As a total beginner & got this as my 1st board whow what a great site for learning on my 1st board as I am not refer back to any other board so great keep these tutorials coming
Welcome @MyBash10 So glad to hear you are enjoying the NS4 as your first board. Congrats! You are a person who doesn't fool around, so enjoy the journey - you should have plenty of runway with the Nord Stage 4. I'm in the middle of making my "master class" so keep an eye on my main website or join the mailing list to be notified upon its release this summer. (www.MyKeysToMusic.com)
@danzu25 Hey Daniel, welcome to the Nord family. When ready, you can consider enrolling in my Master Class for the Nord Stage 4 featuring over 26 hours of content to learn the board from A to Z along with practical song examples in most lessons. My courses are available at www.MyKeysToMusic.com
I’m pretty sure that the 3’s super waves are actually samples. If you do legato mono playing, you can hear the artifacts of samples shifting. Also in this demo, even after everything the 3 was still wider. Very noticeable in headphones. You could probably get even closer on the 4 by having the same supersaw setting on 2 layers and hard panning them instead of using the unison feature, since you’d have separate free running oscillators on each side.
Thank you so much for making this video. Super helpful if you are looking to recreate some of those great sounds by the old favorites. I appreciate these videos more than you know. Thank you again Mark.
@griffinlarson Thanks for your comment and support! A student asked for this song on the Nord Stage 3, but I decided to perform it on the Nord Stage 4 while also making it available as a download bundle for the Nord Stage 3 within the school and on Patreon. Please have a look if you haven't already checked it out: ruclips.net/video/gr4-5OKA5pg/видео.html (Joe Walsh: Life's Been Good)
Love your video's Mark. I just received my NS4 Compact and am struggling to create synth patches that rise or fall using the LFO when one note is played and not the glide feature. Would love to see a synth tutorial for the NS4.
Ji Marc and a Happy New Year!! I was sondering, now that it's been a while since the Stage 4 came out, and more time using it, are you just as happy and settled in with it, as with the Stage 3? Or is it a difficult question because of pro and cons. When it comes to upgrades, lots of people just don't want to back, and in this case I'm still curious, because I'm aiming for the 3 or 4 still, and it could still take a while. I'll probably begin with Nord Lead A1, like we discussed earlier. Just thought I'd ask, in case you have any new thoughts now after using the Stage 4 longer. Cheers
@danielmikkelsen5470 Thanks for the follow-up, Daniel, and Happy New Year to you too! Since this video, I have adopted the Nord Stage 4 for all gigs, and it's where I've been spending most of my time these days as I'm finishing up the "Master the Nord Stage 4" course. I think the board is very strong, and I've worked around the previous deal-breakers, such as having no set list option. (I just use a dedicated program bank for a given set list, and it's working out ok). I love having the 3 synth layers available all the time, and the upgraded arpeggiator (poly and pattern), along with the better-sounding nylon guitar samples (and others), are a dream to play with. The most recent update includes a new oscillator configuration set in the synth section (sub-oscillators) which is a welcome (and useful) feature. I feel like this is a pretty big upgrade and proof that they still have the desire to fix bugs and improve features. I also enjoy the increased polyphony in the synth and all the effects options we have now with the ability to assign any effect set to any layer (not including the organs). It feels like there is a lot more runway now to explore things deeper and further compared to Stage 3. Don't get me wrong, the Stage 3 still sounds great, but the added features from Stage 4 would be missed if I had to go back to Stage 3 as my main board.
Always learn a ton from your videos. I'm more of a "user/player" than a sound creator but you have definitely helped me up game and become more confident in my synth tweaking skills. KUDOS!
Thanks for your comment, and happy to know the videos help! I would say that most people are, in fact, in the user/player category on the Nord side of things, which makes sense as the boards appear to be targeted at "players" first and foremost. This is further evidenced by the many performance/style videos from Nord directly. You get almost nothing from Nord by way of "education" on how to use the boards, but you do get truckloads of performance demonstrations (which we also appreciate). Their distributor in the U.K. does put out very professional training, so in that respect, they do put out some education. So, I guess that leaves it up to us "RUclipsrs" to fill in the gaps - which is fun! 🎹. In my case, I'd like to think that I take things a step further by having a pro training course/Master class available on my website because I believe pro-education should happen without ads, distractions, and the reality of "RUclips Randomness" our world has come to embrace. 😉 🎶. Truth be told, I love the Nord RUclips community and will continue to post videos as I learn things. The Nord User Forum is also an excellent resource for deeper/more complex topics. There are also many good FaceBook Groups as well. Thanks for letting me go off on that tangent there for a second as I reflect on how we educate the community of passionate Nord users.
I am moving to NS4 soon and I believe that the best option is to sample the super saw sounds... I tried it and it works really good as a sample. And honestly watching the waveform, I'm confident to say that also the original one is also a sample....
@giacomorml Great tip about sampling the waveform. That makes total sense to do that, and you're right, it appears that the "sound generation" foundations on these Nord boards are likely that of a form of an internal sample. Thanks for the comment. 👍🏻
Great video. I am always impressed by the level of depth of your videos. I actually own a Stage 4 for 2 weeks now and got a little frustrated by the Synth section (sounded "dull" for me), but you just opened my eyes ;-)
@christianwagner6213 I love stories like this because it makes doing these videos all the more worth it! Bravo! - Enjoy your NS4. Go deep on the Poly Arp and then add another layer and sync both to the master clock. Then attempt to sync a delay to one of those synth layers. That's good homework for you and if you do it right, you get to the "next level" of experience...
@steveburholtkeys Hello Steve! I wrote up some differences here earlier today for another comment, so I'll share them with you as well. This is a reflection of my overall thoughts having the Nord Stage 4 for months now and getting very deep with it as I make the upcoming training course found here: www.MyKeysToMusic.com The pianos sound the same to my ears and they draw from the same exact piano library. Of course, a piano through Cathedral Reverb via the NS4 is on another level. So in that aspect, you can take your pianos and do enhancements like that via the effects which is only available on the NS4. However, that alone is not enough to move most people into the far more expensive NS4. The Samples from the Nord sample library however are a bit of a different story with pros and cons to each. The Nord Sample Library 3 is more vast with years of additions making it a bit more complete. However, many samples are in mono. The Nord Sample library 4 has most of the samples in stereo and they do sound better in some/most situations, but there are less of them. So, you may be longing for some key samples available on the NS3, but not on the NS4 - so do your homework and create a list of things you can't live without and be sure they exist in the NS4 sample library 4.0. I want to talk about the synth for a minute. The pure synth out of the box sounds a touch better on the NS3 to my ears. The video above is evidence of that. Yet, at the same time, with a little extra effort, you can improve the sound on the NS4 to meet or exceed that of the NS3. I find you have to add a little high-end EQ to most of the sounds to bring out their best. Once you do that however, the synth "sound" is on par (or better) than the NS3. Of course, having that 3rd layer cannot be understated - it makes a big impact. Now, the arpeggiator capabilities of the Nord Stage 4 is where it leaves the NS3 in the dust. If you have even a little bit of interest in the arpeggiator and what I can do for you, the NS4 is where you want to lean. I'm at a point now where I'm spoiled with what I can do with the Nord Stage 4. Also, the fact that we can assign effects "our heart's content" ends up being a really big deal, especially for complex sounds. Another thing that is important but often completely dismissed by most reviews is the fact that the polyphony is greatly expanded with the Nord Stage 4. It's a little harder to run out of notes now when playing those lush synth parts compared to the NS3. Within the last month, Nord released an OS update to the Stage 4 giving a new oscillator configuration (Sub oscillators). This one feature alone was like giving us a 5% enhancement in the synth area allowing us to dial in sub oscillators (hearing two oscillators tuned 2 octaves apart.) This now means we no longer need to use an extra layer to produce that same sound. This frees up an entire layer. (Note, you can do this already on the NS3 on a single panel). See my video on Sub oscillators here if you want to see this feature on the NS3: ruclips.net/video/g5BgfYjraUY/видео.htmlfeature=shared So, in the end are the sounds "so much better" that this one aspect alone can justify the upgrade? No, I don't think so. They quality is so close most wouldn't even notice. Yet, taken as a whole, is it worth opening the wallet and taking a plunge for the NS4? This all depends if the other NS4 features speak to you loudy and you "just gotta have that." Then yes, go for it. Make sure you order from a retailer that double boxes - I've heard stories of shipping damage when retailers don't do that. Feel free to use my Sweetwater link for the 2 year warrantee as well: bit.ly/Sweetwater_MyKeysToMusic
Hi Marc.Great video and comparison! I am a bit surprised that nord didn't simply preserve the general functions and workflow from the Stage 3, and added some more direct advantages, but that's their choices of course. This seems to me a bit like a new family more than a fourth generation.. But I'm sure you get comfortable with the Stage 4 after a while.. Think I would have kept the super wave, that always seems like an awesome feature!
Hello @danielmikkelsen5470 Thanks for your comment and support on the channel. At this point, I feel comfortable on the NS4 and luckily it didn't take too long to figure out how it ticks. Part of this is because I'm already very familiar with the Nord Wave 2 having worked with this for years now. The synth engines are similar. I still like the original Super Saw from the Stage 3 because it's "ready to go" the moment you select it. I also like the variable detune on the Super Saw provided by the NS4 like you saw in the video. So when it comes to Nord features, we want "more" new things while also keeping the old things that still work well. We'll have more content coming in 2023 and beyond for all this. Gotta finish the Nord Stage 4 Master Class first, and then we'll focus on RUclips.
