt for the HP76. But then the price is a huge investment which as a hobbyist seems like an overkill. I have also been considering an older Stage 2 EX HP76. My favourite features which are lacking on the Electro 6D 61 are the heavy weighted keys, pitch bend and mod wheel, and the extern section, which would take the secondary goal of becoming the master keyboard in my current setup. It's always very attractive to opt for the one with most features, however sometimes it could be better to have less and work with limitations! I am still undecided if I should go with the 73 key model. In my head a heavy weighted option would be desirable. But then again, justifying an extra 750 Euros for these features seems unnecessary.
@@samuelbonello3670 Certainly a tough decision. I have the Electro 61 and it's very light and yes, sometimes it's best to work within the limitations. It will certainly fill the space of providing great piano sounds and it has the organ engine too. And it will still let you play samples from the Nord library. Your other idea about a used Stage 2 is also a good one. Best of luck with your decision!
Yes you can do this. The arpeggiator uses MIDI to trigger any sound your Nord keyboard can play. It's up to you if you want to isolate the arpeggiator to just a specific engine like I've done here in this video or have it play across the entire keyboard with any sound engine (organ, piano or synth).
Yes, indeed Dominik - the "External to Low" option will work with the Electro 5 but nothing older. And technically speaking, you could use an external arpeggiator to power any Nord keyboard that can play samples. And if you're using a Nord keyboard that can't play samples (such as the Lead A1 or any of the Nord Leads), your arpeggiator comes with the random option already out of the box. In any case, there is one very small area of your Electro 5 manual that will demonstrate how to set it up to work with an external keyboard. I also cover this in the course called "Master the Nord Electro 5" I make available for sale on my main website (www.MyKeysToMusic.com)
Hello, As usually thank you for an amazing content ! I have another issue - having NS3 88keys and Nord Electro 6D (61keys) Mainly wanted to use my Electro with - Behringer Model D for funky bass lines - and wish I could control it with my Nord - but the problem is : I wanna play/controll the bass line with the part of the keyboard - to be ably to play pad in my right hand - I cannot figure it out anything apart of having separate midi controller ? Is there anything that I can do ? :) Best, Daniel
Hello @Daniel Michalek I love questions like these. So, the Electro doesn't support external control with an option to only play in a given zone. The Stage 3 can do this via the Extern option, however. If you want to use the Electro, you could also look at getting a MIDI filter box like this: U6MIDI Pro (affiliate link): amzn.to/42mU4Wd, which should allow you to filter the notes against a given range. Once you get the box, you'd have to configure it using the software it comes with. But then, after that, it should be a matter of connecting the box between two MIDI cables and also supplying the box with a simple USB C cable for power. This would introduce a new little box to the rig without you having to get another controller (which is a lot more equipment) and fuss. I have this box and I'm planning to do a video on it. Note: I haven't tested this box yet for this exact setup but I'd be happy to test for you so that we can be 100% sure this will work.
@@MyKeysToMusic You’re amazing mate ! Thank you so much such a professional answer as usual ! I’m gonna read about out it because I also heard about the app called Camelot Pro which apparently can be run on IPad - but also need to deep dive into this. Will keep this posted here as maybe someone else will have similar questions. Best !
@@daniel6959 Thanks for your kind words. Camelot Pro is an EXCELLENT program and feature-rich. It does require some investment in learning, however, but it's a true Swiss Army knife when it comes to this. I don't use it personally, but I have researched it a bit and know that it's very powerful. It's made by the same people that make the SWAM instruments (Audio Modeling) and I have their complete SWAM library and will be doing videos this year too. I'm so impressed with these instruments as I grew up playing sax and my brother plays trumpet so I feel like these are the only things that come close to the proper sound. Anyway, drop me a line if you learn anything new, and be on the lookout for a MIDI filter box video in the coming days/weeks.
![[Tutorial] Arturia KEYSTEP : The ARPEGGIATOR English Subtitles](/img/1.gif)
Wow. Keep up the good work-- there's always something new to learn when it comes to those Nord Keyboards. Thanks!
Thanks, will do Alan!
Way cool! Your clear and concise teaching method for all things Nord is unsurpassed. Subscribed and another enthusiastic like!
