NORD MODULAR V3.0 Table of contents Table of contents 1. Introduction ......................................................... 1 Welcome! ...................................................................................... 1 About the Nord Modular system .............................................. 1 About this manual ...................................................................... 1 Editor handling definitions in PC and Macintosh.................................................................
Table of contents NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions .................................................. 19 introduction to Nord Modular ...............................................19 ...............................................19 Modules................................................................................................................................. 19 Connections.........................................................................................................................
NORD MODULAR V3.0 Table of contents 5. Panel reference.................................................. reference..................................................46 ..................................................46 Knobs and buttons of Nord Modular .................................... 46 Master Volume .......................................................................................................................46 Panel Split ....................................................................
Table of contents NORD MODULAR V3.0 Patch ..........................................................................................67 ..........................................................................................67 Patch Settings ........................................................................................................................ 67 Download To Slot .................................................................................................................
NORD MODULAR V3.0 Table of contents 7. Module reference............................................... reference ...............................................93 ...............................................93 In/Out group .............................................................................. 93 Keyboard ................................................................................................................................93 KeyboardPatch ................................................
Table of contents NORD MODULAR V3.0 Envelope group ...................................................................... 129 ADSR-Env........................................................................................................................... 129 AD-Env ............................................................................................................................... 131 Mod-Env .....................................................................................................
NORD MODULAR V3.0 Table of contents Audio Modifier group group.............................................................. ..............................................................154 .............................................................. 154 Clip ......................................................................................................................................154 Overdrive....................................................................................................
Table of contents NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics ............................................. 190 Subtractive synthesis ........................................................... 190 Modules - the building blocks.............................................................................................. 190 Connecting modules ............................................................................................................ 191 The oscillators and waveforms ............................
NORD MODULAR V3.0 1. Introduction 1. INTRODUCTION WELCOME! Thank you for purchasing Nord Modular. We would like to welcome you to the fascinating world of virtual-analog, modular synthesis. Prepare yourself for a journey where your creativity can reach new levels, in a way that has not been conceivable with synthesizers before.
1. Introduction NORD MODULAR V3.0 the same as making a Shift-click in the Mac Editor and will be specified as a ‘Ctrl[PC]/Shift[Mac]click’. • Menu selection sequences are described like this: ‘Select Patch|Download To Slot’, meaning first select the Patch menu, and from this menu select ‘Download To Slot’. READING THE MANUAL IN ADOBE ACROBAT READER This manual is also available in the digital PDF-file format. It can be downloaded, free of charge, from Clavia’s web site at www.clavia.se.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 2. Overview 2. OVERVIEW NORD MODULAR FRONT PANEL LEFT PANEL SECTION The MASTER VOLUME knob controls the level of the four OUT ports and the HEADPHONES output. Pressing the PANEL SPLIT button assigns the 18 KNOBS in four separate groups, one group for each of the Slots A, B, C and D. The 18 KNOBS can each be assigned to a parameter in Nord Modular. These parameters can then be controlled in real time. The KNOB LED(s) will be lit when a KNOB is assigned to a parameter.
2. Overview NORD MODULAR V3.0 NORD MODULAR REAR PANEL Use the POWER ON/OFF button to switch Nord Modular on and off. Connect the MIDI Interface of the computer that runs the Editor software to the PC IN and PC OUT ports. Connect any external MIDI equipment to the MIDI IN and MIDI OUT ports. This could be a sequencer, a master keyboard or another MIDI device. Connect a footswitch to the SUSTAIN PEDAL/ ON/OFF PEDAL input. The polarity of the input can be adjusted to suit different types of footswitches.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 2. Overview NORD MICRO MODULAR FRONT PANEL The SHIFT button activates a secondary function on some buttons and knobs. The MASTER VOLUME knob controls the level of the two OUT ports and the HEADPHONES output. The 3 KNOBS can each be assigned to a parameter in Nord Micro Modular. These parameters can then be controlled in real time. If SHIFT is pressed, the assignable KNOBS have the following functions: Master Tune, MIDI Channel and Patch Selector. The DISPLAY shows the patch number.
3. Getting started 3. GETTING NORD MODULAR V3.0 STARTED EDITOR SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS The Editor software requires a PC running Windows 95/98/NT4.0 (a Pentium 133 MHz or better is recommended) or a Macintosh PowerPC running Mac OS 8.6 or later (a 120 MHz PowerPC or better is recommended), with a CD ROM drive and a mouse. The computer has nothing to do with the actual sound processing in Nord Modular - it is used only for visual patching and to send instructions to Nord Modular.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 3. Getting started 4. When the installation of the synthesizer Update is complete, you are set to start the Modular Editor 3.0 program. STARTING UP Make all the audio connections before turning on any of the devices. The computer that runs the Editor must be connected to both PC IN and PC OUT of Nord Modular.
3. Getting started NORD MODULAR V3.0 SOUND SYSTEM Connect the desired outputs of Nord Modular/Micro Modular to a sound system. We suggest that you start with connecting output 1 to a left channel and output 2 to a right channel of the sound system. Turn on Nord Modular first, followed by the sound system. OR Nord Modular Micro Modular LAUNCHING THE EDITOR 1. On PC: from the Start menu in the Windows taskbar, select Programs|Nord Modular 3|Editor.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 3. Getting started sizers are supported by the Editor. If you use several Nord Modular synthesizers, repeat the procedure for the following Ports. If the Nord Modular synth is not turned on, or if the connection between Nord Modular and the computer is not working properly, an error message will appear. In that case, check the MIDI connections and cables, make sure that the MIDI interface is properly installed and working, and that Nord Modular is turned on. Click on the Apply button.
3. Getting started NORD MODULAR V3.0 LOADING A PATCH FROM THE INTERNAL MEMORY A patch in Nord Modular can be considered the same as a “sound”, even though a patch is an entire synthesizer configuration that can often produce much more than just a single sound, but we will return to that later. Nord Modular has an internal memory of up to 9 banks (1-9), each containing up to 99 (199) memory locations. It’s not likely that you will be able to fit in 9 x 99 patches at the same time in the internal memory.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 3. Getting started 4. Load the patch by pressing the PATCH/LOAD button again. The patch is now loaded in the active slot. The number within parenthesis indicates the current polyphony of the patch. Patch Name ( 4) -- -- -- It is not necessary to have the instrument connected to the computer if you only want to play the patches from the internal memory or change module parameter values.
3. Getting started NORD MODULAR V3.0 2. The “Slot Selection” dialog box appears. In this example, select slot B. Click OK. A new, empty patch window appears. If you use Micro Modular, the dialog box looks a bit different. Select “Slot” and click OK. 3. An empty Patch window is opened. The Patch window is divided into two sections: the Poly Voice Area at the top and the Common Voice Area at the bottom of the Patch window. The difference between these areas will be explained later in this example.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 3. Getting started 8. Click on the Filter tab and click-drag one ‘24 dB classic filter’ to the Poly Voice Area. Now your patch should look something like this: 9. Let’s settle with these modules for now and start with the cable connections. First of all, let’s connect all audio cables between the modules: Place the cursor over the red square output of the ‘OscA1’ module. Click, hold and drag the cursor to the red circular input of the ‘FilterF1’ module. Release the mouse button.
3. Getting started NORD MODULAR V3.0 of the Keyboard Voice module. Click and drag the cursor to the yellow Gate input of the ‘ADSREnv1’ module. A yellow cable appears between the two connections. If you play on Nord Modular (via the keyboard or MIDI IN), the envelope Gate LED lights up and the patch will sound. 11.Now, let’s add an ‘LFOA’ module from the LFO tab to the patch. Connect a cable between the square, blue output of the ‘LFOA1’ module, to the red, circular Pitch input of the ‘OscA1’ module.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 3. Getting started of voices by clicking on the right arrow button. In the C display box, the current number of voices for the patch is shown. In this example, we request 4 voices. 13.In the bottom section of the patch window, the Common Voice Area, you can place modules that should act equally on all voices in the patch. Modules used in the Common Voice Area will act on the sum of the signals from the Poly Voice Area.
3. Getting started NORD MODULAR V3.0 module in the Poly Voice Area, and click the +6dB button on the ‘Poly Area In’ module to amplify the signal even more. 15.Finally, to make the patch editable and controllable from the Nord Modular front panel, you can assign any parameter in the patch to any of the 18 KNOBS of Nord Modular (3 KNOBS + 1 button on Micro Modular).
NORD MODULAR V3.0 3. Getting started Let’s say you want to assign the ‘ADSR-Env’ Attack to KNOB 1. Now, when turning KNOB 1 on the synthesizer front panel, the attack time will change. Proceed with the knob assigning until you are satisfied. Note that you can also assign KNOBS to selector switch parameters (buttons), such as the waveform selector of ‘OscA’, the dB selector of ‘FilterF’ etc.
