I've had my Nord Lead A1 since it came out in 2015 and it's so good! It just always sounds great! I think it's massively underrated and misunderstood. The oscillator "shortcuts" on this thing are awesome and let you get to a sound that's in your head faster than any other synth I have ever owned. I does have less control but what it gives you gets you to an amazing sound really fast. You can stack four parts and the effects are really good too. It's the one synth I haven't been able to bring myself to sell after 8 years in my studio. I highly recommend it! Sound very analog and is a very useful and wonderful sounding synth!
Completely agree. I own a Montage, Quantum, P10, Fantom and many others. The Prophet is definitely fast to patch and a stunning range of timbres for being analog. The others are far more capable but very tedious. I always feel like I need to have time and energy to sift through the Quantum or Montage. The A1 is a total rocket. It’s a joy, simple to get into a flow state. I describe it as almost 3D modeling. You can easily work with and between all four parts instantly. You can so quickly copy, derive, morph, mod, all of them into an inspiring performance it just makes other synths feel like molasses. As much as I love the capabilities and timbres of my other synths, a deep dark secret part of me would pick the A1 as my single desert island synth. At the end of the day, it’s not about specs and features, it’s about speed to creativity and inspiration. A1 dominates in that regard.
The A1 is an amazing gigging synth, but it's also an amazing studio synth for a small home setup. You can run midi to it over usb, and feed it 4 seperate midi channels, which can then drive 4 patches out to 4 outputs simultaneously into 4 seperate inputs on an audio interface. The only issue I had with it at first was the filter being ADR rather then ADSR, but it doesn't take long to get used to it at all. It's a fabulous machine.
I love the A1, it's been one of my favourite keyboards and my first synth. I've used it live in prog bands and for recording and it always has a great analog kind of sound, and it's super easy to use and move patches in and out with the sound manager. You can program so many styles of sounds, even like electric piano and organ type sounds and the pitch stick is always a pleasure for vibrato and pitch b ends, it's like the most expressive controller outside of a seaboard or omose e.
I also have this one. If there is one thing where it lacks I think it needs a bit more low end-ooomph, besides AT. There certainly are synths with more sonic charakter, but it totally makes up with usability and you can easily and quickly get at least close to what you are looking for. A true workhorse, plus it feels like an instrument that you can still rely on using in 10 years or more.
Just having individual outs for each part is always an awesome thing, each thru Eurorack modules then into a Pedal Board....Crazy possibilities. I would love to see a demo with a Strymon attached to each output 🤪
Never tried the Lead a1 but I owned a lead 4 before but sold it a few years ago. Honestly nord lead 4 was the best synth for me. Everything to learn synthesis on was there. I miss it every day :( I’m halfway watching this video and can say that Lead a1 is missing a lot of the cool stuffs Lead 4 has. Every knob you needed to learn about synthesis was available in front of you on the Lead 4.
I first bought A1, then exchanged to L4 because of features. I love the L4 but I must say that a1 had some really nice sounds which I can not seem to recreate in L4...one is "choir ahh" patch.
Great sounds. Maybe the best sounding virtual analogue synth ever made! It's downsides are the envelopes, no aftertouch, and no lcd so no paches names. Its quite expensive for what it gives. But... It still sounds remarkable for bread and butter sound's.
I was looking at those the other day on reverb and it felt like the rack version was around since the mid-nineties. Didn't know they were still making those.
Ha! Gotta move those units! Would be cool to see what Nord does next. They are one of the few synthesizers that can stand against a Seventh Generation Synthesizer.
nice demo jack. i could never get my head around the oscillator modes, not intuitive. nord tried to simplify if but made it worse. nord lead 2x is still the best of the bunch for programming. lsst time the A1 was featured on the channel here you were blowing them out for 999. that was the time to get one.
