Nord Stage 3 versus the Nord Wave 2 Comparison and Review
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- Опубліковано 1 лип 2024
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Marc
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In this video, I compare the Nord Wave 2 with the Nord Stage 3 keyboard/synthesizer in exhaustive detail. If you are trying to decide between which of these two Nord keyboards to buy, this Nord review and Nord comparison video is for you! It's designed specifically for people who like all the details before they purchase.
The Nord Stage 3 and the Wave 2 are close cousins from the same Nord family with many similarities and some of the same great Nord features and capabilities. Yet, there are several key differences that can affect your purchase decision and may make it difficult for you to choose which one to invest in.
== Video Index ==
0:00 Intro
0:59 Agenda and Buyers Guide
2:16 Biggest Similarities
6:23 Biggest Differences
9:01 Wave 2 Hardware
11:05 Stage 3 Hardware options
16:14 Compare Sizes and Weights
20:32 Output and Pedal Options
23:19 Hardware Frame comparisons and accessories.
24:41 System Comparison
26:57 DEMO Seamless Transitions
28:57 Keyboard Split Options
30:30 Compare Piano Sound Options
33:44 DEMO Nord Wave 2 Pianos (Sample Library)
43:16 DEMO Nord Wave 2 Pianos (Wavetable)
46:31 Compare Organ Sound Options
47:55 DEMO Nord Wave 2 Organs (Sample Library)
49:28 SONG EXCERPT “Phantom of the Opera”
49:54 DEMO Nord Wave 2 Organs (Sample Library Continued)
50:41 DEMO Nord Wave 2 Organs (Wavetable)
53:11 Synth Section
56:47 DEMO Nord Wave 2 Impulse Morph
57:08 Arpeggiator Comparison
57:57 DEMO Nord Wave 2 Arpeggiator
01:02:48 SONG EXCERPT: “A Little Respect - Erasure”
01:03:34 Oscillator Comparison
01:06:06 DEMO Nord Wave 2 Superwave detune
01:06:41 Filter Comparison
01:07:41 Modulation Comparison
01:09:10 Effects Comparison
01:14:59 Misc Items
01:16:54 Recap
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subed today and ordered NW2 :)
Awesome @LabofmusicRecords That's terrific! Now the most challenging part is waiting for it to arrive! And if you're brand new to the world of Nord (and even if this is not your first Nord board), I have full pro training on my website called "Master the Nord Wave 2" if you are interested. I also have free courses there as well; "Synth Fundamentals" for those who are brand new to the world of synthesis and "Master the Nord Sample Editor" for those interested in getting into the world of sampling. And FYI, prices increase on June 1st, 2023, for all my paid courses for new students so if this is something you were seriously considering, I'd act before June 1st. 😉
@@MyKeysToMusic Hey, thx for the comment. I'll check it out soon :) And yes, I hope I get it in 2 days, so I have 4 days to exploring it (2 days off here in Switzerland incl. the weekend).
@@LabofmusicRecords Good timing!! I'm sure you'll enjoy it. I still love my Wave 2.
The Wave 2 - a great keyboard. Love the impulse morph!
Great video, a good balance of feature description and playing examples. Specifically, this is the best audio/video description of the Wave 2 layer pianos I’ve seen. Thanks!
Thank you so much Dan! Awesome to hear this - thanks for stopping by. 🎹
This is one hell of a detailed comparison video. Thank you so much!
Glad you liked it @Will Bryant - you must be a guy who appreciates the details (like I do). Cheers!
Thanks for the explanations, for me very useful. You are very....bravo
Outstanding review! Thank you!
Thanks for your comment and for watching! Best of luck on your decision...
Thank you very much! Very elaborate.
Thanks for your comment Zoro. Glad it helped...
Nice review!😎 Thanks!🙏🏻
Thank you Sami!
I have a Stage 3, of which I have barely touched it's capability. I love it. After seeing this comparison, I think the Wave 2 would be a great second/stacked keyboard. Thanks for your ongoing tutorials--I have learned quite a bit.
Glad to hear it and yes, I think it would be a great second/stacked keyboard. Once you learn the Nord Stage 3, you really know more than 60% of the Nord Wave 2 (give or take). And they both use the same Nord Sound Manager application and can pull from the same sample library etc. Having two keyboards from the same family is not a bad thing from a learning standpoint. Happy playing! 🏄🎹
Great Video thanks for the info
Happy to do it - thanks for checking it out and holding up against this marathon video!
EXACTLY what I was looking to see, thank you! This is a perfect top board and I just ordered mine!
@T-bone Vegan Fun Band - Justin Comito Congrats! Glad to hear this! So, did you order the Stage 3 or the Wave 2??
@@MyKeysToMusic I ordered the Wave 2 to sit over my Yamaha CP73
@@Sawtooth311 Awesome combo! 😎
@@MyKeysToMusic seeing the Pianos demoed helped me go in the direction of the Wave 2 in case I'm looking to take only one board, they are usable in a pinch. Thanks again for a great straightforward review that I couldn't find elsewhere. This will actually replace my Prophet X that I couldn't tame in a live setting.
@@Sawtooth311 So glad to hear all this. I believe the Wave 2 is going to serve you well and there is a lot of flexibility with it. I find to pretty straight forward to operate (and tame - to use your words). All the best to you... 🎹
Hello!) I needed to watch this video again after a while because I was thinking about an additional synthesizer for my Nord 3. Please tell me, Mark, do I understand correctly that I can take presets and samples from my Nord 3 and throw them into Nord 2? Or nord wave 2 will not read it.
At age 71, now retired & a beginner in learning how to play "keys", I have the Hammond XK5 both manuals, Hammond SKX, Korg Kronos LS, Korg SV2-SP AND last but not least, a Nord Stage 3 Compact. Am very much looking forward to this comparison video as I'm debating of going for the full NS3 or the WAVE. I appreciate Mark for your desire & countless hours you have given us in your tremendous tutorials which hopefully will continue. I'm open to any & all comments & suggestions & will possibly advise later of my decision which may include trading the Kronos for the full NS3 or Waive...
Hi Roger. Congrats on learning how to play the keys! You have an impressive collection of keyboards there! This would be a bit of a tough decision. Comparing just the Nord keyboards for a moment, the Wave 2 is a neat keyboard and I find it one of the best to be "creative" with because there are so many directions you can take something. I find the Stage 3 a more "complete" keyboard in that it covers more music because it has the organ and piano engines. Then again, you have piano more than covered with the Kronos already and you have the organ covered with the Hammond too. The Wave 2 would be a unique addition to the group and one that I believe is the easiest to learn synthesis with (versus the Kronos) if that is something you are interested in pursuing on your journey. I think watching the above video could help you decide and at the very least it will help you understand the features of these two boards a bit more. Good luck and let us know which you end up with in the end! 🎹
Nice work on the review --> Biggest key difference for me and unique feature (I believe not highlighted in this video) is the integration of the Sample Editor with the Nord Wave 2. Which allows you to upload any sample (e.g. from any synth) into the Nord Wave 2 and use all functionality that the Nord Wave 2 has to offer on top of it. That is powerful stuff that no other Nord (key) product has. Take a sample from any of your other favourite Synth and run it through (layers) the Nord Wave 2. Everything else to me seems a slightly upgrade from the Nord Lead A1 with the same synth engine. Too bad the product does not come in the rack format and that it does have the much desired dedicated Piano section.
Thank you for your comment and input on this. You are 100% correct to point out that the Nord Wave 2 is a bit of a unique offering because of its ability to mix a home-made sample layered with a traditional virtual synth. Technically speaking, the Stage 3 can do this as well by using one layer for the sample and the other for the synth (using Panel A and B). The Stage 3 has one additional ability not often emphasized which is the ability to mix in a traditional waveform with the sample (all in the same layer) which incidentally, the Wave 2 cannot do. But in any case, these features are very powerful/flexible as you've indicated.