3. Getting started NORD MODULAR V3.0 module background and select Delete from the popup. Please note that all cable connections made to the module will also be deleted or re-routed. You can also delete several modules by selecting them as described in the example above. Then, either press the Delete key, select Clear from the Edit menu or right[PC]/Ctrl[Mac]-click on one of the selected modules and choose Delete from the popup.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. BASIC 4. Basic functions FUNCTIONS INTRODUCTION TO NORD MODULAR A modular synthesizer could be described as a flexible electronics kit. It contains a lot of parts, the modules, which have various functions. You can build your own, customized synthesizer by connecting different modules and functions with patch cables. A modular synthesizer has the advantage of being a very flexible instrument, leaving you in charge of the routing of the signals and functions in the synth.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 THE PATCH When you have connected a couple of modules together, you have created a patch. A patch can be saved on the computer and/or stored in the Nord Modular internal memory. A patch can produce one particular sound, or several sounds at once, depending on how many sound sources you use in the patch. A patch could be anything from a copy of an existing vintage synthesizer, to a completely unique synthesizer configuration of your own design.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions PATCHES New patches must be created in the Editor. You can, however, store several hundreds of patches in the Nord Modular internal memory (not Micro Modular, which has 99 memory locations) and play these patches without having the Editor running or even the computer connected.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 selecting Local. This means that you work “off-line”, i.e. you cannot play the patch, only edit. You may then later download the patch to the synthesizer. DOWNLOAD A PATCH TO THE SYNTHESIZER If you selected Local in the example above, you can easily download the Editor patch to the synthesizer by doing either of the following: 1. right[PC]/Ctrl[Mac]-click on the patch window background and select a slot from the bottom of the popup.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions To:...’. Note that the original patch in the selected memory location will be overwritten by your new patch. Make sure you do not overwrite patches you want to keep! There is a memory protect function to minimize the risk of accidentally overwriting patches (not in Micro Modular). Read more about the internal memory protection in the section “Memory Protect” on page 56.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 Drag the “phantom frame” of the selected module to the patch window. The other modules will move, if necessary, when you drop a new one. The modules will automatically snap to a grid in the patch window. The patch window will expand when needed and scroll-bars will appear at the bottom and to the right if the patch window becomes larger than the available screen space.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions PATCH CONNECTIONS INPUTS AND OUTPUTS There are two types of main connectors on the modules in the Nord Modular Editor: inputs and outputs. The inputs have circular, and the outputs have square connectors. CONNECTOR TYPES There are four different types of connectors that are used for different signals.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 You can also make a serial connection, from input to input, provided that the first input in the chain is connected to an output. The result is exactly the same as in a branch connection. If a module within a serial cable chain is removed, the remains of the cable chain will be re-routed. It is also possible to make a serial connection between several inputs, without connecting to an output.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions EDIT PARAMETERS IN A PATCH FOCUS A parameter can be a knob¨, slider or a selector switch (button). Put a parameter “in focus” by clicking on it. An increment and decrement button appears below the knob or slider parameter as you move the cursor over it, and the current setting of the parameter displays briefly in a yellow hintbox. When you click on the parameter, the increment/decrement buttons (or button selectors) are highlighted.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 SIGNALS IN THE PATCH DEFINITIONS Just as in a traditional analog system, modules and parameters in Nord Modular interact with each other by means of signals being patched from one place to another. In a typical analog system, these signals are represented by voltage ranging from e.g. -10 to +10 volts. The signal levels in the Nord Modular system are represented by “units”.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions The Clock generator is an example of a module that sends logic signals. A logic signal is also a unipolar signal but it has only two possible values, two states: low (0 units) or high (+64 units). The types of output signals of each module in Nord Modular will be described further on in this manual using the definitions: bipolar, unipolar and logic. RESOLUTION AND HEADROOM The internal resolution of the Nord Modular system is 24 bits.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 A logic input that responds to both edges of the logic signal has no symbol next to it. Please note that even though they respond to both edges, the response is not the same for the positive and the negative edge. An example of this is the Gate input on the ADSR envelope generator. This input ”starts” the envelope when the positive edge of a logic signal appears and “releases” the envelope when the logic signal switches back to 0 units again.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions SLAVE SIGNALS, GRAY CONNECTORS There are two types of oscillator and LFO modules in Nord Modular, masters and slaves. These two types of modules are equipped with gray connectors. A slave module must be connected to a master module to receive a frequency reference (the coarse pitch). In practice this means that the slave will follow the master as the frequency changes. A slave module can, however, act on its own without having to be connected to a master.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 MODULATION The method of controlling one function in a module with another function is called to “modulate”. When you play on a keyboard and the oscillator changes its pitch, you are modulating the pitch with the keyboard signal. Another example is an envelope opening up a filter when a key is pressed. Logic signals from the keys tell the envelope to start modulating the cut-off frequency of the filter. Modulation can be positive or negative, e.g.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions [TYPE III] The mod-amount knob affects the incoming signal in an attenuated and amplified, linear fashion. A setting of 127 (maximum) amplifies the incoming signal to twice its original level, a setting of 64 leaves the incoming signal unaffected and a setting of 32 attenuates the incoming signal by a factor of 0.5 (leaving half of the level of the incoming signal to modulate). A setting of 0 shuts off the modulation completely.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 1. If you want to modulate the pulse width from the minimum value (1%) to the maximum value (99%) with a positive envelope (that produces a control signal with a peak to peak level swing from 0 units to +64 units), set the initial pulse width to 1% and the mod-amount to 127. 2.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions FREQUENCY MODULATION (FM) A signal routed to an FM input on a module affects the pitch by modulating it linearly in the frequency scale (see figure below). The figure shows an A4 note being pitch modulated by a symmetric bipolar signal. amplitude 140 Hz 740 Hz A4, 440Hz pitch As you can see, FM modulation results in equal pitch shifting, in Herz, on either side of the basic pitch, whereas Pitch shifting results in equal shifting in the note scale.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 the overall pitch, and if you change the oscillator pitch, this will create changes in timbre rather than in pitch. amplitude Modulator wave time amplitude Synchronized oscillator wave time If you let the synchronized oscillator pitch vary continuously, from an LFO or other modulator, you will change the timbre of the wave in a very interesting and characteristic way.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions KNOBS AND CONTROLLERS The 18 KNOBS on the front panel of Nord Modular (3 KNOBS + 1 button on Micro Modular) are useful sources for modulation. Also control- and on/off pedals can be used for modulation (not on Micro Modular). The KNOBS and controllers can be assigned to almost any parameter in Nord Modular.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 THE KNOB FLOATER The Knob Floater window is a graphical representation of the KNOBS of the Nord Modular front panel. The Knob Floater gives you both visual indication and the possibility to edit the parameters currently assigned to a KNOB. A lit LED next to each knob indicates that the knob is assigned to a module parameter, and the name of the module and parameter is shown above the knob.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions MIDI IDI CONTROLLERS Almost any parameter in the different modules can be assigned to a MIDI Controller. This is very useful if you want to record filter frequency adjustments to an external sequencer or if you want to control external devices from the KNOBS. When a parameter is assigned to a MIDI controller, the parameter will transmit MIDI data when being edited, as well as receive data from external MIDI sources (sequencer, master keyboard, etc.).
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 When you edit a parameter that is assigned to a MIDI controller, it will transmit MIDI controller data. It does not matter if you edit the parameter from the Editor or on the synthesizer with the ROTARY DIAL (not Micro Modular). You may also assign a parameter to a KNOB as described earlier. In that a case, turning a KNOB will result in editing the parameter, which subsequently generates MIDI controller data.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions bar to select it (the blue frame moves to the selected Morph group). Then double-click on the module parameter you wish to assign to the selected Morph group. 2. Every parameter assigned to a Morph group should also be given a Morph range. Click and hold the Ctrl[PC]/Alt[Mac] key on the computer keyboard and place the cursor on the knob that you assigned to the Morph group. Click-drag the cursor as if you were turning the knob.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 You can edit the morph range (the size of the sector) by double-clicking on the parameter or by using the mouse in conjunction with the Ctrl[PC]/Alt[Mac] key on the computer keyboard. You can also use the computer keyboard + and - keys in conjunction with the Ctrl[PC]/Alt[Mac] key to increase and decrease the focused parameter’s Morph range. Another way is to put Nord Modular in Edit mode by pressing the EDIT button (not Micro Modular).
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions All patches must have a requested number of voices assigned to them (minimum 1 voice). The dynamic allocation method used by other multitimbral hardware synthesizers is not applicable with Nord Modular. You can adjust the polyphony by selecting a SLOT, press the SHIFT button and turn the ROTARY DIAL (not Micro Modular). This can be useful if you have a couple of patches loaded to several SLOTS and wish to redistribute the polyphony among the patches.
4. Basic functions NORD MODULAR V3.0 EXAMPLE OF A PATCH THAT USES BOTH THE POLY AND COMMON VOICE AREAS This example shows a patch where both the Poly and Common Voice Areas are used: The ‘1Output1’ module in the Poly Voice Area is set to route the signal to CVA L, the left output of the ‘PolyAreaIn1’ module in the Common Voice Area.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 4. Basic functions The Mono parameter makes sure that certain functions in a polyphonic patch are “in sync” with the other voices. THE KBT PARAMETER KBT is short for KeyBoard Tracking. The KBT parameter controls the frequency step response from a keyboard to the module (e.g. the master oscillators, some of the master LFOs and some of the filters).
5. Panel reference 5. PANEL NORD MODULAR V3.0 REFERENCE KNOBS AND BUTTONS OF NORD MODULAR MASTER VOLUME Adjust the master volume of Nord Modular with this knob. Note that this knob cannot be routed to MIDI Volume or any other controller. It is separated from the rest of the parameters of the synth. To affect the volume of a patch from MIDI, you have to assign a controller to any of the Level rotary knobs of the output modules (see more about these modules on page 96).
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference FIND/PANIC When a parameter is assigned to a KNOB, the indicator next to the KNOB is lit. Pressing and holding FIND and turning the KNOB will show the parameter in the DISPLAY. The arrows that appears will help you to set the physical position of the KNOB to coincide with the actual setting of the parameter in the patch. As long as you hold down the FIND button, the value of the parameter will not change.