Thank you @azguitar - very much appreciate your comment here. Thanks for stopping by and for subbing!
Cool Video, thanks! I have got 2 questions, please:
1) Can you directly connect the MIDI-controller to your Nord? I ask, because I could not find a USB-B to USB-B cable. Or do you use an external Hub for connecting both?
2) Is there a chance to arpeggiate full chords with the clock? For example the beginning of "Runaway" from Bon Jovi is done with a note-repeat of chords. I could not find any functionality on the Nord to do this and so I though of using an external controller. I own a AKAI MPK mini - but this is not able to do this.
Thanks for your answers in advance! Josef
@jogreino1 Thanks for your questions!
1) You cannot directly connect a MIDI controller to the Nord keyboard unless that MIDI controller has a traditional MIDI 5 Pin DIN out connection. You could however, get a "MIDI Host Box" where you'll connect your UBS-based controller into. From there, the box converts the UBS-style connection to a traditional 5 Pin MIDI DIN outbound. You could also invest in a "MIDI router," which provides a ton of flexibility, perfect if you were interested in connecting an iPad later down the line and things of that nature. IT makes a flexible studio piece now and well into the future.
*Helpful links - some are affiliate links*
MIDI Host Box: CoreMIDI USB MIDI Host High-Speed UMH-21: amzn.to/3ByYTmW
MIDI Host/Router/Filter: CME H4MIDI WC: www.cme-pro.com/product/usb-host-midi-interface/
MIDI Host/Router/Filter/Networking: iConnectivity: Interface with 4 in x 4 Out 5-pin DIN-MIDI Ports (mioXM): amzn.to/40wjMZH
2) The notion of arpeggiating full chords (where all held notes play at the same time) is officially known as a "Polyphonic Arpeggiator." This is something that the Nord Wave 2 and Nord Stage 4 both do out of the box. The Electro 6, on the other hand, has no such arpeggiator, let alone a polyphonic arpeggiator. However, to get around this, you have several options:
A. You could learn how to play the part with your own hands- assuming you have the chops to do this. I demonstrate this exact song here (paid Patreon post): www.patreon.com/posts/bon-jovi-runaway-48736683?Link&
B. Using your great idea here, you could invest in a keyboard controller with a built-in arpeggiator. There are several that do this, but two that come to mind are the following:
- AKAI Professional LPK25 - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 25 Responsive Synth Keys: amzn.to/4hlAFvJ (Requires a MIDI host box to connect to your Nord)
- Arturia KeyStep 37 (37-key Controller & Sequencer): amzn.to/3F9lKBA (directly connects via MIDI 5 Pin DIN to your Nord). I demonstrate that here in this video, but I didn't touch on the fact that the arp can also play as a polyphonic.
Both keyboard controllers mentioned have a so-called "clock," allowing you to adjust the tempo. However, I lean towards the Arturia, for it provides far more options than the AKAI, and it doesn't require a host box! (I own both by the way)
Marc 🎹
@ thank you very very much!! I will check this all immediately!
When i saw your video, i went and got the keystep 37. I needed the pitch bend and arpeggiator for the music that i play with my nord E6d… you convinced me right away. Now that i got it, i cant seem to make it work… do you have a video that explains the basics, like connections, midi, audio, etc…. Appreciate and continue doing what you are doing.
Hello @Lifetrack Audio. Thanks for watching the videos and for being inspired to take things to the next level! For starters, please check out my video on how to get the pitch bend to work: ruclips.net/video/YRYJf2J4fO4/видео.html (if you haven't already seen this one).
Thank you for this Tutorial!
I have connected everything like you have said.
Piano to "Up"
Synth to "lo"
Activated external to lo.
But both sounds activate while playing the Keystep or the Nord.
I hope you can help.. thanks!
@@thaiming649 you are close. Next, go into your MIDI settings and turn global off and set external to match that of the controller.
@@MyKeysToMusic thank you for your expertise! It did work.
@@thaiming649 Excellent! And you can feel free to turn the Global MIDI back on, but make sure your controller sits on the External channel, not the Global channel. So, for example, if you had software or another device where you wanted to instruct the Electro to do a program change, that can only happen using the global channel… Also, some controllers are smart enough to send their notes on one channel and their program changes on another.