It is a great synth, but you need to live in the UK or Europe for a good price. It has never been reduced in Canada. In fact it has gone up. It's currently $2700 Canadian dollars lol
Thanks for bringing the A1 to the surface again. It's one of the most underrated synths because of its "special" oscillator layout. It sounds amazing, very "analog", with gorgeous effects, and it offers so many possibilities. Unfortunately Clavia gave it one of the worst keybeds on the market (cheap, clunky, no aftertouch), and furthermore there is no real display - it's such a shame for a "premium" manufacturer. I sold my A1 because of these quirks and instantly hope for a Lead 5 or Lead A2.
@@connor_flanigan I totally agree! It’s also a shame that they didn’t improve the B3 organ in the Stage 4. They simply should build in the HX3 organ engine and it would be perfect.
Exploring the Vast World of Synthesizer Modulation Combinations Synthesizers are powerful tools in music production, offering a vast array of sounds and textures through their complex modulation systems. At the heart of their versatility is the ability to modulate various parameters, creating intricate and evolving sounds. To appreciate the depth of sound design possible with modern synthesizers, it's essential to understand how these modulation systems work and the sheer scale of possible combinations they offer. The Basics of Synthesizer Modulation Modulation in a synthesizer refers to the process of varying a parameter over time or according to another signal. Key parameters that can be modulated include oscillator pitch, filter cutoff frequency, filter resonance, envelope settings, and LFO rates. Modulation sources might include low-frequency oscillators (LFOs), envelopes, random generators, and even external MIDI controllers. Each of these sources can be used to dynamically influence the parameters, adding movement and complexity to the sound. Understanding the Complexity To grasp the complexity of sound design possibilities, consider a sophisticated synthesizer with multiple modulation sources and parameters. For simplicity, let’s assume the synthesizer has the following features: Number of Parameters (P): 20 Number of Modulation Sources (S): 10 Depth Settings (D): 10 Routing Options (R): 5 Modulation Destinations (M): 5 Here’s a breakdown of how these factors contribute to the total number of possible combinations: Basic Modulation Combinations: Each modulation source can be assigned to multiple parameters, with varying depth settings and routing options. To calculate the total number of combinations for each modulation source, you multiply the number of parameters by the number of depth settings and routing options: 𝐶 source = 𝑃 × 𝐷 × 𝑅 C source =P×D×R Plugging in our numbers: 𝐶 source = 20 × 10 × 5 = 1 , 000 C source =20×10×5=1,000 With 10 modulation sources, the number of possible combinations becomes: 𝐶 total = ( 1 , 000 ) 10 = 1 0 30 C total =(1,000) 10 =10 30 This represents an astonishingly large number, specifically: 1 , 000 , 000 , 000 , 000 , 000 , 000 , 000 , 000 , 000 , 000 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 This theoretical number reflects the vast potential for sound design in a complex synthesizer setup. Considering Modulation Destinations: Each modulation source can affect multiple parameters. If each modulation source can be routed to 5 different parameters, with each parameter having 10 settings: 𝑇 parameter = 𝐷 × 𝑅 T parameter =D×R 𝑇 parameter = 10 × 5 = 50 T parameter =10×5=50 For 20 parameters and 5 modulation destinations: 𝑇 total = ( 50 ) 20 × 5 T total =(50) 20 ×5 The number is: 2.8 × 1 0 34 2.8×10 34 This further emphasizes the immense variety of possible sound combinations. Practical Considerations While these theoretical calculations highlight the enormous potential for creating unique sounds, the practical number of useful combinations is often lower. Not all combinations are musically meaningful or practical. Synthesizers are designed with user interfaces that streamline the process of sound design, making complex systems more accessible and intuitive. The vast number of combinations allows for unprecedented creative freedom, enabling musicians and sound designers to explore new sonic landscapes. Conclusion The potential number of combinations in a complex synthesizer is staggeringly large, illustrating the depth and versatility these instruments offer. From simple parameter adjustments to intricate modulation routings, synthesizers provide a playground for creativity. By understanding the scale of these possibilities, musicians and sound designers can better appreciate the power of synthesizers and the endless opportunities they present for crafting unique and compelling sounds.
