Nord User Forum

[Yogi108]

Hello: I'm in the midst of a big life transition and have to let go of either the Nord Stage 2 EX (88 keys) or my Nord Electro 5 (73 keys). They are both in mint condition. The thing is I know the power of the Stage, but then I think of possible gigs and the weight difference between the two...and don't get me wrong, the Electro is a beauty as well! Also, the Electro has the physical organ knobs which I really like, and a simplified, though some may argue, more limited functionality. In all honesty, I haven't done a gig in years. With this new transition in my life, I'd like to think this will be changing... you are what you make of it, right? If I do decide to sell the Stage 2 EX, I wonder if I'll be kicking myself later... then again, if I sell the Stage now and get a reasonable amount (what do they each go for in the resale market... anyone?), I'd still have an electro 5 and in 2 or 3 years if the Stage 3 ever comes out... I'd be in a good position...

What do you all think?

Rod

[jfenton]

About 40 years ago, I was in a stage of my life that I had to give up my B-3 and my Rhodes. As painful as it was then, now I have a Hammond SK2 and Nord Stage 2 and they are far more functional and portable than my original instruments. Don't worry, when the time is right for picking up your instruments again, there will be something good there waiting for you.

[Yogi108]

Thanks @jfenton. Pablo... if you have any thoughts on choosing one I'd greatly appreciate your thoughts. I respect your opinions very much.

[Johannes]

Hi Rod,
I see your points. Been there. Well, from your writing, my guess is that keeping the Electro seems like a good solution. Notably since you don't seem to need all the NS2's capabilities right now. Indeed couple of years down the line you will be in a good position to see what's out there, plus a NS 2 EX should get you a great resale value right now before new models come out. Gigging or not (now or in the future) is a game changer, so in case you're planning for it more in the farther future, flexibility (hence selling a (quite expensive and powerful) board) can be a great option.
Just my 0.02$.
Best, Johannes

[harmonizer]

I would look at what capability exists for splits in the two keyboards you have. I believe there a Split capability that the Electro 5 has that earlier Electros do not have, but it probably is not as flexible as what your Stage provides. I suggest that you get a good understanding of what that difference is, before making your decision.

[jfenton]

For me, I'd sell both existing units and buy a NS2 Compact EX instead (73). Smaller than an NS2 88 and lighter action. More overall functionality than a NE5

[Yogi108]

Thanks for all of your feedback gents! It's good to bounce off ideas!!

Interesting idea to sell both and get the NS2 Compact... How easy would they be to sell? How much would I get for them?

The one thing I really love is the pitch bend in the Nord Stage 2... is there an option, and I believe there is... to control pitch bend via another external keyboard? I have a NI komplete S61 or an even more portable Nektar LX49...
Though I've always wondered if there's just a portable pitchbend that someone makes for situations like the Electro 5... Anyone know?

[e8ndave]

For me, I'd sell both existing units and buy a NS2 Compact EX instead (73). Smaller than an NS2 88 and lighter action. More overall functionality than a NE5

^^^^^^^^^^This!!

I have a 73 and love it. It is light and portable and does EVERYTHING it's big brother does. You could actually probably find a used NS2 Compact (non-EX) very resonably.

[themixtape]

Interesting. I'm almost in the same boat....

I have an Electro 5 HP, which I do love. And I have an Electro 5D 61, because I really dig the semi-weighted keys.

I'm thinking of actually doing the same... selling both and picking up a Stage 2 EX... but I can't decide on weighted or semi-weighted.

Plus, that 5's screen is SO pretty and the setlist functionality is awesome!

Which Electro 5 73 do you have? Semi-weighted or the HP?

The 5 73 SW goes for on average, $1800 used (USD). The Nord Stage 2 EX 88 goes for far more I'd say like $3500 used.

You could pull in $5300 for both, easily.... and get a Stage 76 or Stage 73 for about $3k and still have money left over.

Now the choice is... semi-weighted or weighted? Keep in mind, you could always use a weighted-key digital piano connected to whichever Nord you buy, and have the ability to use 2 pianos at once (weighted piano could have a grand or upright on it, and your actual Nord could have a Rhodes).... but I realize this isn't ideal to gig with...

If you are mainly a piano player, go for the Stage2 EX 76. If you're mainly a clav/funky guy or organist, the Compact is the way to go.

Either way, you've got options!

[themixtape]

The Stage 2 EX can do everything the Electro 5 can, and much more, as you know. It's just one octave less keys (88s nice, but often unnecessary). Lighter, lighter, lighter. That's the key. The Stage 2 EX 76 is 27 pounds. The Stage 2 EX Compact is even lighter as the keys are semi.

I'm seriously considering doing the same exact thing as you.... I think the 76 or Compact 73 is for me, if I can unload both of these! I'm looking to get almost $4000 used for both of mine (plus they have great flight cases)... I'll buy a used 73 or 76 and have a cool $1000 left over.