I'm not versed in Nord but one reviewer was claiming he could split the N3 into 4 synths whereas on the N4 he could not so he was actually losing 1 synth however that works.
@davlippo7 Hmm, here is what that reviewer could be referring to: Both the NS3 and 4 have similar splitting and layering capabilities. The NS3 has two panels so that you can hear two independent voices at the same time (2 organs, 2 pianos, 2 synths). With the Stage 3, you have 3 "layers" for the synth and 2 layers for piano and 2 for organ like this: (3 organs, 2 pianos, 2 synths). The NS3 also has an "extern" section, which allows you a 3rd engine that can drive another keyboard or computer. In a way, this is like having a 3rd panel (giving you a total of 3). The NS4 also has an "extern" section as well, but when in use, it actually consumes one of the existing layers instead of adding a layer (giving you a total of 3). This could be what they mean by "losing a synth."
@sghsghdk I think I'm using the term "Stereo" loosely here. When you have a sawtooth each from a layer and one layer is panning left and the other right, you can a much "wider" stereo-like sound versus playing a single layer with a single sawtooth. But yes, the tones start at the exact same time. _The official definition of stereo sound reproduction emphasizes its ability to reproduce a spatial distribution of sound sources, enhancing the listener's experience by providing a sense of depth and positioning that more closely resembles live hearing._ So, I was going by the dictionary definition of stereo, I guess haha.
@@MyKeysToMusiclet me rephrase. Adding just a saw on layer A and B wihtout panning reveals that they are not in phase. I would assume that they would be. Why are they not in phase?
@@sghsghdk Yes, you are correct that they are in phase when you first create them. But you'll notice I also detune them slightly, which solves the phase issue you get when you add the second one to the first.
Hello @robertkadar6856 I don't recall having any discussion regarding rhythm patterns on this video specifically. You may be referring to the rhythm patterns you hear from the Nord Stage 4 and the "Polyphonic Arpeggiator," perhaps? Besides being able to play the arpeggiator in a different way (poly versus standard), you also have the ability to play "patterns" which vary the notes based on gate, accent, pan, and placement. These features make the Nord Stage 4 a very powerful offering in the areas of the arpeggiator. The Poly Arpeggiator and its patterns are not available for the Nord Stage 3. They are, however, available on the Nord Wave 2, where they were first introduced from Nord. Oh and if I have misunderstood your question altogether, please ask it in a different way and I'll do my best to answer.
I wonder if Nord added this voicing as a Synth preset in their supplied preset list (V.96, Rev. C). I’ll take a look. If not, perhaps we should add it for ease of use in new programs.
Thanks for the question and good point @WA5US - I didn't take the time to look yet to see if it was one of the presets. Good idea to make one if it isn't already there.
There are a lot of interesting presets in there. I’ve just scratched the surface of what has been provided. That’s why I did a factory reinstall using rev. C in case there were updates to the presets. I’m not sure if those are included in the OS updates themselves since this category is new to the Stage. (Stuart, WA5US)
@@richhillbass Yes, the factory install does remove all your existing programs (permanently). What you can do is first is identify your custom programs using the Nord Sound Manager and then export that group as a bundle. Then load the latest factory settings, and then reload your bundle back in after that. Alternatively, you can export each program as an individual bundle and preserve them that way. Then load them back in after the reset one by one. Doing things individually like this gets you in the habit of making folders for like sound types or separate gigs/genres. All the sounds I do are in a bundle format, but I do them song by song so that I can mix and match at-will without the worry that a giant bundle won't load because it's filled with "all my stuff at once." One by one is the way to go for most things Nord in my opinion.
Good Point! @xchalibur77 Sometimes that's just what you need... a good sound out of the box. I know on my Korg Minilogue XD, the very first sound is "Replicant," and I can just sit there for 30 minutes on that sound alone (mic drop). ruclips.net/video/lHgIYun9-JU/видео.html
Marc, interesting comparison (I'll be sticking with my Stage 3). Just wondering though, if you think you managed go get the Stage 3 and the Stage 4 to sound the same with the Super Saw setting, except for the stereo-like sound from the Stage 3, then what about turning on Mono Out on the Stage 3 and then see if they are even closer?
Interesting concept! I'll have to try that the next time I have both side by side. Lots of people sticking with Stage 3 by the way, but also a hearty amount of people upgrading too.
Hey Marc! I'm trying to decide if I should buy the NS3 or the NS4. Obviously, the biggest difference is the synth engine. Do you consider the NS4's synth engine, which is based on the Nord Wave 2, any better than the one on the NS3? :)
@prezent1979 Great question. Both synth engines are powerful and there are pros and cons to each. Let me run down the list: NS4 obviously has 3 layers versus 2 with the NS3 (this is a big deal, and one not to be taken too lightly). NS4 has 48 voice polyphony versus 34 - this makes a noticeable difference at times. NS3 has a better sounding "superwave" (in my opinion), but the NS4 has the ability to mix in the 0-100% versus just a fixed setting. NS3 has a broader range for the Glide, which provides for some very interesting effects not possible on the NS4 (this may be a non-issue for most) NS4 has a much more robust FM Synth engine - by far. NS3 Has a bigger sample library to choose from available on the Nord website. ( The NS3 uses Nord Sample Library 3 versus the NS4, which uses the Nord Sample Library 4). NS4 Sample library sounds better (most samples are in stereo versus mono on the stage 3). For example, the nylon guitar and harp. Yet, at the same time, there are fewer samples overal (see previous comment). NS3 can combine selected oscillator configurations against a sample on a single layer - this comes in handy at times. NS3 has a strong oscillator configuration offering, letting you do more things without having to involve another layer. This means you can get more out of a single layer with the NS3 in selected situations. NS4 Does have more oscillator configurations (but they don't stack in the same layer- see the previous item.) The NS4 allows you to have separate effects for each layer for maximum flexibility. This is a big upgrade and one that comes in handy at times without compromise. The NS3 Unison option is a bit "warmer," in my opinion, versus the Unison on the NS4 (this is subjective, of course, but that's how I feel). The NS3 "Extern" section allows you to control another synth without sacrificing an existing layer. The NS4 also has an Extern section, but to use it, you give up one of the synth layers. The NS4 has a far mrore powerful arpeggiator (by a mile) compared with the NS3. For some, this is reason enough to lean towards the NS4. If however, you'll never use the arpeggiator, then this is not an issue. The NS4 has better MIDI implementation as a keyboard. All 7 layers can be controlled independently on a separate channel/track. This is not possible with the NS3 in the same way. The NS4 has more pedal configuration options. The NS4 has a far more powerful and realisitc vibrato section with variable speed able to be stored by program. The NS3 has a global setting for speed, which makes it impractical to change from song to song. It also doesn't sound as good because it's more "synthesized" whereas the vibrato on the NS4 which sounds more "natural." The NS4 is a tad easier to program overall since you can see all layers at the same time and you have the handy solo button and group options. The NS4 synth engine combined with the "Cathedral Reverb" is a LETHAL combination which is not to be underestimated or dismissed. Overall, I think the NS4 synth is more powerful and more flexible. The NS3 sounds "better" in a couple of very small selected areas (supersaw), but you can mostly compensate for the shortcomings by tweaking the NS4 or throwing on another layer to help out. Be sure to check out my Supersaw video here if you haven't already done so: ruclips.net/video/xSRxyRarnxY/видео.htmlfeature=shared That's all I can think of right now. If there's more, I can come back and edit this comment. Cheers!
Wowww! Thank you so much! This comment is all I needed! You're a lifesaver! I wrote this comment after watching your superwave video! It made me wonder haha. Oh, by the way, what do you mean by 'a broader range for the Glide'? Because as a member of a psychedelic rock band, we do tend to use a lot of glide haha! What do you mean by the range? :) Thank you so much again! For writing such a detailed explanation! That's amazing!@@MyKeysToMusic
@@prezent1979 Glad this got you going! So, the glide issue. On the NS3, when you set the glide to 10, it takes nine seconds to move one octave. On the NS4, it takes two seconds to move one octave. This is a night and day difference. Having a long 9-second range like this, it allows the NS3 to make some interesting sounds not available to do with the NS4. Yet, those sounds are more like special effects versus something one would use to emulate sounds from a popular song. For those reading this and who have their hands on a Nord Stage 3, dial up program: "F:55" "Nosforatu 2017" - that scary sound you hear in the background can't be replicated on the NS4.
@@prezent1979If the Nord Stage 4 is in your budget, I would strongly consider getting that one. That keyboard should carry you years into the future as it's still being updated with the OS and has the most capability overall.
Could you compare nord wave 2 to nord stage 4? does it make sense to buy nord wave 2 when nord stage 4 has 1 gb and 3 sample trays. what makes Nord Wave 2 stand out?
@rtoipbezecha4257 Hello Rtoip. Nord Wave 2: Best suited for synthesizer enthusiasts and sound designers who need deep waveform editing and layering tools to create unique sounds. Nord Stage 4: Ideal for professional musicians who need a versatile keyboard that can effortlessly switch between the roles of a piano, organ, and synthesizer in a live or studio setting. *The Nord Wave 2 has a few stand-out features not available on the Nord Stage 4:* 1) Impulse Morph (the ability to trigger a morph with a button from the front panel. This makes for some unique opportunities to morph "Immediately" with the longer delay you'd get from using a wheel or pedal morph. 2) You can morph more controls. The Wave 2 allows you to morph more knobs than you can on the NS4 especially those in the envelop areas. 3) A true ADSR (with the Wave 2, you get a true Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release where as with the NS4, you get no ability to dictate a lower level sustain amount other than 100%. 4) 4 layers instead of 3 from the NS4. Other items (and this is not the entire list) 1) The Wave 2 only comes as a 61 key semi-waterfall 2) The Wave 2 has no piano or organ engine 3) The Wave 2 has no "Extern" option to directly drive additional devices other than a traditional MIDI connection. 4) The NS4 has more "keyboard controller" features not available on the Wave 2. There are many other considerations - these are just the main ones.
