Nord Lead A1

This is the new Nord Lead A1 analogue modelling synthesizer – a stunning sounding synthesizer that combines our next-generation analogue modelling with a simplified yet hugely powerful front panel interface. Producing stand-out sounds for live or for the studio, the Lead A1 is ideal for all musical genres. Thanks to its carefully thought-out user interface, the Lead A1 encourages experimentation, allows for far speedier programming than would otherwise be possible, and ultimately delivers sensational sonic results.

Lead A1 49-note keyboard version

Lead A1R desktop/rackmountable version

 

Our best-ever analogue modelling …

At the heart of the Lead A1 is our new analogue modeling engine. Taking our virtual analogue synthesis to a new level, this modeling recreates a total analogue signal path with uncanny realism, and is capable of immense sonic variety. With 24-voice polyphony and four simultaneous synthesizer parts, the Lead A1 is a true synthesizer powerhouse. With a choice of 47 waveforms from our new Analogue Wave Engine and our newly developed "Fat-As-Fat-Can-Be" Unison Mode, the new Lead A1 is our most analogue-sounding synth to date.

 

... combined with our most intuitive interface

Fundamental to the design of the Lead A1 is a brand new simple yet sophisticated front panel interface. The design is in fact the result of requests from professional players – even the most experienced programmers - who need to create the perfect sound as quickly as possible for today's live or studio time demands. The Lead A1 allows easy patch creation and experimentation thanks to a new and unique oscillator section, pre-programmed modulation matrix, and simplified ADR envelopes. Dive in and create incredible patches far quicker than would normally be possible with a synthesizer of such power.

Listen to Audio Demos

 

 

 

 

Main Features

 

Waveform Engine

Newly developed realtime Waveform Engine.

As the starting point for any sound, the Lead A1's new Waveform Engine generates 47 different waveforms from classic analogue to digital harmonic and inharmonic waves.

 

Oscillator Configurations

Unique Oscillator Shortcuts dramatically speeds up programming time and allows for greater immediacy and experimentation in sound design.

The Nord Lead A1 features unique Oscillator Configuration Shortcuts, combining two oscillators. Start with a single Oscillator waveform and select an Oscillator Configuration Shortcut - Pitch, Detune, Shape, Sync, FM, AM, Dual Osc or Noise - and use the OSC Control knob to adjust the settings of the configuration.

The end result is high speed programming without the need for the usual complexity of routing and patching, and with the opportunity for ready experimentation. A fast track to stunning sound design for both advanced and less experienced programmers.

 

Filter Section

Super-smooth modelled filters with a warm analogue character

The Lead A1's filter section features classic 12 and 24 dB Low Pass, a High Pass and a Band Pass filter, together with stunning emulations of the diode and ladder filters from the legendary Mini and the TB-303 synthesizers. The Lead A1's modelling of these filters capture the true character and response of the originals, allowing supremely flexible and precise sound design.

 

Modulation

Simple and streamlined modulation matrix. Thanks to the intuitive design of the front panel it is very easy to see what modulations have been applied and to design incredible sounding patches.

Mod Envelope

The three-stage ADR Modulation Envelope(ADR)can be triggered from the keyboard, can be inverted and controlled by velocity.

LFO

The Lead A1 features an LFO with a choice of waveforms. The LFO rate can be sync'd to the Lead A1's Master Clock. The LFO can also be used as an additional Modulation Envelope.

Vibrato

A dedicated LFO for Vibrato is always available for use.

 

Effects Section

Reverb, Delay and choice of one of six further effects available with independent settings for each slot of the Lead A1 simultaneously

The Lead A1's effects section features two stunning brand new analog models of an Ensemble and Chorus, modeled on specific vintage synths and adding classic warmth and analog feel. Alongside these, choose from great-sounding Ring Modulation, Phaser, Flanger or Drive per slot and in addition a separate Delay and Reverb for each slot.

 

Peformance Features

The Lead A1 is built for the studio and the stage.

Master Clock

The Master Clock function of the Lead A1 allows the LFO, Arpeggiator and Delay to be synchronized, either internally or slaved to external MIDI clock. A Tap Tempo button allows you to easily tap to the tempo of a drummer or to playback tracks.

Arpeggiator

The Lead A1 features four separate Arpeggiators with Up/Down and Random modes and a 4-octave range. Any or all can be sync'd to the Lead A1's master clock.

Splits and Layers

Having four identical, equally powerful synthesizers at once opens breathtaking layering possibilities. The Split-mode gives you two 2 slots on each side of the split. A flexible Hold functionality lets you latch and hold slots independently in the background while playing something else on top.

Multi Edit Mode

New in the Lead A1 is the Multi-Edit Mode that allows editing and control of all four slots simultaneously. Save this mode as part of a Performance and you have live realtime control over all four slots of the Lead A1.

Four Outputs

The Lead A1 features four independent audio outputs with the ability to route each slot to a different output. Plus control of Pan via the front panel knob is a welcome new addition in the Lead A1.

MIDI Control

The Lead A1 features the convenience of MIDI over USB for use with a DAW or with the included Sound Manager software. All of the Lead A1's knobs transmit MIDI Control data.

 

Sound Design Tools

The Lead A1 includes additional useful tools for sound design, including the unique 'Like' function

Like

Unique to the Nord Lead A1 is the new ‘Like’ function, a simple and brilliant practical feature to use during patch creation. When programming a patch it’s often not clear if it’s yet perfect. Now with the Lead A1 you can simply ‘Like’ what you’ve done into a temporary location and continue editing. You can Like up to 50 variations, with the ability to scroll between them to compare your favourites or go back to a specific Liked version to edit in a different way. When you’re ready, save your favourite patch or patches to the Lead A1’s memory.

Mutator

A popular feature of the Lead 4, the Mutator function allows variations of a patch to be created by adjusting one, some, or all elements of a patch by set percentages.

Randomize

There’s also a wild Randomize mode to create an entirely new patch with all parameters randomized.

 

Sound Manager

Software librarian

The Lead A1 and A1R include the Nord Sound Manager software for OS X and Windows. Sound Manager is a dedicated librarian app which allows easy reorganizing, back-up an transfer of programs.

 

The Hardware

Handmade in Sweden

Like all Nord keyboards the Lead A1 and Lead A1R are handmade in Nord's Stockholm factory with incredible attention to detail and quality control. An all-metal chassis, tactile knobs, and unfaltering emphasis on quality complete a synthesizer designed to last a lifetime.

UK Price and Availability

 

When

The Lead A1 will ship in the UK at the end of April 2014.
The Lead A1R will ship in June 2014.

How much?

The Lead A1 is £1249 RRP inc VAT.
The Lead A1R is £1049 RRP inc VAT.