Nord Stage 3 Extern Connect Tutorial | External
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- čas přidán 11. 09. 2024
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In this video, we discuss the Nord Stage 3 Extern capability. The Extern option allows more granular control over external MIDI devices such as keyboards, soft synthesizers, GarageBand, Apple MainStage 3 and more)!
This video will teach you how to configure your Nord Stage 3 to use the Extern command and how to control a steel drum patch from the Roland XV-3080 rack-mount sound module via MIDI. The video goes the extra steps to show you how you can split the External MIDI to the right side of the keyboard while playing a Nord bass part on the left side of the keyboard at the same time.
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Thank you for sharing this! It’s so easy to understand! Just tried this at church today with my Mainstage and it works like a charm. Got everything set up within 10 minutes and got it right at first attempt! =)
Awesome to hear that @lizziemusic89 Keep up the good work! 👍
This video saved me. Was trying to figure this out to control my Prophet. Finally it's working. Thanks a lot.
@djidada465 DJIDADA Glad to hear this!
Marc, thank you. this video saved me. the external section was defeating me for a while there. we appreciate you, my friend!
Thad - The Extern function is very powerful. Glad you like found the video helpful!
You saved me so much troubleshooting headache with the chanel 14 info! Thanks So much!
Thanks for your comment Tony A! Glad to know this saved you some time!
You are so passionate, thank you so much for going deep inside that red monster ! Have a great day !
Thanks C & G! I do enjoy all this stuff. Music and Tech is in my bloodstream. Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much for this video! I’m using the Nord for the first time on a couple gigs this weekend and need to use Mainstage for some of it, so thanks to your tips, I can easily use them both together. You saved me tons of time of impending frustration. Very grateful
Happy to help Karl - good luck on your gig with the Stage 3. Hey, it's so nice to finally see musicians getting back to work!
Clear and right to the point! Thank you very much
Thank you @BAUN Baunmusic! Appreciate you stopping by.
Subscribed! Great tutorial. Thank you.
Thank you Alex Kim for the comment/compliment. And thanks for subscribing! More to come...
Thanks Mark, you just saved my Sunday:-)
Hi Tim. I love hearing stuff like this. Great to know this has made a difference for you and saved time etc. Thanks for watching!
Hi Marc. Thanks for this video and for all the contents including in your channel. I am a new member in the NORD family, and thanks to you I am discovering every knob, every buttom. Specially, thanks for this video because I learnt to extend the capabilities of our “red beast” even more. Thanks for your job. Congratulations
Hello Antonio. Welcome to the Nord family and happy to know you are enjoying the videos. Enjoy the journey and don't forget about the free and paid courses on my website if you want to go deeper or more extensive than what I have here on CZcams. Cheers! 🎹
Hello Mark, just wanted to say THANKS for the great video...I just followed the steps you described and got my Extern Section working for the FIRST TIME! LOVE IT! You're video are awesome!. Garry in PA
Thanks Garry! So glad it helped and saved you time. Planning on a full-featured pro training course on Nord Stage 3 before the year is out if interested... www.mykeystomusic.com Thanks for your comment and for watching!
This was awesome thank you. Maybe you covered this, but I missed it? Is there a way to keep the volume from starting out really loud and save the adjusted volume? Also is there a way to save all the settings in a Live channel and Extern remember the program midi channel as well? I was testing this with the per program save option and had to set extern up again from scratch. When going from Live channel 1 to Live channel 2. Side note I wish we had keyboard modules for current workstations like Kronos
Thank you so much for creating these informative video tutorials. What a tremendous help to unlocking the powers of our Nord keyboards. I learn so much by viewing these excellent videos.
Thanks so much Jim! It is very rewarding to bring information like this to other Nord keyboard enthusiasts. Thanks for watching!
😮wow
I can use this with the Behringer Model D instead of needing a separate keyboard
Yes ApolloSynths, that should work very well and save you the separate board. I bet the Behringer would make a nice add-on/compliment to the Nord Stage 2 or 3.
Hi Mark! Thanks again!! Very useful function that I stil didn't use. I have some old but great modules waiting me to start using this feature.
Another thing that I'd like to do is to trigger an audio track in my sotfware sequencer (Sonar). I guess that I can do it using this Extern function.
Hi Jape Music. Yes, you should have no problem controlling a standard sequencer via the Extern feature. Thanks for your question and for watching!
How is the velocity when using the Nord as the main board (Slave) and miding a sound module into the nord? Is there any sharp notes or anything ? Also can you change the velocity curve within the nord from external midi sound modules ?
Hello @Kell Bailey Sorry for the delay on this response and thanks for the question. So, the Extern option is for sending MIDI out only. So in this example, the Nord is the "main keyboard/master/controller". You get 3 velocity setting options with the Stage 3 related to using the Extern option. They are found in the "Extern" settings and the options are: Light, Medium, and Heavy. I believe with this settings and from my own experience using the Extern section, you'll have the options you need to have it play the way you want. And no, I don't think there are any sharp notes (sharp velocity) with using this feature. Hope that helps. Again, you'll find these settings by holding the shift button and selecting "Extern" which is located right in the middle of the keyboard below the OLED display. On the Stage 3, these settings are found on the 3rd page of that screen.
@@MyKeysToMusic thank you that helps!!
@@KellBailey Glad that helps! Good luck with your setup and you know where to find me if there are more questions/observations along the way.
Thanks. Actually was frustrated exactly on the things you said in video 😅😂
Thanks for the comment! Glad the video helped…
Very Clear. Thank you. My trouble is with the sustain pedal from the NS3, controlling via midi the Nord wave 2. The sustain is just too strong (for the Nord Wave), while it is fine for the Nord Stage3. I use the triple pedal from the NS3 alone. I don;t want any sustain on the NW2 and there doesn;'t seem to be any option to remove the sustain on the NW2 and leave it only on the NS3. Even by switching off the "sustain option' on the extern section,. The sound on the NW2 just grow too strong, because of the continuous sustain.
Hello @Claudio If you are controlling the Nord Wave 2 via the Extern option, you have to make sure that your Global channel on the Stage 3 is either OFF or on a channel that is different than that of the Nord Wave 2. That's the only way to disable the sustain pedal coming from the Stage 3 using the Extern section.
*Try this experiment if you haven't' already:*
1) On the Stage 3, in your MIDI settings, change the global setting to "Off"
2) On the Stage 3, go into your Extern Settings and change the MIDI channel to 1
3) On the Wave 2, set your Global settings to Channel 1
4) On the Stage 3 on the Extern Panel, disable the sustain option.
By doing the above, it should completely disable the sustain pedal acting on the Wave 2 and being played via the Stage 3 pedal.
Please report back with your findings...
Seeing that Roland XV Sound Module, I just realised that I miss it 😅
I hear you. I still have my Roland and the steel drums are still pretty darn good. There are no steel drums built into the Nord keyboards so I sampled my own: czcams.com/video/dn1oAc0VOtE/video.html
Great vid Marc, your instructional video's are world class and very easy to understand, that External section is a great feature on the stage 3, thanks for all your hard work supporting the NORD army :)
Much appreciated Stacey and thanks to you too for your support and engagement along the way! 👍🏼 🎼
@@MyKeysToMusic Your most welcome, your praise is well earned, I can see a Nord Stage 3 on my horizon, I'm a Fender Rhodes nut, and the main thing that most keyboard manufacturers never get quite right is the Auto Pan, it is a very unique kind of Stereo Tremolo ( its been called the "Elliptical Cats Eye Tremolo" ), when I tried out the stage 3 in the shop, I knew straight away that NORD have nailed my fav effect, and the EP's are pretty enchanting as well, I've been told that only Keyscape have rivalled them in this area, mind you the midi keyboard/computer thing is a whole other Rabbit hole.
@@staceycarras3815 Great observation about the Auto Pan! And yes, I completely agree that once you invite the computer to the party, it's a different party altogether and you better be prepared with your "A" game brain because yes, a rabbit hole is a bit of an understatement. More like a Pandora's Box! 😆 💻 🎁
@@MyKeysToMusic Correct, but on the other side because of the midi external control, you can have your cake and eat it too, your NS3 midi external control video is Awesome !
@@staceycarras3815 Thank you! Yes, the Extern section is quite powerful and a nice feature to be sure.
Hello! Very nice stuff on your chanel, very detailed! Can you tell me please: it is posibile for example, to use at the same time Nord sounds and Spectrasonics Omnishphere?
Hi Vadim. Thanks for your question. I believe the short answer to your question is yes. If you connected both your Nord and Omnisphere into a digital audio workstation application (DAW) like Logic Pro X for example, then you could trigger Omni using the Nord and hear both at the same time. Of course, your Nord would have to have the audio cables connected to an interface, then from the interface into the computer in order to "hear" the Nord as well. Hopefully, that answers your question.
@@MyKeysToMusic Thank you so much for feedback! All the best!!!
Your steal drums sound great ! :)
Thank you Samy K. Yes, in this case the Roland does a good job with steel drums and ones that really cut through in a live band setting too I might add. FYI: I have also since sampled a "real" steel drum too so now I don't have to lug the Roland rack module around: czcams.com/video/dn1oAc0VOtE/video.html
Hi Mark, Gary here. You have helped me on other questions that I have asked and now I have one more. This video goes into using the Stage 3 as a controller for other sound sources, but what I have is a question about using a midi controller like the KeyLab Essential 88 which I will have later this week to control the Stage 3. Will the functions like transpose and key shift on the KeyLab control the Stage 3?
I originaly ordered the Essential 88 so that I would have an additional 15 keys to use with the Stage 3, but if the other control functions especially key split and transpose work on the Nord, then that would be great. Thanks in advance for your help with this.
@garyusinger Yes, all the things you mentioned should work out of the box between the Essential 88 and the Nord Stage 3. Be sure to set your NS3 transpose setting to "In" as well. You may be interested in taking additional training on my website. I have both free and paid courses if you haven't already explored them: www.MyKeysToMusic.com
Very helpful thank you!