Hello @danieldubon9570 Daniel, great suggestion. FYI I have a lesson on recreating the "Soft Pad 1" for the NS4 coming up in the "Master the Nord Stage 4" course available on my website.
@20680 I agree! There is something special about an instrument build to provide both a great starting point for beginners as well as an adequate runway for advanced users to explore and experiment. 🎹
So I have a dilemma. I have a Stage 3 Compact.........which I believe I have a buyer for it this Sunday. I also have a in my possession a Stage 4 HA73. I have 5 more days until my 30 day grace period from SW is over. Admittedly the synth. side of things on the Stage 4 concerns me. I have made about ten customer sounds on my stage 3 that I use live that I can't seem to replicate on the Stage 4. Marc did I make a mistake or is it suck it up butter cup and try harder to work out a solution with the stage 4?
@johngaudette4664 How have you tried to replicate these sounds? First and foremost, export these 10 NS3 sounds from the Nord Sound manager so that you have the specifications. Then you can use the Nord File Viewer to make it easier to see what's under the hood with each setting. You may also want to record the sounds if your only reference is the sound itself from the NS3. I have a plan to make a video soon that talks about how one can go about "replicating" sounds from the NS3 to the NS4. It's not pretty (because it's all manual labor), but I think it will help bridge the gap between the two synth engines because they each work differently enough to make things tricky. My video on the Nord File Viewer is here if you haven't already seen this - it can be a lifesaver in situations like this to make the work more bearable: ruclips.net/video/1vgHlBPLeH0/видео.html
@@MyKeysToMusic Hey, John and Marc, I'm in the same boat here--I have a few days with both keyboards and I'm having some trouble recapturing the fullness of the NS3 sounds when I try to replicate bit by bit from the Nord File Viewer specs. My key sounds are Feedback Split AT, Event Horizon, Nosferatu 2017 and Tuna something (I adjusted and renamed it to TunaSprSqr). What are your key sounds you are trying to recreate? I'm not sure how to get the double oscillator (like the XFade Noise onto a Triangle, where you used the Osc Config knob). Anyway, this is my work for today. But Marc, it sounds like you're saying that with work and tweaking you can recreate the sounds of the Stage 3 (or at least get pretty darned close).
@@judynightmusic I started work on this type of lesson for the upcoming NS4 course. *I have determined that some things on the NS4 cannot be duplicated from the NS3.* That’s because the engines work very differently in some key areas. For example, they have redesigned _glide_ and how it’s calibrated. So a sound like Nosferatu 2017, for example, can’t be exactly duplicated because the glide on the NS3 is far more pronounced at level 10 than it is on the NS4 at level 10. You can prove this easily on your end: 1. Go to a blank sound on both keyboards and present a simple saw waveform. 2. Now turn both keyboards into mono mode and put the glide at level 10. 3. Play a range of an octave on each board and hear the difference! (The NS4 finishes the glide much quicker than the NS3 does). I’ll take a look at some of these others on your list, but for now, Nosferatu is not a candidate for exact replication, and that’s mainly because of the glide recalibration on the NS4. Glide is what makes the Nosferatu really work well, and without that correctly presented, the sound is a non-starter on the NS4, in my opinion, as much as that pains me to say it. 😪
@@MyKeysToMusic Yes I found that out about glide yesterday! A huge difference. I wonder why they did that. Maybe it could be on the wish list for updates. But in my attempts to recreate sounds on the NS4 I'm feeling like there's a warmth and depth to the NS3 that I'm not hearing on the NS4. On the other hand, the sound of the pianos on NS4 is kickass. For me, right now, though, I'm really keen on the synth sounds, and the sounds on the NS4 really pop in shows. I'm still deciding but I might have to return the NS4. Thank you for your thoughtful reply and your work in this. The other thing I found when trying to recreate those 4 sounds is a difference in the ring modulator, and a difference in the unison. I'm not sure how to use noise like in the NS4--I think it needs to use another of the 3 synth "channels" whereas in the NS3 it is dialed in in the config.
@@judynightmusic I hope they update the glide because I prefer the original way this was calibrated (very slow when it's on 10). We'll see what happens. In the meantime, we'll use the Stage 3 and/or 4 and take advantage of what each does best out of the box. Best of luck!
How to do i achieve that soft felt sound with depth as if i were to have a felt upright. Musician references Tony Anderson or Lo Mimieux? i've tried to get to it and hope you can point me a direction. thank you for your time.
@@victoryinmotion5905 I would focus on a few things and assume, too that you have already loaded the new "Felt Upright": 1) Change the touch to hard (piano area) 2) Put the Piano EQ to "soft" 3) Then adjust the EQ in the effects section.
@Keyboardnut99 I like your style! Ya, I have something similar on this end - and with these 3 boards alone, we can rule the world (or at least our man cave). I feel like a "mini Nord dealer" at times. I should open up a local showroom! 😳 My wife, on the other hand, isn't as charmed by it all with her now famous line as the doorbell rings, "What, another big box from Nord??" "Um, yes dear" (as I quickly shuffle the big box to the home studio and pretend that it never arrived...) 😇
@@MyKeysToMusic Yes my wife is extremely understanding, I think between us we are keeping the Nord factory busy! I have had a stage 2 , electro 5 and a wave 1 but they have gone, sometimes you have to move on. 🥳🥃
@@Keyboardnut99 Haha! I like your sense of humor. Never had a Stage 2 or a Wave 1. Played most of my early gigs on an Electro 5, which was a real workhorse for me. And yes, it too had a "set list" feature, right?! I used the heck out of that feature, now that I think about it. Well, great to reflect on all this. Nord is a terrific platform with only a few minor deficiencies here and there. It has been fun really going deep with it. As a working musician back in the day, I was one of those "preset guys" and did very little programming. The channel here changed all that. And it's the comments like these that make one want to "dig" for more details and learn how to find ways to do things. 🎹
@@MyKeysToMusic I started programming on a Yamaha Cs10 when I was 14 ( A long time ago) The last gig I did I overcame the lack of song mode by sending program changes from my Korg Nautilus, and I always program patches in order ie vs chorus etc, so you only need the first patch to change! I have also tried forScore,I am baffled why a stage keyboard would remove such a useful feature,it nearly put me off buying it, but in the end I had to feed my addiction.
Nord Stage has a powerful synthesizer section, why can't I find anywhere a video where you can make a sound similar to that of Serum or something similar to it, but there is a lot of synthesizer in the style of the eighties, worship sounds and so on (yes I know that this instrument specializes in piano organ and so on, and that Nord wave 2, prophet and so on are better for such cases) but in Nord 3,4 there is also a synthesizer section, and there is no example how to make a really good sound, it would be very interesting to make a good sound on this instrument. There are no personal claims against the author, it's just my observation )
@aleksandrshen Aleksandr you bring up a fascinating and important topic. I think we have a bit of apples and oranges going on here. Serum is primarily a wavetable synthesizer, which means it generates sounds by manipulating and morphing wavetables. Wavetables are essentially collections of different waveforms that can be modulated to create various textures and timbres. In the end, Serum can provide lush and intricate soundscapes that can be in constant movement over time. The Nord boards, on the other hand, are not wavetable synths so they won't come close to the intricate sounds that you get out of the box with Serum. That could explain why you never see this demonstrated on RUclips like this. The Nord boards cover subtractive synthesis, FM Synthesis, (especially with the Nord Wave 2 and the Nord Stage 4), they can play samples, and they can even play single wavetable tones per layer. However, they cannot create an intricate and morphing wavetable one after another over time in the same patch, which is what a wavetable synth is especially known for. So, in my opinion, if you want to create a one-of-a-kind sound with some amazing sound properties, use Serum or something like it. If, on the other hand, you're trying to make traditional sounds founded on subtractive synthesis, the Nord boards (and many others) have got you covered. With this said, I don't want to give the impression that a modern Nord Stage 4 or Wave 2 won't be able to create some "amazing soundscapes" because they can - but not in the same style as a wavetable synth. The Nord boards can morph various settings over time that the keyboardist has direct control over via the use of a control pedal, the mod wheel, or aftertouch to adjust the sound as they play. But you cannot "stack" a series of wavetables that play in a row one after another while holding a key in the same patch as you can with a wavetable synth. Therefore, these two sound generation types are a bit like apples and oranges.
Thanks for the answer)yes I expected that answer, yes they are 100% different, I just wanted to hear your opinion. And also, please tell me, what synthesizer can create the same sounds as Serum? I mean a physical instrument, not a virtual one? Thanks in advance for the answer and have a good day.
@@aleksandrshen Happy to help. If you go to Sweetwater and type "Wavetable synth" you'll see a variety of hardware options show up. bit.ly/Sweetwater_MyKeysToMusic One that looks really interesting and is the new kid on the block is the Roland Gaia 2 - it looks and sounds amazing for the price. The other one that stands out in my mind is the Korg Modwave MKII. As with anything like this, you probably want to spend a fair amount of time reading descriptions and reviews as well as watching a healthy amount of videos to see if anything resonates with you. If I wasn't so busy with Nord stuff, I'd likely have my hands on a Roland Gaia 2 right now just for fun.