I thought that the Nord Lead A1 had been discontinued about a year ago 😲🤔 The Nord Lead A1 is a brilliant synthesiser and even better than the Nord Wave in my opinion 😲👍👍
I think the nord lead a1 is perfect, its simple and powerful at the same time but of course can be improved. Maybe an extra envelope and another lfo, the drive circuit separated from the fx section to use it at the same time with mod fxs. A extra parameter for the fx section, example; for mod fxs two knobs; one for rate and another for depth and for the delay part, a parameter to modulate the delay and a freeze parameter for the reverb part. And why not?? , more waveforms of course.
i own a Nord Lead 4 wich is also a great synth! I still dont know why they’ve decided to release both on the same year (or very close), they look and feel similar to me.
I do too. If you look at the update list you'll see stuff like "improved waveforms" and other stuff that most likely brought the 4 to same exact base timbre as the the A1. A1 is basically a slimmed down 4 with the unused processing power going towards more voices and "better" effects section.
I just wish I could combine the best of each Nord in one synth. The A1 has better effects in my opinion and a waveshaping mode that can't really be replicated on the Lead 4, but the modulation and FM flexibility are better on the 4. I've also got a Wave 2 and it's missing so much of what the Leads can do.
@@Shadowbait A1 with 2 oscillator groups, percussion mode from 2X, full ADSRs, impulse morphs, and the 48db slope setting of the 4 would be sweet. The classic 1/2/2X/4 layout is what I want from a VA though, take a look at a Pro-One layout for example and then look at the NL4.
Glad I snagged the Nord Wave 2 keyboard when I did on sale for 2k because I think it probably is a step up from the Nord Lead A1. I have a couple of desktop Nord Leads I'll use for a mini moog bass replacement. They stay in tune and punch. And sit well in a track. Not sure if this Nord Lead 1 adds anything new to my OLD Nord Lead desktop modules.
the wave2 does most everything the A1 does, with a few omissions. for instance, the wave2 doesn't have amplitude modulation (which the A1 has available on every wave form.) the wave2 also doesn't have the vocal formants of the A1. it doesn't have individual outs for each layer, if that's important. the effects section is a bit different as well. the A1 however has a lot of different waveforms that the older leads didn't have.
Great sounding synth but it lacks the individual outs of the earlier Nords. Most brands have seemed to strip this feature but it’s why I bought an 2x instead of a modern one.
I think nord made too many of them and are trying to get rid of them. My local music store suddenly have them pushing selling em and they are really old. Really good but old. I will keep my Hydrasynth and stage4 thanks. Unless a lead a2 or wave3 comes out.😂
No LCD - really annoying, especially as earlier Nord Leads did allow you to properly name patches and view parameters. I’ve had two of these over time, the 2nd time round I thought it didn’t quite cut it compared to other more recent synths.
these hard and knobby physical synths are Not only expensive, but they battle to keep up with soft synths ! just the general lack of (or rather dismal poor implementation of) AUTOMATION is a big turn off for me. thanks very much for the detailed review BUTT . . . i'm sticking to my collection of Robert Papen's software synthesizers !
@@user82938 that’s a fact look it up. Nord lead made the first va synth after Yamaha made the first physical modeling synth, vl1 (which modeled wind instruments).
But it does not have any keyboard and if you want to have the sound on a pa you have to ad a lot of more devices, yes it is possible but not the easiest way.
True. But for many musicians there is a big difference whether you are turning knobs at a real musical instrument or moving virtual elements on a touchscreen. It's neither better nor worse, it's just fundamentally different.
Like many keyboards there is often a divide between what’s good for ‘proper’ gigging / touring and what’s good for the studio, be it home or professional.
@@klaus1234567890 it’s super easy just use any keyboard with midi…you could even use the nord lead…the iOS sound is quite good. Jordan Rudess is the one who I learned this from. If you don’t trust me, trust Jordan. I saw him using iOS in concert with dream theater on RUclips about ten years ago. If you play the keyboard and haven’t tried this you are missing out. Have fun.
If I could only have one synth for the rest of my life it'd be a Nord Lead, any version. They're perfection.