5. Panel reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 patch) and assign that parameter to the MIDI Controller you wish to transmit. Read more in “MIDI controllers” on page 39. SLOT BUTTONS Pressing the SLOT BUTTONS A, B, C and/or D selects the slots for loading, editing or playing. A patch always has to be loaded into a slot before it can be used. If you select only one slot at a time, the SLOT LED will indicate this by a flashing green light.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference ASSIGN/MORPH The ASSIGN/MORPH button allows you to assign a parameter in a patch to be controlled by one of the KNOBS. Press and hold assign while the desired parameter is in focus and turn a KNOB. Nord Modular must be in edit mode when you make a KNOB assignment. To deselect a KNOB assignment, turn the KNOB while pressing SHIFT. ; ; SHIFT+ASSIGN allows you to edit the Morph range of the parameter in focus (if it is assigned to a Morph group).
5. Panel reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 ST O R E There are 9 x 99 patch memory locations and one Synth Settings memory in Nord Modular. The internal patch memory is divided into 9 Banks, each with 99 memory locations. Generally, there is not enough room for 9 x99 (891) patches in the internal memory at the same time. The number of patches that can be stored in the internal memory depends on the patch sizes. Typically, several hundreds of patches fit in the internal memory.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference If you should run out of internal memory, the following message will be shown: Patch Name Memory Full To make room for more patches, you have to delete some patches from the internal memory. This can only be done from the Patch Browser in the Editor. See “Synth” on page 78 for details. SAVE SYNTH SETTINGS Pressing SHIFT+STORE will store any settings that you have made in the Synth Settings menus of Nord Modular or in the Editor.
5. Panel reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 SYNTH SETTINGS IN THE SYSTEM MENU SYSTEM MENU PATCH As mentioned above, the Synth Settings are global. To alert you that you are editing Synth Settings, an S is always shown in the upper right corner of the DISPLAY. Navigate between the sub menus with the up/down NAVIGATOR buttons and within the sub menus with the left/right NAVIGATOR buttons. Enter data with the ROTARY DIAL. MASTER TUNE Use this function to tune Nord Modular to other instruments.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference GLOBAL SYNC The MIDI Clock transmits 24 pulses per quarter note. The clock pulses can be divided with this function and be sent as logic signals at the Sync output of the MIDI Global module (see picture above). These logic signals can be used to synchronize the internal sequencer modules to an external MIDI sequencer.
5. Panel reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 PROGRAM CHANGE In this sub-menu you select how Nord Modular should handle Program Change and Bank Change (Controller #32) MIDI messages. Choose between Off, Send (only), Receive (only) and Send and Receive. PROGRAM CHANGE S SEND AND RECEIVE KEYBOARD MODE Here you choose how the Nord Modular keyboard should control the SLOTS.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference LEDS ACTIVE When a patch gets complex, the LEDs of modules like the LFOs or Sequencers could become inaccurate in the Editor patch window. A lot of blinking LEDs could also slow down the computer. Select NO to disengage the LEDs in the patch window. LEDS ACTIVE YES S MIDI VEL SCALE This function is used to rescale the velocity data received at the MIDI IN port.
5. Panel reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 MEMORY PROTECT Select memory protection ON or OFF for the entire internal patch memory. MEMORY PROTECT S OFF PATCH SETTINGS IN THE SYSTEM MENU SYSTEM MENU SYNTH These functions affect the individual patches loaded into the SLOTS of Nord Modular. Select a patch to edit by loading it into a SLOT. The changes you make in a patch will be stored/saved in Nord Modular or in the computer together with each patch after having selected STORE or Save.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference the sound sounds exactly as you want. Press the right NAVIGATOR button to send the Controllers. The snapshot is sent on the MIDI OUT of the synthesizer, not on the PC OUT. CTRL SNAP SHOT P [--] SEND VOICE RETRIG Here you can select if you want Nord Modular to retrig notes when playing a monophonic patch. In practice this means that if you hold down two keys and release one of them, the other key will automatically retrig.
5. Panel reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 KEYB RANGE This function is used to define a keyboard range for a patch. Set the lowest and the highest note to respond to note information. KEYB RANGE ( 0) 127 P The patch will only receive keyboard information when you play within this range.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference PEDAL MODE Select if a footswitch connected to the SUSTAIN PEDAL input on the rear panel should act as a sustain pedal or as an on/off switch. If you use it as an on/off switch, you have to assign the switch to a module parameter in a patch. PEDAL MODE SUSTAIN P E DIT With the EDIT button you put Nord Modular in Edit mode.
5. Panel reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 The DISPLAY will indicate the name and the number of voices assigned to the current patch. Patch Name ( 4) -- -- -- By pressing SHIFT while turning the ROTARY DIAL, you can change the number of requested voices of the active SLOT. This is especially useful in multitimbral setups. To load a patch into a SLOT, do as follows: 1. Select the SLOT in which you want to load a patch by pressing a SLOT button. 2. Press the PATCH/LOAD button. The PATCH/LOAD LED will flash.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference KNOBS AND BUTTONS OF MICRO MODULAR SHIFT The SHIFT button is used to access secondary functions of some of the other Knobs and buttons of Micro Modular. VOLUME Adjust the master volume with the VOLUME KNOB. Note that this knob cannot be routed to MIDI Volume or any other controller. It is separated from the rest of the parameters of the synth.
5. Panel reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 3/PATCH SELECT The third of the 3 KNOBS that can be assigned to parameters in a patch. If Shift is pressed, the knob is used to select patches from the internal memory. Selecting a patch will also send a MIDI Bank Change and Program Change message on the MIDI OUT port, if the Program Change function is active. You can also load a patch from a memory location by sending a MIDI Bank Change and Program Change message to Micro Modular.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 5. Panel reference If shift is pressed, you can use this button to control an assigned parameter in a patch, similar to the assignable KNOBS described above.
6. Editor reference 6. EDITOR NORD MODULAR V3.0 REFERENCE In the PC version of the Editor, the usual Windows98/NT keyboard commands are available. The dropdown menus can be accessed by pressing the Alt key and the underlined letter in the menu bar. The functions in the drop-down menus can then be accessed by pressing the key corresponding to the underlined letter in the drop-down menus.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference CLOSE ALL Closes all the patch windows. If any of them has been edited, you will be asked if you want to save them before closing. Closing a patch in the Editor will not affect patches in any slots of Nord Modular. SAVE This command will save the current patch to a storage disk on the computer. If the patch has not been saved before, you will be prompted for a file name. Note! patches that are saved from a PC (Windows) Editor automatically gets the extension ‘.pch’.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 EDIT U NDO Click to undo your latest operations/commands. REDO Click to step back through the latest Undo operations. Works like a reversed ‘Undo’ function. CUT Cuts out one or several modules, including their common cable connections and parameter settings, and places in the clipboard memory. COPY Copies one or several modules, including their common cable connections and parameter settings, and places in the clipboard memory.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference PATCH PATCH SETTINGS Opens up the Patch Settings dialog box. (These functions are also available for editing if you press the SYSTEM button and select the settings on Nord Modular. See page 56). VOICES Set the Requested polyphony of the patch by clicking on the up/down buttons. Nord Modular will always try to assign as many voices as you request.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 VELOCITY RANGE With this function you define a velocity range for a patch. Set the lowest and highest velocity values. The patch will only sound when it receives velocity values within this range. KEYBOARD RANGE This function is used to define a keyboard range for a patch. Set the lowest and the highest key. The patch will only recognize keyboard information when you play within this range.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference Cycles information is the same as the PVA Load information in the patch window toolbar, and the PVA Cycles + CVA Cycles information is the same as the Σ Load information in the toolbar. This information is very useful when calculating the maximum number of available voices for a patch. See more about voices and Sound engine power in “Voice definition” on page 210 and “Sound engine” on page 211. OK Click OK to activate the patch settings and close the dialog box.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 settings. This is described in “Save Synth Settings” on page 51. On Micro Modular, the changes will be stored automatically. NAME Key in a name for your connected Nord Modular. This is especially useful if you run several (up to four) Nord Modular/Micro Modular synthesizers from the Editor. MIDI CHANNEL Set the MIDI channel for each slot. This channel will be used for reception and transmission of MIDI messages.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference MASTER TUNE Use this to tune the Nord Modular to other instruments. The range is +100 to -100 cents. 100 cents is one semitone. Only the tuning of the master oscillators is affected by this function. A slave oscillator that is not connected to a master will remain unaffected. To the right is shown the master tune frequency in Hz. KNOB MODE Choose how Nord Modular should react to changes of the 18 assignable KNOBS (3 KNOBS on Micro Modular).