Great explanation! Thanks!…Can rhythm frequency of arpeggios (slow vs fast) be synchronized also with an external rhythm/drum source, like playing in a live band situation?
@martinl1804. Yes, so long as the band is playing to a click track (from a drum machine for example), that same unit can drive the Nord keyboard clock via MIDI. As the drum machine is adjusted in tempo, the Nord keyboard will follow along in tempo. On the Nord keyboard, you'll need to set the keyboard to "sync with the master clock." FYI: I have all full training on all this with courses found on my website: www.MyKeysToMusic.com
Thanks for the video! Any idea would this also work on Nord Electro 3?
@freewheelin1234 Unfortunately, the Nord Electro 3 came out long before Nord invented the "External to Low" feature we see on the Nord Electro 6. You do have a feature on the Nord Electro 3 that allows you to externally control the lower manual of the organ engine only on a separate MIDI channel, but that's about it. You have no separate MIDI control for the synth engine (which is where the magic happens in the video above). So, to recap, you can still control the entire keyboard from a controller like the one you see in the video, but you can't target a separate engine independently (except for the organ). In other words, the answer is "no" with a tiny exception in the organ engine which at the end of the day, isn't exactly ideal for playing a song like Hungry LIke the Wolf or others like it. I hope that helps clear things up. By the way, I owned an Electro 3 for a long time - it was my first Nord keyboard and served me well over many years of live performances - it's a workhorse!
sweet video. here's an odd q... i have teh nord electro 6 hp. can you tell me how you got that duran duran sound. it rocks
@cfp999 The Duran Duran sound was something I sampled directly from the Nord Stage 3. It started with the "Wave Clarinet 1" (from the Wavetable family on the NS3) along with some additional filter settings. I still have the sample in my library. I can post it on my store for like $5 if you are interested.
Love the channel and thanks for all the info. Definitely helping me make an informed purchase before I buy. Could a Minilogue XD perform the same tasks as the Arturia in this vid? I already own a Minilogue and am debating whether I want a 6D or Stage 3. Thanks for your time!
Hello @D Chapin Thanks for your comment and glad you like the channel! So, the Minilogue XD (which I also own) cannot send out arpeggiation patterns through MIDI. The built-in arpeggiator on most keyboards (the Korg XD included) can only drive the arpeggiator using its internal sounds. They don't typically send that out via MIDI. Keyboard controllers on the other hand are made to do this out of the box (since they have no such internal sounds on their own to power). So, no, you can't do this same thing with the Korg Minilogue XD unfortunately. I wish you could! In fact, had this been possible from the XD, I likely wouldn't have purchased the Arturia! However, the Arturia has come in handy in a few other places where I need a lot of capability in a small package/footprint.
Now the decision between an Electro 6 or a Stage 3 is an important one (and perhaps a hard one to make). If you haven't already seen my comparison video, it would be a good one for you to check out: ruclips.net/video/av3GxXakeaM/видео.html
If I were you, I would strongly consider the Stage 3 over the Electro 6 in your situation since you may already be somewhat familiar with synths and you are a synth fan being the ower of the Korg already. And I believe you can't underestimate the power to have the flexibility synth/sample with a piano/organ all in a single package like a Stage 3. In addition, the Stage 3 has the "Extern" option that will drive your Korg beautifully giving you an option to add the Korg to your rig and bring things over the edge. Lethal combo right there. Here is the video on the power of the Extern section: ruclips.net/video/YyfWnqmsshM/видео.html
Thanks so much for the in depth reply. It’s such a big decision and your channel has been my main source of information. I did watch your comparison video….multiple time 🙂 I’ll watch the other link you posted and you are definitely making me lean towards the Stage 3. Thank you again and keep doing what you’re doing! I will be fully diving into your channel after I purchase my Nord!
@@dchapin2353 This sounds good. If you want to see the true power of the Stage 3, check out my Discovery videos here on the channel starting with the first: ruclips.net/video/hbRgMZpwp_Y/видео.html
Will do!!