I've had my Nord Lead A1 since it came out in 2015 and it's so good! It just always sounds great! I think it's massively underrated and misunderstood. The oscillator "shortcuts" on this thing are awesome and let you get to a sound that's in your head faster than any other synth I have ever owned. I does have less control but what it gives you gets you to an amazing sound really fast. You can stack four parts and the effects are really good too. It's the one synth I haven't been able to bring myself to sell after 8 years in my studio. I highly recommend it! Sound very analog and is a very useful and wonderful sounding synth!
Completely agree. I own a Montage, Quantum, P10, Fantom and many others. The Prophet is definitely fast to patch and a stunning range of timbres for being analog. The others are far more capable but very tedious. I always feel like I need to have time and energy to sift through the Quantum or Montage. The A1 is a total rocket. It’s a joy, simple to get into a flow state. I describe it as almost 3D modeling. You can easily work with and between all four parts instantly. You can so quickly copy, derive, morph, mod, all of them into an inspiring performance it just makes other synths feel like molasses. As much as I love the capabilities and timbres of my other synths, a deep dark secret part of me would pick the A1 as my single desert island synth. At the end of the day, it’s not about specs and features, it’s about speed to creativity and inspiration. A1 dominates in that regard.
How is the A1 underrated if it is a sought after synth?
@@Jason75913I feel like no one ever talks about it. It gets very little love on RUclips and there are very few reviews or videos about it.
The most practical and sensibly designed multitimbral synth I have ever used.
Nord discontinued the rack version a few years ago...shame as I would love one...
Wow, looks really nice! Always nice to get to wind down listening to Jack noodling about too.
this synth is my keeper, sounds great, easy tweaking, fun
The A1 is an amazing gigging synth, but it's also an amazing studio synth for a small home setup. You can run midi to it over usb, and feed it 4 seperate midi channels, which can then drive 4 patches out to 4 outputs simultaneously into 4 seperate inputs on an audio interface. The only issue I had with it at first was the filter being ADR rather then ADSR, but it doesn't take long to get used to it at all. It's a fabulous machine.
I love the A1, it's been one of my favourite keyboards and my first synth. I've used it live in prog bands and for recording and it always has a great analog kind of sound, and it's super easy to use and move patches in and out with the sound manager. You can program so many styles of sounds, even like electric piano and organ type sounds and the pitch stick is always a pleasure for vibrato and pitch b ends, it's like the most expressive controller outside of a seaboard or omose e.
My A1 is still my favorite keyboard to come up with new sounds.
Had this synth since it came out. Love it, great to learn synthesis on. Still stuff to learn here… so much to play with
Love mine - 4 individual outs and a beat step pro fits nicely on the top right side for sequencing
I also have this one. If there is one thing where it lacks I think it needs a bit more low end-ooomph, besides AT. There certainly are synths with more sonic charakter, but it totally makes up with usability and you can easily and quickly get at least close to what you are looking for. A true workhorse, plus it feels like an instrument that you can still rely on using in 10 years or more.
Just having individual outs for each part is always an awesome thing, each thru Eurorack modules then into a Pedal Board....Crazy possibilities. I would love to see a demo with a Strymon attached to each output 🤪
I might just do that
Never tried the Lead a1 but I owned a lead 4 before but sold it a few years ago. Honestly nord lead 4 was the best synth for me. Everything to learn synthesis on was there. I miss it every day :( I’m halfway watching this video and can say that Lead a1 is missing a lot of the cool stuffs Lead 4 has. Every knob you needed to learn about synthesis was available in front of you on the Lead 4.
If you want to learn sound design, use VSTs. When you are ready to perform, use the Nord.
I got the 4 recently and love it. Definitely worth saving for and not expensive for what you get, as you know. $1K USD for a mint one here.
I first bought A1, then exchanged to L4 because of features. I love the L4 but I must say that a1 had some really nice sounds which I can not seem to recreate in L4...one is "choir ahh" patch.
Great sounds. Maybe the best sounding virtual analogue synth ever made!
It's downsides are the envelopes, no aftertouch, and no lcd so no paches names. Its quite expensive for what it gives. But... It still sounds remarkable for bread and butter sound's.
