Nord User Forum

Hi there folks,

Expanding on my earlier post. The objective is to have 2 boards, stacked;

- Bottom keyboard: weighted keys (the N2EXHA), use primarily for AP and EP sounds, where the weighted keys help add expression and depth.

- Top keyboard: unweighted keys / waterfall, etc, use primarily for organ, other sounds where the waterfall keys are much more conducive to playing technique, fast solos, glissando.

So, my first inclination is that the top keyboard does NOT need any internal sounds of its own, rather it can be a midi controller, and use the great organ and synth sounds from the N2EX. Several benefits, much lighter weight, smaller footprint, less cables, less expensive. Another nice-to-have would hopefully be a simple midi setup with the N2EX. Not planning for a lot of complex layers and splits on the top board, for example - simply have organ on top, piano on bottom.

With that, I'd like to hear thoughts from the group; does anyone use this type of rig? If yes, what lightweight midi controllers are you using and love?

I noticed that the Roland A800 Pro is well rated, but appears to be more for hooking up to a laptop, rather than connecting to another board (such as the N2EX).

Many thanks for your thoughts everyone!

I used an A500PRO with the NS2 88, when I used to own that model: perfect pair, if you don't mind the Roland's slightly smaller keys; otherwise go for other models such as,just for example, the Novation SL, but whatever model you choose ensure it has a MIDI OUT standard (DIN) connector.

Oh yes! two boards come to mind, for a very small footprint and a high quality keybed consider Roland A49, i use it right on the face of Electro 5D with two 5inch pieces of wood 2x4,,,, no stand even needed!, great for triggering Nord organ sounds, simple trick is needed for USB/wall wart usage!.
Second board to consider is Roland PCR-800, its a little bigger and split-able, high quality keybed, i use that one right on the face of Motif XS6/XS8 with two pieces wood same way. {two way tape keeps um stable}
Man, cheap! & they like double my capabilities, no need to constantly be changing sounds, 4 keyboards-no mixer needed!-nord into motif input/ stereo out to powered speakers, two simple stands, very little wiring,,, Man, its just F-ing awesome!