Nord User Forum

[apemakeape]

So, I want to buy my first nord synth. Give me advise what is better between two synths: nord lead 2x and nord lead 3, it would be great if you also give comments why. Thanks!

[Marlowes]

Hej Mr/Mrs Ape!

The NL2X is now a mainstream classic, easy to work with and to be easily found at a very good price.
The NL3 is hard to find (?) and perhaps a bit expensive? A bit differernt from other Leads when it comes to programming, but with larger possibilities. I have not played it myself, though.

Both lacking internal FX.

/Vänligen
Michael in Scania

[RedLeo]

One isn't really better than the other, they're just a bit different. They're both Nord Leads, and it's probable that either of them would work equally well in most musical situations. What sort of music are you intending to use them for?

[apemakeape]

Hard to describe but the closest example is Japan I think

[Marlowes]

If cost isn't a major factor, I'd reccomend looking into the A1. Sounds amazing, simple interface but versitile, and on board FX.

I've had mine for 2 weeks now and I'm over the moon with it.

[RedLeo]

Hard to describe but the closest example is Japan I think

In that case either of them will be absolutely fine. As Marlowes said, the Lead 2x is probably far less of a hassle to find and buy - cheaper too. The Lead 3 is very special in its own way though, with an amazing interface, possibly one of the best ever, and a bit extra on the programming capabilities. I think of it as the "luxury" version of the Lead series.

Does it have to be one of only those two? The A1, as mentioned by mnmist, and the Lead 4 are also well worth considering. Remember, they're all Nord Leads, just slightly different flavors and features. They would all work for you.

Are you a fan of Richard Barbieri's? A very cool and under-rated synthesist.

[Marlowes]

I would recommend the Nord Lead 2x over the NL3 for your first synth. Note that the 2x has the built in drum patches and has the ROM programs which are good starting points. There are also a TON of patches available for the NL2x which include those from the NL1 and NL2. Later on you can add either the A1/NL3/NL4 when funds permit. Any of those three synths would be different enough to the NL2x to warrant picking them up. The NL2x is also the cheapest.