Yes, would love to see this in the form of a rack. Yes, would love to see a basic piano added to the Wave 2. But I can see why the lines were drawn in the sand and if they were to include a piano engine with the Wave 2, it would likely cannibalize from the Electro 6 and Stage 3 potentially. You inspired me to come up with a new idea for Clavia: Double the layers to 8 in a rack-mount unit, increase the polyphony to 96 notes, and let us have a field day. 🤔 A guy can dream...
Im a KRONOS user but just ordered the WAVE 2
Can't wait to get it this week,. I am sure I will be checking out your tutorials
best regards, Rick
Congrats @Riki Vestuto on your new Nord Wave 2! The hardest part now is waiting for it eh? Well the KRONOS is a beast (in a good way) but I think you'll love some of the attributes of the Wave 2 that make it special. 4 Layers all easily editable either individually or as a group. Almost no menu diving by comparison to most other keyboards. You get a quality build while at the same time find it surprisingly light. I think it's one of the best ways to create sounds on the fly while also tweaking sound in the middle of a performance. I've been able to imitate analog synths sometimes to a "T" while basking in the 48 voices of Wave 2 polyphony that analog synths can only dream of.
You may be interested in my Alan Walker video (if you haven't already seen it) where we shine a light on what the Wave 2 can do. Take note of the multiple assignments to the wheel. ua-cam.com/video/BmmtPU4WHds/v-deo.html.
Have you learned subtractive synthesis yet? If not, this is a good board to get started while also giving you plenty of room to grow. Oh, and then the icing on the cake is to be able to use the Nord supplied samples or make your own.
@@MyKeysToMusic
I think the main reason I bought it is that you can assign 4 different midi channels to the layers which in my case as a DAWless user I will be able to take advantage of the 4 sounds that I can assign to 4 more midi channels for my Sequencer (MPCX)
Im not much on tweaking sounds and just like the sounds (Samples) the way they are
I have subbed and will be watching your tutorials and learning from you !!!...............Thank for all you do
best regards, Rick
@@popshobbydungeon Thanks Riki - how are things going?
@@MyKeysToMusic Great thanks for asking
My Wave came damaged so sending it back
Had to buy a 88 Korg Nautilis till
Alto Music can replace the Nord Wave 2
Guess everyone is out of stock right now
regards, rick
@@popshobbydungeon Sorry to hear that! But hey, if it's an excuse to get the 88 Korg Nautillis then so be it! 😜
Great!!!
Thanks, Mike!
Great video as always Marc!! As an Electro 6D owner, and having both the Piano and Organ sections covered, this video definetely helped me to decide that my next keyboard is more likely to be a Nord Lead A1 than a Wave2!
Awesome Paulo! Ya, you can't go wrong with either but the Lead A1 is much better priced for nearly the same power synth. The A1 can't play samples however which for some could be a big deal.
Hi Marc, just bought a A1 and I’m amazed with what it can produce sonic wise!
Very easy to use and configure.
It complements my Electro 6D and Roland Integra 7 quite nicely!
@@jPaulofe It sounds like you have a match made in heaven now and the Electro 6D is a perfect companion. Love my A1. I don't get enough time with it but it's one powerful little synth.
In my opinion, the Wave 2 is the best for anyone who wants to do sound design
I completely agree. I was just playing the Wave 2 again last night for a while and there is virtually no limit to the creativity one can have with it. Thanks for the comment!
Woah! You have the search bar labeled like chapters! I love my NS3, but I look at that W2 and think, "Those PANELS, though!!!" Many times I could use that. The perfect NS3 would have more panels and more memory and Poly Mode.
Hi Laday B.Goode! Yes, I figured since the video is over 1 hour, I better put some chapter markers up. 😜 That's a handy feature they added. As far as the panels go, yes the extras do come in handy. And although Poly mode is pretty cool, I haven't found too many practical uses for it, but I haven't given it too much thought other than the Erasure song you might have heard with it in the video above. Thanks so much for providing your input here and continue to enjoy the Stage 3. Oh and if a Stage 3 had more panels and poly mode, maybe that's what would be included in a Stage 4? Don't worry, I think we are a ways off yet before we see a Stage 4 (total guess here, I have no insider info on release dates or future plans). Thanks for watching!
damn long video Mark!! but u had me the whole time....... Wave 2 is my way to go!!
Hi Thomas! Yes, it was the longest video I ever did (not including live sessions) but there were a lot of details to cover. So happy to hear this helped with our decision. Thanks for your comment.
Thanks you👍for all thise very fine video, that you make. I have a nord stage 3 and I hope nord Company will give you something for all your help to nord owner and I love when you make video about have to make the right sound for great songs. Someday maybe you will show us have to make Phil collins A groovy kind of love..Sound on stage3🎹Thanks
Thank you for your nice comments and ideas here. Like you, I also like working with great songs and to do my best to emulate the sounds. I will take a note of your request. Thanks for watching!
Really great review! In my case I'm an A1 owner and considering moving up to the Wave 2. The A1 makes it so easy to create new and inspiring sounds (despite what some might may are limitations with the synth engine) due to the excellent interface. I notice it would require multiple layers to recreate some of the multi oscillator configurations from the A1 (saw plus triangle, etc) but the Wave 2 seems to offer so much more, assuming the quality of the oscillators/filters/effects is the same or better. For a while I considered a Stage 3 but I think I'm happy to use high quality plug-ins for pianos and organs in Logic/Mainstage. Actually the acoustic piano sounds you played on the Wave 2 were quite acceptable and could easily be the basis for lots of interesting sounds.
Hello @Rob Martino Thanks for your comment and insight on this. You seem to have already done a fair amount of research and come to some conclusions about the Nord Wave 2, which I completely agree with you on. I own both keyboards, and if I were to pick which one I like best, I would pick the Nord Wave 2 every time. I have 3 things on the list for the Wave 2 that I wish it had that would make it nearly perfect:
1) A more robust EQ option. We have Bass and Treble or Parametric. I would like more options in the EQ to bring out the best fidelity.
2) It's missing seamless transitions as we have on the Stage 3 and Electro 6. Why they didn't include this is a mystery.
3) An assignable sustain pedal by layer. Currently, the sustain pedal is "all on or all off" for all layers simultaneously. Of course, the A1 works the same way, I'm just saying that would be a nice feature if they had it.
I agree that you can use virtual pianos from Logic/MainStage, especially if those tools are already in your setup. The claim to fame for me and the Wave 2 is the unbridled ability to create on the fly and the strong arpeggiator options. That, combined with the ability to play samples, sets it apart from almost everything else. You may have already watched my video on this, but here is an example of the Wave 2 used with both synth and samples to give you an idea of just how much of a song it can cover, and it also demonstrates that Yamaha piano again (Alan Walker "Faded"): ua-cam.com/video/BmmtPU4WHds/v-deo.html And here's an example of synth mixed with sample for the sound from Muse "Uprising": ua-cam.com/video/pp6L2EL0mWo/v-deo.html
@@MyKeysToMusic thanks for the response! Great videos on your channel. Despite having a lot of software based music tech at hand there's something about the immediacy of a hardware synth like this that allows ideas to flow really quickly.