Such a good video and excellent explanations..!
As a potential NordStage buyer in the future, I wonder if NordStage has the arpeggiator as well? If yes, is there any big difference between that one and this one on the Electro?
Thank you so much Игорь Sun So, the Nord Stage 3 has an arpeggiator yes but the Electro does not. If you haven't already checked out my comparison video between the Stage 3 and the Electro, you can check it out here: ruclips.net/video/av3GxXakeaM/видео.html. Then I created another detailed video comparing the Stage 3 with the Nord Wave 2 here: ruclips.net/video/Sph6hWPVAMI/видео.html. Thanks for watching and good luck with your decision. 🤔🎹
Is that the 61 or 73 note version of the nord electro? I like the affordable price of the 61 version and I'm by far not a seasoned keyboard player so i am considering it. However, it's probably nicer to have more keys especially for pianos. What are your thoughts? Thank you!
Hello @Samuel Bonello Thanks for your questions. What I'm using here is the 61 key version. I do find the 61 keys (versus the 73 keys) a small comprise while playing live or playing piano parts. There are times where you just need the extra octave to make the job easier. However, I think that limitation affects me more during a live performance than it does when I'm playing at home or doing these videos. With that said, if you have the room (the space) and the budget for 73 keys, go for it. Had I to do it all over again and if the Electro was my main and/or only keyboard to use, I would go 73. But in my case, I already had the Stage 3 73 so the Electro 61 was perfect for what I needed. It's also very lightweight which should not be underestimated especially if you plan to use it here and there around the house or on a gig. If you plan to study some of the piano classics, the 73 is going to serve you better.
I think in the end, you'll make it work no matter which one you choose. There are people that can do amazing things having only a 37 key keyboard controller and then you find they become the master of the octave up and down buttons right? If your goal is to create music that focuses on solo piano as the main instrument (think piano ballads) you'll have a noticeable advantage with more keys. If however, your goal is to play lead keyboard parts and accompaniment for rock music, I think you can get by with 61. I have done a few gigs with the 61 version as my only keyboard. I found it "workable" but not ideal. If however, I had to play that same gig while also holding down the keyboard bass with the split keyboard, I would have really wished I had the 73 key. If you find you are the kind of guy that likes to have a bass in the left-hand split with a piano in the right, go 73. That will give you plenty of range for the bass while allowing you to have your piano high notes for the solo part available without having to push the octave-up button. Then again, you can really get used to using the octave buttons right in the middle of a solo. You click it once or twice within an 8 measure solo and you're good to go. It's really not that hard and the crowd doesn't even realize what they just witnessed - it's very seamless once you know how to make that transition.
Oh, and in this video, I compare the entire Electro family if you haven't already seen it. The 76 key is still an option although quite a bit heavier and the keys are more resistant which is a love/hate thing per individual: ruclips.net/video/SHNM17h_z2Q/видео.html
Finally, make sure you are not a candidate for Nord the Stage 3 before pulling the trigger on the Electro 6. If you've ever longed for a versatile synth to go along with the piano and organ, the Stage 3 is the way to go. I realize that is a different animal, but the flexibility triples once you go Stage 3. I compare the Stage versus the Electro here: ruclips.net/video/av3GxXakeaM/видео.html
Good luck - I know this is one of those tough decisions. Drop a line with more questions or once you've made a decision. 🏄♂️
@@MyKeysToMusic Dear Marc, thank-you for your quick and nonetheless detailed reply! My aim for the new keyboard would be to practice, record and compose basic melodies in a solo project / band setup. My current setup consists of various analogue synthesizers with my main workhorse being the Prophet 6. Whilst I love the sounds of these instruments, I do find myself sometimes lacking the more classical sounds of a piano to practice basic chords and melodies. My primary goal for a new keyboard would be to fill this space. I do very much like the sampled options of the soundlibrary too.
Whilst the Nord keyboards with more features seem more attractive - budget is a concern and I am verging more towards the Electro 6D 61 since a used model is quite affordable at circa 1350 Euros. The Stage 3 is extremely attractive, and if I could afford I would opt for the HP76. But then the price is a huge investment which as a hobbyist seems like an overkill. I have also been considering an older Stage 2 EX HP76. My favourite features which are lacking on the Electro 6D 61 are the heavy weighted keys, pitch bend and mod wheel, and the extern section, which would take the secondary goal of becoming the master keyboard in my current setup.