Glad to hear it The Greek Samurai! Thanks for your comment.
Thank you 😊 Wery nice done and wery helpfull
Glad you like it Niels. Thanks for your comment today.
Extremely helpful. Thanks!
Thank you John Young - appreciate the comment and thanks for watching - glad it helped!
Hi Marc! I would like to use my Acces Virus KC as an external midi instrument to Logic Pro X. Is it possible to use the Nord stage 3 as a midi thru port? (Logicprox -> Nord Stage 3 -> Virus KC) Thanks!
Hey @Stonekite music. Sorry for the delay in this response here. Yes, this is very possible. The Nord Stage 3 has a MIDI soft thru option which can be accessed via the "Extern" section only. I just tested it on this end it works from Logic Pro X, then using the Global Soft Thru of the Nord Stage 3 to ultimately play on the Nord Wave 2.
@@MyKeysToMusic Thanks Marc!
Hi! Great tutorial! 🙃🙃
One question, do you have to connect an audio cable to the Roland Rack?
Is there any possibility of connecting a midi instrument into your nord stage 3 and to just use one audio cable, from the nord?
Thanks!! Really appreciate your work 🎉
Hello @morningfinger Thanks for the question. So, ideally you will still want to connect the audio from the Roland rack to the PA/Amp. Now there is the ability to take external sound into a monitor in jack on the Nord Keybaord. That sound is then routed to the headphones and channel 1 and 2. However, there is no way to adjust the volume of that external sound coming in directly on the Nord. Not having the ability to adjust the mix between the external sound coming in and the Nord keyboard means this feature becomes a lot less usfeul. The feature was created for the purposes of rehearsal, not re-amplification. It also is in the form of a single 1/8 mini jack which means you'd have to get the cables to connect it in that way. So, the answer is yes and no on this one. If it were me, I would connect the audio from the external units to the mixing board/amp/pa in a traditional way giving you the audio independence you are ultimately going to need. Good luck!
@@MyKeysToMusic thank you very much for your answer. I really love your videos 🙃🙃
@@morningfinger Thank you - very happy you love them! 🙏🏽
I have a question. I have the stage 3 and I’m controlling my Yamaha modx6. How can I get my Nord control wheel to not boost up the expression on my Yamaha because I already have the control wheel for my synth settings?
Hello @DAV Media. Great question. You have a couple of options here. For fidelity control over just the wheel on or off as you control external devices from your Nord keyboard, you can find this option directly under the "Extern" settings on your NS3. Navigate to page 4 (Device MIDI) and you'll see an option to turn off the wheel. This will allow you to adjust this program by program. So, that means you'll need to do this adjustment for every program and save each one at a time. Optionally you can turn off the Nord's ability to send ALL Controls by navigating to page 3 under the MIDI settings and turning off CC from there (globally). However, turning it off here means other things you may still want to control (like the sustain pedal) would also be turned off.
So, if I'm understanding the question correctly, your best bet is to adjust the option for wheel in the Extern settings on your Nord. You could also see if the ModX6 allows you to turn OFF the acceptance of the wheel from outside keyboards. That would also work. Hope one of these options does the trick for you. Please report back if you can. 🤙🏼
Do you have a tutorial to do this on the Nord Stage 4?
@applehernandez08 I do have a tutorial/lesson as part of my upcoming pro course called: "Master the Nord Stage 4" found here: www.mykeystomusic.com/courses/master-the-nord-stage-4
WOW I LOVE your channel and just discovered it a few days ago and I know I am going to learn ALLOT - I just ordered ny Nord Stage 3 HP76 a wk ago and am waiting for it -I mostly have been using an Akai MPK261 midi controller with Mainstage - Onmisphere and Unify and yeah was wondering can I use the extern function connected to my MacBook Pro so to use the sounds in the NORD as well as using the NORD as a midi controller at the same time so as to blend the NORD sounds with something from my MacBook such as Omnisphere ? may be a dumb question but just so I dont have to haul 2 keyboards around every wk when I play at my church and also weddings etc .
Hello @Grantti - Yes! You can do what you are talking about here. You'll be using the Extern to independently control Mainstage with no problem. And you get to do this on two different panels each with their own MIDI assignment if you want to get that elaborate.
Hi Marc! I'm following your channel since a bought my NS3 88. I remember seeing this same video when I wanted to connect an old Roland JV to my Nord and it was very useful. Now things have changed since a I left the band where u was playing in and I'm using my Nord to play and record VST in Reason 11. Everything was fine except for the velocity on the keys. Then I realised I wasn't playing through external section. Once I changed it Velocity was working well, but every time I play Vst a subtle "phaser effect" can be heard. If I don't play through external section, the phaser effect disappears but velocity is weak again...... Maybe you have experienced something similar.... I don't know.... But I'm going mad. Thanks for sharing your knowledge! 🍺🍺
@Albert Fabregat. Hi there and thanks for following me for so long! So, I just tested all this in GarageBand and I'm getting proper velocity from either Extern or standard MIDI out playing the GarageBand VST. First, try this. Go into your "Extern Settings" on your Nord and check what you have listed for "Keyboard Velocity" (page 3 of that system menu). You have two choices of "MIDI" and "Hard". It could be something as simple as this causing the issue for you.
*Here is the official definition of that setting:*
"This setting determines the velocity curve for the keyboard when sending data on the extern MIDI channels for each panel. The soft setting will make it easier to generate high-velocity values, whereas the Hard setting will make it harder."
Report back if you can... Marc
@@MyKeysToMusic hi Marc! Thanks for answering my post! I tried to play in soft, mid and hard modes, as you explain, but it makes only a subtle difference and then is when I hear some kind of "phaser" effect.... When instead of using Nord I use my Moog sub37, it works fine. (?)..... Nord has weighted keys but Moog doesn't.... Anyway, I'll try to switch between both keyboards. After all I think is something related to Reason 11. Maybe not the best daw, I don't know. Anyway, thanks again for considering my post and your fast answer. Cheers!
@@albertfabregat9051 Happy to get you started. I do think the issue is with Reason or something about the setup. It could be that you are monitoring the sound coming in (through reason) while at the same time you are hearing the final sound being produced on the output or something like that. You get funny phase effects when this happens. The same thing can happen in Logic Pro X too. Triple check to see if you are monitoring a track or not. However, if it works with the Moog, it should work with the Nord. Also, try a very basic connection between the Nord and the computer (perhaps remove the interface). Also, (and I don't think this is related) but when you play using the Extern section, it enables "MIDI Thru" which shouldn't matter in your case but I'm just trying to think of why there would be a difference between using the Extern and non-extern setup. If you do solve this, please report back if you can. Thanks!
@@MyKeysToMusic oh! Maybe I have a wrong setup.... I'm using the USB cable from Nord to the computer, I'll try my old 5 pin midi cable.... Once again: thanks a lot Mark! 🍺🙌
@@albertfabregat9051 Happy to help. Hopefully, you've got it all working now.
Great video how is the hardware setup? Midi out of what and midi in to which device?
@DejaGruvBand MIDI out from the Nord to MIDI in on the external instrument. The external instrument could be either hardware (like another synth) or software (like a DAW that runs on a Windows/Mac computer).
I’d like to turn the extern section on and off with a midi footswitch. I found organ, piano and synth enable/disable cc’s but none for extern. Do you know if this is possible?
@zaffrolumpkins This is a great idea, Zaffro. Unfortunately, the Extern section never got wired in to be enabled/disabled via MIDI. I have confirmed this using a tool here called "MIDI Monitor" that runs on a Mac. This program senses all MIDI communications. Nothing shows up when selecting the Extern section. Sorry for the bad news! 😅
Super helpful - thank you so much. I have one challenge to overcome - it looks like the Extern outputs CC4 for the Swell Pedal. Most of my external devices (including computer base VSTs like the VB3 II are set up to CC7 for the Expression pedal. Same thing with the drawbars on the Nord, they don't align well with the drawbars on VB3 or other Organ modules. Is there a way to assign specific MIDI CC controller numbers to the various Nord Stage 3 controllers? Thank you!
For clarification, the VB3 VST does allow me to change the "Swell" function to match the Nord's CC4 output of the Swell pedal, however, then I can't control the VB3 with other controllers (such as the DMC-122 in my case)
Hello @Luis Rodrigues Very interesting! Well, you may want to consider taking a look at a stand alone programmable MIDI Router/Merger so that you can configure these very specific MIDI paths and CC#s to your liking. Have a look at this: blokas.io/midihub/ (I just purchased one and plan to talk about it more with my own projects in the near future).
hi Marc.. great video..!
I use extern to control VST in my macbook pro (MBP), its VST can be opened with Logic ProX or with standalone application.
Do the sound coming from VST in MBP can be routed and playback in the same output channel with Piano,Organ,Synth in NS3.
Note: I only use output ch1&2 in NS3. i wish sound from VST can be heard by using the same output channel (ch1&2).
if it could be like that, how can we configure it in NS3 / Logic Pro X / VST standalone app?
thanks.
Hello @Richie Ringga
Try connecting the audio output of your interface back into the 1/8" mini input of the Nord Stage 3. This will allow you to hear everything out of Channel 1 and 2 from the Nord, However, you may get "lag" because of the time it takes for the audio to come from the computer back into the audio interface and finally into the Stage 3.
You may find better luck by using your headphones plugged directly into the audio interface and this is where you'll pull your final audio from as well. In this situation, there could be slightly less lag but there still may be some.
In either situation above, you want to set your computer to route audio out into your interface if you are using one. If you're not using an audio interface, then you can have the audio route out of the computer's headphone jack and from there, back into the Nord using the 1/8" mini-jack.
