Nord Lead 4 Performance Synthesizer, 49-Key
A true "performance" synthesizer, the Nord Lead 4 cues up great pads, leads, effects, and modulation so quickly you'll have no choice but to start rocking.
Overall User Ratings (based on 1 ratings)
Submitted September 22, 2017 by Giovanni N in Los Angeles, CA
"Inspiring Synth!!"
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I was debating between the Lead A1 and the Lead 4 but ultimately chose the 4 as i didn't want to later regret not "going for it all". It's well documented that the A1 has a better sound engine but is limited in many other things including only having 1 LFO and modulation options. The Lead 4 on the other hand, gives you the flagship experience without compromising on anything except the fact that you could only use either a delay OR reverb at one time. Having said that, with the layering options, it could be easily compensated for under the Performance mode. This synth sparks creativity and excitement and makes you want to find out what else it's got. The sound is smooth (or dirty if you prefer) and cut's through a mix very well. The morph features augment your patches as uniquely as you could think of. It's great looking and well balanced synth that will be just as useful in a gig as in the studio. Highly recommended.
Sound
The sound is amazingly smooth. The highs are not harsh and the lows are punchy enough for most purposes. The sound sits in mixes very well with very little EQ needed.
Features
The ability to layer or split up to 4 patches in a performance comes in handy to make extremely unique sounds or in a live situation where you have to switch voices on the fly.
Ease of Use
Most of the parameters have their own dedicated knob so there is no menu diving. This makes creating and editing patches fast and a blast.
Quality
The synth itself is standard Nord quality in that it's built to last. One grip and perhaps the board's biggest weakness would be the keybed. It's not the best nor is it the worst but it could have been better.
Value
For what the Lead 4 offers in regards to look, reliability, quality, sound, features and the creativity it sparks, it's worth every penny.
Manufacturer Support
Haven't had to contact them yet.
The Wow Factor
Given the ease of use of the synth and fact that all the knobs are right in front of you with no menu diving to be done, this synth will literally keep you up at night with everything it offers. It's like catching pokemon in the sense that you're looking for these rare and elusive sounds that you sometimes stumble upon by accident and it brings a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Musical Background:
Sing, play keys and guitar in an alternative rock band.
Musical Style:
Alternative rock band with an 80s inspired retro feel.
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