Thank you so much ! It probably would have taken a year to figure that out !! Please keep the detailed Stage 4 tweaks coming ! Any idea when triple pedal 2 showing up ? A demo on that will be most appreciated!
Thanks for your comment! The triple pedal 2 is still delayed, but the last time I checked, I heard that June 2023 is the timeframe. I do have a single pedal version 2 that I can do a video on in the meantime, which will fill in some of the mystery gaps on what they can do etc.
@horowizard I tend to agree with you, which is what largely inspired the video to see what could be done. Another student told me they simply sampled the Nord Stage 3 Super Saw and now have that available to them on the NS4 - not a bad idea, not ideal, but a good plan B I suppose.
@@MyKeysToMusic Nord make fabulous strides with every new generation of instrument, but they always tend to leave something that was great behind. Why did they abandon Set List mode?
@@horowizard You are so right! Actually, they removed the "set list" option first on the Nord Electro 6. I was using an Electro 5 for the longest time, and it has a great "set list" option (they even named it "set list"), which (for reasons completely bewildering and unknown) removed that option when the NE6 arrived. People were stunned because it was a very useful feature. That same philosophy (of removing a very useful feature) continued with the arrival of the Nord Stage 4, upsetting even more folks to the point where I actually think the removal of that one feature killed quite a few of their early sales when keyboardists deemed that as a "dealbreaker." Well, the price of the NS4 was also a shock to most. Then again, as I look around at the marketplace, the price shock reverberates through most brands, with the Moog One 16 voice, for example, reaching a new high of 10K!! And the Moog One 16 doesn't even sample anything! So yes, manufacturers pick and choose the features likely due to the feasibility of adopting them on boards going forward. I can also appreciate the balancing act of feature versus complexity. And, there's less and less real estate on these boards (think 73 Compact) to fit more and more features. As it is, on the NS4, we have a touch more menu diving than we do with the NS3 (although nothing like a Korg Kronos). I can also appreciate the massive complexity of building the supporting software for all these features. Each new feature added has a "cascading" effect to ensure it works with everything else. We're also in a time here in early 2024 where many musicians are managing set lists using software from a computer or an iPad, which is ideally the best way to do it once you arrive on that scene. However, as computer savvy as I think I am, to this day, I still don't bring an iPad or a computer to the gig only because I don't like the extra drama and fragility of the setup. There is something that is just "so easy" to switch the sounds on the board itself. If, however, I had a more elaborate setup with multiple keyboards to manage or if I was already using a computer with built-in VSTs, I would most likely control my setlist using MainStage, Camelot Pro, or an iPad App like OnSong or SongOne. I realize this is a long-winded answer, but I thought I'd mention the "big picture" when it comes to features like the removal of Song Mode for the NS4. There are a lot of angles to consider if I place myself in the manufacturer's shoes for a second. But, oh how I would love to be a fly on the wall when Nord makes these decisions...
@kerrytrammell2808 You are not alone in your thoughts. While quite a few people have pulled the trigger, there are a LOT of people waiting on the sidelines or waiting for the Nord Stage 5 six years from now. 🥸 Editorial Comment: As a quick side note, I'm enjoying mine, and having the extra synth layer and additional polyphony makes a difference. It's also handy not to be restricted as much on the effects implementation. And alas, the Cathedral reverb gets me every time. All that said, I'm not sure these features would justify an upgrade. Obviously, I purchased an NS4 on day 1, but in my position, I can justify this because I make professional paid courses with these keyboards (and I'm a super fan). But if I was a lone keyboard player using it for a bi-weekly gig, I think it would take a bit more than that for me to pull the trigger. Also, I believe they (Nord) are still catching up a bit on the OS, so waiting a bit is not a bad idea. The community (patch makers) are also catching up, not to mention the Nord Library 4.0 itself doesn't have the same amount of content as the Nord Library 3.0, for example. But with that said, selected 4.0 samples are *noticeably better* now that they've been re-recorded in stereo. Wow! Keep your eye on updates to see where this all goes. I can say for sure that with every passing week, people reach out and tell me they purchased an NS4 and want to enroll in the upcoming course I have. Yet, at the same time, I'll get comments like this from those who are waiting (or saving up). For many, there is a long pause before making a play to upgrade, as it's a challenging and expensive decision to move forward or not.
@@MyKeysToMusic Thank you I appreciate your content. Your videos helped me make my decision to purchase the NS3. Eventually I’m going to pull the trigger lol. I just don’t know when.
@@tuneunleashed I hear you! I will likely get an NS5 as well - but let's hope they innovate as fast as the world is. On my wish list is to convert samples into "virtual/modeled" like Audio Modeling is doing with their Swam line of products - that is the future I think. Keep the samples, but then add the modeling on top of that.
I stopped watching when realized you played the supersaw along with the piano layer. Checked against my NS4 and the supersaw here with os 1.1 (updated today) sounds stereo and very much like on the NS3.
@TheHollermann I realized a few moments later that I had the piano layered with the Synth and quickly fixed that haha. I'm happy to hear you got things dialed in to imitate the original supersaw on the NS3. On a related side note, I'm making good progress on the paid NS4 course if you are interested.
@domi0929 Dominic, thanks for your awesome suggestion. I tried it just now, and it does work like a charm. This is much easier than dialing up a second layer and attempting to detune, etc. I wish I had thought of that ahead of making the video. Bravo!
There is a fair amount of truth to what you say here. I will say that from a sound creation performance standpoint, you can go quite a bit further using the Nord Stage 4 especially considering the powerful pattern Arp and Poly mode. But people don't tend to use those features if they are in a traditional cover band or even in a traditional worship setting. So if you're looking to do basic piano/organ string pads and not really into the advanced sound performance capability with a synced arpeggiator, the Stage 3 will more than cover you. I think the upgrade to the NS4 would be better embraced if the price was more in line relative to the perceived features presented. But as seen in my survey, you can ask 10 people if they think the upgrade is worth it, and you'll get 10 different answers, all with their own spin of what's important to them. My survey results are here if interested: ruclips.net/video/PLhWLRTHNCs/видео.html
@@MyKeysToMusic Just discovered your channel a few weeks ago and I too consider you a rising star in the Nord Community and an authoritative voice for product comparisons/demonstrations. I just got my NS4 88, owned a Nord Electro 4 HP for many years and also recently purchased a Yamaha CK88 which is more than adequate for my cover band and most worship settings. But I also wanted a great board where I can do even deeper diving and sound creation and the Stage 4 goes so far beyond and the possibilities are endless. I do love the faders layout versus the A/B panel on the NS4 versus the NS3. I do like the new spring reverb and some of the other controls they added. I am kind of gutted by the removal of Song Mode because I was hoping to finally try that out but I guess I'll stick with my top 16-20 presets and start memorizing them depending on what songs I'm playing that day.
@@Salamanderfs Congratulations Man! You have yourself a heck of board in the stage 4 that few can even afford. The Yamaha and Nord seem a bit redundant but hey, the formula in music is if it's working for yah, then it's working and that's all that matters. I personally would match the stage 4 with something a little less like the Nord to compliment it. Congrats nonetheless, and keep jamming man!!
@@briann5001 That is a very nice thing to say considering there is a healthy amount of people these days doing content on Nords compared to 6 years ago when I first started... Thanks for watching and for the support!
I dont think Nord stage 4 is necessarily worse than 3 in terms of quality of supersaw. I think this gives us opportunity to use supersaw much more than before because we have raw version of it. I myself own nord stage 3 and i must say i use supersaw only with pads. It has too much effects to be used for something else.
@josipbosnjak6808 Thanks for your thoughts on this. Like you, I appreciate the flexibility of having variable options for the super saw with the NS4 too. I look forward to making more sounds with the NS4 armed with all these new discoveries...
As a total beginner & got this as my 1st board whow what a great site for learning on my 1st board as I am not refer back to any other board so great keep these tutorials coming
Welcome @MyBash10 So glad to hear you are enjoying the NS4 as your first board. Congrats! You are a person who doesn't fool around, so enjoy the journey - you should have plenty of runway with the Nord Stage 4. I'm in the middle of making my "master class" so keep an eye on my main website or join the mailing list to be notified upon its release this summer. (www.MyKeysToMusic.com)
@@MyKeysToMusic hi mikey as I am new to the Nord I shall be interested in the course so keep me in the loop: cheers
@@MyBash10 Great to know you are new to Nord - congrats... Welcome to the community! Stay tuned; the course is coming along...
I have just joined the Nord family with a stage 4 (long time Kronos, MODX and Virus owner,). Thanks for this, very useful to make the sounds richer!
@danzu25 Hey Daniel, welcome to the Nord family. When ready, you can consider enrolling in my Master Class for the Nord Stage 4 featuring over 26 hours of content to learn the board from A to Z along with practical song examples in most lessons. My courses are available at www.MyKeysToMusic.com
I’m pretty sure that the 3’s super waves are actually samples. If you do legato mono playing, you can hear the artifacts of samples shifting. Also in this demo, even after everything the 3 was still wider. Very noticeable in headphones. You could probably get even closer on the 4 by having the same supersaw setting on 2 layers and hard panning them instead of using the unison feature, since you’d have separate free running oscillators on each side.
@marcuswilespage Agree! Good idea on putting the full sound on either side with two layers. I have to try that.
Thank you so much for making this video. Super helpful if you are looking to recreate some of those great sounds by the old favorites.
I appreciate these videos more than you know. Thank you again Mark.
