Nord User Forum

[Burningkeys]

Maybe a weird question but anyway...

Hypothetically, would it be theoretical possible to mount a 76-key HA76 keybed from a Nord Stage 2 series into a North stage 3 HP 76?

I have encountered a dielmma. I have so far owned an NS2 88 but now intend to buy me a NS3 as it has important features missing in the NS2. But a couple of days ago I tried an HP 76 and I was disappointed when as was much heavier to play on than the HA version. I don't want a 88 key anymore because I think it's too heavy to carry around any longer. So now I stand in the choice of buying the 88 version and continue to carry the high weight or bet on the compact model. But then the compact model has real drawbars instead of the LED diodes and I just love the LED diodes. Therefore, I wonder if I would be able to replace the keybed in a NS3 HP or get the LED panel from an other NS and mount it in a NS3 compact.

I know it may seem a little bit drastic but when you looking for your ultimate dream-keyboard...
I'm also aware that I'm not earning more than a couple of kilos compared to buying the 88 version, but the 76 version is more portable when you often play on smal stages so...

[Music*aL]

I can't answer your question, but I offer a couple of thoughts on the HP action.

I bought the NS3 hp76 about a month ago. I'd had the NS 88 classic, the NS2 SW, and most relevantly the NP2 HP and was worried at first that the action would be similar to the NP2. It wasn't. But, even when I got my hands on the NS3, I was a bit worried about how heavy it felt at first. To my happy surprise, after a few days, my hands adapted to playing the HP and the regular HA no longer seemed as expressive as the HP under my hands. Also, I believe the action loosened up a bit although I can't prove that. All this to say, this could be a bit of a gamble for you, but if you purchase the HP from a store that has a return policy you should try it for a few days and see whether you can acclimate to the touch!

I can tell you I love mine and love the light schlep factor.

aL

[friendben]

I agree with Music*aL about the NS3 hp76 action. It is a bit heavier than my HA76 was, and it did take a little while to adjust, but I am enjoying the HP76 action now. It's closer to most of the pianos I learned on. Real pianos are different from each other, and without realizing it, we are always adjusting.

[usrockband]

I had an NS3 76 Hp, and recently sold it in fsvour if an NS3 compact. I too absolutely despised the HP action. I just couldn’t adjust. So I took a slight hit on selling it and bought a Compact. I have absolutely 0 regrets.

If you are fine with using SW keys I would highly recommend it over the 76 for most playing personally. The physical draw bars bother me exponentially less than the Hp action did (I think they’re actually superior to the LED’s). On top of that if weight is a concern for you the compact is the best of the lot.

[Rusty Mike]

I've been playing the HP action for quite a few years now, and find it very playable. The first impression is that it is heavier feeling than the HA, which inclines one to play with a heavier hand. I have found quite the opposite to work. Try playing it with a lighter hand than you think you need and it becomes quite expressive.

And I concur with Music*aL's perception that it does loosen up over time.

It seems to be a very polarizing topic among us keyboard people.

[Burningkeys]

Thanks for all the replies guys! I have seen alot of videos now and compared the Compact and the HP back and forth and I don't feel comfortable with the physical drawbars on the SW. So I think I'll give the HP one more try before buy. You know I've played on a Electro 5 HP some time ago and when I first tried you the NS3 HP I thought it would feel the same. Maybe it feels better next time as I know a little how it feels now.

Thanks for your input!

[danrv]

but the 76 version is more portable when you often play on smal stages so...

That's why I went for the Stage 2 HA76 over the HA88. Very portable and compact for a weighted 76 due to the width.
The HA88 may only be a couple of kilos heavier but the extra
width makes it a little unwieldy in small areas.
I'd probably get used to HP action for piano but for organ
I certainly wouldn't want a heavier feel than the HA.