Hi Marc. Just finished the Nord Stage 3 Extern/MIdi video from you again. Great work as always. I have used most of the Day trying to make Midi work with my old Roland XP80, so I can use the sounds from it. But it wont work. I have made all the settings from your video, connected the cable, but still not a Sound. I suspect that something in the setup on the XP80 can be wrong. There are 3 Pages of parameters on the XP80. Do you have any suggestions ? By the Way I just wathed your video on the BT-122 Speaker, and now I know what I want for Christmas. 😎🎹
Hi Henrik. First the easy one. Thanks for watching my videos and happy to know what you want for Christmas!
So, I agree that it's likely something going on with the Roland. You can try switching MIDI cables just in case. Do you see a MIDI light on the Roland? If so, that's a good sign and it could be a matter of channels not set properly on the Roland or volume levels or something similar.
Newbie question. Trying to get my nord 3 to play sound out of my external speakers on channel 1 and 2, but there is no sound. It does play for headphones. What obvious thing am I missing I just got the nord 3
Hello @brandolebrando welcome to the channel and to the world of Nord keyboards. Congrats on your Stage 3! There are "output settings" that you should review to be sure that channels 1 and 2 are assigned. Don't forget to use 1/4 TS (unbalanced cables) when you connect to your external speakers, and be sure your keyboard is not in "Mono" mode.
I recently made a video short here that shows you how to enter and adjust your output settings. Now, don't follow this video to a "T" because I'm explaining something very specific. But the first few seconds will show you how to get to the location in the first place. Check it out here: czcams.com/users/shortsfltXZXw5BK4
You'll want all sounds to go out of channels 1 and 2. You can get fancy later.
I'd also politely recommend checking out my online training courses. I have both free and paid offerings, and the pro course covers everything on the Stage 3 from A to Z and then some. My website is in the description. Good luck!
Hi Mark , thanks for this insight and all the other generous work you do. I excitedly deployed the external function but discovered that the ns3 does not seem to receive any midi information when normal midi is off , am I missing something ? The midi light suggests that the data is "knocking " at the door
I would like to use the expression pedal as the volume controller (like I do when I use the dual KB on my Nord Stage 3 and my Nord Electro 3) for my external midi device and Nord Stage 3. Would you use Extern to be able to control volume on both the Nord Stage 3 and an external midi keyboard at the same time (similar to the Dual KB function)?
@FrankSaia0901 Great question. You have the choice to connect these using the standard MIDI global option or use the Extern area. The Nord sends the control pedal changes to the connected MIDI keyboard out of the box for either setup. You would, however, have to go into the system settings and tell the NS3 that you want to use the pedal as a volume pedal (versus a swell pedal) and then connect it to the Swell jack (not the control jack) on the NS3.
HI Mark, love your videos. I purchased a smaller Korg Kross 2 Synth to work with along side my NS3. The plan being i'll play the NS3 key bed and audio will come from the new smaller Korg synth. I've followed your video closely and its helped immensely. Quick question though, when i play the NS3 the volume audio from the Korg is a fraction lower ompared to when i play the Korg's key bed directly. I've switch the NS3 Midi Keyboard velocity to soft and have increased the Vol on the Extern to 127 but it still sounds less responsive via the Nord compared to playing the Korg directly. is there a hidden volume control or am i looking at the nord to give me the answers or should i be looking at the Korg's settings? Thanks and keep up the fantastic work.
Hello @Stevie G - sorry for the delay on this response. So, I think what you'll need to do is look on the Korg for something called "Velcity curve" to see if you can adjust it for incoming MIDI. You may not be able to do this. You can't adjust the velocity curve on MIDI going out from the Stage 3 either. You can do an experiment and that is to turn off the velocity on the AMP envelope of the Stage 3 to see if that makes any difference or not. The Stage 3 transmits velocity of course, it just doesn't have an adjustable curve or any kind of calibration setting.
@Stevie G I wanted to update you on something and provide a correction. There IS a MIDI Out "Keyboard Velocity" option under the Extern System settings. You have 3 choices of Light, Medium, and Heavy. Try adjusting that. To get there, hold the shift key and select the "Extern" settings (it's the same button as song part 4). There, you'll see an option to adjust this. I think this feature was added later as they updated the operating system for the keyboard.
Thaaaaaaanks!!!!!
Haha Thanks Albert!
What kind of cables do you need to connect extern to a laptop? Is it usb to MIDI or some such?
@vitsamutsu Hey Sam! So, to use the Extern section, you can use either the traditional 5 Pin DIN MIDI connection to a MIDI interface and/or audio interface. Or you can use the built-in USB cable that came with your Nord keyboard and connect that directly. The USB cable is generic - you don't have to use the one from Nord. You're looking for a USB B to USB A, or if you have a newer computer, you'll want a USB B to a USB C type.
Do you have a video of connecting Roli Seaboard Block M to Nord Stage 3?
@dannielsen7094 Hello Dan! Thanks for your request. Unfortunately, I don't have a video for the Roli Seaboard. I owned one of these for a short while, but at the time, support for the Bluetooth to NS3 via MIDI wasn't ready for prime time (or perhaps I wasn't ready for it). Once you get the MIDI connection setup (I would use WIDI products for this), you'll want to match MIDI channels between the Roli and the Nord. On the Stage 3, make sure the CC control change is set to receive. Then, you'll use the Roli dashboard to assign the CC numbers to Stage 3 where appropriate (see the Nord manual for a complete list of CC numbers to control various aspects of your keyboard).
Keep in mind that with the Roli video demos you see on their website, they are using "modeled instruments" from Swam and others, which provide for real-time expression controlling synthesized sounds (not samples) - that end up sounding ultra-realistic. The NS3 doesn't really have this capability when playing samples. It does when you are playing a straight synth sound. So, your mileage may vary on what you'll ultimately be able to do with a connected NS3. You might get some nice expression out of the synth, but it won't magically make your trumpet samples sound realistic. For realistic and expressive acoustic instruments such as strings, horns, etc, you'll need to connect the Roli to a computer running software like SWAM (as their videos demonstrate).
This would make a good video topic to explore in order to see exactly how far we Nord keyboardists could go with a Roli because it offers a LOT of nice features in a small controller. It reminds me of the Expressive E Touché but in the form of a keyboard. Good luck!
@@MyKeysToMusic you are the most intelligent nicest musician I’ve ever seen on CZcams, I wasn’t expecting such a detailed response, so thank you so much for your kindness and knowledge!!! You are amazing, thank you again!!!
@@dannielsen7094 Thank you for your kind words Dan! I know what it's like to be in your shoes, trying to figure things out for the first time without a well-worn trail of support knowledge established yet for this exact combination - I get it! You may also have some luck/response if you post on the Nord User Forum and/or in any of the many Facebook groups out there.
do you have a nord stage 3 class with Studio One?
@Hugo Rodrigues Thanks for your question here. I do have a Stage 3 course here: www.MyKeysToMusic.com but not one specific to work with Studio One.
Hi Marc. Can you hook Nord electro 6d up to an external keyboard so you can use organ as a 2 tier console?
@ryanerskine3182 Hey Ryan. Just to clarify, are you more interested in using the NE6 to trigger MIDI to an external keyboard (like you see here in this video for the NS3)? Or are you hoping to use an external keyboard controller and trigger the organ sounds of your Nord Electro 6?
excellent tutorial! thank you very much!
when you have time, could you do one on dual kb?
Thank you for your comments Fernando! I will add the dual kb to the list of possibilities. I think people would appreciate exploring the power and flexibility of this feature. Thanks for watching!
Hi Fernando! Long time speak... You may have already seen it by now, but I just released a video on Dual Keyboard! czcams.com/video/--ml3X1Lm-8/video.html . Thanks for your support and this was a good request.
I just purchased a standalone software library and have it loaded on my MacBook Pro. I'd like to play it on my Stage 3 via the USB port instead of a MIDI connection. Is this possible using the same Extern section? Thanks tons!
Hello @Tim Johns and welcome. So yes, this is very possible.
1) Just connect the Stage 3 directly from its USB port directly into your MacBook.
2) Go into the MIDI settings on the keyboard and double check the MIDI channel being used for the Extern section.
3) Turn on the Extern Section
4) Go to your computer and make sure your software is set to listen to the "Nord Stage 3"
Report back if you can.
hi, can I use the usb connector, to drive an iPad, through the "extern" section?
thank you
Hello @Paolini Marco Yes, you absolutely can do this. You also have the option to use the standard MIDI 5 pin DIN if you want as well. It's just a matter of getting the right cabling and adapters for it all. If you want to go the USB route, you'll need something like this on the iPad side of things (affiliate link: amzn.to/36gZoBX) . This one I linked to is more expensive then most but it also includes the audio out which is essential if you plan on connecting the iPad to an audio interface/wired headphones. After you get a hub/adapter like this, then it's a simple matter of plugging in tthe USB from the Nord to the hub.
Hi Marc, Your videos continue to provide amazing assistance 👏 and I appreciate them very much. Question: What's the best way to connect my NS3 to FOH? Should I use a dual TS into one TS cable to get the best sound? Thanks, Garry
Thanks @Garry Gontz for the comment and question. I think your best bet would be to get a Stereo DI like this (affiliate link): amzn.to/33rpSfg which gives you the options for two separate keyboards in stereo. Then FOH should pan your signals left and right each. That should provide FOH a wonderful stereo result. Ideally, you'll want the same stereo setup for your monitor system as well but this sometimes is a big ask for the sound people. This article explains the concept pretty well and also happens to focus on the same DI box manufacturer I picked as a possible suggestion: www.radialeng.com/blog/how-to-manage-any-keyboard-setup-on-stage
Hi mark is it possible to send midi from Nord lead A1 to the stage 3?
Is it possible to use another midi controller externally to trigger the nord sounds??