OH, so the A2 is coming at NAMM. 😎
I wish.
I was looking at those the other day on reverb and it felt like the rack version was around since the mid-nineties. Didn't know they were still making those.
Would rather have a full blown Nord Lead 5 🧐
@@zap7759 Me too, but we probably won't get neither. 😐
Ha! Gotta move those units! Would be cool to see what Nord does next. They are one of the few synthesizers that can stand against a Seventh Generation Synthesizer.
You spent a WHOLE Hour with it wow. >>
nice demo jack. i could never get my head around the oscillator modes, not intuitive. nord tried to simplify if but made it worse. nord lead 2x is still the best of the bunch for programming. lsst time the A1 was featured on the channel here you were blowing them out for 999. that was the time to get one.
“A humpy thing into a less humpy thing”
Quote of the day
It is a great synth, but you need to live in the UK or Europe for a good price. It has never been reduced in Canada. In fact it has gone up. It's currently $2700 Canadian dollars lol
Agreed. It is a mystery why Nords are almost double the price in Canada. Just too much price fixing going on here.
Wanted a rack years ago!! But currently I feel like I have a synth that covers much of this territory, and also has layers.
Thanks for bringing the A1 to the surface again. It's one of the most underrated synths because of its "special" oscillator layout. It sounds amazing, very "analog", with gorgeous effects, and it offers so many possibilities. Unfortunately Clavia gave it one of the worst keybeds on the market (cheap, clunky, no aftertouch), and furthermore there is no real display - it's such a shame for a "premium" manufacturer. I sold my A1 because of these quirks and instantly hope for a Lead 5 or Lead A2.
in addition to a lead 5 or lead A2, I'm also adding a new C3 combo organ to my Nord wish list
@@connor_flanigan I totally agree! It’s also a shame that they didn’t improve the B3 organ in the Stage 4. They simply should build in the HX3 organ engine and it would be perfect.
Exploring the Vast World of Synthesizer Modulation Combinations
Synthesizers are powerful tools in music production, offering a vast array of sounds and textures through their complex modulation systems. At the heart of their versatility is the ability to modulate various parameters, creating intricate and evolving sounds. To appreciate the depth of sound design possible with modern synthesizers, it's essential to understand how these modulation systems work and the sheer scale of possible combinations they offer.
The Basics of Synthesizer Modulation
Modulation in a synthesizer refers to the process of varying a parameter over time or according to another signal. Key parameters that can be modulated include oscillator pitch, filter cutoff frequency, filter resonance, envelope settings, and LFO rates. Modulation sources might include low-frequency oscillators (LFOs), envelopes, random generators, and even external MIDI controllers. Each of these sources can be used to dynamically influence the parameters, adding movement and complexity to the sound.
Understanding the Complexity
To grasp the complexity of sound design possibilities, consider a sophisticated synthesizer with multiple modulation sources and parameters. For simplicity, let’s assume the synthesizer has the following features:
Number of Parameters (P): 20
Number of Modulation Sources (S): 10
Depth Settings (D): 10
Routing Options (R): 5
Modulation Destinations (M): 5
Here’s a breakdown of how these factors contribute to the total number of possible combinations:
Basic Modulation Combinations:
Each modulation source can be assigned to multiple parameters, with varying depth settings and routing options. To calculate the total number of combinations for each modulation source, you multiply the number of parameters by the number of depth settings and routing options:
𝐶
source
=
𝑃
×
𝐷
×
𝑅
C
source
=P×D×R
Plugging in our numbers:
𝐶
source
=
20
×
10
×
5
=
1
,
000
C
source
=20×10×5=1,000
With 10 modulation sources, the number of possible combinations becomes:
𝐶
total
=
(
1
,
000
)
10
=
1
0
30
C
total
=(1,000)
10
=10
30
This represents an astonishingly large number, specifically:
1
,
000
,
000
,
000
,
000
,
000
,
000
,
000
,
000
,
000
,
000
1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000
This theoretical number reflects the vast potential for sound design in a complex synthesizer setup.