@griffinlarson Thanks for your comment and support! A student asked for this song on the Nord Stage 3, but I decided to perform it on the Nord Stage 4 while also making it available as a download bundle for the Nord Stage 3 within the school and on Patreon. Please have a look if you haven't already checked it out: ruclips.net/video/gr4-5OKA5pg/видео.html (Joe Walsh: Life's Been Good)
Love your video's Mark. I just received my NS4 Compact and am struggling to create synth patches that rise or fall using the LFO when one note is played and not the glide feature. Would love to see a synth tutorial for the NS4.
@grahammb3 I assume you’re talking about rise and fall as it relates to pitch versus frequency cut off?
Ji Marc and a Happy New Year!! I was sondering, now that it's been a while since the Stage 4 came out, and more time using it, are you just as happy and settled in with it, as with the Stage 3? Or is it a difficult question because of pro and cons. When it comes to upgrades, lots of people just don't want to back, and in this case I'm still curious, because I'm aiming for the 3 or 4 still, and it could still take a while. I'll probably begin with Nord Lead A1, like we discussed earlier. Just thought I'd ask, in case you have any new thoughts now after using the Stage 4 longer. Cheers
@danielmikkelsen5470 Thanks for the follow-up, Daniel, and Happy New Year to you too! Since this video, I have adopted the Nord Stage 4 for all gigs, and it's where I've been spending most of my time these days as I'm finishing up the "Master the Nord Stage 4" course. I think the board is very strong, and I've worked around the previous deal-breakers, such as having no set list option. (I just use a dedicated program bank for a given set list, and it's working out ok).
I love having the 3 synth layers available all the time, and the upgraded arpeggiator (poly and pattern), along with the better-sounding nylon guitar samples (and others), are a dream to play with. The most recent update includes a new oscillator configuration set in the synth section (sub-oscillators) which is a welcome (and useful) feature. I feel like this is a pretty big upgrade and proof that they still have the desire to fix bugs and improve features. I also enjoy the increased polyphony in the synth and all the effects options we have now with the ability to assign any effect set to any layer (not including the organs). It feels like there is a lot more runway now to explore things deeper and further compared to Stage 3. Don't get me wrong, the Stage 3 still sounds great, but the added features from Stage 4 would be missed if I had to go back to Stage 3 as my main board.
Always learn a ton from your videos. I'm more of a "user/player" than a sound creator but you have definitely helped me up game and become more confident in my synth tweaking skills. KUDOS!
Thanks for your comment, and happy to know the videos help! I would say that most people are, in fact, in the user/player category on the Nord side of things, which makes sense as the boards appear to be targeted at "players" first and foremost. This is further evidenced by the many performance/style videos from Nord directly. You get almost nothing from Nord by way of "education" on how to use the boards, but you do get truckloads of performance demonstrations (which we also appreciate). Their distributor in the U.K. does put out very professional training, so in that respect, they do put out some education. So, I guess that leaves it up to us "RUclipsrs" to fill in the gaps - which is fun! 🎹. In my case, I'd like to think that I take things a step further by having a pro training course/Master class available on my website because I believe pro-education should happen without ads, distractions, and the reality of "RUclips Randomness" our world has come to embrace. 😉 🎶. Truth be told, I love the Nord RUclips community and will continue to post videos as I learn things. The Nord User Forum is also an excellent resource for deeper/more complex topics. There are also many good FaceBook Groups as well. Thanks for letting me go off on that tangent there for a second as I reflect on how we educate the community of passionate Nord users.
I love this kind of video. Your explanations are crystal clear.
Yeah, I'm a nord geek.
Thanks @JairGomesFilho for your comment. It's much appreciated!
I am moving to NS4 soon and I believe that the best option is to sample the super saw sounds... I tried it and it works really good as a sample. And honestly watching the waveform, I'm confident to say that also the original one is also a sample....
@giacomorml Great tip about sampling the waveform. That makes total sense to do that, and you're right, it appears that the "sound generation" foundations on these Nord boards are likely that of a form of an internal sample. Thanks for the comment. 👍🏻
Great video. I am always impressed by the level of depth of your videos. I actually own a Stage 4 for 2 weeks now and got a little frustrated by the Synth section (sounded "dull" for me), but you just opened my eyes ;-)
@christianwagner6213 I love stories like this because it makes doing these videos all the more worth it! Bravo! - Enjoy your NS4. Go deep on the Poly Arp and then add another layer and sync both to the master clock. Then attempt to sync a delay to one of those synth layers. That's good homework for you and if you do it right, you get to the "next level" of experience...
same feeling. I hope synth section surprises me when I learn more about it.
Thank you Marc, your videos are always a big motivation!
Thank you and thanks for watching!
Good work! Are there any other differences we should know about between the 3 and 4?
@steveburholtkeys Hello Steve! I wrote up some differences here earlier today for another comment, so I'll share them with you as well. This is a reflection of my overall thoughts having the Nord Stage 4 for months now and getting very deep with it as I make the upcoming training course found here: www.MyKeysToMusic.com
The pianos sound the same to my ears and they draw from the same exact piano library. Of course, a piano through Cathedral Reverb via the NS4 is on another level. So in that aspect, you can take your pianos and do enhancements like that via the effects which is only available on the NS4. However, that alone is not enough to move most people into the far more expensive NS4.
The Samples from the Nord sample library however are a bit of a different story with pros and cons to each. The Nord Sample Library 3 is more vast with years of additions making it a bit more complete. However, many samples are in mono. The Nord Sample library 4 has most of the samples in stereo and they do sound better in some/most situations, but there are less of them. So, you may be longing for some key samples available on the NS3, but not on the NS4 - so do your homework and create a list of things you can't live without and be sure they exist in the NS4 sample library 4.0.
I want to talk about the synth for a minute. The pure synth out of the box sounds a touch better on the NS3 to my ears. The video above is evidence of that.
Yet, at the same time, with a little extra effort, you can improve the sound on the NS4 to meet or exceed that of the NS3. I find you have to add a little high-end EQ to most of the sounds to bring out their best. Once you do that however, the synth "sound" is on par (or better) than the NS3. Of course, having that 3rd layer cannot be understated - it makes a big impact.
Now, the arpeggiator capabilities of the Nord Stage 4 is where it leaves the NS3 in the dust. If you have even a little bit of interest in the arpeggiator and what I can do for you, the NS4 is where you want to lean. I'm at a point now where I'm spoiled with what I can do with the Nord Stage 4. Also, the fact that we can assign effects "our heart's content" ends up being a really big deal, especially for complex sounds. Another thing that is important but often completely dismissed by most reviews is the fact that the polyphony is greatly expanded with the Nord Stage 4. It's a little harder to run out of notes now when playing those lush synth parts compared to the NS3.
Within the last month, Nord released an OS update to the Stage 4 giving a new oscillator configuration (Sub oscillators). This one feature alone was like giving us a 5% enhancement in the synth area allowing us to dial in sub oscillators (hearing two oscillators tuned 2 octaves apart.) This now means we no longer need to use an extra layer to produce that same sound. This frees up an entire layer. (Note, you can do this already on the NS3 on a single panel). See my video on Sub oscillators here if you want to see this feature on the NS3: ruclips.net/video/g5BgfYjraUY/видео.htmlfeature=shared
So, in the end are the sounds "so much better" that this one aspect alone can justify the upgrade? No, I don't think so. They quality is so close most wouldn't even notice. Yet, taken as a whole, is it worth opening the wallet and taking a plunge for the NS4? This all depends if the other NS4 features speak to you loudy and you "just gotta have that." Then yes, go for it.
Make sure you order from a retailer that double boxes - I've heard stories of shipping damage when retailers don't do that. Feel free to use my Sweetwater link for the 2 year warrantee as well: bit.ly/Sweetwater_MyKeysToMusic
Hi Marc.Great video and comparison! I am a bit surprised that nord didn't simply preserve the general functions and workflow from the Stage 3, and added some more direct advantages, but that's their choices of course. This seems to me a bit like a new family more than a fourth generation.. But I'm sure you get comfortable with the Stage 4 after a while.. Think I would have kept the super wave, that always seems like an awesome feature!
Hello @danielmikkelsen5470 Thanks for your comment and support on the channel. At this point, I feel comfortable on the NS4 and luckily it didn't take too long to figure out how it ticks. Part of this is because I'm already very familiar with the Nord Wave 2 having worked with this for years now. The synth engines are similar. I still like the original Super Saw from the Stage 3 because it's "ready to go" the moment you select it. I also like the variable detune on the Super Saw provided by the NS4 like you saw in the video. So when it comes to Nord features, we want "more" new things while also keeping the old things that still work well. We'll have more content coming in 2023 and beyond for all this. Gotta finish the Nord Stage 4 Master Class first, and then we'll focus on RUclips.
I'm not versed in Nord but one reviewer was claiming he could split the N3 into 4 synths whereas on the N4 he could not so he was actually losing 1 synth however that works.
@davlippo7 Hmm, here is what that reviewer could be referring to:
Both the NS3 and 4 have similar splitting and layering capabilities. The NS3 has two panels so that you can hear two independent voices at the same time (2 organs, 2 pianos, 2 synths). With the Stage 3, you have 3 "layers" for the synth and 2 layers for piano and 2 for organ like this: (3 organs, 2 pianos, 2 synths).
The NS3 also has an "extern" section, which allows you a 3rd engine that can drive another keyboard or computer. In a way, this is like having a 3rd panel (giving you a total of 3).
The NS4 also has an "extern" section as well, but when in use, it actually consumes one of the existing layers instead of adding a layer (giving you a total of 3). This could be what they mean by "losing a synth."
I’m always learning thanks to your excellent videos Marc. Thank you from one Nord geek to another!