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 UPLOAD ACTIVE SLOT This command will upload the patch from the currently active slot in Nord Modular to the Editor. A new patch window will be created for the uploaded patch. If you load a new patch from the internal memory to the active slot and choose Upload Active Slot, the previous patch window will be recycled. SEND CONTROLLER SNAPSHOT Use this command to send all assigned MIDI Controller values to the MIDI OUT port of the synthesizer.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference BANK DOWNLOAD (TO MODULAR) 1. Select source by clicking on one of the two buttons: ‘Browse for Bank file’ lets you select a Bank file (.pchList) previously saved on the computer. Browse and select the pchList file you want to download to a bank in Nord Modular. ‘Browse for folder’ lets you select a folder containing separate patch files. The folder doesn’t have to contain a pchList file.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 SETUP OPTIONS The functions in this dialog box affects the configuration of the Editor. The parameters are automatically saved when you exit the dialog box. CABLE STYLE This is where you can adjust the appearance of the patch cables in the Editor. Choose between Straight 3D, Curved 3D, Straight Thin and Curved Thin.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference MIDI Allows you to choose any MIDI ports available on the computer to be used exclusively by the Editor for the communication with the synthesizer(s). Up to four Nord Modular/Micro Modular synthesizers can be controlled from the Editor. You can also instruct the computer to locate a Nord Modular synthesizer that was connected to the computer after the Editor was launched.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 that the knob is assigned to a module parameter, and the name of the module and parameter is shown above the knob. Click-hold an assigned knob in the Knob Floater and change its value, just like you would change a module parameter. As you can see, the assigned module parameter will change its value, also visually, when the knob is changed.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference NOTES FLOATER The Notes Floater can be used to write comments in a patch. The notes are saved only with the Editor patch on the computer - not in the Nord Modular internal memory. BROWSER This function activates the Patch Browser floating window. The Patch Browser gives a very good overview of all current patches stored in the internal memory of the connected Nord Modular synthesizer(s), and patches stored on the computer.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 Load patch to active slot: Double-click on a patch file to automatically load the patch to the active slot in the synthesizer and open up the patch in the Editor patch window. This is the same as using File|Open and selecting the active slot. Load patch to slot or store in internal memory: By right[PC]/Ctrl[Mac]-clicking on a patch in the Disk tab, the following context menu appears.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference Load patch to active slot: Double-click on a patch to automatically load the patch to the active slot in the synthesizer and open up the patch in the Editor patch window (if ‘Auto upload’ has been selected in the Setup|Options dialog box (see page 74)). This function is exactly the same as loading a patch using the PATCH/LOAD button and the ROTARY DIAL on the Nord Modular front panel (see “Patch/Load” on page 59).
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 Store patch of active slot to any bank: By right[PC]/Ctrl[Mac]-clicking on the gray frame at the bottom of the Synth tab (by scrolling all way down to the bottom of the list), the following dialog box appears. Here you can choose to store the patch of the active slot in any memory location of any bank. WINDOWS CASCADE Arrange multiple patch windows in a cascaded configuration.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference TILE HORIZONTALLY Arrange multiple patch windows in a horizontally tiled configuration. TILE VERTICALLY Arrange multiple patch windows in a vertically tiled configuration. CURRENTLY OPEN PATCHES Here, all patches open in the Editor are shown. You can select any of the open patches by clicking on them. Note that selecting an open patch from this list does not make it active in the synthesizer.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 TOOLBAR PATCH (NAME) Here is the Patch name for the active patch shown. Click in the box to key in a Patch name. Press Enter on the computer keyboard to enter the name and exit the Patch name box. To exit without changing the name, press Esc. If the patch is active in a slot of the Nord Modular, the name will be shown in the DISPLAY as well. A standard English character set is available. Any illegal characters that you may type will be substituted with empty spaces.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference VISIBLE CABLES Click on any of the seven colored buttons to select which cable group(s) should be visible/invisible in the patch. “Invisible” cables will be indicated by a colored dot on the in- and outputs of the connected modules. The white button represents any remaining connections after you have broke a part of a cable chain (see figure below). Let’s say you want to break the cable between the ‘LFOA1’ output and the ‘OSCA1’ Pitch input in the upper picture.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 MORPH GROUP KNOBS Almost any parameter or function in the Nord Modular modules can be assigned to one of the four available Morph groups. You may assign up to 25 different parameters to the four Morph groups. With the Morph group knobs you control the Morph amount for each group. Right[PC]/Ctrl[Mac]-click on a Morph group knob to assign it to a KNOB on the front panel and/or a MIDI Controller.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference CONNECTION INDICATORS Here, all currently connected Nord Modular synthesizers are visible. Up to four synthesizers can be controlled from the Editor, and their names are shown in the box to the right. You can activate any slot of the connected synthesizers and edit the patch by clicking on the slot button. You can select/deselect several slots on the same instrument by Ctrl[PC]/Shift[Mac]-clicking on the corresponding slot buttons.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 puter keyboard to toggle between the current split position and viewing only the Poly Voice Area. Press C on the computer keyboard to toggle between the current split position and viewing only the Common Voice Area. PATCH WINDOW POPUP Right[PC]/Ctrl[Mac]-clicking on the background of the patch window brings up a popup of the module groups including their modules. Select desired module by clicking on it from the list.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference PARAMETER POPUP Right[PC]/Ctrl[Mac]-clicking on a module parameter brings up the parameter popup. DEFAULT VALUE Resets the parameter to the fixed parameter default value. ZERO MORPH Resets any morph range that you have set for the parameter. KNOB Allows you to assign one of the 18 KNOBS, the Control pedal input, aftertouch received via MIDI or the On/Off switch to the parameter.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 CABLE POPUP Right[PC]/Ctrl[Mac]-clicking on a cable connection brings out the cable popup. DISCONNECT Deletes the connection. Any remaining cable chains will be rerouted. BREAK Breaks a serial connection between a selected input connector and the previous connector in the serial chain.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference COMPUTER KEYBOARD SHORT-CUTS Any commands that may be launched from the computer keyboard are shown next to the command/ function name in the menu dropdown lists. Selecting functions with the computer keys is a very powerful and fast method of using the Editor software. “SPECIAL FUNCTIONS” KEYS ESC Press the Esc key to abort operations such as dragging modules, connecting/rerouting cables, escaping from dialog boxes etc.
6. Editor reference NORD MODULAR V3.0 THE FUNCTION KEYS You can get a read-out of all parameter settings, Morph range, Morph group assignment, Knob and MIDI controller assignment in a patch by pressing the function keys F5 to F12. F5 If you press the F5 key, hintboxes showing every parameter value in the patch will be displayed. Parameters assigned to a Morph group will display their respective Morph range, starting with the initial parameter value.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 6. Editor reference F9 If you press the F9 key, the MIDI Controller assignment will be displayed in hintboxes. F12 If you press the F12 key, the current MIDI Controller values of parameters assigned to MIDI Controllers will be displayed in hintboxes.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. MODULE 7. Module reference: In/Out group REFERENCE The modules are grouped in ten module groups, which you access by clicking on the tabs in the toolbar. The modules are visually identified with illustrations. When you place the cursor over an illustration, a brief description appears together with an indication of how much Sound engine power (Load) the module uses (PC version only). See “Sound engine” on page 211 for more information.
7. Module reference: In/Out group NORD MODULAR V3.0 GATE This yellow output sends a high logic signal (+64 units) every time a key is pressed on the keyboard, or a MIDI note-on is received at the MIDI IN port. The logic signal switches back to zero (0 units) when the key is released. If a sustain pedal is activated, the logic signal will be high for as long as the pedal is pressed. Signal: Logic.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: In/Out group MIDIGLOBAL This module generates logic signals that can be used for trigging and synchronizing modules featuring logic inputs. CLOCK This yellow output provides you with logic signals from the MIDI Clock in Nord Modular. This output transmits 24 pulses for each quarter note. (The Clock Divider module in the Logic module group can divide these pulses to a division set by you.) Signal: Logic.
7. Module reference: In/Out group NORD MODULAR V3.0 AUDIOIN This module routes the line level audio signals from the INPUT L and INPUT R inputs on the rear panel of Nord Modular to your patch. Two separate audio channels can be patched into the system. The input meters indicate the level of the incoming signals. The 0dB indication on the module indicates the headroom limit of the Nord Modular system. Signals above 0dB will cause the system to clip, causing distortion.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: In/Out group should be used when you want to route audio signals from the Poly Voice Area to the Common Voice Area of the patch via the Poly Area In module described above. (See an example of how to use the Poly and Common Voice Areas in “Poly and Common Voice patch sections” on page 43.) 1 OUTPUT This module takes one signal and routes it to one of the six mix buses. DEST Select a destination mix bus with the buttons.
7. Module reference: In/Out group NORD MODULAR V3.0 4 OUTPUTS This module routes four separate signals to one mix bus each. MIX BUS The audio inputs to the respective mix bus and physical OUT jack of the synthesizer. LEVEL The total audio level to the mix buses can be attenuated with the level knob. NOTEDETECT This module can detect a note, either from the Nord Modular keyboard or from the MIDI INPUT.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group NOTE, GATE AND VEL INPUTS ‘Note’ is the note control signal input. Patch the Note output of the Keyboard Patch or Keyboard Voice module to this input. ‘Gate’ is the logic gate input. This input must always receive a high logic gate signal to activate the module. Connect it to the Gate output of the Keyboard Patch or Keyboard Voice module, for instance. ‘Vel’ is the velocity control signal input.
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 FINE Sets the fine tuning of the oscillator. The range is +/- half a semitone divided into 128 steps. Click on the triangle above the control to reset the fine tuning to 0, which is the preset value. PITCH MODULATION INPUTS [ATTENUATOR TYPE II] There are two blue modulation inputs for modulating the oscillator pitch on this module. The modulation amount is attenuated with the rotary knob next to each input.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group PITCH MODULATION INPUTS [ATTENUATOR TYPE II] There are two red modulation inputs for modulating the oscillator pitch on this module. The modulation amount is attenuated with the rotary knob next to each input. See “Pitch modulation” on page 34 for more info. FMA MODULATION INPUT [ATTENUATOR TYPE II] A red modulation input where a signal will affect the frequency of the oscillator. The FM amount is attenuated with the rotary knob next to the input.
