Nord Lead A1 ‘A True Synthesizer Powerhouse’

At the 2014 NAMM Show, Nord Keyboards are introducing the new Nord Lead A1 – a new keyboard that they call ‘a true synthesizer powerhouse ‘.

The Lead A1 combines the latest analogue modelling engine from the Nord Lead 4, offering 24-voice polyphonic and four part multi-timbral synthesis. 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 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 new Ensemble and Chorus effects are analog models of specific classic synths, bringing vintage analogue warmth and feel.

Nord’s Morph function via Velocity or the Mod Wheel is also included, allowing multiple parameters to be morphed in real time and with 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.

Here are Nord Lead A1 audio demos: