NORD STAGE 4 officially announced for February 16th 2023

[jaapb]

Has anyone mentioned the possible lack of ADR(S) functionality the Synth-section on the NS4?
Since there are the three Attack/Decay/Release knobs on the NS3

[stgermain]

This could be the first Stage I will not be buying.

I can’t justify the cost, I’ll stick with my Stage 3 compact, and continue to look into Gig Performer to play VSTs

[Normski]

Even though I havnt heard a sound demo yet.
For a Kb that one third of it is Organ.
If there are no improvements over previous models. I have to say I feel a bit disappointed. Organ is really important to me.
Piano’s can be changed and others loaded. Synth’s etc can be changed and loaded.
But Organs. No improvement here is something that Im not that happy about.
And if there is no song/set list. How are you supposed to gig with it.

Norm

[Spider]

Has anyone mentioned the possible lack of ADR(S) functionality on the NS4?

https://www.nordkeyboards.com/products/ ... ifications

SYNTH SECTION
Filter envelope (Attack, Decay, Sustain) with Velocity control
Amplitude envelope (Attack, Decay, Sustain) with Velocity control
Oscillator envelope (Attack, Decay, Sustain) with Velocity control

[Spider]

It really feels more like a Stage 3 EX rather than 4.. guess I'll wait until 2029!

I'd say it's the opposite. The EX version were the same instrument, only with more piano memory.
Here everything has changed, EXCEPT the piano memory!

Nord is known for incremental upgrades, they will almost never make radical changes in their tried & tested models.
The NS, NSEX, NS2, NS2EX were all very, very, very similar. The biggest change was the introduction of sample capability in the NS2.
The NS3 introduced more substantial differences (seamless transitions, new synth section, piano filters, new file format...) but again, it was hardly a revolution.
In this respect, the NS4 is actually quite a drastic departure from the previous Stage models: new drawbars, new keybed action, totally new architecture (abandoning the "slot/panel" layout that was a tradmark of the series), totally new synth and effects... but I agree that it's a pity they didn't use this chance to improve some less visible, but very important things like audio-USB-MIDI connectivity.

[neomad]

Just realised: in the comparison charts, you can have now presets for Organ, Piano and even FX (as it used to be in the NS3 for synths) I like that one

[Schorsch]

From the first video released it sounds like it's a fully equipped workstation and arranger keyboard including a rhythm machine




Jokes aside, I would like to listen to some videos / audio files with just the sounds of the NS4, not fully arranged productions.

It's certainly a great instrument with lot's of interesting features, but probably more for those who like to change from another vendor to Nord than for those who play a NS3 today

[Valpurgis]

Anyone having an idea whether the B3/Leslie in the Stage can be upgraded like when the Nord C2 was upgraded with the C2D engine? Not positive to wait another 6 year for an update….

[jrcornelisse]

Also dissapointed Stage 3 user here.. I am probably the only one in Europe, but I deliberately chose the HP76 - because of the size and weight. Upgrading to the 4HA73 would mean carrying 4 kg more, having a new bag, etc. Also, applying the Bank B overview to have a complete overview of a connected dual keyboard worked great, so I need to figure out how that will work in the new case.

Well, it is difficult to match all user wishes I think - but I am not as enthausiastic as having the Stage 3 introduced...

[Rusty Mike]

Also dissapointed Stage 3 user here.. I am probably the only one in Europe, but I deliberately chose the HP76 - because of the size and weight. Upgrading to the 4HA73 would mean carrying 4 kg more, having a new bag, etc. Also, applying the Bank B overview to have a complete overview of a connected dual keyboard worked great, so I need to figure out how that will work in the new case.

Well, it is difficult to match all user wished I think - but I am not as enthausiastic as having the Stage 3 introduced...

I tend to agree. As maligned as the HP action is, the weight increase on the HA73 is a deal breaker. No compelling reason to swap out my Stage 2EX 76. That’s $5000US that stays in my pocket.

I’ll just stick to my plan and see what the next Electro brings. My needs have simplified greatly over the past few years, and I would not make use of the majority of the Stage’s capabilities. I mostly want light weight, decent action, reputable brand and great sounding pianos. Let’s see what alternatives might be shown at NAMM in April.