Hi,
I’m using a Nord Stage 3 which contains the Lead A1 Synthesizer engine, which is a complete secret to me as I am totally inexperienced in synth technology. Does anyone know where to learn the basics necessary to use a synth like the A1? I’m particularly interested in explanations of the various elements like LFO, MOD ENV, AMP ENV, different types of waveforms, use of oscillators (one and/or two) and so on including examples about how it sounds or impacts a sound. Are there documents, online tutorials or others available to learn and understand this?
Thanks a lot!
Best regards, Georg
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Synthesizer basics for dummies
Last edited by Hervshahn on 11 Jun 2018, 08:45, edited 1 time in total.
The best in music is not in the notes.
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Gear:
Nord Stage 3 Compact
Nord Stage 2 EX 88
Yamaha Motif XF7 WH
Roland RD-800
Radial Key Largo
... Lots of accessories...
- Hervshahn
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Re: Synthesizer basics for dummies
There are plenty if you just Google for that (“basic synthesizer tutorial”) but I suggest you also another way i.e. read the Nord Lead A1 manual or also manuals from the older Nord Leads or Nord Wave which contain some general tutorials and more targeted to the Nords.
Last edited by maxpiano on 11 Jun 2018, 09:21, edited 2 times in total.
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maxpiano - Patch Creator
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Re: Synthesizer basics for dummies
Hi,
I remember there was a short but very good theoretical introduction to sound synthesis in the official Lead 2X manual: http://www.nordkeyboards.com/sites/defa ... %201.1.pdf
You can start there.
Have fun!
I remember there was a short but very good theoretical introduction to sound synthesis in the official Lead 2X manual: http://www.nordkeyboards.com/sites/defa ... %201.1.pdf
You can start there.
Have fun!
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Re: Synthesizer basics for dummies
Thanks for the tips on Nord Lead 2X manual - A manual that seems to be way better (more complete) than the A1 manual. I've often thought the manual on Lead A1 is too weak for those (like me) that are new on synths.
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NoDirection - Donator
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Re: Synthesizer basics for dummies
+1 on the Nord Lead 2X, there is tons of infos on how to use a synth...There is some good book as well, cannot remember the name, I think if you type synth basics n Amazon, there is one, black cover that is very famous for that....
I found it:
https://www.amazon.com/Welshs-Synthesiz ... Src=detail
And also the Apps Syntorial, I bought it but haven't had time to do any of the lessons yet....
I found it:
https://www.amazon.com/Welshs-Synthesiz ... Src=detail
And also the Apps Syntorial, I bought it but haven't had time to do any of the lessons yet....
Last edited by Quai34 on 12 Jun 2018, 08:51, edited 1 time in total.
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Quai34 - Posts: 1731
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Re: Synthesizer basics for dummies
Another track is to read the Moog synths or MoogerFoogers pedal manuals: they often explain synthesis 
Available on their website, on each product page!

Available on their website, on each product page!
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stiiiiiiive - Posts: 664
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Re: Synthesizer basics for dummies
Ha, great info, didn't know that, I will look at it and download them, thanks Stiiive.
Sincerely
Sincerely
Stage 2/C2/NL2X+TC Pedals, 2XMatrix, EMU P2K, TX802, DSI Prophet 08+Tetra/P12+H9, D50+PG1000, XV5080,AX keytar, Streichfett, Drumbrute.Ibanez SR1200 & 2605 basses, Artstar AS153,G&L L2000,Legacy HSS,Asat Blueboys,Asat Deluxe Savanna.genelec 8040A.
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