Hello @Ojalvo Records Yes! You can certainly use just about any MIDI controller to trigger Nord sounds. Use the traditional MIDI 5-Pin DIN from your external keyboard. From your computer, you can use the standard USB port in the back. If however your external hardware controller doesn't have the MIDI 5 pin option, you're going to have to introduce a MIDI host converter. Something like this would do the trick (affiliate link): - CAMOLA USB MIDI Host Box USB to MIDI Converter MIDI Interface: amzn.to/3hbkkwL
So, in the case of using a USB Host box, it works like this.
1) Connect your controller via USB to USB in on the Host Box
2) Form the host box, use a 5 PIN MIDI cable out to the 5 PIN MIDI cable in on the Nord keyboard.
3) Note that you may have to power the USB box which should supply your external keyboard controller with it's power especially if your keyboard controller was relying on that same USB connector for its power originally.
@@MyKeysToMusic thank you so much, I have a 3.5 trs to 5 pin midi cable that goes into my MIDI IN on my Nord. When I use the external controller I see the Nord "midi light" turn on so it is getting the signal but no sound. (from the Nord I have the output via two balanced cables from channel 1/2 out into my interface)
but now I've got it up and running! Thanks again!
@@SamOjalvo Glad to hear you got all this up and running! Well Done! By the way, I have some upcoming MIDI videos coming up in a few weeks talking about filtering MIDI, MIDI Thur, MIDI Merge, Wireless MIDI over Bluetooth and all that stuff - so stay tuned! 👍🏻
@@SamOjalvo (Answered on the next reply)
Hey Mark! This is somewhat unrelated to this specific vid but i was wondering if you could answer something for me - is it possible to control the wah with an expression pedal? On my old electro I could but looks like theres no control pedal option for wah on the stage
Ps just got my stage 3 compact last night- I absolutely love this thing alreasy!!
Hello @David Thacker Congrats on your new Nord Stage 3! Well done. You need to assign the control pedal morph to either the WAH amount, the rate, or both. My pro course shows you how. I also show you how to assign a morph to volume in this video which is essentially the same thing: czcams.com/video/eeJ9b1oGEyY/video.html
@@MyKeysToMusic dude thanks you so much! Ur channel is great and so helpful
Thanks for watching - enjoy your new baby!
@@MyKeysToMusic hey one more question and I think this is a long shot- but is it possible to control the draw bars with a midi controller while using dual key board mode? Thanks again for your quick replies!
@@DavidThackerMusic Yes, just tested it... You keyboard controller can connect to the Stage 3 Dual keyboard while at the same time adjust the organ drawbars so long as it's the organ that the Dual keyboard is set to. Obviously your controller has to have the ability to send CC# as well. Cheers!
first time to view this one------- nice
Thomas, good to see you getting around to watching one of the older videos. I wonder if it recently surfaced for you as suggested by CZcams?
@@MyKeysToMusic No. I just decided to review some videos
@@teashea1 Ah, ok. Got it. Thanks for watching!
Hi Marc! I’m following your channel for quite some time and I love your informative videos. Hopefully this message will reach you for I have a question considering controlling an auxillary keyboard.
I own a NS3 and a MODX6 and I want to link these two together in terms of program/song control. Basically, when I select a specific song/program on my NS3 I want the MODX6 to automatically change to a corresponding program as well. For example, when I select ‘Song 1:01’ on my NS3 I want the MODX6 to automatically switch to a specific program as well.
How should this be done? Do I use the Extern-function for this and its “program value” knob?
Cheers,
Niek (from NL)
Hi Niek. Thanks for being a long-time follower! I think I know exactly what you are trying to do. I have a 14-minute video lesson in the course that talks about this exact setup. Yes, you would use this Extern option and you have to send program changes upon loading the program on the NS3. Then you have to calibrate the program changes between the Nord and the external keyboard (because MIDI program changes only go to 127 by default. So, you have to introduce the notion of "LSB" found under the Extern settings on Page/screen 7. It took me a bit to figure it out the first time. There may be fully written instructions somewhere on the Nord User forums for this. I'd post the video here on the subject but I am planning to keep that one in the course to maintain value for those that enrolled etc. Thanks for your question. Hopefully, you have enough info here to point you in the right direction.
Hi...can i do this on my electo 6D?...i need to play bass from external modul in my left hand, and nord in my right hand?...tnx
Hi Marc! May I ask a question about audio output. Is the sound of the Roland Steel Drums outputting out of the Nord or does it have it's own audio channel or audio connection? I was trying this setup with my own Nord Stage 3, albeit using an iPad with the Sunday Keys Template and App in it, but had to use two separate audio outputs, one for the onboard sound of the Nord and another for the audio coming out of the iPad (via an audio interface) into my 6-channel mixer. Is there a way that everything just goes through the Nord? Am I missing something or is this how it should be? Hoping to hear some clarifications from you, thanks!
@RandySantaAna - have you tried taking the output from your Roland in inputting that into the "Monitor In" on your Stage 3 yet? That's one way to mix two sources without introducing a mixing board. I also wanted to say thanks for your contributions to the community. I see you have an active and growing CZcams channel as well!
@@MyKeysToMusic Hi Marc and thanks for the reply! I have tried out your suggestion in using the "Monitor In" of my Nord Stage 3 and it works! Thanks again!
@@RandySantaAna Glad it worked and keep enjoying your music!
Hi Marc, thank you so much for that well made informative video and for your time to create it. I own a Nord Stage 3 for 3 days and I want to make it "talk" to my NordC2-Organ. I need it on stage just in in that way: The NS3 should sent just the Programm change messages to the C2 but no notes. I want to play the organ sound on the organ. The problem that I have is that my NS3 sent all information to the organ. When I am in the ExternMode and play any key the organ makes the sound. What have I made wrong? I am a technical noob :-( Thank you so much for help
Hello @Andreas Hiekel. Thank you for your comment and congrats on your new Nord Stage 3! So, I have an exact lesson for this in my Professional paid course found at: www.MyKeysToMusic.com called "Master the Nord Stage 3". I won't be putting this particular lesson on CZcams at this time. In the meantime, continue to enjoy your Stage 3!
Hi Mark, Thanks for this entry video on the Extern function. I want to use it with my MBPro and the several VSTs I have. My question is regarding Output. My output channel 1 & 2 on the Nord go directly into my studio monitors via a patch bay. Mt VST output run out of channel 3&4 from my Scarlett into the same studio monitors.
My Question is does the Extern receive the signal from the VST and use only the Nord channel 1&2 outputs or do I still need both the Nord and Scarlett outputs to hear the Program?
Hello @Jeff Gregory
Thanks for the question. So, it may take a little back and forth between us by the time we get your question fully answered here. Are you also hoping to record on your computer or for the moment, do you just want to "hear everything" and you're trying to make sure you have it set up correctly? In other words, it sounds like you'd like to play the Nord keyboard and hear that while also controlling the VSTs via the Nord Extern option and hear the VSTs as well at the same time. Doing things in this way lets you layer the two sound sources from both the Nord Keyboard and the VST simultaneously controlling everything (from a performance standpoint) directly from the Nord.
First question: Are you using a mixing board? You mention "patch bay" which is typically something you'd use in a recording studio connected to a full, multi-track console. Maybe you can better describe your situation here.
The easiest way to start thinking of all this is that the job of the Scarlett is to convert computer (digital) signals to analog audio and vice versa. Where it sits in the chain is essentially up to you and your ultimate goal. For my setup, I avoid the mixing board entirely and rely solely on the Scarlett as both my audio interface and it doubles as a sort of mixing board.
*My current setup:*
- Nord keyboard 1, 2, 3, and 4 go into inputs one through eight on the Scarlett 18I8. (Channels one through four are coming into the front of the Scarlett representing keyboards 1 and 2). Keyboards 3 and 4 go into the Scarlett inputs five, six, seven, and eight.
- The computer is plugged into the Scarlett via the traditional USB cable and I can hear the VST sounds via the Scarlette headphones. In other words, I hear both the VSTs and the Nord keyboards all at the same time via the Scarlett. And because the Scarlette is channel aware, any recording software you use on the computer will allow you to separate each channel coming in from the Scarlett. This makes multi-channel recording feasible while having the flexibility of having each Scarlett input on its own track in the DAW.
- Finally, the Scarlett audio outs (left and right) go to a set of powered monitors.
Now, if I had more instruments, mics, guitars, that I wanted to have simultaneously connected, I will obviously need a mixing board to provide more inputs. If I were to introduce a mixing board into the situation, however, then I would have all instruments plugged into the mixing board first, then from the mixing board out, I'd go into the Scarlett (using a simple 2 channel stereo setup). This would give me the ability to digitally record any of the analog instruments because the Scarlett is already connected to the computer via the USB. However, (and here is the reason for my question about if you are planning to record or not), if you are hoping to simultaneously record the analog instruments directly into separate tracks on your DAW simultaneously, then you either need to have a USB compatible digital mixing board that also allows each channel to be separated digitally or you have to ditch the mixing board and go with just the Scarlett assuming the Scarlett has enough inputs to get the job done.
Let me stop there and let you digest this and reflect on it. I may be making this more complicated than necessary especially if recording is not the priority right now. FYI: I talk a little bit more about my recording setup here however there is no mention of VTS in this particular video: czcams.com/video/UU6j5o3YfaA/video.html
Marc
@@MyKeysToMusic Wow Thanks so much Mark for your thorough reply. I use a Scarlett 4i4 for my VST directly into TRS inputs on my studio monitors sub interface. I then input my Nord into the studio sub via the remaining Xlr input via a Radial Pro D2 box. So I can hear both sound sources easily now before I started to understand what the Extern function can do.
FYI - I record directly into an Izotope Spire studio device from either the Nord or Output from Scarlett for recording using a patch bay to keep the monitors connected. I do have an Allen & Heath 12x board I could incorporate if desired as you mentioned.