@@RobMartino I think what you just said can't be understated. So many people are critical of "hardware keyboards" with the reasoning that they are a lot more money for a lot fewer features compared with software. But the workflow, convenience, and immediacy of a properly designed hardware keyboard is hard to deny. 🎹
I have the Stage 3 88 HA, and the Stage 3 76 HP, and I used to have the Electro 6D waterfall. Out of all 3, I actually prefer the action of the 76 HP; something about how the keys respond feel the best to me. It's a nice blend of weight and synth action. They do have resistance, but they feel very high quality, even more so than the 88 HA. One note however, is that I have the 88 HA version 1.0 and the Stage 3 76 HP is version 1.1, so I am unsure if that plays a factor in it. Both keyboards are just amazing when it comes to sounds. I also have a Roland Juno-DS and the Roland Integra-7 (which has some very amazing sounds); however, the Nords' sound is by far the best I have ever heard. Fun fact: Layering Nord sounds with Omnisphere 2 presets can create some absolutely amazing sonic ear candy. :P Anyways, that's my two cents and I'm sticking with it, lol.
Thanks for the background here and good to hear about your thoughts on the HPs. I have to try out Omnisphere 2!
Thanks for the fine review. I wonder why you don't refer to the Electro when it comes to adding great piano to great organ.
Hi Joris. Thank you!! Yes, I probably should have mentioned the Electro more than I did because the Electro has the same capability of playing great pianos and great organs as much as the Stage 3 does minus the double panes and a slight difference in memory/polyphony etc. And I probably should have really emphasized that a bit more in key places. I think I had in my mind to focus just on the two keyboards exclusively as to not make a longer video. I do make mention that there are comparisons between the Stage 3 and the Electro 5/6 in my other videos, so hopefully, folks will put that together and go watch those as well. Plus those Stage 3 and Electro comparison videos have been out for a while now so I assume most people know how the Electro fits in. But good points! Thanks so much for your feedback! - Marc
Hello everyone! I just released the latest course called "Master the Nord Wave 2" found at www.MyKeysToMusic.com. Also on the site is the course "Master the Nord Stage 3". So either keyboard you choose, we have you covered... Thanks for watching!
My Wave 2 is coming tomorrow have the original wave and thought it was about time to give the 2 a try
@Paul Hale Awesome! Well, by now your Wave 2 should be in your hands. Get ready for more than a few late evenings as there is so much to explore. You may also consider an enrollment in my professional course called "Master the Nord Wave 2" if you want to learn everything from A to Z in an organized, ad-free environment. Plus I have a few interesting songs we explore on the Wave 2 along the way. I plan on having more content using the Wave 2 as I feel I've only just scratched the surface at this point. Enjoy your new baby! 🎹
@@MyKeysToMusic Thanks I have already started and am an experienced programmer, I also have the original wave and stage 3 ! Your videos are very well thought out and detailed keep up the good work and best wishes!!
@@Keyboardnut99 Sounds great. Enjoy the Wave 2!
Thanks for the video !! I am confused on one part, the wave 2 i thought has 4 midi zone split layer which makes it more of a midi controller than the stage 3 ?
@derek jurovich - great question! I think the answer is both yes and no. Yes, there are 4 layers on the Nord Wave 2 and each layer can be set to a different MIDI channel allowing for BOTH incoming and Outgoing messages on each layer. This means you could have a DAW from a computer send up to 4 tracks each to the NW2 layers (multi-timbral). Likewise, you could send MIDI out from the Wave 2 into 4 separate MIDI devices each on a different channel. So, in this one way, it could be argued that the Wave 2 is more of a MIDI controller than the Stage 3 (because 4 layers are better than 2). However, that is just one dimension of the details here so I'll explain a bit more now.
The Stage 3 has the "Extern" section which provides a few more MIDI controller features than the Wave 2. Here are the following advantages you have with the Extern section on the Stage 3 (the Wave 2 has no such Extern section).
1) The Extern section allows you to turn on and off the external MIDI connection with a click of a button directly from the front panel. To do anything similar on the Wave 2, you would have to go to the system settings and set the channel to off OR you could simply turn off the layer. But in some cases, you want the layer on the Wave 2 to still play, you just don't want to also have the external keyboard on that layer sound. You can't do this on the Wave 2. It's either all on or all off layer by layer. The Extern section allows you to set the Stage 3 with a piano (for example) and push a button and have a second keyboard sound by turning the Extern section on creating an external layer from the external instrument. Push the button to turn it off and you just hear the piano from the Stage again.
2) The Extern section has a separate dedicated knob allowing you to independently send CC#, volume, or program change to the external instrument.
3) The Extern section allows for independent control (on or off) of the sustain pedal and pitch stick with a dedicated button for that.
4) The Extern section can send a one-time program change upon loading so that as you change programs on the Stage 3, the connected instrument(s) can be sent a program change as well. Some would consider this a necessary "deal-breaker" feature to have when they think of using a keyboard used as a controller.
5) Since the NS3 has two layers, you get two Extern sections. So, everything mentioned in #1 through 4 above is essentially doubled.
6) A weak argument could be made that because the Stage 3 comes with a minimum of 73 keys and the Wave 2 comes with a maximum of 61, the Stage 3, therefore, is a better controller because it provides more keys (wider range) to external devices.
Now, keep in mind that NEITHER of these keyboards are a true keyboard controller of course and neither was made with that intent. It will likely be up to the individual as to what they see would make for a better controller. The choices come down to having 4 layers of MIDI control from the Wave 2 (not too shabby), or more control over individual aspects of the MIDI experience and the ability to auto-load programs on other devices when switching programs like you can do with the Stage 3.
I think if I had 3 or more keyboards to control from a single keyboard, the Wave 2 would have the edge for me. However, if I had 1 or 2 keyboards that I wanted to control, the Stage 3 would have the edge. But in the end, the controller aspect is just one feature set in a sea of feature sets when deciding between a Wave 2 or a Stage 3. I'm happy you brought up this question because now we have some details for others to read as well. 👍🏼
@@MyKeysToMusic wow!!! Thank You for this well though out detailed response :)
@@derekjurovich Happy to do it!
Very nice video. I have a question: I'm a very happy owner of a Stage3. I really like the Nord because of the sounds, quality and intuitive way of controlling the Stage3 without having to dig into a complex menu structure. Now I would like buying a synth to expand my gear. The Nord Wave2 would be an option. Do you (or other readers here) would recommand the Wave2 or would it be more of the same and sounds would all be too "Nord"ish.
Great question and one that comes up a LOT around here. You are the first to give this concept a name: "too Nordish." That's great. 🤣 Well, there is a fair amount of Nordishness when you add a second Nord keyboard to your rig - sure. But is that a bad thing? Maybe yes, maybe no. In the end, you have to ask yourself if you want to "play the field" a bit by going with another brand. Doing that immediately adds to your learning effort which could have you frustrated in no time (see your original comment about not wanting to dig into menus and such). But it can be a sexy option to play the field and there is a bunch of stuff out there to look at and have fun with. Everyone is making killer boards these days in the synth department. Ask yourself what type of sounds you need and then listen to your heart as you're doing your research. In the meantime, I'll list the main advantages of the Wave 2 added to a Stage 3.
*Advantages of adding a Nord Wave 2 versus something else.*
1) You already know how to use it (kind of). The Wave 2 is a touch more complex on the synth side but not by much.
2) They use the same exact Sample Editor and Sound Editor software. This is a huge advantage and a time-saver for you.
3) The Wave 2 plays samples and when you think about it, there is plenty of variety in these samples to make it seem like you have another keyboard altogether if you try even a little.
4) The two boards look great together on stage (all that "red").
5) The Wave 2 has the amazing ability to do things on the fly. If you are the type of player that likes to "tweak" in the middle of a song, this keyboard begs for that.
6) You can come up with some fairly robust soundscapes with the Wave 2 beyond what the Stage 3 can do if you are into sound creation.
