NAMM 2016: the Virtual Hammers of the Nord Piano 3
Just when you thought they couldn't possibly get any better, Clavia Nord pulls a fast one with the new Nord Piano 3. This stage piano - which succeeds version 2 (HA88) and is presented at the NAMM 2016 show this week - stands out thanks to its enhanced key response and expanded memory.
Optimal control from pianissimo to fortissimo
The irresistible red exterior of the new Nord Piano 3 houses a good deal of fresh technology and delectable new features. The main attraction is the instrument's Virtual Hammer Action Technology that, aided by the triple keybed sensor and heavier key response, guarantees an incredibly natural piano experience. Ultra-quick key repetitions are now within your range, as it's no longer necessary to fully lift a key before you can press it down again. Furthermore, the Piano 3 allows for both top and bottom triggering, giving you unparalleled control over pianissimo passages as well as more powerful, percussive parts. Equally special is the stage piano's velocity-sensitive release, which basically means your sound responds to the speed at which a key is released. Finally, the keys' ivory-like surface makes your fingers feel right at home.
Piano, synth and effects
As usual, this Nord Piano's control panel is roughly made up of four sections. First of all, there's a general section with an extra-clear OLED display (instead of the more common LED screen) that allows you to find, set or store presets in the blink of an eye. Additionally, there's a section for the main piano sounds, one for the synthesizer sound parameters, and one for the extensive yet accessible effects. To make sure that keyboard players have nothing to worry about on stage, Nord has doubled the Piano 3's memory to 1 GB. That means you can import more files, expanding your sound palette considerably. The memory of the Sample Synth has been doubled as well, and to provide the final touches to your performance, you have a choice of effects like tremolo, wah, phaser, flanger, chorus, reverb, delay and tube distortion. A separately available expression pedal can be used to control pan, tremolo and wah.
Triple pedal and more
As far as the Nord Piano 3's many possibilities are concerned, we've only just lifted a tip of the veil. If you've ever played a Nord, you'll already know that these stage pianos offer an extensive range of features to explore at your leisure. As an extra treat, the characteristically red instrument comes with the Nord Triple Pedal, which gives you the same options a grand piano would.
Keep an eye on the product page for up-to-date information on availability and pricing.
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