So I think what I hear you saying is that the Extern function in my case would allow me to control volume, program changes and midi CC commands on the VST? I think I mistakenly thought the VST output could be routed back through the Nord and output via the Nord?? instead of having to rely on the output from the Scarlett as well to hear my VST.
@@jeffgregory2000 Thanks for the details and clarification here. So the Nord cannot accept any audio input whatsoever with the exception of the simple "monitor in" which is nothing more than a way to hear an external audio source. This is meant for rehearsing against a backing track or something like that - versus any kind of advanced audio mixing capability. The main job of the Extern section is to allow you some basic controls over an external MIDI device (most likely with another keyboard). With Extern you can have it play in a zone of your Nord keyboard, you can have it change programs via MIDI, you can adjust volume or control one selected CC# directly from the Nord Extern panel. You can turn the entire section on or off. These controls should also allow you to do this with the VST as well.
Can you send a global usb midi out to a computer and the midi out from the extern together at the same time?
Hello @Daniel Joseph - sorry for the delay on this response. I just tested all this just now. The Nord Stage 3 sends MIDI out of the USB and 5 Pin DIN simultaneously. In addition to sending standard MIDI out both of those ports, the same holds true for the Extern option. So for example, let's assume this setup. Nord connected to a computer via USB and 2 keyboards via the 5 PIN Din option. Also, assume that you have your keyboards connect through some form of a MIDI Thru between external keyboard 1 and 2. Then you could have the computer and keyboard one receive MIDI on Channel 1. Then, at the same time, you could have the same computer receive MIDI on channel 2 via the Extern section along with keyboard two via the 5 PIN Din. So, 2 MIDI channels across 2 port types all happening at the same time. Obviously, the Extern section would have to be on its own MIDI channel. Yes, this all works as you perhaps hoped it would.
@@MyKeysToMusic thank you so much for the response ! does the midi clock also pass through?
@@DanielJosephh The MIDI clock does not pass through, unfortunately. You'd have to get a MIDI merger like this: amzn.to/3eMivUZ (but this assumes you are getting the clock via a Standard 5 PIN DIN). If not, you're going to have to either convert the USB to 5 PIN or find some form of a USB merger which I'm not sure exists or not.
Hmm - if you are using the computer for the clock and you're sending out via USB, you could just use two USB cables I suppose (one for each keyboard).
witch menue on the nord stage 3 is that global midi setting in? and if I turn that to off, will I still be able to control my nord stage 3 with another keyboard?
@michaeldavis5106 Michael, sorry for the delay with this response.
1) So the Global MIDI settings can be found under the "MIDI" settings on your Nord Stage 3 and then navigate up to page 2.
2) Yes, you can control Nord Stage 3 with another keyboard at the same time you use Extern to control external keyboards. You have some options here. If you have Extern On, you can certainly have Global on as well - just make sure the MIDI channels are different. You can also use "Dual Keyboard," which lets you isolate one or all of the sound engines on Panel B to be dedicated to incoming MIDI from a controller keyboard. Again, if you use Dual Keyboard, ensure it's on a different MIDI channel than your Extern and your Global.
* The reason I have people turn off the Global channel on my videos is because it's easier to train someone by having the Global channel out of the way. But you can certainly have it on at the same time - just make sure you put everything on the Stage 3 on a different MIDI channel and pay attention to your external boards as to which channel the are on so that they match up with the features you want to use on your Nord Stage 3.
I also have a lesson on Dual Keyboard here on CZcams as well: czcams.com/video/--ml3X1Lm-8/video.htmlfeature=shared
Full "master class" training can be found on my main website if you want to go all the way with your Nord Stage 3...
@@MyKeysToMusic thanks for all the info. I actually got the exturn section to work perfectly for me.
@@michaeldavis5106 Excellent! Well done! The Extern section is an amazing feature and I'm so happy they chose to include this on the NS4 as well.
Hi.I have a problem with this extern function on NordStage3 , maybe you can help. I created a patch with external function on and set to midi channel 1 and I control uvi workstation on a Mac mini.Every time I switch between the patch controlling the Uvi workstation on Mac and the Nord stage 3 patches the sound from Mac disappears.I still get midi signal in the uvi workstation but no audio.I have to mention that I tried this with Kontakt also and the same thing happens....also I switched midi global off.Do you have any idea about what is wrong?...Thanks
HI Humpty. Thanks for your question. Did you also make sure your "program change" MIDI settings is set to off as well? Try that next and report back. The video here does have a very brief demonstration of that on the Nord Stage 3.
Hello, I like your video and feel that it is extremely helpful. I am, however, somewhat confused on how to record my Nord sounds into a DAW such as Logic Pro X. I am currently using a Scarlett 6i6. Thanks!
Hi Colin. Sorry for the delay in this response ⏱️You'll be sending the Nord left and right audio into the Scarlett channels 3 and 4 in the back. Then the Scarlett will be connected via USB into your computer/Logic Pro X. You may need to configure the routing via the Scarlett program. Then in Logic Pro X, you'll be receiving audio from the Scarlett channel 3 and 4 (as stereo). This will record a single stereo track in Logic Pro X from your Nord Keyboard. Sounds like this would make a terrific video subject. Thanks for your comment and for watching!
Thank you so much for getting back to me so soon!! I’m currently studying jazz piano at the Lamont School of Music, and have been waiting to use the amazing sounds Nord provides in my own compositions. I can’t wait to see what’s to come in the future. Good luck :)
@@colinholter7356 Thanks Colin and congrats on your Jazz studies! Enjoy Denver too. If and when I do a video on how to master your connections between Nord and your computer via Scarlett, you'll be the first to know!
Hi Marc, thanks for your great videos!! I am trying to connect my tablet (win 10) hosting a couple of standalone software by Arturia, with my nord stage 2 ex, in order to layer the sounds from the tablet with the NS, in the extern module.. Would you mind giving me some hunches about the connection and midi coupling? It would be very kind of you.. Thanks again for your time. A
Thank you @andrea silvestri The concept to connect your Windows 10 tablet to Extern option on the Nord Stage 2 is nearly identical to how we've done it here in this video where I connected it to my keyboard module. The trick here is to be sure your Extern MIDI channel is the same as what Arturia is seeing. Typically on these stand alone computer products like Arturia, they receive MIDI on all channels at the same time (which is fine). The key here is you may want to consider your setup with the Global MIDI set to OFF on the Stage 2. Then set the MIDI channel for the Stage 2 in the Extern settings. Doesn't matter which channel, just so long as the Arturia software can match it. That will allow you to turn on and off the Extern section and drive your laptop at will. Turning the Global MIDI off can help separate things so that the laptop only plays when the Extern section is on (versus all the time with Global MIDI). If you're still having a struggle, let me know the exact software you are using with Arturia.
@@MyKeysToMusic Setting OFF the global MIDI on the NS2 is something I didn't thought of 👍🏻.. I'll let you know if it works.. For instance I'm using a USB cable from NS to tablet and a mini jack from tablet to NS monitor in.. Should it be better a MIDI to USB cable for the connection? The arturia software on tablet are a JUP-8, a JUN-6, a CS 80 and a DX7-V, but I've only started with the latter... I've only started scratching the surface but they seem to be real powerful, and I've got a feeling that succeeding in pairing them to the NS should create a real monster!! I beg your pardon if my question could be considered naive but I'm relatively new to this world, as I'm only playing piano and keyboard for almost four years. Thanks for the attention, and for your exhaustive videos 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
@@andreasilvestri1696 The Extern option is perfect for your intended use with the tablet. The Extern provides you the ability to dictate the splitpoint of the external instrumentt. A practical use of this would be to have a lead sound coming from the tablet. You can assign a split to the Stage 3 and have the Extern option only play on the irght side of the split. This enables you to play the Stage 3 with both hands while only hearing the lead sound coming from the right hand. You can also have the Extern option assigned to a separate MIDI channel providing further flexibility for you and your external sounds/instruments. Let us know if there are more questions...
Hey thanks for this video. Looking forward to testing this out on the mothership with my Roland JDXi and other bits of kit. Great presentation, I do feel more knowledgeable after this video!
Do you know how the Stage 3 responds to being a slave via midi; for example, can it receive clock data and nothing else?
Hi Jahzerah Sound Productions. So, the Nord Stage 3 will respond to incoming MIDI clock signals (but not the other way around). The clock only works on incoming, not outgoing. In addition, most MIDI attributes can be received by the Nord Stage 3 including all note and velocity data, pitch bend and mod wheel, program changes - even drawbar settings. Check out this video to see some of this in action and even with multiple keyboards too: czcams.com/video/LN5KlPOXZ9Q/video.html And this video as well: czcams.com/video/xYEblqZRKKE/video.html
I am trying to use my nord stage 3 with sunday sounds on mainstage and I have yet to get it to work 🤦♂️
@Freedom Ministries, Lewisburg WV Sorry for the delay with this response. Did you get this all to work yet? You can start with the global MIDI setting to off on the Nord and just focus on the Extern section. It could also be how you configured things on the MainStage side...
@@MyKeysToMusic I have been away from it and am currently out of town. I hope to get back on it next week
@@freedomministrieslewisburg6348 Sounds good. Keep in touch on this.
Hi Mark, it's me again. I just got the NS3 HP76 and would like to copy everthing from my NS3 88 to my HP76. What's the best way to do this...I'd like both keyboard to have the exact same setup. Thanks, Garry
Hi Garry G. Great question here and congrats on your new NS HP76! Well, I'd like to say that you could just do a full backup of the NS3 88 and then do a "restore" backup to the NS3 HP 67 using the Nord Sound Manager. However, I'm not sure that is going to work. I have never personally tried that but it's worth a shot. Make sure both keyboards have the same OS before attempting this. If that doesn't work, you should be able to save all programs as a "bundle" from the 88 and import them into the 76. When you bundle programs like this, the pianos and samples come along for the ride. I assume the "synths" come along for the ride as well. I think what you are doing here hasn't been done much by the community. You could also try posting this question on the Nord Stage User Forums found at: www.norduserforum.com/nord-stage-forum-f3/.