7) The Wave 2 has enough features that to the naked ear you'd assume you're listening to another manufacturer's board at times. (see #3 above)
8) For me, the Wave 2 gets me 4 more synth layers which is exactly what we need at times to cover songs or add "depth" and power to our overall sound. Once you MIDI a Stage 3 and a Wave 2 together, the lights start blinking (a good thing).
* If you want to use the arps from the Stage 3 and Wave 2 at the same time, you're going to need a third-party clock to keep all that in sync. A computer is best for this but you could also use a drum machine along with a MIDI splitter.
** I plan on releasing some content this year that addresses all the configuration options of "multiple Nord keyboards" because this concept is growing in popularity. "Why have only one Nord keyboard if you can have two!" Take a look at any of the Nord Facebook groups and you'll stumble into several posts where you see 2 Nords in the picture. This is more common than I would have originally expected.
Personal side note: For me, I lust over the Moog One 16 voice. However, this is not an easy board to haul to a performance and in the end, it can't play a piano sample! But, I've decided that is more likely a retirement board for me in about 12 years when I have more time on my hands.
Best of luck with your decision - Marc 🎹
@@MyKeysToMusic Hi Marc, thanks for your very quick and extensive answer. In case you're not a fulltime musician I guess you must we working in the customer service branch 😉. Taking your advice in consideration and listening to examples of the Wave2 sounds on UA-cam I think the Wave2 suits me best. During a performance I do like to tweak on the fly and used to the philosophy of the Stage3, I guess I will get used to the Wave2 very quick. Over the years I've had some "menu" synths, but the Stage3 is the first one I really enjoy tweaking and creating/customizing sounds.
greetings from the Netherlands, Mark
@@markvermaat652 I agree with your findings here and I think you'll learn the Wave 2 pretty quickly as a lot of it translates over. You can also consider enrolling in my "Master the Wave 2" course available on the main site if you want to fast-track this a bit. Best of luck and enjoy!
Hi Marc! I'm a new subscriber and your videos on Nords have been a real help but I figured ..maybe I'll just ask outright: I'm an experiment ambient guitarist who dabbles in synth/keys/piano (Wurli being one of my favorite sounds ever) and I have a teen daughter about 3 years into standard piano lessons who's looking to grow. We are moving cross country and going to have to give up our beloved antique upright piano and we're looking at getting a Nord. The million dollar question is which one? We enjoy all kinds of music from classical to contemporary electronic to jazz to avant guard punk. We had a chance to try/buy a friend's Electro 2 locally for 950$ but after doing some research, quickly realized that's quite an outdated model. It seems like the retain their value quite well used so at this point I'm wondering if it's the safest bet to just purchase a new Electro 6. She wants the HP but I think she'd adjust to the standard. any advice would be greatly appreciated. And if you're wondering, I understand a Nord is probably overkill for us both but I'm a bit of a gear hound (guitar pedals) and I'd rather save and go big rather than be impatient, cheap and go budget. Thanks again!
Hi @Chris Hash Sorry for the delay on this comment. The Nord Electro 6 is a really good option if the focus is on piano and you're looking for that Nord piano sound quality etc. It doesn't support the Nord triple pedal but it does support a sustain pedal. It also has a good organ engine and synth/sample player which allows you to have some nice layers happening along with the piano. The Electro 73 key (either the HP or the waterfall) would be fine. Even the 61 key would be a good start at her age but that may not be enough keys when her piano music starts getting more complex. Personally at her age, she'll have an easier time playing the waterfall type keyboards versus the HPs. The HPs are quite a bit more resistant (which some like for that purpose) but at the age of thee, go waterfall (my humble opinion). A used Electro 5 would be decent as well. If you want to see the difference between those two, I made a video for that here: ua-cam.com/video/HaFzuloOXpE/v-deo.html. Oh, and as much as we all love the antique pianos of old for their charm, you can't practice with headphones or auto transpose with them (among other things). 😎 Do let us know how you make out and good luck with your move! 🙋♂️
I can't express just how helpful this video is. Truly fantastic detailed comparison between two units that have me torn! I write and record a lot of my own stuff, soundtracks, ambient etc, and occasionally play out in a cover band. I'm a big synth head, have a number of analog polys, but I'm looking for a good digital poly synth too. I'm also a bit inclined towards replacing my MODX workstation which currently provides my acoustic pianos/organs/strings. So I'm trying to decide, do I get the Wave 2 and hope it can also do a decent enough job of what the MODX is doing or do I get a Stage 3 so it upgrades my acoustic sounds whilst also giving me a passable synth engine? I go back and forth on this every day! I guess it comes down to whether using the sampled pianos/organs/strings in the Wave will be good enough in recordings so it's not too much of a downgrade from the MODX (live, in a mix, I doubt anyone would really know the difference)
If you want complete control over your piano and organ sounds, then the Stage 3 is your keyboard. However, The Wave 2 is a more powerful synth and slightly better for ambient sounds as it has the cathedral reverb which is missed on the Stage 3. The Wave 2 is particularly good for tweaking on the fly (mid-performance). So if this is your thing, I lean toward the Wave 2. If you are really hoping to replace the MODX, then I think the Stage 3 will be the best choice as the pianos and organs come in so handy on so many things. Ideally in a perfect world, you'd get both to cover all bases and have a total of 6 layers. Yes, I realize we're talking about a boatload of coin to get both (especially with the prices as they are today).
In your particular case, if you really have a desire to replace the MODX, I think I'd again go with the Stage 3. Then use the Extern option of the Stage 3 to drive your fav analog poly synth or even a computer where you can have your pick of the litter in terms of sounds. Also, the 73 keys really make a difference at the gig. If however, part of you wants to hold on to the MODX and use that for the piano/organ sounds, then the Wave 2 is going to be a great and fun keyboard to have. You 'll also have 48 notes of polyphony which is going to make it hard for you to ever want to play your 8 voice analog babies ever again oh, and you'll never be out of tune again either!
We can continue the conversation here if you'd like and as your decision choices evolve. I'm happy to be a sounding board along the way.
@@MyKeysToMusic i didn't ask the question originally but an excellent reply. My particular needs are a decent piano sound but have beautiful lush synths. Ill listen to your video in full to help me decide. Thanks for your content, just subscribed.
@@xntricity6446 Thanks for your comment and your subscription! So, if you already know you are looking for decent pianos, this puts you firmly in the Stage 3 box. The Stage 3 can also do lush synths too. The Wave 2 doesn't have an official piano engine, so the few sampled pianos that you can have on the Wave 2 pale in comparison to the Stage 3.
Here's a video where I use the one good piano sample on a Wave 2 at the beginning of this Alan Walker tune: ua-cam.com/video/BmmtPU4WHds/v-deo.html
Here's a video where I use the Stage 3 synth holding lush against a piano on top: ua-cam.com/video/qP2bnApIHbM/v-deo.html
Keep the questions coming...
@@MyKeysToMusic Thanking you for your reply. After watching your video i feel the synth functionality of the wave 2 is extremely appealing and the piano feature will be enough should i have some gigs lined up ( the 61 keys only option is definatly an oversight as a 73 key option would be alot more suitable) After 3 months of researching a variety of keyboards i am down to choosing between the Nord wave 2 and Novation summit ( outstanding digital synth but piano will be very electric piano offering but everything else is excellent ). I have recently parted with my Nord electro 3 and Sequential rev 2 so a keyboard that covers that general palate of sound of both keyboards in one keyboard will be suitable for me. If i do purchase the wave 2 i certainly will be watching your excellent tutorials here. Thanks again for your help.