It's always very attractive to opt for the one with most features, however sometimes it could be better to have less and work with limitations!
I am still undecided if I should go with the 73 key model. In my head a heavy weighted option would be desirable. But then again, justifying an extra 750 Euros for these features seems unnecessary.
@@samuelbonello3670 Certainly a tough decision. I have the Electro 61 and it's very light and yes, sometimes it's best to work within the limitations. It will certainly fill the space of providing great piano sounds and it has the organ engine too. And it will still let you play samples from the Nord library. Your other idea about a used Stage 2 is also a good one. Best of luck with your decision!
Thank you ! can we play any sound recorded on the electro 6 ? Like strings, synth, brass etc
Sorry for my english i am french :)
Yes you can do this. The arpeggiator uses MIDI to trigger any sound your Nord keyboard can play. It's up to you if you want to isolate the arpeggiator to just a specific engine like I've done here in this video or have it play across the entire keyboard with any sound engine (organ, piano or synth).
@@MyKeysToMusic Thank you !
@@zackcere3590 You got it! Good luck!
Great tip! Can I do the same with Electro 5?
Yes, indeed Dominik - the "External to Low" option will work with the Electro 5 but nothing older. And technically speaking, you could use an external arpeggiator to power any Nord keyboard that can play samples. And if you're using a Nord keyboard that can't play samples (such as the Lead A1 or any of the Nord Leads), your arpeggiator comes with the random option already out of the box. In any case, there is one very small area of your Electro 5 manual that will demonstrate how to set it up to work with an external keyboard. I also cover this in the course called "Master the Nord Electro 5" I make available for sale on my main website (www.MyKeysToMusic.com)
@@MyKeysToMusic Thank you Mark for such a detailed reply.
@@jazzualdo Happy to help!
Hello,
As usually thank you for an amazing content !
I have another issue - having NS3 88keys and Nord Electro 6D (61keys)
Mainly wanted to use my Electro with - Behringer Model D for funky bass lines - and wish I could control it with my Nord - but the problem is :
I wanna play/controll the bass line with the part of the keyboard - to be ably to play pad in my right hand - I cannot figure it out anything apart of having separate midi controller ?
Is there anything that I can do ? :)
Best,
Daniel
Hello @Daniel Michalek I love questions like these. So, the Electro doesn't support external control with an option to only play in a given zone. The Stage 3 can do this via the Extern option, however. If you want to use the Electro, you could also look at getting a MIDI filter box like this: U6MIDI Pro (affiliate link): amzn.to/42mU4Wd, which should allow you to filter the notes against a given range. Once you get the box, you'd have to configure it using the software it comes with. But then, after that, it should be a matter of connecting the box between two MIDI cables and also supplying the box with a simple USB C cable for power. This would introduce a new little box to the rig without you having to get another controller (which is a lot more equipment) and fuss. I have this box and I'm planning to do a video on it.
Note: I haven't tested this box yet for this exact setup but I'd be happy to test for you so that we can be 100% sure this will work.
@@MyKeysToMusic You’re amazing mate ! Thank you so much such a professional answer as usual !
I’m gonna read about out it because I also heard about the app called Camelot Pro which apparently can be run on IPad - but also need to deep dive into this. Will keep this posted here as maybe someone else will have similar questions.
Best !
@@daniel6959 Thanks for your kind words. Camelot Pro is an EXCELLENT program and feature-rich. It does require some investment in learning, however, but it's a true Swiss Army knife when it comes to this. I don't use it personally, but I have researched it a bit and know that it's very powerful. It's made by the same people that make the SWAM instruments (Audio Modeling) and I have their complete SWAM library and will be doing videos this year too. I'm so impressed with these instruments as I grew up playing sax and my brother plays trumpet so I feel like these are the only things that come close to the proper sound. Anyway, drop me a line if you learn anything new, and be on the lookout for a MIDI filter box video in the coming days/weeks.