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 OSCB This oscillator can produce one of four waveforms: Square/Pulse, Sawtooth, Triangle or Sine. The oscillator has two pitch modulation inputs, one frequency modulation (FMA) input and a Pulse width modulation input. SLV OUTPUT This is a gray control output for controlling the pitch of a slave oscillator. Patch this output to a Mst input on a slave module.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group PWIDTH MODULATION INPUT [ATTENUATOR TYPE I] This is a blue input for modulating the width of the Pulse waveform, starting at the initial width of 50%. The modulation amount is determined by the rotary knob next to the input. See page 33 for modulation examples. WAVEFORM SELECTORS Selects one of the four available waveforms. Clicking on a selected button will mute the audio output of the oscillator.
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 FMA MODULATION INPUT [ATTENUATOR TYPE II] A red modulation input where a signal will affect the pitch of the oscillator in a linear way. The FM amount is attenuated with the rotary knob next to the input. See “Frequency modulation (FM)” on page 35 for more info. KBT This is the hardwired connection between the oscillator and the keyboard (and the MIDI input).
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group FMA MODULATION INPUT [ATTENUATOR TYPE II] A red modulation input where a signal will affect the frequency of the oscillator. The FM amount is attenuated with the rotary knob next to the input. See “Frequency modulation (FM)” on page 35 for more info. KBT KBT is the hardwired connection between the oscillator and the keyboard (and the MIDI input). If KBT is activated the oscillator will track the keyboard at the rate of one semitone for each key.
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 TIMBRE Use the rotary knob to select different timbres (1-127 and Random). The selected timbre is shown in the display box. There is also a blue modulation input for controlling timbre changes from an external source. SLV OUTPUT This is a gray slave output for controlling slave oscillators. Patch this output to a Mst input of a slave module.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group MST INPUT The gray control input from a master oscillator. Connect this input to a Slv output from a master module. If you connect a master LFO to this input, the slave oscillator will track the LFO five octaves above the pitch of the LFO. DISPLAY BOX Click on the info window to switch between Semitones, Hz and Ratio. Range: C-1 to G9 (7.94 Hz to 12910 Hz or x 0.0241 to x 39.152). PARTIALS Select a preset transposition value of the slave oscillator.
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 OSCSLVB This slave oscillator produces a Square/Pulse waveform. The pulse width can be modulated. MST INPUT The gray control input from a master oscillator. If you connect a master LFO to this input, the slave oscillator will track the LFO five octaves above the pitch of the LFO. DISPLAY BOX Click on the info window to switch between Semitones, Hz and Ratio. Range: C-1 to G9 (7.94 Hz to 12910 Hz or x 0.0241 to x 39.152).
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group OSCSLVC This slave oscillator produces a Sawtooth wave. It has a FMA modulation input. MST INPUT The gray control input from a master oscillator. If you connect a master LFO to this input, the slave oscillator will track the LFO five octaves above the pitch of the LFO. DISPLAY BOX Click on the info window to switch between Semitones, Hz and Ratio. Range: C-1 to G9 (7.94 Hz to 12910 Hz or x 0.0241 to x 39.152).
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 OSCSLVD This slave oscillator produces a Triangle wave. It has an FMA modulation input. MST INPUT The gray control input from a master oscillator. If you connect a master LFO to this input, the slave oscillator will track the LFO five octaves above the pitch of the LFO. DISPLAY BOX Click on the info window to switch between Semitones, Hz and Ratio. Range: C-1 to G9 (7.94 Hz to 12910 Hz or x 0.0241 to x 39.152).
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group OSCSLVE This slave oscillator produces a Sine wave. It has an FMA- and an amplitude modulation input. MST INPUT The gray control input from a master oscillator. If you connect a master LFO to this input, the slave oscillator will track the LFO five octaves above the pitch of the LFO. DISPLAY BOX Click on the info window to switch between Semitones, Hz and Ratio. Range: C-1 to G9 (7.94 Hz to 12910 Hz or x 0.0241 to x 39.152).
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 OSCSINEBANK The Sine slave oscillator bank oscillator features six sine wave oscillators. These can be tuned and AM modulated independently. It is also possible to sync all the waves from an external source. DISPLAY BOXES The display boxes display the transposition ratio for each of the six sine wave oscillators. Range: 0.0241 to 39.152 times the master oscillator pitch.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group The pitch of the controlling oscillator will interact with the controlled oscillator pitches. Turning the Tune knobs of the sync-controlled sine wave oscillators will produce radical changes in the timbre. See “Sync” on page 35 for more information. MIX IN Use this audio input to mix in another audio signal. The input signal will be mixed with the sine wave oscillator signals and sent to the output.
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 trolled oscillator to an output. Turning the Detune knob of the sync-controlled oscillator will produce radical changes in the timbre. See “Sync” on page 35 for more information. FMB MODULATION INPUT [ATTENUATOR TYPE II] A red modulation input where a signal will affect the oscillator pitch creating classic FM-type sounds. The FM amount is attenuated with the rotary knob next to the input. See “Frequency modulation (FM)” on page 35 for more info.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group PERCOSC This is an oscillator that generates percussive sounds. The amplitude and pitch of the sound can be modulated from external sources. AMP INPUT A signal at this audio input modulates the amplitude of the sound. The attenuation is fixed at a 1:1 ratio. TRIG INPUT Use this input to trig the sound. Any signal that increases from 0 units or less, to anything above 0 units will trig the sound.
7. Module reference: Oscillator group NORD MODULAR V3.0 DRUMSYNTH The Drum synth module is designed to generate classic analog drum sounds. It consists of a master and a slave oscillator in combination with a noise source and a multimode noise filter. The global parameters include a bend function and a click and noise mixer. (See “Voice definition” on page 210 for an example on how to build a multi drum synth patch using only one single voice in Nord Modular.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Oscillator group Res: With the Res knob you set the resonance amount around the cutoff frequency. Swp: With the Sweep knob you set a sweep range for the cutoff frequency. The setting results in a sweep from a high cutoff frequency down to the frequency you set with the Freq knob. Range: 0 to 5 octaves. Dcy: The Decay knob sets the noise sweep and decay time. Range: 0.5 ms to 45 s.
7. Module reference: LFO group NORD MODULAR V3.0 LFO GROUP LFOs, Low Frequency Oscillators are good sources for periodic modulation. The waveforms that they produce can be used for vibrato, tremolo or as clock sources. Some of the LFOs in Nord Modular have a very wide frequency range, from very low to audible frequencies. The output of the control signal coming from a LFO ranges from -64 to +64 units, peak to peak. There are two main LFO groups, master LFOs and slave LFOs.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: LFO group HI, LO, SUB Selects one of three ranges of the LFO rate, high, low or sub. The Hi range is from 0.26 Hz to 392 Hz, the Lo range is from 0.02 Hz to 24.4 Hz and the Sub range is from one cycle completed in 699 seconds to one cycle completed in 5.46 seconds. PHASE Sets the starting point of the LFO cycle. Range: -180 to +177 degrees. The set degree is shown in the display box to the left of the knob. GRAPH The graph illustrates one cycle and its phase.
7. Module reference: LFO group NORD MODULAR V3.0 RATE DISPLAY BOX The Rate display box shows the LFO rate, either in seconds/cycle or in Hz depending on current rate. Range: 699 seconds/cycle to 392 Hz. RATE Set the frequency of the LFO, the rate, with the knob. The Output LED will show you an approximation of the rate, while the display box will indicate the exact frequency in Hertz, or in seconds if the range is set to Low or Sub.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: LFO group LFOC This LFO produces one of four selectable waveforms. The rate of the LFO can be modulated. SLV OUTPUT This is a gray control output for controlling the rate of a slave LFO. Patch this output to a Mst input on a slave module. If you control a slave oscillator, it will track the LFO five octaves above the LFO rate. DISPLAY BOX The display box shows the LFO rate, either in seconds/cycle or in Hz depending on current rate.
7. Module reference: LFO group NORD MODULAR V3.0 A WORD ABOUT SLAVE LFOS The rate of slave LFOs can be controlled by a master LFO. The gray Slv output of a master module should be connected to the gray Mst input of the slave module. If you refrain from connecting a master LFO to a slave, it will produce a waveform at the rate set with the Rate knob. LFOSLVA This slave LFO produces one of five selectable waveforms.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: LFO group M Click on this button to mute the control signal output of the module. O UT The LED above the output shows an approximation of the current LFO rate. Signal: Bipolar. LFOSLVB This slave LFO produces a Sawtooth waveform. MST INPUT A gray control input, for the frequency of the slave LFO to be controlled by a master module. Patch this input to a Slv output on a master module.
7. Module reference: LFO group NORD MODULAR V3.0 O UT The LED above the output shows an approximation of the current LFO rate. Signal: Bipolar. LFOSLVD This slave LFO produces a Square wave. MST INPUT A gray control input, for the frequency of the slave LFO to be controlled by a master module. Patch this input to a Slv output on a master module. If you connect a master oscillator to this input, the LFO will track the oscillator five octaves below the pitch of the oscillator.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: LFO group CLKGEN The clock generator module generates a stream of logic signals. The module can also act as a master to slave LFOs. The Clock generator is not dependant on any MIDI clock signals, but acts on its own. If you want to sync to MIDI clock, you must instead use the Clock output of the ‘MIDI Global’ module described on page 95).