@@xntricity6446 Thanks for the update and yes, feel free to stay tuned if you pick up a Nord Wave 2. I also have a complete "Master Class" on the Wave 2 on my website if you want to go all the way with it... I'll leave you with this Doctor Who video that I made with it for fun: ua-cam.com/video/cRJtSDe7ZXk/v-deo.html
I have a Sequential Prophet X and I'm looking to incorporate a Nord synth as a compliment to it but I'm a bit torn. I like the 4 part multitimbrality of the Wave 2 and the 4 different engines however I'm not a fan of the waterfall keybed. I prefer synth action style keys. I also haven't heard many orchestral sample type sounds from the Wave 2 compared to the Stage 3. Would replacing the keybed be an option or would that be problematic?
I'm also interested in the Stage 3 but it's quite expensive and I'm wondering if it's a good investment for a synth that's essentially there to compliment the Prophet X.
Hello, @@UCvnCcqUdTcu_K-GC9lz--Xw I can see why are you torn with this decision. The Prophet X covers a lot of ground here. If you are considering getting a Stage 3 for the keybed, you also get the organ engine and the piano engine which will both complement the Prophet and perhaps be a better partner to it. The Wave 2 has a lot of similarities to the Prophet from a pure synth standpoint and there is a fair amount of overlap. The Wave 2 shines with the 4 layers, the 48 note polyphony, and performance features such as the impulse morph. Yet, you don't favor its keybed. I think this may come down to the kinds of music/sounds you like to make. If you find you are more of a pure synth guy, then I lean towards the Wave 2. If however, you long for great sounding pianos and the occasional organ with a decent keybed, I would then lean towards the Stage 3. If you were looking to do more with synth layers and complex tapestry, then chances are you're going to be playing both boards from a single board. You could consider using the Prophet as the master and MIDI out to the Wave 2. That way you have the Prophet keybed but also the advantages of the Wave 2 layering all that "synth" to go along with it. Tough decision for sure. If you have more thoughts you want to bounce back and forth, feel free to keep the conversation going here...
@@MyKeysToMusic I’m more of a composer and do soundtrack style stuff. Ideally I would love for Nord to have a desktop module so I could use as a sound source but some of the Orchestral sounds I’ve heard on the Stage 3 I’m very much interested In incorporating into my setup. I understand that these samples can be loaded into the Wave 2 as well but I’ve not seen many soundpacks or heard many examples of this. I’m not a great piano player or anything and I’ll be using external sequencers and such should I get a Nord. It’s a tough call. For the price I’m strongly just considering doing my original plan and getting a second hand Prophet XL to accompany the PX.
@@EverettDudgeon138 I completely understand what you are saying and a lot of us would love a desktop module for the Nord Stage 3. If you are doing soundtracks and looking for a good source for orchestra sounds for example, I don't think I would purchase a Stage 3 for that. Although the Nord Sample Library is well-rounded and of fairly high quality, I don't believe it's typically what composers use for their soundtracks / orchestra sounds. Let me explain. If you're looking to have a full "orchestra sounding" soundtrack - in the style of John WIlliams for example, today people tend to use software for that like Logic Pro, Ableton, Pro Tools, etc. I flirted with this concept in this video: ua-cam.com/video/Jrtz20xzrbE/v-deo.html
If however, you're looking to record an amazing grand piano on a single track, then the Nord pianos are top shelf. If you want to lay down a synth track or two, you can certainly use the Nord Stage 3 or the Nord Wave 2 or the Nord Lead A1 for that to go along with your recording. Or if you need a B3 solo or rhythm track to enhance your recording, the Stage 3 and Nord Electro 6 have you covered. So the Nord keyboards can certainly be used for recording but I would not lean on them as a primary (or exclusive) sound source. I would use software for that. Now with that said, I'm about to contradict myself for a moment as I recently recreated the entire _Chariots of Fire_ soundtrack using nothing more than Nord keyboards as the only sound source: ua-cam.com/video/-_bJlgLlutU/v-deo.html. Of course I had Logic Pro as the ring-leader for that track and if I were to do it over again, it could perhaps be done a tad quicker using sounds built-in with Logic. However, the point of that particular video was to experiment using nothing but Nord boards as the sound source. AND it took 4 of them to do it - so in the end it was highly impractical and very expensive compared to a software-only solution. But, I think it demonstrates what can be done using the Nord platform and gives people a taste of their capability sound-wise, even if it was a demonstration of impracticality.
Now, today's great composers such as Hans Zimmer will use software as their base but then bring in synths and other acoustic instruments to record along side the main parts as needed. So a hybrid approach appears to work really, really well (best of both worlds). I refer to Hans as I recently watched his _Master Class_ where he talks a bit about this and his process for generating sound/music.
Your plan to get a second hand Prophet XL is not bad. You'll have an amazing analog synth with a lot of capability and undeniable qualitity with a synth heritage pedigree based on its designers. However, keep in mind that you're going to be limited to 16 voices. The Wave 2 for example has 4 layers and 48 voices so in some ways, it's potentially more capable as a multi-timbral instrument. What you trade for that is the fact that the Wave 2 is digital whereas the Prophet is an analog/digital hybrid. And here too, no desktop version of the Prophet XL that I know of. There is of course the Sequential Prophet-10 (desktop version), but now we're down to 10 voices and it's still quite an investment.
Also, keep in mind that today's software typically comes with a wide variety of synth generation options with the same kind of capabilities you seen with the hardware you are contemplating investing in. However, as many will argue, using a virtual synth is no where near as engaging or as fun to use. There's something about turning knobs and moving real sliders on a synth versus using the mouse doing the same on a computer screen. More will argue that you can't compare the sound of a real analog synth versus a virtual instrument as well. Here Dr. Mix talks about these concepts a bit more and provides his opinion: ua-cam.com/video/1VUWb-e-j0M/v-deo.html
We live in an era of nearly endless possibilities on the ways which we can create music. The hard part is deciding which tool/platform/combination to use to get us to our final destination. Just like heading to a destination in life, we can get there using a bike, a car, a train, a plane or on foot. I think you have to choose what you think you'll need for your compositions but also choose a method/interface you are going to seriously enjoy along the way. You might get there quicker by plane, but you may not enjoy the journey as much as you would by bike. What I'm trying to say is that if you're looking to compose amazing music, some would argue that all of that can be done with software and virtual instruments alone. They would also argue that it's the quickest and least expensive way to go about it. But, will you enjoy the journey as much if all your tracks are created using a mouse and a keyboard controller? These are the questions you have to ask yourself. Everyone is different and everyone will have their own answer to this.
Best of luck and drop a line once you have made a decision or if there are more questions! 🤨 - Marc
If i could have only 2 nord keyboards....one for piano and for the other synth sounds....what combination would you suggest?!no budget limit...thanks
Thanks for your question! If there is no budget limit and I wanted two Nord keyboards, without question, I'd get a Nord Stage 3 and a Wave 2. That gives you 6 layers of synth, awesomeness as well as great pianos and organs and a heck of a lot of capability. This combo will be begging you for a second pair of hands! 😎
Hello!…one question. I need a synthesizer but at the same time it has a piano sound, in a video I saw that this synthesizer did. It's true?...
Hello @Giovanni Daza - sorry for the delay on this response here - the holidays kept me busy as I'm sure it did with most everyone. The Stage 3 has both a synth and a piano engine. Both are top-notch sounding. The Wave 2 doesn't have a dedicated piano engine but it can still produce "basic" piano sounds from the samples played through the synth engine. However, the pianos in the Wave 2 do not have the quality of that compared to the Stage 3 which has the dedicated piano engine. People who are looking for a synth AND a piano, tend to purchase the Stage 3 and NOT the Wave 2. Hope that helps!