Considering Modulation Destinations:
Each modulation source can affect multiple parameters. If each modulation source can be routed to 5 different parameters, with each parameter having 10 settings:
𝑇
parameter
=
𝐷
×
𝑅
T
parameter
=D×R
𝑇
parameter
=
10
×
5
=
50
T
parameter
=10×5=50
For 20 parameters and 5 modulation destinations:
𝑇
total
=
(
50
)
20
×
5
T
total
=(50)
20
×5
The number is:
2.8
×
1
0
34
2.8×10
34
This further emphasizes the immense variety of possible sound combinations.
Practical Considerations
While these theoretical calculations highlight the enormous potential for creating unique sounds, the practical number of useful combinations is often lower. Not all combinations are musically meaningful or practical. Synthesizers are designed with user interfaces that streamline the process of sound design, making complex systems more accessible and intuitive. The vast number of combinations allows for unprecedented creative freedom, enabling musicians and sound designers to explore new sonic landscapes.
Conclusion
The potential number of combinations in a complex synthesizer is staggeringly large, illustrating the depth and versatility these instruments offer. From simple parameter adjustments to intricate modulation routings, synthesizers provide a playground for creativity. By understanding the scale of these possibilities, musicians and sound designers can better appreciate the power of synthesizers and the endless opportunities they present for crafting unique and compelling sounds.
I thought that the Nord Lead A1 had been discontinued about a year ago 😲🤔 The Nord Lead A1 is a brilliant synthesiser and even better than the Nord Wave in my opinion 😲👍👍
Please do an update on the Behringer Wing four years on with 2.0 os with mixing Pop and Hip Hop songs. Get Nick back in thank you.
I think the nord lead a1 is perfect, its simple and powerful at the same time but of course can be improved. Maybe an extra envelope and another lfo, the drive circuit separated from the fx section to use it at the same time with mod fxs. A extra parameter for the fx section, example; for mod fxs two knobs; one for rate and another for depth and for the delay part, a parameter to modulate the delay and a freeze parameter for the reverb part. And why not?? , more waveforms of course.
i own a Nord Lead 4 wich is also a great synth! I still dont know why they’ve decided to release both on the same year (or very close), they look and feel similar to me.
I do too. If you look at the update list you'll see stuff like "improved waveforms" and other stuff that most likely brought the 4 to same exact base timbre as the the A1. A1 is basically a slimmed down 4 with the unused processing power going towards more voices and "better" effects section.
I just wish I could combine the best of each Nord in one synth. The A1 has better effects in my opinion and a waveshaping mode that can't really be replicated on the Lead 4, but the modulation and FM flexibility are better on the 4. I've also got a Wave 2 and it's missing so much of what the Leads can do.
@@Shadowbait A1 with 2 oscillator groups, percussion mode from 2X, full ADSRs, impulse morphs, and the 48db slope setting of the 4 would be sweet.
The classic 1/2/2X/4 layout is what I want from a VA though, take a look at a Pro-One layout for example and then look at the NL4.
You figured all that out in an hour? 👏
Glad I snagged the Nord Wave 2 keyboard when I did on sale for 2k because I think it probably is a step up from the Nord Lead A1. I have a couple of desktop Nord Leads I'll use for a mini moog bass replacement. They stay in tune and punch. And sit well in a track. Not sure if this Nord Lead 1 adds anything new to my OLD Nord Lead desktop modules.
the wave2 does most everything the A1 does, with a few omissions. for instance, the wave2 doesn't have amplitude modulation (which the A1 has available on every wave form.) the wave2 also doesn't have the vocal formants of the A1. it doesn't have individual outs for each layer, if that's important. the effects section is a bit different as well. the A1 however has a lot of different waveforms that the older leads didn't have.
Shift innit.
Jack being down with the kids... In 2004 😂
He’s been watching Skins again
OMG! You've gone Hollywood!
There must be a new one on the way….
The price went down to $1499 so I’m hoping you’re correct… I have wanted this synth for years….