Please report back to us on this if you can - would love to know how it worked out. In addition, people here would like to get your take on the difference in keyboard feel between the 76 and the 88 if you could enlighten us on those aspects time permitting!
Hello Mark, a million apologies for the delayed response...I did the backup on my NS3 88 and did the restore into my NS3 HP76 and it worked except it appears that a few of the effects settings were lost in the process. All-in-all, I'd say it was worth doing...all I had to do is a little tweaking on the NS3 HP76. The more I play with these boards---the more amazed I get! Your videos are simply amazing and more helpful that you can imagine...DON'T STOP MAKING THEM. :) Garry G
Garry G. Thanks for your encouraging words. So glad the videos help. There are videos on the way after I complete the Nord Stage 3 course which is about 3/5 complete and still on target for release in March 2019. Thanks again for checking in and for your update! 💪
I can't seem to get an answer - what happened to the EXTERN section on the new Stage 4? It's disappeared....
Hello @MPP9600 this is a million-dollar question! (Well, maybe it's more like a 6K question, haha). There is no manual out at this time, so it's hard to be 100% sure, but it appears they removed the Extern section on the panel but they may still support some of the Extern features. I see an "Extern" option (a button) in the synth area which could imply having the option to externally control up to 3 keyboards (one per synth layer).
Under each slider (there are 7 volume sliders: 2 for organ, 2 for piano, 3 for synth). Each of these sliders has a label called "AUX KB" which to me means "auxiliary keyboard." I now think this might be how they are handling the "Dual Keyboard" option.
I wonder why no one is talking about this? It could be that they printed the labels on the panel, but the software isn't written yet to support these features - therefore, there is no way to demo them, Maybe soon, someone from Nord will discuss these features.
@@MyKeysToMusic Since, and as you said, no one is talking bout it, and it appears to have been removed, I blasted out this question to a few other Stage 4 channels. I got back a couple of times that it is in the Synth section, even though it looks to be buried. Apparently, the three synth faders can be three separate synths, or the third fader can be used for this Extern feature instead of the third synth. I'm looking forward to the manual to confirm this so the jury is still out. And I agree, this would be a deal breaker for a lot of people if they removed it in this new Stage 4 model. And if it's there, would LOVE to see your tutorial on how to use it on the Stage 4.
@@MPP9600 Thanks for the info here. Happy to see that they kept the Extern function. I hate to lose a synth engine in exchange for it, but I'll take that over not having it at all. Still working on content for it.
@@MyKeysToMusic Now that the Stage 4 has been out for a few weeks, finally Nord has addressed this Extern function and how MORE in-depth it is. Check out the Nord CZcams explaining this, it starts at 19:11.
czcams.com/video/dyDaWVPw6ag/video.html
@@MPP9600 Thanks for sharing this info. You do lose a layer when you have the Extern option, but at least you could run up to 3 at a time if you wanted to and you get to see them all at once (versus switching back and forth between panels A and B). What we really need is 5 synth layers so that we can have 3 synths local and up to two more externally. A guy can dream....
Hi Marc, Love your channel! Thanks for everything you do. I may be wrong, but it looks like the Extern Section has disappeared from the Nord Stage 4...!!! what do you think?
Hello @Antoine CANER Thanks for your following me on the channel. Yes, Extern is still there just a bit hidden from the main view. I explain it a bit in my detailed review here: czcams.com/users/livekabAXNKAF94?feature=share
thanks Mark
Happy to help Profilo. Thanks for watching!
Hi, I didn’t touch anything on factory setting. But I get Program instead of Per Program. And I don’t get any tiny E symbol on the right on the Royal Grand. I’m still trying connect to my Roland Integra 7...Please help me.
Hi lolla louie. Did you update your keyboard to the latest OS? I just double checked all this with the latest OS and it still appears correct per the video. The little "E" means that you've changed a setting to a program (by turning a knob or pushing a button to change anything) different than how the program was originally saved. This video here will show you how to upgrade to the latest OS from Nord for your keyboard: czcams.com/video/bkPAmWBnF5c/video.html
Hi Marc :). I have a bit of offtopic question. Currently starting with Ableton besides the stage 3 for pads. I use the stage 3 as a midi controller, while playing the nord piano's. When I move the modwheel, ableton flips very much in CPU, generating cracking sounds... I think Ableton receive's the midi data of my mod wheel.. is it possible to avoid sending that signal and have just piano midi going to ableton?
Kind regards! Nathan
Hello, @Nathan Daniel Thanks for your question and congrats for starting with Ableton and that side of the music creation world. So yes, you can tell the Nord keyboard to "not send" any MIDI CC# changes (This is known as "Continuous Control" or "Control Change"). To do this, go into your Nord settings under the "MIDI" button. Navigate to page 3 and you'll see a place to turn off sending these signals. Once you are on that settings page, use the "Program" knob to toggle the changes off. You'll likely want to turn off BOTH the Program changes as well as the Control Changes. That way your Nord will only send MIDI note data versus the other stuff and that should help your Ableton situation. Also, note that making this setting change is permanent until you decide to turn them on again - even if you turn your keyboard on and off. Good luck!
@@MyKeysToMusic thanks marc! The problem is gone.
@@nathandaniel5509 Awesome! Glad to know that the setting adjustment on the Nord fixed the issue....
Hello Mark, just curious---can you suggest a brass patch that captures the vintage sound of K.C. and the Sunshine Band? Cant wait to see your course on the NS3.Thanks, Garry
Hi Garry. Sorry for the long delay here. I have had on the long list to do a video with Brass for the Nord Stage 3 because I use brass in the band that I play in quite a bit. In listening to "That's the Way (I Like it)" by KC I'm thinking there is nothing built in to exact mimic that today. But this is something I'd like to explore. It will be some time however before I may get to a video like this. (Just finishing up the "Master the Nord Stage 3" course.) . 80% complete! So, thanks for your comment here - I think there are a lot of folks out there that want to explore brass options for the Nord keyboards and would benefit from a video like this.
Thanks Mark! Can the Extern section also be used for basic operation of a drum computer or looper, like the RC-10R (in particular: setting the right rhythm pattern based on the chosen Nord program via MIDI)?
Hi Rob! Well, the Extern section as you know can send out CC messages to external MIDI devices so as long as your RC10R can be programmed to receive a CC change that directly affects a particular rhythm pattern. When the Nord program loads, it can send those signals to change the rhythm pattern. Here is an excerpt directly from the Nord Stage 3 manual on this topic.
"Often it will be desirable to send certain MIDI data instantly when a program is loaded on the nord Stage 3. This allows for an external unit to switch program, or have a CC value reset synchronized with program changes on the nord Stage 3. there are individual settings - On or Off - for Program Change (PC), Volume (Vol) and user-defined CC messages (UsrCC) accessible through the Send On Load page within the Extern menu."
So, yes, it's possible. I hope that helps!
@@MyKeysToMusic That's great news Mark, thank you so much!
@@robmeijers2942 You're welcome!
Hi Mark! Do you have a video that shows you how to switch from organ to piano to strings to synth? Also, is there a video on how to layer sounds and save the layered sounds in a Bank for easy access in a performance?
Hi Mike!
Thanks for your question! Although I don't have an exact video that presents this in exactly the way you described it, I believe I have most of this question answered across a few of my videos.
1) Here is a video that shows you the best methods on how to switch sounds (and store them for quick retrieval) on your Nord Stage 3: czcams.com/video/tcBsWyUl1Ao/video.html
2) Layering sounds on the Nord Stage 3 is actually very straightforward. You simply turn each sound engine and each engine has its own individual volume knob. With the Stage 3, you have this additional concept of "panels" which is like adding a duplicate keyboard to the mix that can have unique settings that can also layer and split. To better understand and see these concepts, I recommend watching this video (starting around 10 minutes into the video): czcams.com/video/VlzgEfmcrDE/video.html
3) Finally, here is a good video that explores the idea of "splitting the keyboard" in a slightly more advanced way than the video above demonstrates: czcams.com/video/72jPR9LZUG8/video.html
Thanks for watching! - Marc
My Keys To Music thanks again!
Hi Marc, just wanted to drop you a note that without your tutorials, I would be way behind in learning the Nord Stage 3. Just an awesome job. I have a quick question pertaining to Extern. I'm trying to set up the morph pedal function to control a Roland rackmount (like yours) to control the volume of the steel drum patch. Can't seem to get it to work. Any ideas? And keep up the great work!
Thank you Bill - appreciate the kind words.
With the Extern option, here are something to keep in mind:
1) Double check that the extern MIDI # matches that of your rack mount.
2) Double check that the rack mount is set up to receive MIDI control messages. Without this option, you can turn the knob all you want on the extern section, but the rack mount will ignore it.
3) Your rack mount might be more sophisticated... When you choose the volume option on your Nord Extern section, it's sending values 0-127 through CC#7. Your rack mount may or may not see this as something it's looking for. Refer to the rack mount manual if you can and look for "MIDI Implementation" or "MIDI control numbers" and see what it's looking for to adjust volume. You may have to use the manual cc# option on your Stage and set the volume that way. Also some of these rack mounts are multi-timbral which complicates things. You may want to troubleshoot this one layer at a time using only a single sound source on the rack and start as simple as you can to adjust the volume. Then work your way up.
Hope this helps get you started. For my module (as. you saw in the video), it just worked and this is a Roland 8 part multi-timbral at that. Also, adjusting volume via MIDI is sort of a universal thing - so my guess would be that it's either #1 or #2 above and less likely #3.
@@MyKeysToMusic Thank you very much Marc! I will look into it at this weekends gig. As always, thank you for the great video tutorials!!!