7. Module reference: LFO group NORD MODULAR V3.0 CLKRNDGEN The Clocked Random Step Generator module generates a random control signal. The module transmits a new random value for each logic signal received at the Clk input. MONO Synchronizes modules in polyphonic patches to each other. This means that if you play a chord, the module will control all voices in sync (see “The Mono parameter” on page 44 for details). The preset setting of this parameter is Off.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: LFO group RANDOMGEN The Random Generator is a slave LFO that generates smooth random control signal steps at a steady frequency. MST INPUT A gray control input, for the generator to be controlled by a master module. Patch this input to a Slv output on a master module. If you connect a master oscillator to this input, the Random Step Generator will track the oscillator five octaves below the pitch of the oscillator.
7. Module reference: LFO group NORD MODULAR V3.0 PATTERNGEN The Clocked Pattern Generator generates 16384 different patterns (128 banks with 128 patterns each) with selectable length. CLK INPUT The yellow logic Clk input can be connected to a Clk output of an external module, such as the Clock generator. At each clock pulse the Pattern generator advances one step. RST INPUT The yellow logic Rst input is used to restart the selected pattern.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Envelope group ENVELOPE GROUP An envelope generator affects a signal level over time. The envelope starts when it receives a trig or gate signal and it closes when the trig/gate signal switches back to zero. During the active stages, the envelopes can be retriggered. You have control over certain time-dependent parameters and levels (ADSR and Multi-envelope only) in the Nord Modular envelopes.
7. Module reference: Envelope group NORD MODULAR V3.0 RETRIG INPUT The envelope can be restarted by a high logic signal connected to the yellow Retrig input. The envelope Gate input must be receive a gate signal to make the envelope retrig. AMP INPUT A blue control signal input used for controlling the overall amplitude of the envelope. ATTACK CHARACTERISTICS BUTTONS Set the characteristics of the attack part of the envelope with one of the three buttons, logarithmic, linear or exponential.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Envelope group OUTPUT The red output from the envelope controlled amplifter. Signal: Bipolar. AD-ENV This is a smaller envelope with two stages, attack and decay. If the envelope finishes the attack stage while still receiving a high Gate signal, the envelope proceeds with the decay stage. If the logic Gate signal drops to zero during the attack stage, the envelope starts the decay stage with the set decay time.
7. Module reference: Envelope group NORD MODULAR V3.0 ENVELOPE OUTPUT The blue control signal output from the envelope generator. Signal: Unipolar. OUTPUT The red output from the envelope controlled amplifter. Signal: Bipolar. MOD-ENV The Mod Envelope is an ADSR envelope with inputs to control attack, decay, sustain and release from external sources. AMP INPUT A blue control signal input used for controlling the overall amplitude of the envelope.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Envelope group S Sets the sustain level. This level will be held (sustained) for as long as the logic Gate signal is high. When the logic Gate signal drops to zero, the envelope will proceed with the release stage. The sustain level is displayed in ‘units’ in the corresponding display box. Range: 0 to 64 units. R Sets the release time. When the logic Gate signal drops to zero, the envelope will decrease from the sustain level to zero with the release time.
7. Module reference: Envelope group NORD MODULAR V3.0 AMP INPUT A blue control signal input used for controlling the overall amplitude of the envelope. A Sets the attack time. When the envelope receives a high logic signal at the Trig input, the output control signal from the envelope rises up to the maximum output, +64 units. The time to get from 0 to +64 units is the attack time. The attack is linear. The attack time is displayed in milliseconds or seconds in the corresponding display box. Range: 0.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Envelope group MULTI-ENV The Multi stage envelope is a 5-segment time and level envelope with selectable sustain segment. GATE INPUT A logic control signal is used to start and hold the envelope for as long as the logic signal is high. A green LED indicates when a gate signal is received. AMP INPUT A blue control signal input used for controlling the overall amplitude of the envelope.
7. Module reference: Envelope group NORD MODULAR V3.0 INPUT The red audio signal input. Here you patch a signal to the envelope controlled amplifter. ENV OUTPUT The blue control signal output of the envelope. Signal: Unipolar or Bipolar OUTPUT The red output from the envelope controlled amplifter. Signal: Bipolar. ENVFOLLOWER This module will extract an envelope from a signal, i.e follow the amplitude envelope of an incoming signal.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Filter group FILTER GROUP A filter is one of the primary tools for coloring the sound in a synthesizer. It can attenuate and amplify different frequencies in oscillator waveforms and other signals, and drastically change the timbre of the sound. Most of the Nord Modular filters can be dynamically controlled from various sources.
7. Module reference: Filter group NORD MODULAR V3.0 FILTERC This is a static multimode filter with a slope of 12 dB/octave and resonance control. It is a multi-mode filter with three outputs: one highpass, one lowpass and one bandpass. FREQ DISPLAY BOX Displays the cut-off frequency in Hz or notes. Range: E-1 to B9 or 10 Hz to 15.8 kHz. Click in the display box to change unit. FREQ KNOB Sets the cut-off frequency of the filter. Range: E-1 to B9 or 10 Hz to 15.8 kHz.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Filter group FILTERD This is a dynamic multimode filter with a slope of 12 dB/octave and resonance control. It is a multi-mode filter with three outputs: one highpass, one lowpass and one bandpass. The cut-off frequency can be modulated from an external source. FREQ DISPLAY BOX Displays the cut-off frequency in Hz or notes. Range: E-1 to B9 or 10 Hz to 15.8 kHz. Click in the display box to change unit.
7. Module reference: Filter group NORD MODULAR V3.0 FILTERE This is a dynamic synthesizer filter with a slope of either 12 or 24 dB/octave. It is a multi-mode filter, providing a highpass, a lowpass, a bandpass or a bandreject filter. The cut-off frequency and the resonance can be modulated from external sources. FREQUENCY MODULATION INPUTS [ATTENUATOR TYPE III] The two red inputs for connecting cut-off frequency modulators. The modulation amount is determined by the rotary knobs next to each input.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Filter group RES This is a function that emphasizes the frequencies that is at, or close to, the set cut-off frequency in LP, HP, and BP mode. If set to 127, the filter starts to self-oscillate and produces a sine wave. In BR mode this controls the width of the frequency band to be rejected. Range: 0 to 127 units. RESONANCE MODULATION INPUT [TYPE I] The red input for modulating the resonance from a control source.
7. Module reference: Filter group NORD MODULAR V3.0 KBT The connection between the filter cut-off frequency and the keyboard. At the preset value “Key" the keyboard will control the cut-off frequency at a rate of one semitone for each key. Turning clockwise from the center position will increase the tracking, turning counter clockwise, will decrease it. Off disconnects the keyboard tracking completely. Click on the triangle above the control to reset the keyboard tracking to Key.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Filter group FREQUENCY MODULATION INPUT [ATTENUATOR TYPE II] The input for modulating the center frequency offset from a control source. The modulation amount is determined by the rotary knob next to the inputs. VOWEL DISPLAY BOXES Displays the three different selected vowels. Presets: A, E, I, O, U, Y, AA, AE, OE. VOWEL NAVIGATOR BUTTONS Selects the vowels to be used. You can select up to three vowels and navigate between these with the navigator knob (see below).
7. Module reference: Filter group NORD MODULAR V3.0 ANALYSIS BANK CTRL INPUT Patch the signal you want to use as “modulator” to the red audio signal input on the upper left of the module. HIGH FREQUENCY EMPHASIS Click on the button below the Analysis bank input to emphasize the high frequencies of the analysis signal. This is a very useful function to get a more even frequency response in the modulated sound. MON Click on this button to bypass the modulator (Ctrl) signal to the output.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Filter group BAND ATTENUATOR SLIDERS Attenuate each filter band with the sliders, or by clicking the up and down arrow buttons that appear when you focus a slider. Above each slider, the center frequency of each band is shown in Hz or kHz. PRESETS Click on Min to get minimum output level (maximum attenuation of all bands), and on Max to get maximum output level (minimum attenuation). INPUT The red audio input.
7. Module reference: Filter group NORD MODULAR V3.0 INPUT This is the red audio input of the equalizer. With the rotary knob to the left of the input you can attenuate the input signal [Attenuator Type I]. B Press the B button to bypass the equalization and leave the signal unaffected. OUTPUT The multi-color LED above the output indicates the output level and have the following meaning: Green: normal signal level, Yellow: signal reaching headroom, Red: overload.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Mixer group MIXER GROUP The mixer modules in Nord Modular can mix audio signals as well as control signals. If you connect several sound sources to a mixer with high or amplified levels, the signal may distort. If this happens, attenuate the input signals. 3 INPUTS MIXER This mixer has three inputs and one output. Each input is equipped with an attenuation control. INPUTS Connect audio or control signals to these red inputs.
7. Module reference: Mixer group NORD MODULAR V3.0 GAINCONTROL This module perform the same functions as a traditional VCA, a voltage controlled amplifier, in a analog system would do. It provides you with modulation control over the amplitude of an incoming signal. It can also function as a ring- and amplitude modulator (see example below). See also the RingMod module on page 164 CONTROL INPUT Connect a modulator to this red input.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Mixer group RING-/AMPLITUDE MODULATOR PATCH EXAMPLE You can easily create a ring- or amplitude modulator by using two oscillators and the GainControl module described above. Connect the modules according to the figure below. See also the module “RingMod” on page 164. OscA is the modulator and OscB the carrier in this example. With the Unipolar button on the GainControl module not depressed, the setup functions as a ring modulator.