Thanks Steve! You've been a super fan and very supportive over the years, and it's much appreciated.
Why does the panning make the sawtooth stereo? I would assume that the to layers would trigger exactly the same time giving the same output.
@sghsghdk I think I'm using the term "Stereo" loosely here. When you have a sawtooth each from a layer and one layer is panning left and the other right, you can a much "wider" stereo-like sound versus playing a single layer with a single sawtooth. But yes, the tones start at the exact same time.
_The official definition of stereo sound reproduction emphasizes its ability to reproduce a spatial distribution of sound sources, enhancing the listener's experience by providing a sense of depth and positioning that more closely resembles live hearing._
So, I was going by the dictionary definition of stereo, I guess haha.
@@MyKeysToMusiclet me rephrase. Adding just a saw on layer A and B wihtout panning reveals that they are not in phase. I would assume that they would be. Why are they not in phase?
@@sghsghdk Yes, you are correct that they are in phase when you first create them. But you'll notice I also detune them slightly, which solves the phase issue you get when you add the second one to the first.
Hi Mark! Great sound on this but how are you getting the rhythm pattern on the S2? And can one do this on the S3? How?
Hello @robertkadar6856 I don't recall having any discussion regarding rhythm patterns on this video specifically. You may be referring to the rhythm patterns you hear from the Nord Stage 4 and the "Polyphonic Arpeggiator," perhaps? Besides being able to play the arpeggiator in a different way (poly versus standard), you also have the ability to play "patterns" which vary the notes based on gate, accent, pan, and placement. These features make the Nord Stage 4 a very powerful offering in the areas of the arpeggiator. The Poly Arpeggiator and its patterns are not available for the Nord Stage 3. They are, however, available on the Nord Wave 2, where they were first introduced from Nord. Oh and if I have misunderstood your question altogether, please ask it in a different way and I'll do my best to answer.
I wonder if Nord added this voicing as a Synth preset in their supplied preset list (V.96, Rev. C). I’ll take a look. If not, perhaps we should add it for ease of use in new programs.
Thanks for the question and good point @WA5US - I didn't take the time to look yet to see if it was one of the presets. Good idea to make one if it isn't already there.
There are a lot of interesting presets in there. I’ve just scratched the surface of what has been provided. That’s why I did a factory reinstall using rev. C in case there were updates to the presets. I’m not sure if those are included in the OS updates themselves since this category is new to the Stage. (Stuart, WA5US)
@@WA5US Great idea. I need to do the same (update the presets). I'm pretty sure that the OS updates to NOT include any kind of presets.
Does factory install lose my added programs ?
@@richhillbass Yes, the factory install does remove all your existing programs (permanently). What you can do is first is identify your custom programs using the Nord Sound Manager and then export that group as a bundle. Then load the latest factory settings, and then reload your bundle back in after that. Alternatively, you can export each program as an individual bundle and preserve them that way. Then load them back in after the reset one by one. Doing things individually like this gets you in the habit of making folders for like sound types or separate gigs/genres. All the sounds I do are in a bundle format, but I do them song by song so that I can mix and match at-will without the worry that a giant bundle won't load because it's filled with "all my stuff at once." One by one is the way to go for most things Nord in my opinion.
Stage 3 sounds reminds me of Nautilus. Those full great sounds out of the box, no tweaking needed.
Good Point! @xchalibur77 Sometimes that's just what you need... a good sound out of the box. I know on my Korg Minilogue XD, the very first sound is "Replicant," and I can just sit there for 30 minutes on that sound alone (mic drop). ruclips.net/video/lHgIYun9-JU/видео.html
Marc, interesting comparison (I'll be sticking with my Stage 3). Just wondering though, if you think you managed go get the Stage 3 and the Stage 4 to sound the same with the Super Saw setting, except for the stereo-like sound from the Stage 3, then what about turning on Mono Out on the Stage 3 and then see if they are even closer?
Interesting concept! I'll have to try that the next time I have both side by side. Lots of people sticking with Stage 3 by the way, but also a hearty amount of people upgrading too.
Hey Marc!
I'm trying to decide if I should buy the NS3 or the NS4.
Obviously, the biggest difference is the synth engine.
Do you consider the NS4's synth engine, which is based on the Nord Wave 2,
any better than the one on the NS3? :)
@prezent1979 Great question. Both synth engines are powerful and there are pros and cons to each. Let me run down the list:
NS4 obviously has 3 layers versus 2 with the NS3 (this is a big deal, and one not to be taken too lightly).
NS4 has 48 voice polyphony versus 34 - this makes a noticeable difference at times.
NS3 has a better sounding "superwave" (in my opinion), but the NS4 has the ability to mix in the 0-100% versus just a fixed setting.
NS3 has a broader range for the Glide, which provides for some very interesting effects not possible on the NS4 (this may be a non-issue for most)
NS4 has a much more robust FM Synth engine - by far.
NS3 Has a bigger sample library to choose from available on the Nord website. ( The NS3 uses Nord Sample Library 3 versus the NS4, which uses the Nord Sample Library 4).
NS4 Sample library sounds better (most samples are in stereo versus mono on the stage 3). For example, the nylon guitar and harp. Yet, at the same time, there are fewer samples overal (see previous comment).
NS3 can combine selected oscillator configurations against a sample on a single layer - this comes in handy at times.
NS3 has a strong oscillator configuration offering, letting you do more things without having to involve another layer. This means you can get more out of a single layer with the NS3 in selected situations.
NS4 Does have more oscillator configurations (but they don't stack in the same layer- see the previous item.)
The NS4 allows you to have separate effects for each layer for maximum flexibility. This is a big upgrade and one that comes in handy at times without compromise.
The NS3 Unison option is a bit "warmer," in my opinion, versus the Unison on the NS4 (this is subjective, of course, but that's how I feel).
The NS3 "Extern" section allows you to control another synth without sacrificing an existing layer. The NS4 also has an Extern section, but to use it, you give up one of the synth layers.
The NS4 has a far mrore powerful arpeggiator (by a mile) compared with the NS3. For some, this is reason enough to lean towards the NS4. If however, you'll never use the arpeggiator, then this is not an issue.
The NS4 has better MIDI implementation as a keyboard. All 7 layers can be controlled independently on a separate channel/track. This is not possible with the NS3 in the same way.
The NS4 has more pedal configuration options.
The NS4 has a far more powerful and realisitc vibrato section with variable speed able to be stored by program. The NS3 has a global setting for speed, which makes it impractical to change from song to song. It also doesn't sound as good because it's more "synthesized" whereas the vibrato on the NS4 which sounds more "natural."
The NS4 is a tad easier to program overall since you can see all layers at the same time and you have the handy solo button and group options.
The NS4 synth engine combined with the "Cathedral Reverb" is a LETHAL combination which is not to be underestimated or dismissed.
Overall, I think the NS4 synth is more powerful and more flexible. The NS3 sounds "better" in a couple of very small selected areas (supersaw), but you can mostly compensate for the shortcomings by tweaking the NS4 or throwing on another layer to help out. Be sure to check out my Supersaw video here if you haven't already done so: ruclips.net/video/xSRxyRarnxY/видео.htmlfeature=shared
That's all I can think of right now. If there's more, I can come back and edit this comment.
Cheers!
Wowww!
Thank you so much!
This comment is all I needed!
You're a lifesaver!
I wrote this comment after watching your superwave video!
It made me wonder haha.
Oh, by the way, what do you mean by 'a broader range for the Glide'?
Because as a member of a psychedelic rock band, we do tend to use a lot of glide haha!
What do you mean by the range? :)
Thank you so much again!
For writing such a detailed explanation!
That's amazing!@@MyKeysToMusic
@@prezent1979 Glad this got you going! So, the glide issue. On the NS3, when you set the glide to 10, it takes nine seconds to move one octave. On the NS4, it takes two seconds to move one octave. This is a night and day difference. Having a long 9-second range like this, it allows the NS3 to make some interesting sounds not available to do with the NS4. Yet, those sounds are more like special effects versus something one would use to emulate sounds from a popular song.
For those reading this and who have their hands on a Nord Stage 3, dial up program: "F:55" "Nosforatu 2017" - that scary sound you hear in the background can't be replicated on the NS4.
@@MyKeysToMusic Ohhh okay!
So what do you think overall,
Should I buy the NS3, or the NS4?
@@prezent1979If the Nord Stage 4 is in your budget, I would strongly consider getting that one. That keyboard should carry you years into the future as it's still being updated with the OS and has the most capability overall.
Thanks . Again as others have said .
You da man on YT anything Nord related 😂
Thank you @rockgodd62
Could you compare nord wave 2 to nord stage 4? does it make sense to buy nord wave 2 when nord stage 4 has 1 gb and 3 sample trays. what makes Nord Wave 2 stand out?
@rtoipbezecha4257 Hello Rtoip.
Nord Wave 2: Best suited for synthesizer enthusiasts and sound designers who need deep waveform editing and layering tools to create unique sounds.
Nord Stage 4: Ideal for professional musicians who need a versatile keyboard that can effortlessly switch between the roles of a piano, organ, and synthesizer in a live or studio setting.
*The Nord Wave 2 has a few stand-out features not available on the Nord Stage 4:*
1) Impulse Morph (the ability to trigger a morph with a button from the front panel. This makes for some unique opportunities to morph "Immediately" with the longer delay you'd get from using a wheel or pedal morph.
2) You can morph more controls. The Wave 2 allows you to morph more knobs than you can on the NS4 especially those in the envelop areas.
