nl4 vs nl2x sound quality opinions

[dtray187]

Hey guys, making my choice between the nl4 and 2x is harder than I expected.
Through all the demos I have heard online, the 2x seems to have more pressure to the sound and be slightly less sterile if you will.

Does anyone here own both? Can you tell me if the 4 sounds the same without fx as the 2x?
Really appreciate it!

[Ledbetter]

I am also interested. I'm thinking of upgrading to the Lead 4 for the on board effects.

[SocProf]

I have not had a chance to play the NL4 yet, but this is from the review on Music Radar.
http://www.musicradar.com/us/reviews/te ... d-4-587472


The oscillator section has been completely overhauled, with a much-improved VA engine. Whilst there are the same basic waves available as on the 2X, these have been refined, with better resolution/clarity and less aliasing. This means the NL4 has a clearer punchier and more upfront character, with less harshness in the midrange. The only slight criticism here is that the NL4 is quite refined in the low end and without EQ (the Wave and Stage 2 have onboard EQ) you may find it lacks a little bass extension.

[ricard]

Haven't compared the NL4 and 2X, but I have an NL2 which I've compared side-by-side with the NL4 at one point (the '4 was only on loan).

My biggest gripe with the NL4 is that there's something in the sound that makes it very good for biting, punching leads, but if you want to do something softer, like a string pad, it just doesn't seem to be able to do it. There's something about the sound that is harsh at all times. Not unpleasant, and the '4 is just as inspiring to work with as the other Nord Leads, but for me I finally decided against it mainly on this fact.

This also seems to be reflected in the various demos you find on Youtube, as well as the factory presets (which, granted, should not really be the deciding factor).

[Muziksculp]

Haven't compared the NL4 and 2X, but I have an NL2 which I've compared side-by-side with the NL4 at one point (the '4 was only on loan).

My biggest gripe with the NL4 is that there's something in the sound that makes it very good for biting, punching leads, but if you want to do something softer, like a string pad, it just doesn't seem to be able to do it. There's something about the sound that is harsh at all times. Not unpleasant, and the '4 is just as inspiring to work with as the other Nord Leads, but for me I finally decided against it mainly on this fact.

This also seems to be reflected in the various demos you find on Youtube, as well as the factory presets (which, granted, should not really be the deciding factor).

Hi,

This was my first impression when I began playing the preset sounds of the NL4 (Rack), but ... As I began programming my NL4 (Rack), I found out that was surely not the case. The NL4 can produce great sounding Pads, which are not harsh, but rather very warm, smooth, and even transparent. Lots of the sonic character can be sculpted to your taste. It just requires spending a good chunk of time to discover how diverse, and fantastic sounding the NL4 is.

I would recommend you re-evaluate it. You will be surprised... I surely was, and loving my NL4 (Rack), it is one of the most addictive synths I have used. Pure joy to program, and a treasure chest of sonic beauty for sound designers. I'm glad I did not rush into evaluating it.

Cheers,
Muziksculp

[MiKeRoLLe]

good evening all,

totally agree with Muziksculp.
The NL4 is very powerful to produce pads & atmos, just say "chord memory" ..