7. Module reference: Mixer group NORD MODULAR V3.0 P AN This module takes a signal and places it somewhere in a stereo panorama. PAN MODULATION INPUT [ATTENUATOR TYPE I] The red modulation input of the Pan module. Connect a modulator to modulate the position of the signal in the two outputs. The amount of modulation is controlled with the knob. L/R KNOB Sets the initial pan position. Click on the triangle to reset the initial position to an equal amount of the incoming signal at both the outputs.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Mixer group FADE With the Fade rotary knob you fade the between the two input signals. In the 12 o’clock position the output is silent. INPUT 1 AND 2 The two red audio inputs. OUTPUT This is the red audio signal output. Signal: Bipolar LEVMULT The Adjustable gain control module is a signal attenuator. UNI Select if the control signal should be Unipolar or Bipolar. GAIN CONTROL Set the gain control signal value with the rotary button.
7. Module reference: Mixer group NORD MODULAR V3.0 INPUT The red audio input. OUTPUT Signal: Bipolar. O NOF F This is a one input, one output module with an on/off switch, If no signal is patched to the input, the output produces a signal with the value 0 units when the switch is set to Off, and a signal with the value +64 units when switched On. ON Selects whether the incoming signal should pass through to the output or not.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Mixer group 1-4SWITCH This module allows you to route an incoming signal to one of the four outputs. INPUT The red audio input with attenuation control [Attenuator Type I]. OUTPUT SELECTOR Routes the input to one of the four outputs. M Mutes the outputs of the module. OUTPUT Signal: Bipolar. AMPLIFIER This module can amplify or attenuate a signal. AMPLIFICATION KNOB Select the desired amplification/attenuation with the slider. Any value above 1.
7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 AUDIO MODIFIER GROUP These modifiers are useful tools for changing and transforming audio signals. Feel free to experiment with these on control signals as well. CLIP This module can produce digital distortion by decreasing the clip level limit(s) below the normal headroom. SY M Toggle switch for the symmetrical mode. If this is set to Off (not depressed), only the positive peaks of a signal will be clipped.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group GRAPH Displays the initial overdrive amount graphically. The Y-axis represents the output signal values, and the X-axis the input signal values. IN The red audio input. O UT Signal: Bipolar. WAVEWRAPPER This module amplifies a signal until it hits the headroom. Instead of clipping the signal, it folds down, “wraps around".
7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 QUANTIZER The Quantizer module modifies an incoming signal by changing its bit resolution to a selected value. This module can e.g. transform a smooth envelope to a jagged curve, or quantize a clean, audio signal down to a dirty 7 bit signal. DISPLAY BOX Displays the selected bit resolution. Range: Off, 12 to 1 bits. BITS Select a bit resolution value with the buttons. Range: Off, 12 to 1 bits. Off leaves the signal unmodified.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group SAMPLE&HOLD This module takes samples of the values of an incoming signal. The sampling occurs every time a signal shifting from 0 units or below to anything above 0 units appears at the yellow logic input. Inbetween these trig signals, the module transmits the value of the latest sample to the output. TRIG INPUT Connect the signal to activate the sampling process to this yellow input. INPUT The red audio input. O UT Signal: Bipolar.
7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 STEREOCHORUS This module simulates the effect of multiple stereo voices. DETUNE Sets the detune depth of the chorus effect. AMOUNT Adjusts the balance between the dry signal and the wet “chorused” signal. IN The red audio input. B Click to bypass the signal and leave it unaffected. L, R OUTPUTS Signal: Bipolar. PHASER This is a 14 pole phaser with peak spread control and adjustable feedback.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group CENTER FREQ DISPLAY BOX Displays the set center frequency in Hz. Range 100 Hz to 16 kHz. CENTER FREQ With the big Center Freq rotary knob you set the center frequency. Range 100 Hz to 16 kHz. CENTER FREQ MODULATION INPUT [ATTENUATOR TYPE I] The center frequency can be controlled externally using the blue control signal input and the attenuator. FEEDBK With the Feedback rotary knob you set the phaser feedback, i.
7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 INVLEVSHIFT This is a combined level shifter and inverter module. You can use it either to change polarity of the incoming signal, or change it from a bipolar to a unipolar signal (positive or negative), or both. IN V Click the Inv button to change polarity of the incoming signal. This button can be used in combination with any of the other three buttons to the right.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group • As mentioned, the Shaper affects each single value of an incoming signal, not the total level. To show this more clearly, take a look at the figures below. The X-axis in the diagram represents the incoming signal values, and the Y-axis the output values. Output value Input value If a sine wave is sent to the input of the Shaper, and the Log2 curve is selected, the resulting wave on the output would be more like a square wave.
7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 COMPRESSOR The Compressor module is a combined stereo compressor and limiter. The theory behind a compressor is to compress (decrease) the dynamic range of a signal with high dynamic range. The compressor decreases strong signals and increases weak signals according to the module settings. The practical result of a compressed signal is that the volume is more even. INPUT L, R The red stereo audio inputs.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group RATIO With the Ratio rotary knob you set the compression ratio above the set Threshold level. 1.0:1 means no compression and 80:1 maximum compression. Range: 1.0:1 to 80:1. REF LVL With the Ref Level rotary knob you set the compression reference level. This is the level that the signals will be compressed towards. The higher the Ref Level, the stronger the output signal(s). Range: -30 to 12 dB.
7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 GATE ACTIVE This LED is lit when the gate is active. ATTACK With the Attack rotary knob you set the response time of the expander, i.e the time between input signal below the Threshold level and expander activation. Range: Fast (0.5 ms) to 767 ms. RELEASE With the Release rotary knob you set the release time, i.e the time it takes for the expander to return to the original input level. Range: 125 ms to 10.2 s. THRESH.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group MOD Patch the modulator (oscillator or other sound generator) to this input. IN Patch the carrier (oscillator or other sound generator) to this input O UT Signal: Bipolar. • To illustrate what ring- and amplitude modulation actually does to a sound, we have created an example with three sine waves, one carrier and two different modulators (Ring and Amplitude).
7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 amplitude amplitude time fC frequency Fig 4. RM Carrier wave amplitude amplitude time frequency Fig 5. RM Modulator wave amplitude amplitude The side bands appear on each side of the carrier wave on the frequencies: fC-fM and fC+fM time frequency Fig 6.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Audio Modifier group DIGITIZER The Digitizer module continuously samples an incoming signal at a selectable sample rate and bit resolution. The module can e.g. sample a clean audio signal and transform it down to a dirty 8 bit, 5 kHz signal. Great for “low-fi” effects with lots of aliasing. QUANT OFF Clicking this button leaves the signal quantization unmodified. BITS DISPLAY BOX Displays the bit resolution. Range: 1 to 12 bits.
7. Module reference: Control Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 CONTROL MODIFIER GROUP This group features a number of control signal generators and modifiers. CONSTANT This module produces a control signal at a selectable value. UNI Selects whether to send unipolar or bipolar signals. In bipolar mode (button not depressed) you can send from -64 to +64 units in increments of 1 unit. In unipolar mode (button depressed) you can send from 0 to +64 units in increments of 0.5 units.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Control Modifier group PORTAMENTOA This module can provide a smooth, gliding transition between the values of a incoming control signal. The transition is activated by a high logic signal at the On input. TIME Set the transition (glide) time with the slider. Range: 5.3 to 1355 ms. IN The blue input of the PortamentoA module. ON Patch a high logic signal here to activate the gliding transition between the input signal levels.
7. Module reference: Control Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 NOTESCALER This module works like a control signal attenuator. You set the output peak-to-peak limits in semitones. This could be useful if you want to “tune" the output from a controller. The Note Scaler works with either uni- or bipolar signals. DISPLAY BOX Displays the note range limits. Useful musical intervals will be indicated in the parenthesis (octaves, fifths etc.). Range: 0 to +/-64 semitones.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Control Modifier group KEYQUANT This module quantizes the values of a continuous control signal and generates note values according to a user-defined key. It is great for arpeggio-like effects. NOTES Set the desired key by clicking the notes you want to quantize to. The note interval for the shown octave is automatically duplicated across the whole key Range. RANGE DISPLAY BOX Displays the set key range.
7. Module reference: Control Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 The example below shows the principle for creating a simple arpeggiator. LFO A is set to generate a triangle wave, since this signal has linear, symmetrical ramps. This guarantees even change of control values over time. We have pressed four Note buttons and selected a Range of +/32 semitones on the KeyQuant module. The output signal from the KeyQuant module is routed to one of the Pitch inputs of the Osc A module.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Control Modifier group CONTROLMIXER This is a mixer for control signals. You can select between linear and exponential attenuator characteristics to better suit your modulation needs. It can also invert the polarity of an incoming signal. LIN Switch between linear [Type I] and exponential [Type II] characteristics for the two attenuators. See “Mod-amount knobs (attenuators)” on page 32 for more info. INV SWITCHES Inverts the polarity of the incoming control signal.
7. Module reference: Control Modifier group NORD MODULAR V3.0 B RK PN T Set the break point key. The value is displayed in the corresponding display box. Range: C-1 to G9. R GAIN Set the amplification/attenuation slope for the upper key section with the knob. The value is displayed in the corresponding display box. Range: +/-24 dB per octave. GRAPH Displays the two gain slopes and the break point graphically.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Logic group LOGIC GROUP These modules can modulate and generate logic signals in a number of different ways. Read more about logic signals in “Logic signals, yellow connectors” on page 29. POSEDGEDELAY This module will delay the positive edge of a logic signal. Set the delay time with the slider. The negative edge of the logic signal will not be affected. DISPLAY BOX Displays selected delay time. Range: 1.0 ms to 18 s.