@@billstrrojny6515 Thanks for watching!
Any lick using a wireless midi device? I just purchased one but Nord is not powering it. Supposed to get voltage from the port.
@onzkicg Sorry for the delay on this response. So, I think it may depend on the MIDI device. On this video, I'm able to power the wireless MIDI device Yamaha MD-BT01 without an issue (czcams.com/video/D1sWPR-k7oE/video.html). But I suspect there are other devices that need more power than is provided from the Nord MIDI 5 Pin DIN jacks.
Nord-3, Can you save a midi that is not local but rather one you see on CZcams?
Hello @Heavy Nails Piano I'm not sure what you mean by this. Can you explain further?
Thanks Mark! So, maybe I am totally missing the obvious, but can you also double the stage 3 into an external midi keyboard?
Hi Nick! Yes, you can use the Stage 3 as an external MIDI keyboard. There is likely a lesson coming up called "Dual" Keyboard where we take that idea and demonstrate it.
Hey, I have a question as I've been digging through videos. I'm not sure if the Extern can work this way. I'm trying to figure out how to use a Roland AX-09 with my Nord Stage 3, in which The stage 3 dictates the sound and the Roland AX-09 is just a mirror device in which I can use for shorter parts while I step away from the keyboard and up to a mic, while still using the stage 3 on board sounds. Is this possible to do?
Previously I was using Main stage to send sound to send sound to the AX-09, but I'd like to take the Laptop out of the equation for better stage presence.
@@girly562 Thanks for your question. So, the AX-09 comes with its own built-in sounds making this question potentially more complicated. Let me clarify some options for us to explore and you can tell me which of these options you'd like to do or add another option that is not listed here:
1) You'd like the Nord Stage 3 to "change the program setting" on the AX-09 so that as you change programs on the Stage 3, you can determine which sound will be heard from the AX-09. Extern can do this, however the AX-09 doesn't have a traditional MIDI IN so this makes it potentially more complicated.
2) You'd like to play the AX-09 and hear the sounds from the Stage 3 (this is typically what a keytar does).
3) You'd like to play the Stage 3 and hear the sounds from the AX-09.
4) Other?
Once we have more clarification here, I think I can point you in the right direction. - thanks!
@@MyKeysToMusic Hey Marc! I'm looking to just clone the Stage 3 keyboard. Meaning between the stage 3 or ax-09, they both are operating on the stage 3 sounds. I think that would be your option 2? ((2) You'd like to play the AX-09 and hear the sounds from the Stage 3 (this is typically what a keytar does).)) Thanks so much for responding!
@@girly562 So for this I would go MIDI out of the AX to MIDI In on the Nord. Then match the MIDI channels and you should be good to go. Additionally the Stage 3 can be setup to Receive signals on only one panel at a time by adjusting each with its own MIDI channel. You should also set the Stage 3 to not receive program changes so that when you change a program on the AX, it doesn't accidently change programs on the Stage 3. You can find all these settings on the Stage 3 under the MIDI settings section.
Somehow my Extern section is pitching up 1 semitone to my external module. How can I fix this. BTW, Nord should have you on their payroll.
Hmm - this is strange. Go into the MIDI settings (shift button and the MIDI button) and see what your settings are for the last page in that menu called "Transpose MIDI". Try changing it to "IN". Then, of course, make sure your transpose button is off at the top and then check your "Global Transpose" settings found under the system settings menu (3rd page in menu) and make sure that's set to zero too. Even with all this, it doesn't add up. Triple check your external keyboard to be sure it's not transposed already on its own. My hunch is that it's nothing on the Nord causing this but on the external keyboard itself. I don't think there is any setting that can auto transpose via Extern without also having it transposed on the Stage 3. Oh and you might also check under the "Extern" settings on the Stage 3 to be sure you're not sending any CC numbers upon load just in case. If you have another external keyboard you can test, that might provide another test case for you. Good luck!
Hi there - I'm hoping your deep Nord Piano experience can help unravel a brainteaser for me....
I've got my NP4 connected via the USB to my MacBookPro (16" 2019, 32Gb RAM) using Logic ProX 10.5. I can control sample libraries etc via MIDI OUT as expected. However, when I connect a MIDI controller (A Stepp DG1 guitar) to the NP4 MIDI IN (5 PIN), it plays the NP4 sounds, (I'm using Ch 1) but does not send those MIDI notes thru to Logic Pro X (which is receiving on ALL). I can successfully use exactly the same setup with my Native Instruments S88 and everything works as it should, i.e. Logic shouldn't care if a note is triggered on the NP4 or the controller. However, that is not what is happening on the NP4. I've updated the NP4 firmware to the latest version (2.5) and tried various combinations of different MIDI channels and Local on/off etc. Nothing I have tried results in the controller sending MIDI via NP4 to its MIDI OUT into LOGIC PRO X. It doesn't make any sense to me unless NP4 MIDI OUT doesn't function if it's USB is being used - which is not what the NP4 manual states. Any ideas?
Hello Stephen. The NP4 (like the Electro 6 and others) doesn't support "MIDI Global Soft Thru" which is what you would need for this setup. In other words, it cannot copy the incoming MIDI and push it out to external devices via the Out or the USB. This is both surprising and at times frustrating when people find this out for the first time.
The Nord Stage 3 does provide this functionality when the "Extern" module is set to on. But, for the NP4, I think you'd have to look at using a powered MIDI Thru box. Do you already have a MIDI interface of some sort? Some interfaces allow for MIDI Thru.
If you already have a MIDI interface, you could consider this solution. - AmpTone Lab Powered MIDI Thru Box / Splitter: amzn.to/2A26j1z (affiliate link). Using a device like this allows you to go from the Stepp to the box and then one cable from the box out to the Nord, and another cable from the box to a MIDI interface and then to the computer.
If you don't already have a MIDI interface, you could do everything with this one box (Digiplus MIDI Thru 7: amzn.to/2XxYwB5) but it gets poor reviews when using more than 5 connections.
All in all, probably not the news you were looking for. I'm not exactly sure why they (Clavia) don't support MIDI Thru like this. It could be that MIDI is not their priority? Let us know what you decide to do.
Thanks for being so responsive and detailed - at least this problem won't drive me crazy now :) I'll check out those MIDI boxes, but I think I will need to research a low latency MIDI box and go direct to my MBP now. Cheers. Stay safe out there!
Hey Great stuff. I'm having trouble with saving volume for my external synth. Every time I scroll through my patches, no matter what setting I have "send on load" "Volume" control set to. It sends maximum 127 volume to each patch on my prophet 6, also over-riding where I have my Prophet's volume set to. You can imagine how this is crazy annoying. Thanks for the great video either way!
Hi Rocco Dellaneve. Sorry for the delay on this. I don't have a quick fix for this or an exact answer to your question. I recommend putting a general post on the Nord Stage 3 forums here: www.norduserforum.com/nord-stage-forum-f3/?sid=211c905ddc40f536f61cca8f51585b00 You are very likely to get a response to this detailed question one way or the other. Thanks for watching!
Hello I watch your video step by step but I’m having problems I have a Roland fantom xr module connected to my nordstage 3 no sound is coming out of the externa any advice they both are on channel 1
Hi nikki9861. Well, without being able to troubleshoot this first-hand, it's hard to say what is going on. And, if you followed the instructions, it should "just work". So, check the basics again one more time:
1) Connect MIDI cable from MIDI out on the Nord to MIDI In on Roland. If you have an interface for your MIDI setup, consider removing that first for the sake of troubleshooting and just use a simple MIDI cable to get that to work first.
2) On the Nord, Extern has to be "on" - and make sure all 4 zone lights are illuminated (to troubleshoot). It's possible to have the Extern on and yet nothing comes out because the zone indicator lights are off - so be careful about that.
3) It sounds like you already set MIDI to channel 1 on the Roland but you may want to double check that too. Sound modules sometimes have multiple areas for MIDI setup.
4) Keep in mind that you have a separate set of MIDI channels for Extern under the "Extern button" in the program settings area (middle of the keyboard). These have to be set to MIDI channel 1 for this to work. But, I covered all that in the video, so I assume you did that as well since you followed the video.
If it still doesn't work, try a post on the Nord user forums found at www.norduserforum.com/ They might be able to troubleshoot further.
Good luck!
What's up Mark! I wanted to know if a midi keyboard can play sounds from Nord via extern(midi).
Hey Lawayne. Thanks for your question. I think what you are asking is if an external keyboard can play sounds from the Nord via MIDI. The answer is yes, there is a "MIDI In" port on the Nord allowing for an easy connection to be made from an external keyboard to play and control the Nord directly. This would allow you to drive sounds from an external source and hear the Nord sounds. However, in that scenario, you would not be using the Nord Extern function. The Extern feature on the Nord is exclusively for controlling external keyboards and not the other way around. In addition to the MIDI In ports on the Nord, you have a USB port which can act as a MIDI In and Out (if you were to connect it to a computer for example and use a program like Logic Pro X or MainStage for example (Apple). The MIDI In/Out ports as well as the built-in USB port on the Nord provide standard MIDI connection capabilities.
Thanks please do a more complex setup when you can
Hi David. Thank you for your request. Is there anything, in particular, you are interested in regarding the extern feature? Do you have a specified device/piece of software you are connecting to?
No looking to pick up the nord stage 3 and also interested in knowing how to use the extern section and some midi gear so any gear you have if you can demonstrate it!!! Have watched your looper demo so knowing how to navigate the midi pages and extern pages as well thanks!!!
Ah great! Glad to hear you are looking to pick up a Stage 3. I'll think of more ideas in this area. Others have asked similar things surrounding MIDI in general. Connecting drums, looper, and software are all things people are interested in.
My Keys To Music Thanks, Mark. I'd like to suggest a setup that involves syncing the NS3 to external clock on a live gig (since the NS3 doesn't send MIDI clock). Wish there was a way to trigger sequences from the NS3 in song-specific tempos!