3) A true ADSR (with the Wave 2, you get a true Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release where as with the NS4, you get no ability to dictate a lower level sustain amount other than 100%.
4) 4 layers instead of 3 from the NS4.
Other items (and this is not the entire list)
1) The Wave 2 only comes as a 61 key semi-waterfall
2) The Wave 2 has no piano or organ engine
3) The Wave 2 has no "Extern" option to directly drive additional devices other than a traditional MIDI connection.
4) The NS4 has more "keyboard controller" features not available on the Wave 2.
There are many other considerations - these are just the main ones.
@@MyKeysToMusic Thanks!
@@rtoipbezecha4257 Happy to help!
Can you do one on pads! Please 🙏
Hello @danieldubon9570 Daniel, great suggestion. FYI I have a lesson on recreating the "Soft Pad 1" for the NS4 coming up in the "Master the Nord Stage 4" course available on my website.
Cool thanks!
Basically an instrument to be discovered, every instrument should be like this, not cookie cutters like so many out there
@20680 I agree! There is something special about an instrument build to provide both a great starting point for beginners as well as an adequate runway for advanced users to explore and experiment. 🎹
So I have a dilemma. I have a Stage 3 Compact.........which I believe I have a buyer for it this Sunday. I also have a in my possession a Stage 4 HA73. I have 5 more days until my 30 day grace period from SW is over. Admittedly the synth. side of things on the Stage 4 concerns me. I have made about ten customer sounds on my stage 3 that I use live that I can't seem to replicate on the Stage 4. Marc did I make a mistake or is it suck it up butter cup and try harder to work out a solution with the stage 4?
@johngaudette4664 How have you tried to replicate these sounds? First and foremost, export these 10 NS3 sounds from the Nord Sound manager so that you have the specifications. Then you can use the Nord File Viewer to make it easier to see what's under the hood with each setting. You may also want to record the sounds if your only reference is the sound itself from the NS3. I have a plan to make a video soon that talks about how one can go about "replicating" sounds from the NS3 to the NS4. It's not pretty (because it's all manual labor), but I think it will help bridge the gap between the two synth engines because they each work differently enough to make things tricky. My video on the Nord File Viewer is here if you haven't already seen this - it can be a lifesaver in situations like this to make the work more bearable: ruclips.net/video/1vgHlBPLeH0/видео.html
@@MyKeysToMusic Hey, John and Marc, I'm in the same boat here--I have a few days with both keyboards and I'm having some trouble recapturing the fullness of the NS3 sounds when I try to replicate bit by bit from the Nord File Viewer specs. My key sounds are Feedback Split AT, Event Horizon, Nosferatu 2017 and Tuna something (I adjusted and renamed it to TunaSprSqr). What are your key sounds you are trying to recreate? I'm not sure how to get the double oscillator (like the XFade Noise onto a Triangle, where you used the Osc Config knob). Anyway, this is my work for today.
But Marc, it sounds like you're saying that with work and tweaking you can recreate the sounds of the Stage 3 (or at least get pretty darned close).
@@judynightmusic I started work on this type of lesson for the upcoming NS4 course. *I have determined that some things on the NS4 cannot be duplicated from the NS3.* That’s because the engines work very differently in some key areas. For example, they have redesigned _glide_ and how it’s calibrated. So a sound like Nosferatu 2017, for example, can’t be exactly duplicated because the glide on the NS3 is far more pronounced at level 10 than it is on the NS4 at level 10. You can prove this easily on your end:
1. Go to a blank sound on both keyboards and present a simple saw waveform.
2. Now turn both keyboards into mono mode and put the glide at level 10.
3. Play a range of an octave on each board and hear the difference! (The NS4 finishes the glide much quicker than the NS3 does).
I’ll take a look at some of these others on your list, but for now, Nosferatu is not a candidate for exact replication, and that’s mainly because of the glide recalibration on the NS4. Glide is what makes the Nosferatu really work well, and without that correctly presented, the sound is a non-starter on the NS4, in my opinion, as much as that pains me to say it. 😪
@@MyKeysToMusic Yes I found that out about glide yesterday! A huge difference. I wonder why they did that. Maybe it could be on the wish list for updates.
But in my attempts to recreate sounds on the NS4 I'm feeling like there's a warmth and depth to the NS3 that I'm not hearing on the NS4. On the other hand, the sound of the pianos on NS4 is kickass. For me, right now, though, I'm really keen on the synth sounds, and the sounds on the NS4 really pop in shows. I'm still deciding but I might have to return the NS4.
Thank you for your thoughtful reply and your work in this. The other thing I found when trying to recreate those 4 sounds is a difference in the ring modulator, and a difference in the unison. I'm not sure how to use noise like in the NS4--I think it needs to use another of the 3 synth "channels" whereas in the NS3 it is dialed in in the config.
@@judynightmusic I hope they update the glide because I prefer the original way this was calibrated (very slow when it's on 10). We'll see what happens. In the meantime, we'll use the Stage 3 and/or 4 and take advantage of what each does best out of the box. Best of luck!
How to do i achieve that soft felt sound with depth as if i were to have a felt upright. Musician references Tony Anderson or Lo Mimieux? i've tried to get to it and hope you can point me a direction. thank you for your time.
i have stage 3
@@victoryinmotion5905 I would focus on a few things and assume, too that you have already loaded the new "Felt Upright":
1) Change the touch to hard (piano area)
2) Put the Piano EQ to "soft"
3) Then adjust the EQ in the effects section.
I have a 3 and a 4 and a wave 2 found this interesting keep it up
@Keyboardnut99 I like your style! Ya, I have something similar on this end - and with these 3 boards alone, we can rule the world (or at least our man cave). I feel like a "mini Nord dealer" at times. I should open up a local showroom! 😳 My wife, on the other hand, isn't as charmed by it all with her now famous line as the doorbell rings, "What, another big box from Nord??" "Um, yes dear" (as I quickly shuffle the big box to the home studio and pretend that it never arrived...) 😇
@@MyKeysToMusic Yes my wife is extremely understanding, I think between us we are keeping the Nord factory busy! I have had a stage 2 , electro 5 and a wave 1 but they have gone, sometimes you have to move on. 🥳🥃
@@Keyboardnut99 Haha! I like your sense of humor. Never had a Stage 2 or a Wave 1. Played most of my early gigs on an Electro 5, which was a real workhorse for me. And yes, it too had a "set list" feature, right?! I used the heck out of that feature, now that I think about it. Well, great to reflect on all this. Nord is a terrific platform with only a few minor deficiencies here and there. It has been fun really going deep with it. As a working musician back in the day, I was one of those "preset guys" and did very little programming. The channel here changed all that. And it's the comments like these that make one want to "dig" for more details and learn how to find ways to do things. 🎹
@@MyKeysToMusic I started programming on a Yamaha Cs10 when I was 14 ( A long time ago) The last gig I did I overcame the lack of song mode by sending program changes from my Korg Nautilus, and I always program patches in order ie vs chorus etc, so you only need the first patch to change! I have also tried forScore,I am baffled why a stage keyboard would remove such a useful feature,it nearly put me off buying it, but in the end I had to feed my addiction.
@@Keyboardnut99 "Feed the addiction..." Ya, I get that!! 🎹
Nord Stage has a powerful synthesizer section, why can't I find anywhere a video where you can make a sound similar to that of Serum or something similar to it, but there is a lot of synthesizer in the style of the eighties, worship sounds and so on (yes I know that this instrument specializes in piano organ and so on, and that Nord wave 2, prophet and so on are better for such cases) but in Nord 3,4 there is also a synthesizer section, and there is no example how to make a really good sound, it would be very interesting to make a good sound on this instrument.
There are no personal claims against the author, it's just my observation )
@aleksandrshen Aleksandr you bring up a fascinating and important topic. I think we have a bit of apples and oranges going on here. Serum is primarily a wavetable synthesizer, which means it generates sounds by manipulating and morphing wavetables. Wavetables are essentially collections of different waveforms that can be modulated to create various textures and timbres. In the end, Serum can provide lush and intricate soundscapes that can be in constant movement over time. The Nord boards, on the other hand, are not wavetable synths so they won't come close to the intricate sounds that you get out of the box with Serum. That could explain why you never see this demonstrated on RUclips like this.
The Nord boards cover subtractive synthesis, FM Synthesis, (especially with the Nord Wave 2 and the Nord Stage 4), they can play samples, and they can even play single wavetable tones per layer. However, they cannot create an intricate and morphing wavetable one after another over time in the same patch, which is what a wavetable synth is especially known for.
So, in my opinion, if you want to create a one-of-a-kind sound with some amazing sound properties, use Serum or something like it. If, on the other hand, you're trying to make traditional sounds founded on subtractive synthesis, the Nord boards (and many others) have got you covered. With this said, I don't want to give the impression that a modern Nord Stage 4 or Wave 2 won't be able to create some "amazing soundscapes" because they can - but not in the same style as a wavetable synth. The Nord boards can morph various settings over time that the keyboardist has direct control over via the use of a control pedal, the mod wheel, or aftertouch to adjust the sound as they play. But you cannot "stack" a series of wavetables that play in a row one after another while holding a key in the same patch as you can with a wavetable synth. Therefore, these two sound generation types are a bit like apples and oranges.
Thanks for the answer)yes I expected that answer, yes they are 100% different, I just wanted to hear your opinion.
And also, please tell me, what synthesizer can create the same sounds as Serum? I mean a physical instrument, not a virtual one? Thanks in advance for the answer and have a good day.
