Nord Electro 3
By Dan on Aug 19, 2009 with Comments 3
Today we are going to talk about the Clavia Nord Electro 3 keyboard. This keyboard is very different from other synthesizers and sampler technology based pianos. The essence of the Nord Electro is based on combining sampling technology with the creation of sound that is virtually derived. This technology is used to create instruments like the classic organs, Hammond and Farfisa organ sounds in addition to many other instruments.
The Clavia Nord Electro keyboard has been completely revamped not least of which is the sound module which has been updated. The beauty of this machine really stems from the fact that many of the instrument sounds are easily accessible through a very intuitively designed user interface.
This keyboard is equipped with drawbars much like the old Hammond organs but the drawbar positions are merely represented by by series of aligned LED lights. The Yamaha nord electro-features preset organ sounds which are matched to the drawbar LEDs.
The effects processor is intuitively designed also and makes selecting effects more accessible for quick changes during performance sessions. One thing that stands out which is a bit odd is that the echo effect, standard on earlier versions of the Nord Electro keyboard is no longer present.
One of the most notable features on this keyboard is the electric piano sounds including the Fender Rhodes which is just exquisite, replicating the exact tonal qualities of the original Rhodes.
The grand piano sound is somewhat weak which didn’t leave me with a great sense of excitement.
The default factory built in samples offer wide range of instruments from orchestral, strings, woodwind, brass and percussion.
The Nord Electro provide no means of backing up any user customized sounds which again is somewhat odd.
One other drawback I found this keyboard is the fact that it only has 40 to 60 voices of polyphony.
The Good
Based on the feature set this keyboard is great for active performances with a sound module that really kicks butt for the price.
The Bad
The fact that the echo effect has been dropped in the Electro 3 can be an issue for some musicians.
See more information and feedback here
Filed Under: Piano Keyboard
Found a site that sells ultra high quality samples for Nord Electro 3.
http://www.nordsamples.com
These guys make great synth sounds which aren’t available anywhere else.
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This is a nice instrument, but has a weak piano, or at least not top notch. My Privia PX 330 has a much much better piano, and actually, the electric pianos in the Privia are close to the Nord. The organ in the Nord is amazing.
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woot, thank you! I’ve finally came across a website where the owner knows what they’re talking about. You know how many results are in Google when I check.. too many! It’s so annoying having to go from page after page after page, wasting my day away with tons of owners just copying eachother’s articles… ugh. Anyway, thankyou for the information anyway, much appreciated.
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