Hey Marc. A little question. I can see the nord wave 2 has impulse morph, which I can see after a little research is not a new thing. I have thought of a function like that, but i did not know it was a thing already.
Is there a way to simulate that on a stage 3. Like a manuel LFO-kind of thing.
Thanks a lot for a very
informative channel. Great work.
I also would like to know this. If you were good at electronics, you could create a button that plugs into the midi in and controls the modulation or expression pedal values. It could send a midi value of 127 for the modulation channel when pressed and send 0 when released. You could then assign multiple synth parameter changes to the mod wheel/expression pedal and recreate an instantaneous morph.
Great question and caused me to do a little research and voila! There is an answer. If you have a pad controller or a keyboard controller with pressure-sensitive pads, you can perform a "morph-like" control with your Stage 3. You set the pad amount to a minimum and maximum when pushed and you should be able to tap out a filter frequency cutoff control with your fingers. Keep in mind that a single pad can only control a single aspect of the Nord Stage 3 at a time so you'll need multiple fingers in order to hear several things at once which is what the Wave 2 can do with its Impulse Morph option using a single finger. But it gets you close the overall effect I think you're looking for. You'll have to get a controller with programmable pads and dig into the manual a bit to figure it out. I managed to get it going with my Axiom 61 keyboard controller which has pads on the top. Good Luck!
My Keys To Music Couldn't you set you pad to control the modulation value and then just assign multiple parameters to the modulation?
@@johnnulf624 Yes I did that too in fact on another pad. One pad was controlling just the frequency cut off and another was controlling the modulation where you then (on the Nord keyboard itself) assign the oscillator configuration to whatever setting you want. That works just as well by the way. I should do a video for this because it's easier to show/hear than it is to demonstrate in writing.
@@MyKeysToMusic a true Nord-master
When will your Wave 2 class be ready?
Hello e8n. Thanks for your question. I'm still gauging interest but the goal is to have it done this year in the fall time-frame.
one HUGE question, can I add a piano to the WAVE 2?
Hello @Minstrel the answer to this is yes and no. Start watching the video from here: ua-cam.com/video/Sph6hWPVAMI/v-deo.html where I talk in more detail about the piano options for the Wave 2. Also, you can check out this video where the song starts with a decent piano sound on the Wave 2: ua-cam.com/video/BmmtPU4WHds/v-deo.html
Hi Mark! Contemplating becoming a first time Nord customer and your videos have been extremely helpful! Once I purchase my Nord, I will definitely devour all of your tutorials!
Seeking your advice: I am hell bent on purchasing the new Korg Nautilus 88 once it comes out (I am a previous Kronos user). However, I am seeking a Nord to compliment the Korg; the easier UI of the Nords appeals to me.
I really want to get the NS3 88, but am concerned that there will be some redundancy when paired with the Nautilus. Thinking the Wave 2 would be the smarter purchase, but am really digging all the extra features and 88 keys that the NS3 offers, Kind of having decision paralysis now!
My strength is 4 decades of playing piano hence the desire for two 88 key boards, however I do have experience playing synths, so the 61 keys and lesser keybed quality of the Wave 2 would not be a dealbreaker.
These would be primarily used at home composing.
Thanks again for all of your efforts, great job!
Hello @JFish Notes Thanks for the update here on where you are at in the decision. This is a tough one but I actually lean towards getting the Wave 2 in your case. The Wave 2 as an enhancement keyboard combined with the Korg could end up being "the ultimate two keyboard rig" for you. Then again, one would argue that the Korg may be all that you actually need with its 9 sound engines and the fact that it's a true workstation. That same person might say, why even get a second keyboard at all? And they may be right. But there is something unique and special about the Nord boards as you've indicated. And of course, they are not at all a workstation, and comparing the two in that way would be futile. For example, the Nord boards don't have any kind of sequencer whatsoever. In fact, I consider the Nord keyboards more "performance" keyboards that allow for quick adjustments via the hands-on interface. And the way they are designed appear to encourage the player to manipulate things in realtime, in mid-performance, and with relative ease. They actually named the Wave 2 a "Performance Synthesizer" which I think is an accurate classification of it. I also like the option to use samples or make your own samples which not a lot of keyboards offer these days.
As a piano player, you may have to ask yourself how important it is for you to have the Nord pianos and the organ engine. The Wave 2 doesn't have either. The basic pianos and organs the Wave 2 does have are lackluster at best compared to the Stage 3. What the Wave 2 does have is the ability to play up to 4 samples from the Nord Sample library and a wide array of traditional synth sounds that are very effective. You can make your own creations from scratch fairly quickly with what ends up being an endless opportunity for exploration and effective results. The Wave 2 also has a full-featured arpeggiator which I find is one of the best features along with the impulses morph feature. Again, features like these cry out to be played on the fly along with a clock signal from let's say a drum machine, loop station, or even the Korg itself. In this way, the Wave 2 has the edge over the Stage.
Another advantage the Wave 2 has is if you had any interest at all really learning subtractive synthesis. This keyboard is not bad to learn on and there is plenty of advanced rope when you're ready for it too. So if you want to learn "synth fundamentals" I would say the Wave 2 might be a little more fun and approachable than the Korg or even the Stage. Then again, there are plenty of lower-cost synths out there that are very good to learn synth fundamentals on without the price tag of one of these big boys. Heck, you can learn synth fundamentals just by opening up a virtual synth on something like GarageBand or the like. But the reason I mention this is because if you ALSO had an interest in learning synthesis, the Wave 2 could double as your "training platform" for that as well.
Finally, and at the risk of introducing a shameless plug, You could take advantage of my "Master the Nord Wave 2" training course found at www.MyKeysToMusic.com. By taking a course like this, you have the chance of getting the most out of a keyboard like the Wave 2. I have a Stage 3 course as well. In the courses, not only do I demonstrate and help the player fully understand every feature and function, I provide practical examples of why a certain feature and function exists in a musical content with additional real-world examples. All of this is delivered via add-free pro video in a course engine that allows you to track your progress and provides a logical method for the fastest learning of it.
So, to sum this up now. If you think you're going to be satisfied with the Pianos and Organs provided on the Korg, then the Wave 2 and the Korg would make a killer combo. If however, you have fallen in love with the Nord pianos and like the hands-on Organ engine of the Stage 3, then go that route instead. With the Stage 3 you'll have all those options along with a very powerful synth as well if and when you need it. Yet, I still lean towards the Wave 2 in this particular case especially since you used the words "at home composing." I think the Wave 2 could make a good playground for a composer who's looking for some interesting sound/music idea starters so long as they have the main keyboard like the stage 3 or the Korg Nautilus 88 as the anchor.
Best of luck with this big decision and do feel free to report back. Now we're all curious about what you decide... 🤙🏼 🎹
@@MyKeysToMusic hello Mark! How very nice of you to offer such a detailed and informative answer! I am leaning towards your suggestion of the Wave 2; this makes perfect sense for what I am attempting to accomplish musically.
One of the many reasons I liked the NS3 was due to your excellent and easy to understand tutorial courses. I already watched a couple even though I didn’t make a purchase yet! Unfortunately, when I search your site, I don’t see any courses yet on the Wave 2? I would definitely pay for these tutorials should I purchase the Wave 2. Going to play then both tomorrow and make a decision. Thanks again for your kindness and the valuable service you offer!
@@jfishnotes9177 Thanks for your support here and for checking out the training site too! So yes, the Wave 2 course is just about complete but not released just yet. I have to finish the effects section, arpeggiator, vibrato, morph controls, Nord Sound Manager and MIDI implementation lessons still. But the rest is complete and I've already got over 5 hours of content so far - yikes! The "Master the Wave 2" course is on track to be released in Jan 2021.