@@aleksandrshen Happy to help. If you go to Sweetwater and type "Wavetable synth" you'll see a variety of hardware options show up. bit.ly/Sweetwater_MyKeysToMusic
One that looks really interesting and is the new kid on the block is the Roland Gaia 2 - it looks and sounds amazing for the price. The other one that stands out in my mind is the Korg Modwave MKII. As with anything like this, you probably want to spend a fair amount of time reading descriptions and reviews as well as watching a healthy amount of videos to see if anything resonates with you. If I wasn't so busy with Nord stuff, I'd likely have my hands on a Roland Gaia 2 right now just for fun.
THANK YOU!!!@@MyKeysToMusic
@@aleksandrshenHappy to help!
I got the NOrd Geek Award!
@dennispena5496 Hey Dennis! Thanks for sharing this - and I'm happy to know that I'm not the only Nord Geek out there! 🎹
Interesting comparison ----
Thanks - I found it interesting as well.
Thank you so much ! It probably would have taken a year to figure that out !! Please keep the detailed Stage 4 tweaks coming ! Any idea when triple pedal 2 showing up ? A demo on that will be most appreciated!
Thanks for your comment! The triple pedal 2 is still delayed, but the last time I checked, I heard that June 2023 is the timeframe. I do have a single pedal version 2 that I can do a video on in the meantime, which will fill in some of the mystery gaps on what they can do etc.
@@MyKeysToMusic thank you Mark!!
The Stage 3 still sounds much fuller and richer.
@horowizard I tend to agree with you, which is what largely inspired the video to see what could be done. Another student told me they simply sampled the Nord Stage 3 Super Saw and now have that available to them on the NS4 - not a bad idea, not ideal, but a good plan B I suppose.
@@MyKeysToMusic Nord make fabulous strides with every new generation of instrument, but they always tend to leave something that was great behind. Why did they abandon Set List mode?
@@horowizard You are so right! Actually, they removed the "set list" option first on the Nord Electro 6. I was using an Electro 5 for the longest time, and it has a great "set list" option (they even named it "set list"), which (for reasons completely bewildering and unknown) removed that option when the NE6 arrived. People were stunned because it was a very useful feature. That same philosophy (of removing a very useful feature) continued with the arrival of the Nord Stage 4, upsetting even more folks to the point where I actually think the removal of that one feature killed quite a few of their early sales when keyboardists deemed that as a "dealbreaker." Well, the price of the NS4 was also a shock to most. Then again, as I look around at the marketplace, the price shock reverberates through most brands, with the Moog One 16 voice, for example, reaching a new high of 10K!! And the Moog One 16 doesn't even sample anything!
So yes, manufacturers pick and choose the features likely due to the feasibility of adopting them on boards going forward. I can also appreciate the balancing act of feature versus complexity. And, there's less and less real estate on these boards (think 73 Compact) to fit more and more features. As it is, on the NS4, we have a touch more menu diving than we do with the NS3 (although nothing like a Korg Kronos). I can also appreciate the massive complexity of building the supporting software for all these features. Each new feature added has a "cascading" effect to ensure it works with everything else. We're also in a time here in early 2024 where many musicians are managing set lists using software from a computer or an iPad, which is ideally the best way to do it once you arrive on that scene. However, as computer savvy as I think I am, to this day, I still don't bring an iPad or a computer to the gig only because I don't like the extra drama and fragility of the setup. There is something that is just "so easy" to switch the sounds on the board itself. If, however, I had a more elaborate setup with multiple keyboards to manage or if I was already using a computer with built-in VSTs, I would most likely control my setlist using MainStage, Camelot Pro, or an iPad App like OnSong or SongOne.
I realize this is a long-winded answer, but I thought I'd mention the "big picture" when it comes to features like the removal of Song Mode for the NS4. There are a lot of angles to consider if I place myself in the manufacturer's shoes for a second. But, oh how I would love to be a fly on the wall when Nord makes these decisions...
Keeping my NS3 88 for a while longer.
@kerrytrammell2808 You are not alone in your thoughts. While quite a few people have pulled the trigger, there are a LOT of people waiting on the sidelines or waiting for the Nord Stage 5 six years from now. 🥸
Editorial Comment: As a quick side note, I'm enjoying mine, and having the extra synth layer and additional polyphony makes a difference. It's also handy not to be restricted as much on the effects implementation. And alas, the Cathedral reverb gets me every time. All that said, I'm not sure these features would justify an upgrade. Obviously, I purchased an NS4 on day 1, but in my position, I can justify this because I make professional paid courses with these keyboards (and I'm a super fan). But if I was a lone keyboard player using it for a bi-weekly gig, I think it would take a bit more than that for me to pull the trigger. Also, I believe they (Nord) are still catching up a bit on the OS, so waiting a bit is not a bad idea. The community (patch makers) are also catching up, not to mention the Nord Library 4.0 itself doesn't have the same amount of content as the Nord Library 3.0, for example. But with that said, selected 4.0 samples are *noticeably better* now that they've been re-recorded in stereo. Wow!
Keep your eye on updates to see where this all goes. I can say for sure that with every passing week, people reach out and tell me they purchased an NS4 and want to enroll in the upcoming course I have. Yet, at the same time, I'll get comments like this from those who are waiting (or saving up). For many, there is a long pause before making a play to upgrade, as it's a challenging and expensive decision to move forward or not.
@@MyKeysToMusic Thank you I appreciate your content. Your videos helped me make my decision to purchase the NS3. Eventually I’m going to pull the trigger lol. I just don’t know when.
@@kerrytrammell2808 Glad to hear the videos helped! You know where to find me if more questions crop up.
@@MyKeysToMusicI’m one of them not happy with the Stage 4 compared to the Stage 3 I’d rather wait on the Stage 5 when I turn 30z
@@tuneunleashed I hear you! I will likely get an NS5 as well - but let's hope they innovate as fast as the world is. On my wish list is to convert samples into "virtual/modeled" like Audio Modeling is doing with their Swam line of products - that is the future I think. Keep the samples, but then add the modeling on top of that.
I stopped watching when realized you played the supersaw along with the piano layer. Checked against my NS4 and the supersaw here with os 1.1 (updated today) sounds stereo and very much like on the NS3.
@TheHollermann I realized a few moments later that I had the piano layered with the Synth and quickly fixed that haha. I'm happy to hear you got things dialed in to imitate the original supersaw on the NS3. On a related side note, I'm making good progress on the paid NS4 course if you are interested.
When do you think you’ll be done? I’m enrolled in your NS3 course and recently purchased a NS4 as well.
Thanks for the question. Late Summer/Early Fall 2023
Thanks for this nice video - and all of your other videos for that matter! Happy to be labeled as a #nordgeek!
@mrwiwas Nord Geeks Unite! 🎹 👍
Just add a little chorus to the super wave on the stage 4 and you’re there
@domi0929 Dominic, thanks for your awesome suggestion. I tried it just now, and it does work like a charm. This is much easier than dialing up a second layer and attempting to detune, etc. I wish I had thought of that ahead of making the video. Bravo!
😮
Not really worth $6000 unless you really like a Nord stage 4 and even then the 3 by default arguably sounds better
There is a fair amount of truth to what you say here. I will say that from a sound creation performance standpoint, you can go quite a bit further using the Nord Stage 4 especially considering the powerful pattern Arp and Poly mode. But people don't tend to use those features if they are in a traditional cover band or even in a traditional worship setting. So if you're looking to do basic piano/organ string pads and not really into the advanced sound performance capability with a synced arpeggiator, the Stage 3 will more than cover you.
I think the upgrade to the NS4 would be better embraced if the price was more in line relative to the perceived features presented. But as seen in my survey, you can ask 10 people if they think the upgrade is worth it, and you'll get 10 different answers, all with their own spin of what's important to them. My survey results are here if interested: ruclips.net/video/PLhWLRTHNCs/видео.html
@@MyKeysToMusic
Your super smart! I consider you the number one Authority on Nords on RUclips.
@@MyKeysToMusic Just discovered your channel a few weeks ago and I too consider you a rising star in the Nord Community and an authoritative voice for product comparisons/demonstrations.
I just got my NS4 88, owned a Nord Electro 4 HP for many years and also recently purchased a Yamaha CK88 which is more than adequate for my cover band and most worship settings. But I also wanted a great board where I can do even deeper diving and sound creation and the Stage 4 goes so far beyond and the possibilities are endless. I do love the faders layout versus the A/B panel on the NS4 versus the NS3. I do like the new spring reverb and some of the other controls they added. I am kind of gutted by the removal of Song Mode because I was hoping to finally try that out but I guess I'll stick with my top 16-20 presets and start memorizing them depending on what songs I'm playing that day.
@@Salamanderfs
Congratulations Man! You have yourself a heck of board in the stage 4 that few can even afford. The Yamaha and Nord seem a bit redundant but hey, the formula in music is if it's working for yah, then it's working and that's all that matters. I personally would match the stage 4 with something a little less like the Nord to compliment it. Congrats nonetheless, and keep jamming man!!
@@briann5001 That is a very nice thing to say considering there is a healthy amount of people these days doing content on Nords compared to 6 years ago when I first started... Thanks for watching and for the support!
I dont think Nord stage 4 is necessarily worse than 3 in terms of quality of supersaw. I think this gives us opportunity to use supersaw much more than before because we have raw version of it. I myself own nord stage 3 and i must say i use supersaw only with pads. It has too much effects to be used for something else.
@josipbosnjak6808 Thanks for your thoughts on this. Like you, I appreciate the flexibility of having variable options for the super saw with the NS4 too. I look forward to making more sounds with the NS4 armed with all these new discoveries...