Swancakes, thanks for your question. What exactly do you wish you could trigger from the NS3? Explain more if you can... Thanks!
An information please...if I want assigne master clock at my drummer in a output 3/4...is it possible ??
Hi Max.This should be possible. What piece of hardware/software are you using to trigger things from the drummer exactly?
Hi. I've enjoyed and learned from many of your videos, and came to this particular one searching for a solution to this particular problem.
I'm trying to use vocal the harmonies in the VoiceLive 3 Extreme via MIDI, with the performance track and automation features.
The problem is, if I sing and play my keyboard (a Nord Stage 3 73-key) manually with nothing else running, the harmonies are great, just what I want. However, when I start up a track (which is located internally in the VoiceLive 3 Extreme), the harmonies go all over the place...they sound totally drunk, out of key, and possibly even in another key...absolutely loopy. I changed to a fixed key (G in this case)...no change.
They work great with guitar, and great with my Nord via MIDI. Just not with a track running and automation. Even with automation turned off the still sound crazy.
What am I doing wrong?
Thank you.
@ Kenny Carter - sorry for the delay on this response here. I don't know much about the VoiceLive 3. Have you reached out to the manufacturer directly yet (for the VoiceLive)? Let me know what solved the problem if you solved it. Not sure how to assist you with this.
@@MyKeysToMusic I did figure it out after about a week of trial and error (mostly error :)...there is a setting on the VL3X that determines what it listens to for harmonies at Setup>System>Global NaturalPlay Source that must be set to MIDI in order for a keyboard to be the harmony source (see www.kennycartermusic.com/vl3xa.jpg ). It was previously set to guitar, so until I changed the setting it was unable to "hear" the keyboard via MIDI. Also, Setup>MIDI must be set to MIDI ports or it's also no go (see www.kennycartermusic.com/vl3xb.jpg ) . I appreciate you taking the time to reply to my question.
@@kennycarter2346 Glad you figured this out! I've often been intrigued with these units. I don't consider myself a singer but they are interesting nonetheless.
@@MyKeysToMusic There's a lot under the hood for sure...
@@kennycarter2346 There is!
Hi Marc
Great video thx, but I still do not to get the volume running with a Boutique JU 06A somehow?
Kind regards Chris
Hello Chris. Are you saying that you can't control the MIDI volume of your Boutique JU 06A via the Extern volume option? Or are you saying that you still don't hear the JU at all?
@@MyKeysToMusic
Hei
I can hear the Ju06A since I connected uutput of it to my mixer and then through my headphones.
But when I turn on the Volume knob in the external section it is not respnding.
@@chrissounddrops4368 I see now. Well, I looked at the entire manual of the Boutique and I don't see that it responds to MIDI beyond the standard notes and velocity. I don't see that you can control volume via MIDI or anything of that nature. I'm not even sure it would respond to sending program changes. So, based on that, it may not be possible to do this with the Boutique. By the way, the Boutique line of keyboard modules seems awesome - especially the SH101 one.
@@MyKeysToMusic
Thank you very much for looking into this. Strangely enough the Programm change works.
@@chrissounddrops4368 Interesting! Well, that doesn't surprise me too much as _program_ change capability seems to be more common than _control_ change capability. In any case, you can possibly get a double check on all this by reaching out to the manufacture or visit the Roland forums to ask the same question about your unit to see if it accepts those types of MIDI messages or not. The manual doesn't indicate that it does. Then again, I couldn't find in the manual any reference to it being able to change programs either, and yet it can do that. Good luck!
HI ! Is it possible to do this on the NORD 6D ?
Hi Suicide Sue! Well, yes and no - but mostly no. The Extern capability on the Stage 3 is really all about using the Stage 3 as a sudo keyboard controller of sorts. The Electro doesn't have this exact capability at all. Yes, you can use the Nord Electro 6 to trigger MIDI on other instruments including the ability to transpose and such but it's not designed to auto change program settings or pre-determine which CC number to change or anything like that. You also can't dictate zones/splits like you can using the Extern feature of the Nord Stage 3. So, the bottom line is no, you can't do this on the Nord 6D. You do have basic/standard MIDI options to control other keyboards which for most is all they need. I do personally love the Stage 3 extern setting for the use-case I described in the video above but I have since sampled those steel drums directly using the Nord Sample Editor so I no longer need to carry around the rack mount synth! Hope that helps - thanks for watching!
@@MyKeysToMusic Thanks Marc ! The idea was to play some arpeggiator with the electro 6D and a external midi connection... Yes i guess i will need a nord stage then ahah.
@@suicidesueband Right, those features (to name a few) are the big separators between the keyboards (Electro versus Stage). Have a look at this if you haven't already: czcams.com/video/av3GxXakeaM/video.html
Nord is so complicated. That's why I like programming yamaha and roland. Everything makes more sense to me.
I get that! Just like anything in life, you tend to gravitate towards the platform you started with. For example, I started on a Macintosh, which will always be my favorite platform. Sure, I can use Windows, but it's just not the same. I think people feel similar when it comes to keyboard platforms. For some reason, the Yamaha products never spoke to me. I do love Roland and Korg, but you're right - they are all a touch different. Nord is different from all the others, and most find it easier, but some actually think Nord has it all wrong, haha. So, that's what makes the world go around - we all have different preferences (and that's a good thing). Nord goes out of their way to make as much control available directly with a button or knob on the main panel. I think for the most part, they've accomplished this. Many of the other brands offer more features in some ways - this is true, but to do so, you have to be comfortable diving into more menus. Think about the Korg Kronos - it's a beast, but in order to take advantage of all that power, you'll be swimming with the menus.
Today, I'm personally very comfortable with Nord products, but I've also taken a LOT of time getting to know them. You are not alone in your thoughts. Nord does things a bit differently, and for some - especially those new to the platform, they feel the exact same way as you. Thanks for your comment!
@MyKeysToMusic you are absolutely right. I am a keyboard player, though I love yamaha keyboards, I try to use all the keyboard platforms but Nord and Korg are just a little too complicated sometimes. I would rather have the software menus with a bigger touch screen than all these buttons on the front of the board like Nord does. The reason I watched your video is because I am facing (playing) a Nord stage 3 right now and it's taking a Miracle just to have a simple piano and a nice pad going when yamaha and roland and everyone else have the sound categories right there and I just pick what I want and get to the sounds super quick. I hear the Nord stage 3 and know what it can do but it just gets in my way. I just have to sit down and learn it because I will be facing it more and more throughout my musical career.
@@Bigricky06 Just to follow up with this from 5 months ago now... Today, we have Nord Stage 4, which is another beast, although in many ways, the interface is actually easier to get around because you can see more options without having to click back and forth between panels A and B. The good news is, however, once you learn one Nord board, they all work in a similar manner with similar buttons, knobs, and names for how things work. So, any investment in learning one directly gets you to know the next one quite a bit. Enjoy your music!
compatible with pro tools?
Hi MrERLucas. Not exactly sure what you mean by this. If you mean can the extern send MIDI signals to Pro Tools via the Extern section, then the answer is yes. In fact, you can send with or without the Extern section if you are talking sending via MIDI.
So not very good as a master keyboard then, only two external midi channels :-( fixed split points also another meh....
Hi Scott. Agreed. Put another way, the Stage 3 compared to a purpose-built keyboard controller may not stack up. However, the Extern function provided in the Stage 3 does provide basic keyboard controls beyond what has ever been offered in the Nord Electro line or even in previous Stage models. I think, for most, it will be all they need if they plan to have a simple setup with a 2 keyboard rig using the Stage 3 as the primary controller. At least for my rig and simple gigs, it’s getting the job done. 😀. I wouldn’t mind however having a variable split point option on any key versus the pre-described ones. Thanks for your comment!
nord stage like all nords sounds great....but they are no keyboards controller, they are simple stage pianos and must considered this way.
It's no sense paying 3800 euros for a keyboard with fixed split points and those primitive midi controller functions, even a korg trinity was superior.
It's absolutely no sense, if you get a nord you get only for great quality sounds from library, and for nothing else...I've always worked with Kurzweil in past, now I play in studio and I'm mostly a sound engineer, but seeing those limitations in 2019 makes me want to sitting on the keyboard and playing the bench!
3800 euro for a keyboard with fixed split points aahhahah....hilarious....my Kurzweil K2500x had 8 mobile completely programmable, and kdfx was still able to route fxs wherever you wanted, with 8 programmable balanced audio outs.
That's a shame because I have 4 nord leads in studio and I love nord sound...but those limitations really disappoint me.
Hi kyma1999x. Thanks for your input here. Perhaps considering the Nord Stage 3 a "great keyboard controller" is better said like this instead. "If you already own a Stage 3, then you can use it for basic keyboard controlling via the Extern function". That would have been a more truthful statement from the video. In fact, as I was recording this originally, I thought my wording here was in-fact stretching it a bit. For a simple setup where a player wants the control the basics from Stage 3 to another board or module (like in my case here), the Extern does the trick. However, I completely agree that no one would spend 3800 euro for a Nord Stage 3 with their primary aim of using it as a controller. Luckily our dialog here clarifies those conclusions, and I'll pin it to the top of the comment list for a while as a result. Thanks for watching and for your first-hand input as a Nord owner!
My Keys To Music thanks....I owned all leads....i used to have twos nl3 in the past, now I own 2x, 4, a1 and a 3 (which is my less favourite), and used a lot the nord wave also.
Nord synthesizers are gorgeous, the lead 1/2/2x are one of the greatest synths ever made, and the 4 series is absolutely amazing.
I am thinking to sell my Yamaha Cp1 which is very heavy and get a nord stage 3/88...but I love the key action of yamaha cp1 woodden keys, sound quality is better in nord instead *and sounds really replaceable and with a vast choice....*