Nord User Forum

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

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.

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!

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.

+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:


And also the Apps Syntorial, I bought it but haven't had time to do any of the lessons yet....

Another track is to read the Moog synths or MoogerFoogers pedal manuals: they often explain synthesis
Available on their website, on each product page!

Ha, great info, didn't know that, I will look at it and download them, thanks Stiiive.
Sincerely