Vintage Synth Explorer Forums

Hi everybody,

which Clavia Nordlead is the best in your opinion ?
I am a composer focusing on electronic music and
atmospheric filmmusic.
Since i read that the Nine Inch Nails for example use the
Nord Lead 2 i ask myself why i should for example go for
the 3 ?
And what about the Rack Versions ? Same Usability ?

Any response is appreciated.

Silencer

the best Nord to me is the Nord modular G1 which is referring to the older Nord sounds. you might also considering the G1 for a more flexible sound design for film. It is also used a lot by NIN. But I also like the 2x for it's modern and smoother sounds next to the G1. If should choose, I'd get the one with the early nord character which sounds greater to me. I own the Rack version of the 2x and not missing anything but the pitch stick, since I got a better action keyboard to control it.

I feel the nord modular g1 keyboard is the best.

the best lead isn't a lead at all, g1 for sure.

wiss wrote:I feel the nord modular g1 keyboard is the best.

exactly, that's my baby one of the best sounding and best looking two octs keyboard. the keyboard might not have the best action, but it feels solid and playable enough for sound designing and some bass/lead line. But I also controlling it with my Karma, for some additional keys/controllers and mad midi processing.

Of the leads there isnt a "best" per se, but I would recommend either the lead 2x or the lead 3.


The 3 is more digital sounding, and also has 4 operator FM synthesis, plus the endless rotaries.

The 2x is the analog polysynth idea boxed into a VA keyboard, no effects, just bare analog style synthesis.

Depends on what you're looking for really.

Don't even bother with the lead 1.

Btw my 2x is for sale

I have the original Nord Modular (a.k.a. "G1"), Nord Modular G2 and a Nord Lead 3 Rack and use them for more "atmospheric" and ambient type sounds. never had any experience with the 2X, but I'm certain it's very capable being a Nord and most comparable to the original Modular. anyway, while I really like the sounds I'm able to get with the G2 and Lead 3 Rack, I find with a bit of effects on the G1 it sounds just as good and even at times makes me consider giving up my Virus B. comes down to whether or not you'd want to use a computer to edit your patches, if not then the Lead series is definitely the way to go. as far as I can tell with the Lead 2 and 3 the only things you lose with the rack versions is the keyboard, mod wheel and pitch stick, otherwise they are functionally the same.

Thanks to everybody for your replies!

Looks like i will either go for the G1 or 2X and
maybe even with keys if i HAVE to have the Pitchstick

Best,

Silencer