Have fun tomorrow on your test run. My advice would be to bring a pair of your OWN headphones with you so you can do a nice point of reference test between the two and compare that with what you are accustomed to listening to at home. Then have them hook it up to an amp too if you can. The piano sounds of the Stage 3 are very picky about amplification. See if they can get a stereo setup versus a mono setup. Some keyboard amps are stereo - some are not. Maybe test through a mini PA perhaps as another consideration. Some retailers have the Nord piano monitors to test as well (those are the small red speakers custom-built to work with Nord keyboards). In any case, in my home studio, I used headphones 99% of the time because I find I'm doing all my work while the family is sleeping haha and they will likely both sound great through headphones.
@@MyKeysToMusic hi Mark! Yep,I always bring my own headphones when I go keyboard shopping. Like you, I wear them 99% of the time......but in addition there’s some amazing keyboardists usually hanging around the shop I frequent, so the headphones prevent me from having stage fright 😁🙄.
The shop always has their demo keyboards plugged into a P A system, but not sure what type of set up; I’ll be sure to ask. Thanks for the tip!
Bottom line, whether I get the Wave 2 or the NS3, you can expect to see me as a signed up client of yours shortly!
Thanks again
@@jfishnotes9177 Awesome. Good luck tomorrow!
Thanks Marc, i just sold my stage 3 76hp purely on the grounds the keyboard action was just terrible. I have ordered an electro 3 73d to replace it and wondering what to replace the synth section with. I used to have an electro 2 and loved but it didnt support the piano samples. Anyway thanks, might look to get a wave, it looks like an electro 6 and wave 2 would be an amazing combination!
Hello @Christopher Moore I understand what you are saying about the 76 HP. The HP has a polarizing effect for people where you either love it or hate it so I understand your position on this! Yes, the Electro 6 and the Wave 2 are a great combination. I think the Stage 3 and Wave 2 are even a slightly better combination actually but the Electro really does hold its own in so many ways. How are you liking your Electro so far?
Hi Marc, thanks for the reply, i haven’t got it yet! theres was 7 week lead time on it but i’m looking forwards to getting it! Best wishes, chris
@@BusyLizzy575 Oh wow! Now the hardest part is waiting for it to arrive. 😢
oh apologies i ment to say i ordered an electro 6 73 d! not electro 3!
Oh yes, I figured that you meant the Electro 6. Nice!
very comprehensive and informative. Now I have no interest in a Wave 2. Waiting for the new Nord Stage 4 and Electro 7.
Hey @Thomas Shea You survived the 1 hr and 20 min video! Well, like you, I very much look forward to a Nord Stage 4 to see what features they will offer. I do however love the Wave 2 and look forward to doing a lot more with it as well. Having the 4 synth layers comes in very handy.
will the nord wave 2 midi output transfer BOTH midi signal and audio from the preset on the keyboard into computer ?
Hello @DJANNY the answer to your question is yes and no. The audio from the Wave 2 only comes from the 1/4" outputs. MIDI comes from either the USB or the traditional 5 Pin DIN. Using GarageBand setup for multi-recording, I was able to simultaneously record the audio and the MIDI each from their respective ports. I think the key takeaway here is to know that the USB port does not transmit audio, just MIDI. Audio always comes from the 1/4" outputs. So, in order to record the audio into the computer, you'll need some form of an audio interface. I recommend you watch this video where I demonstrate how I set up the Nord Stage 3 for recording: ua-cam.com/video/UU6j5o3YfaA/v-deo.html And here is the video demonstrating multi-track recording for both MIDI and Audio: ua-cam.com/video/8mrKV35_45Q/v-deo.html
@@MyKeysToMusic oh wow thx alot man thats perfect !
Glad to hear it!
@@MyKeysToMusic so it can also be used as a midi controller inside any DAW
@@shawndoe6843 Yes indeed!
i bought a Electro 6 HP and im a beginner keyboard player. i want to learn all the songs from The Doors. but which of them will be the easiest song for me to start with? i tried Light my fire but that is a very long song and i think hard to master. i also copied all settings from your discovery video about the song. and yes the sound is very good.
Hello Somebuddyful! Wow, I love meeting new keyboard players - in my eyes, the more music in the world, the better... Light My Fire has a very tricky intro. To be honest, I'm not sure which Doors song would be a good one to start with on the keyboard - they all seem to have their set of challenges as Ray was a terrific keyboard player. Let us know which one you settle on and good luck with your new 6 HP!
My Keys To Music The Doors are my number one of all time band. My family has alot of people that played instruments my uncle played harmonica and had a drumset my grandpa played trumpet and my mom did too. One of my sisters played a flute. And i was into drums because of my uncle. I was a big fan of Deep Purple which changed when i first heard Light My Fire from The Doors. I also had a weak for the mysteriousness of the Jim Morrison. While i wanted to start right away with playing drums my grandpa wanted me to join the local fanfare, which was walking with only a snare drum. At first i liked it but after a couple of years i was bored having only one drum. So after asking 10 million times i got what i wanted. And i started having drum lessons. I started with the Californication from the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. But after a year it came crumbling down as my dad lost it’s job and there was no money for it. And he fell into a big depression which still affects the family to date. I am now 25 and have a pretty good job. But I don’t have room for a big drum set. But i have good hifi to enjoy music at high quality. But that still wasn’t enough for me. So after 1 year of research i wanted to buy a new Vox Continental. After finding your channel I changed my mind and just bought the electro 6 hp since i knew the doors used different organs and the nord can replicate any of them. But i still like the look of the Vox more. Only thing i wish they shouldve done was using black keys as the original did. Yep long comment but no worry you reached the end of it :)
Wow, what a story - thanks for sharing this. I remember the day I first heard Riders On the Storm. I was like 9 years old or something and the rain and thunder sound effects pulled me in and I was memorized. There was nothing like that I had ever heard before. I also liked how the electric piano was so forefront in the music which again was so unusual for rock bands of that time.
I enjoyed reading that you are continuing your music journey with an instrument smaller than the drums - I get that. I wanted to play drums first too - but Dad didn't like that idea haha. We had an upright piano in house already and I wanted to be in the school band so I decided on the alto sax. The piano was always there as the anchor instrument. Then I saw my first synth (Korg Poly Six) and I was forever hooked.
Enjoy your Nord Electro 6 and I'll keep these comments in mind for future content. Thanks again for sharing your story. 🎹
My Keys To Music i have another question? I am trying for years to find the original rain and thunder only track from riders on the storm. Ive searched for ages now. Do you have any idea where i could find it?
@@somebuddyful You might be able to extract the thunder from this Karaoke track: www.karaoke-version.com/custombackingtrack/the-doors/riders-on-the-storm.html. To learn more about how Karoke version works, you can check out my video here: ua-cam.com/video/Z5xLtLl_ZIw/v-deo.html
How to uses these in tandem. Are there some Easter eggs you can share!!!!! Lol chocolate only!
Great question. I plan on making a video on how best to use two Nord keyboards in tandem.
My new fantom can layer 16 layers deep and create sounds… why would I need a nord???
Hi Mike. I think I understand what you're talking about here. I did a fair amount of research on the Fantom just now and it's a killer board with lots of features. First of all, it's a workstation, not a Stage keyboard so to compare the two is a bit of Apples and Oranges. However, with that said, pound for pound it seems like you're getting a boatload more features from the Roland than you are from the Nord.
I also believe that because the Roland does more, there is likely to be "more to learn" and a fair amount of menu diving to go along with that. I'm not saying it's harder, I'm just saying there is "more" of everything so more to learn, more features one has access to, and more options to understand within those features. To some, this is a great thing. To others, more options doesn't necessarily mean better.