Interested Nice Vid
MC-101 has very nice patches randomiser.
Live mandela effect right here, I swear this synth went out of prod years ago hahahaha 👀 Great vid as always though!
Suddenly... Andertons rolled out a presentation on the A1.
Thoughtfully: Want to get rid of stock before NAMM??? well, let's wait.
Jack are you just doing the intro chords for Maneater the entire time? If so, I love you.
Great sounding synth but it lacks the individual outs of the earlier Nords. Most brands have seemed to strip this feature but it’s why I bought an 2x instead of a modern one.
it does have individual outs.
Since there is no Filter ADSR ENVELOPE ON THIS ONE SO IS THERE A POSSIBILITY TO ASSIGN A CUT OFF TO MOD ENVELOPE AND USE IT AS A FILTER ADSR...
the mod wheel is aluminum. why do so many people think it's granite?
Incredible compact. Ok.
I can also use this as a midi keyboard yea?
yes
I appreciate you ✌️can make it a vedio about the brass please 🙏🏾
How about Lead 4?
Even better.
Are there options to change temperament/micro tuning?
What is great? ADR Envelope? 😅
Loving the vids 🙏🏻 please don’t fall into the youtube-trend of leaving half of your face unlit, yer not the phantom of the opera! Heheh ok peace
So if Marshall from »How I Met Your Mother« would play this synth, he would shout: »Layered!«
a mini Nord would be amazing with Midi and cv. I realize that’s not typically their thing but it’s 2023 so….
$1500 for a Nord synth is actually kind of wild.
Thanks for the presentation!
I think nord made too many of them and are trying to get rid of them. My local music store suddenly have them pushing selling em and they are really old. Really good but old. I will keep my Hydrasynth and stage4 thanks. Unless a lead a2 or wave3 comes out.😂
Over the years always the same synth
No LCD - really annoying, especially as earlier Nord Leads did allow you to properly name patches and view parameters.
I’ve had two of these over time, the 2nd time round I thought it didn’t quite cut it compared to other more recent synths.
Reminds me a little of the Korg Wavestate
these hard and knobby physical synths are Not only expensive, but they battle to keep up with soft synths ! just the general lack of (or rather dismal poor implementation of) AUTOMATION is a big turn off for me. thanks very much for the detailed review BUTT . . . i'm sticking to my collection of Robert Papen's software synthesizers !
You should go try one.. Feels like a legit instrument. The pitch stick is closer to a string than a ribbon controller or wiggly MPE.
I regret selling my A1 desktop. The sound was wonderful.
Same here. I sold mine, bought the keys version, then sold that too!
This synth is 8 years old. Why is it being promoted?
Because it was the world’s first VA synth
@@Simbor-rh1dj wrong
@@user82938 that’s a fact look it up. Nord lead made the first va synth after Yamaha made the first physical modeling synth, vl1 (which modeled wind instruments).
It sounds better than most for more things than most.
My guess is they need to move old stock before a new version is about to drop. Just a theory.
I can stack ten or more digital synth voices on my iPad. Just saying. And watch RUclips at the same time.
But it does not have any keyboard and if you want to have the sound on a pa you have to ad a lot of more devices, yes it is possible but not the easiest way.
True. But for many musicians there is a big difference whether you are turning knobs at a real musical instrument or moving virtual elements on a touchscreen. It's neither better nor worse, it's just fundamentally different.
Like many keyboards there is often a divide between what’s good for ‘proper’ gigging / touring and what’s good for the studio, be it home or professional.
@@klaus1234567890 it’s super easy just use any keyboard with midi…you could even use the nord lead…the iOS sound is quite good. Jordan Rudess is the one who I learned this from. If you don’t trust me, trust Jordan. I saw him using iOS in concert with dream theater on RUclips about ten years ago. If you play the keyboard and haven’t tried this you are missing out. Have fun.
You can also watch porn on your iPad, so I guess you don’t need real life sex, right?
performance 4 parts isnt nothing new . Even a Ymaha motif 6 (aluminum body) was designed for that
Yamaha QS300 as well.