Nord Keyboards announce Nord Lead A1 analogue modelling synthesizer
Nord Keyboards are proud to announce the new Nord Lead A1 analogue modelling synthesizer. The Lead A1 combines the latest analogue modelling engine from the acclaimed Lead 4, with an innovative streamlined interface for fast-track programming.
The Lead 4 and now the Lead A1 are equipped with an all new analogue modeling sound engine, capable of reproducing the character and nuances of the vintage synths of your dreams with breathtaking accuracy. 24-voice polyphonic and four part multi-timbral, the Lead A1 is a flexible choice for either stage or studio, delivering a stunningly rich and versatile palette of sounds.
The Lead A1 introduces a new front-panel user interface designed to make programming quick and easy, while retaining hands on flexibility.
"We’ve been thinking about and honing this interface for a number of years in response to what we hear from many professional players regarding the ever-increasing time pressures in creating sounds for stage or studio. ” says Hans Nordelius, CEO and head designer.
One of the main features of the new interface is the Oscillator section, where Oscillator configuration shortcuts allow patches to be created and edited far quicker than is usually possible for synthesis of this complexity.
Using a single LFO and simplified Modulation Envelope with intuitive controls on the front panel, it is also very quick to experiment with modulations, always with a clear overview of the structure of the patch.
The on-board filters include Low Pass, High Pass and Band Pass, along with new stunningly accurate modelled Ladder M and Ladder TB filters introduced in the Lead 4. The Lead A1 features an independent effects processor for each of its four slots. Delay, high quality Reverb, plus a choice of Drive, Ring Modulation, Phaser, Flanger, Ensemble or Chorus are available per slot. The impressive new Ensemble and Chorus effects are analog models of specific classic synths, bringing vintage analogue warmth and feel.
Nord's acclaimed Morph function via Velocity or the Mod Wheel is also included, allowing multiple parameters to be morphed in real time and with exceptionally easy control.
Additional functions include an independent arpeggiator for each of the four slots, Master Clock sync of the LFO, delay and Arpeggiator, MIDI over USB, and four independent outputs. The Lead A1 also includes the Nord Sound Manager software patch librarian.
Like all Nord products, the Lead A1 is handmade in Sweden with meticulous attention to detail and quality control.
The Nord Lead A1 will be available in April 2014 with an estimated price of £1299 RRP inc VAT / $1799 MAP.
I'm guessing that it's aimed at gigging musicians, rather than studio guys, hence the on-board FX, reduced numbers of knobs (mostly the ones you'd use in real-time performance, rather than sound design). Hell, if I was still gigging, this could be an attractive purchase. But, for studio use, yeah the NL4 is a far better deal.
Originally posted by tehlord
If they are trying to sell it to the live crowd then they've priced it just about where the Krome 88 , MOXF8 and the new Roland FA-08
Rather silly
Well, price aside, I don't think that's a valid comparision. Those are all workstation/romplers, not VAs. If someone wanted a knobby VA for live use, they certainly wouldn't be looking at workstation/romplers from the Big Three. The A1 would be more like something to complement a workstation. But, yeah, the street price is going to be a big consideration for many people, especially when the NL4 costs just a little more.
Originally posted by cryophonik
Well, price aside, I don't think that's a valid comparision. Those are all workstation/romplers, not VAs. If someone wanted a knobby VA for live use, they certainly wouldn't be looking at workstation/romplers from the Big Three. The A1 would be more like something to complement a workstation. But, yeah, the street price is going to be a big consideration for many people, especially when the NL4 costs just a little more.
True
Fairer comparison might be the King Korg, which is £900 vs £1300 and arguably offers more.
Fairer comparison might be the King Korg, which is £900 vs £1300 and arguably offers more.
I was close to getting the king korg but they over priced it by adding new knobs.
Jan-23-2014 13:09
cryophonik
Boom shanka
Registered: Jan 2008
Location: Elk Grove, CA USA
quote:
Originally posted by tehlord
No aftertouch either?
Seriously?! Well, there goes my theory about it being a "performer's synth." That's just ridiculous, especially at that price. Oh well, hopefully Clavia has done their homework and identified a solid target market for it, 'cause it doesn't seem to be impressing anybody so far.