Besides overall features and capability, one has to compare the actual sound quality and workflow as well. Here is where I think you're going to get strong opinions where one prefers one style over the other and that can go in either direction of course.
I often think about investing in the Fantom because many times I long for a sequencer (not available on Nord products) as well as more layers. Then again, I've never owned a workstation because I always had in my mind, "If I'm going to invest in a workstation, why not just use a computer?" So as such, I never bought a workstation. I had Roland Stuff from 1991 through to about 2009 for my gigs. Then I switched to Nord because at the time there was nothing better for imitation of the Rhodes Electric piano, the Grand Pianos as well as the organ sounds. Since then, many have offered similar quality in this department. So if I had to start from scratch, I'd be taking a second look at Roland again for sure.
I’ll go with the wave 2!!!!! With organs!!! Wave2plus
You can't go wrong with the Wave 2 if you are interested in raw sound creation or sampling. Also notable is the strong arpeggiator capability and it's just so agile to perform with. I get lost for hours on the Wave 2...
@@MyKeysToMusic yes I need a lot of arpeggios for my song so the nord wave 2 would fit me best with my Roland fantom ( great addition) to my collection…my question the nord wave 2 better than the fantom as far as creating sounds??? You can dive deep in the parameters and tweak the lfos and occillators .. Iam I buying red keyboard that does the same thing or something better???
@@mikemo5520 Both keyboards (the Fantom and the Nord Wave 2) will enable you to create sounds from scratch. In fact, there is probably a lot of overlap between the two keyboards in many ways. Have you tried diving deep with your Roland yet? What is attracting you to the Nord Wave 2 exactly? For me, now that I've learned the Wave 2, it's very quick to build sounds and get them doing amazing things in no time. I assume that you could do the same with the Roland too once you have the chops to do that. I think it comes down to personal preference and figuring out what makes you tick, and then figuring out which keyboard is going to scratch the most itches for you. The hard part is that you may not know the answer to these questions until you play with the Nord Wave 2 for a few months. It's almost like you have to drive the car for a while before you are sure you like it and it does what you need it to...
Keep the questions coming if you have them...
@@MyKeysToMusic Lot of attractions!!! The red brings me in! Recommended by store owner..he can’t keep them in the store… my chops are very good.. I’ve been tweaking sounds , using effects . Diving real deep… i have to spend some time with the nord wave2 to real make a decision…
@@MyKeysToMusic tell me about the overlap… can you make a demonstration??? Do you have the fantom??? Can you do a comparison between the 2 as far as sound creation…fantom is very powerful and it’s a workstation….
...................................So the Stage has Wah effects and the Wave does not, but cannot the Wah effect be created on the Wave by sending (say, the clavinet) sound through the synth section, applying filter/mod/even LFO? Having three Wah effects packaged/with buttons on the Stage sounds mighty convenient, but I would think that the same effects can be manually created (and possibly more refined) on the Wave. Am I totally insane here, tilting at windmills? If it's true that I can create a Wah filter effect in the synth section of the Wave, is it perhaps true that I could similarly muster at the very least a crude flange effect? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
@johnrobb3275 a poor man's "wah-like" effect can be had with the Wave 2 in the way that you described by adding a filter with the following settings:
Filter Envelope:
Envelope Amount 4.4
Attack: 75 ms
Decay: 158 ms
Sustain: 100%
Release: 45 ms
Frequency Cutoff 392 Hz
Resonance: 4.3
Filter Type: LP12
EQ (set to parametric)
Frequency: 569 Hz
EQ Gain: 8 DB
Alternatively, for the filter, you can try the bandpass filter and adjust the following:
Filter Frequency: 14 Hz
Resonance: 6.5
*Although the above settings will get you in the ballpark, they are not exactly spot on to what the Stage 3 can do with the built-in Wah effect. At the end of the day, the built-in Wah effect provided by either the Nord Stage, Electro, or Piano is a one-click wonder that is hard to imitate exactly using the built-in synth tools. (And as far as my skills will let me go with it)*
And more good news. Nord officially added a "Phase" effect for the Nord Wave 2, which is enabled when both the RM and Chorus lights are active. This feature came after the initial release as an OS update. This effect is spot-on, as you'd expect. There is no Flange to speak of, but you may be able to replicate something starting with adding some chorus and then tweaking the synth settings or perhaps having a sound duplicated across two layers and slightly detuned perhaps? Then maybe a slight LFO mixed in along the way. I didn't have time to work up a Flange effect. Hope these details help explain things. Bottom line. You can "sort of" imitate a wah effect, but it's not as good as having an actual option in the effect section in my opinion.
at 1:03:00 this is amazing.... Vincent Clarke can hear you...
Hey Thom! Yes, I was wondering if anyone would notice that part. 😀 I had too much fun doing it - plus I love that song. In fact, Erasure is loaded with pattern-like arpeggiation throughout their repertoire. Thanks for your comment and for watching past the 1-hour mark! 😎
@@MyKeysToMusic Thanks My Keys for that piece... I grew up with Vince Clarke, Yazoo, Erasure and Depeche Mode... I had to comment on that. Just some questions on Wave 2. How many sounds can you save on the Synthesizer? and if you are DAWless does it have any kind of sequenzer? Please public more vids with 80's songs...made by you!
@@thombroom5515 Sounds like you and I grew up in the same era. You can store 400 programs (and each program can have up to 4 layers). There is no built-in sequencer on any of the Nord keyboards. Hope that helps. I certainly plan on more 80s songs for sure in the future. Thanks again for your good questions. 👍🏼
Nordwave 2 Lfo has only 3 destinations ??? NO destination for resonance, Pan, ecc..😒
Correct Lorello, only three destinations. Although with one destination as the Osc control, the choices widen based on the osc configuration. Yet, even with that, things like resonance, drive, or any effects rates or amounts cannot be a target of the LFO. In addition (and where people are most critical), is the fact that there is only one LFO per layer and that LFO is limited to a single destination at a time. An interesting thing is how they make everything I just mentioned available as something you can simultaneously assign to the impulse morph with varying amounts, yet the LFO has severely clipped wings by comparison. Luckily, the LFO targets the main things people tend to use so perhaps most users don’t realize this as much of a limitation especially if they don’t already own a more flexible synth. In other words, if you’ve been driving a car without power windows your whole life, you may not realize it until you drive a car with that option. Until then, you simply don’t know any better but are blissfully happy that you can at least roll down the window. So I guess in this scenario, you can at least roll down one window. 🚙
What I find are the biggest limitations of the Wave 2 is the fact that the sustain pedal cannot be individually assigned layer by layer. (It’s all on or all off). The other limitation is the fact that the zones are assigned from left to right versus on or off. I’d like better control of where each layer is sounded and I’d like an option where one layer can be heard in all zones if I wanted. That’s an option available on the Stage 3 but not on the Wave 2.
The strengths of the Wave is the fact that it has decent polyphony and the ability to play either samples and or synths on 4 layers. It also has very strong morph options for the performer. So I think the name they chose to call it which is “performance synthesizer“ is fitting. However when judged against another programmable synthesizers in the price range, limitations such as with the LFO may be a dealbreaker for some. Yet, others will be really enjoying the additional flexibility you get from 4 independent layers without the crippling polyphony limitations so many other synth manufacturers present you with.
Good luck on your decision. Happy to answer more questions as they come up!
How is that even a comparison?!
Well, I have to admit it's a bit of apples and oranges here. But people were asking for a comparison and I was curious myself on the details. Perhaps the intent was to limit the comparison to strictly the synth capabilities but I decided to compare everything since there are many that don't know anything about Nord out there.
:)
Thanks Voices...