7. Module reference: Logic group NORD MODULAR V3.0 PULSE This module can use a signal that increases from 0 units to anything greater than 0 units, to produce a high logic signal. You set the duration of the generated high logic signal with the slider. DISPLAY BOX Displays selected pulse time. Range: 1.0 ms to 18 s. TIME KNOB Set the duration of the produced high logic signal with the knob.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Logic group LOGICINV The Logic Inverter module produces a logic low or high signal depending on the input value. When an incoming signal is between +1 and +64 units, the module transmits a low logic signal. When an incoming signal is between 0 and -64 units it transmits a logic high signal. INPUT When an incoming signal is between +1 and +64 units, the module transmits a low logic signal on the output.
7. Module reference: Logic group NORD MODULAR V3.0 COMPARELEV This module produces a high logic signal by comparing a control signal level to a level limit set by you. If the value of a signal appearing at the input equals, or is greater than the value set in the window, the module produces a high logic signal. The logic signal will switch back to zero when the incoming signal drops to a level below the value set in the window. DISPLAY BOX Displays the set level limit in units. Range: -64 to +64 units.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Logic group CLKDIV The Clock Divider module can be used for dividing incoming clock pulses by a factor set by you. The module transmits a high logic signal after it has received a user-defined number of signals containing high/low transitions. CLOCK Connect an incoming signal to this yellow input. RST Any high logic signal appearing at this yellow input will reset the counter in the Clock divider. DIVIDER DISPLAY BOX Displays the set denumerator. Range 1-128.
7. Module reference: Sequencer group NORD MODULAR V3.0 SEQUENCER GROUP The sequencer modules can perform different functions during the course of a specified time. The sequencer modules in the Nord Modular system has 16 steps. They can be linked together in series to provide longer sequences and they can be clocked by various clock sources, originating from other modules or from the MIDI clock. The sequencer modules can be synchronized to each other in a number of ways.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Sequencer group TRIGGER BUTTONS Click on the buttons to make the sequencer send a pulse each time it passes the step. Note that the two Trigger Button rows work parallel on the two different outputs. G BUTTONS Toggle between the trigger and the gate mode with these buttons. In the trigger mode, every step transmits its own logic signal, at a 50% duration cycle. In the gate mode, two or more adjacent activated steps will mix into a “longer" logic signal.
7. Module reference: Sequencer group NORD MODULAR V3.0 RND This produces a random set of control signal values for each of the 16 steps. SLIDERS You set the control signal level of each step by moving the vertical slider or clicking the arrow buttons that appear below each slider when you move the cursor over it. Note that when you click-hold to move the slider, the cursor becomes invisible. Range: +/- 64 in bipolar mode and 0-64 in unipolar mode (see below).
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Sequencer group LOOP If the loop mode is on, the Note Sequencer will automatically restart from step 1 after the last step. If the loop mode is off, the sequencer will stop at the last step. STE P This sets the last step in the sequence. The sequencer will return to step 1 if loop mode is on, or stop if loop mode is off. Set the last step with the buttons. Range: 1 to 128 steps.
7. Module reference: Sequencer group NORD MODULAR V3.0 NOTESEQB This is a Note Sequencer with one bipolar control value for each step and a grid pattern for easy note editing. It also sends a logic gate signal for each step on a separate output. If you move the cursor over the grid, it becomes a magnifying glass with a + sign next to it. Clicking in the grid will zoom in, and Ctrl[PC]/Alt[Mac]-clicking will zoom out. Choose an overview from 1 to 6 octaves.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Sequencer group record function will be deactivated and the sequencer will return to step 1. The sequencer may be sequencing while you program the steps, if the Stop selector is in the Go position. You can move the edit point back and forth by using the arrow keys beneath the Stop button. The edit point can also be selected by clicking on a step LED. STO P Activating Stop stops the sequencer module, even if it is receiving a clock pulse at the Clk input.
7. Module reference: Sequencer group NORD MODULAR V3.0 SEQUENCING EXAMPLES GENERAL INFORMATION • Gate or trigger the envelopes in the patch with something if you want the sequencer to play notes. If you are using every step in the sequence, you can use the same clock source as a trigger for the envelopes, as well as the clock source for the sequencer modules.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Sequencer group PARALLEL CONNECTION Connect the sequencer modules to the same clock source. If you want to make sure that the sequencers are aligned to each other, connect the (Global) Sync signal to the Rst inputs. This signal will reset the sequencers to the first step. The Snc output will transmit a logic signal when a sequencer module starts the #1 step.
7. Module reference: Sequencer group NORD MODULAR V3.0 MIXING DIFFERENT TIME SIGNATURES You may mix different divisions of the clock pulses. The beauty of having 24 pulses for each quarter note is that 24 is divisible with 3 and 4. In this example, the clock is taken from the MIDI global module, at 24 pulses for each quarter note. It is divided with the fixed divider module with two different division ratios, 16 and T8.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 7. Module reference: Sequencer group SYNCHRONIZING SEQUENCERS IN DIFFERENT PATCHES TO EACH OTHER It is absolutely necessary that the sequencers in a patch use the System Clock as the clock source if the patch is to be synchronized to another patch, in another slot. They should also use the Sync output from the MIDI global module as the Rst source to ensure proper alignment to the first beat in the bar.
8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis 8. SYNTHESIS NORD MODULAR V3.0 BASICS SUBTRACTIVE SYNTHESIS Subtractive synthesis is one of the oldest and most widely spread forms of synthesizing sounds. It is the method employed in such classics as the Moog synthesizers, the Sequential Prophet-5 and 10, Arp synthesizers, most Oberheim synthesizers, the Roland Jupiter models, the TB-303 etc.; the list is practically endless.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis LFO LFO is an abbreviation for Low Frequency Oscillator. It is used for repeating variations in a sound, such as vibrato or tremolo. CONNECTING MODULES There are many ways in which the modules outlined above can be connected in a synthesizer, but the example in the picture below is a quite common one for “hardwired” synthesizers.
8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis NORD MODULAR V3.0 2. By playing the keyboard: The keyboard is normally “hardwired” to the oscillator so that pressing different keys produce different pitches. In some cases this connection can be turned off, so that the oscillator always plays the same pitch, regardless of which key is pressed. This can be done by deactivating the Keyboard Tracking (KBT) function. 3. By modulation: Modulation allows you to make the pitch vary “automatically”.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis Sawtooth The Sawtooth wave has a simple spectrum. All harmonics are present in the wave, in proportional values. As you can see, the high harmonics have a fairly high amplitude, which makes this waveform sound bright. Amplitude Amplitude Time 10 20 30 40 Harmonic number (Frequency) Triangle The triangle wave does not have very strong harmonics. Furthermore they only appear at odd harmonic numbers.
8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis NORD MODULAR V3.0 Amplitude Amplitude 10% Time 90% 10 20 30 40 Harmonic number (Frequency) 10 20 30 40 Harmonic number (Frequency) Amplitude Amplitude 50% Time 50% In the first example, the jump happens 5% in from the beginning of the period. This is referred to as a pulse wave with a 5% pulse width (sometimes called duty cycle). The second wave has a pulse width of 10%. The third wave has a pulse width of 50%.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis the overtones appear at frequencies somewhere between the perfect harmonics. This results in an inharmonic sound, which often sounds “metallic”. Amplitude Amplitude Time 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Harmonic number (Frequency) SYNC One some instruments (including the Nord Modular), two oscillators can be synchronized.
8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis NORD MODULAR V3.0 pitch of the synchronized oscillator (Oscillator 2), this will be perceived as a change in timbre, rather than in pitch.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis As you can see the curve is flat in the low register (which means it neither amplifies nor dampens the frequencies in this part of the spectrum) and then, at a certain point, gradually starts falling.
8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis NORD MODULAR V3.0 Bandpass filter This lets frequencies in a certain range of the spectrum (the band) pass through while dampening frequencies both below and above this range. This accentuates the mid-range of a sound. Amplitude Fc (Cutoff Frequency) Frequency Notch filter This filter type (also known as Band Reject) can be seen as the opposite of a band pass filter. It cuts off frequencies in a “mid-range” band, letting the frequencies below and above through.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis In Nord Modular, some of the filter modules can be switched between 12dB and 24dB modes. For sounds with high resonance (see below), similar to those in the Roland TB-303, the 12dB setting of the lowpass filter is useful.
8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis NORD MODULAR V3.0 To remedy this problem, many synthesizers have a parameter called Filter Keyboard Tracking. When this is activated, the filter Cutoff Frequency varies with which key you play, just as the oscillator frequency does. This ensures a constant harmonic spectrum for all keys. Amplitude Frequency RESONANCE (Q(Q-VALUE) Resonance in a filter is created by connecting the output of the filter to its input, in other words setting up a “feedback loop”.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis High resonance values are also visible in the waveform. They appear as a “superimposed” waveform with a frequency equivalent to the filter’s cutoff frequency. The three examples below show the same wave with increased resonance. Amplitude Time Q=0.5 Amplitude Time Q=1 Amplitude Time Q=2 If you add resonance to a sound and then vary the Cutoff frequency (for example with an envelope) you will get a very typical synthesizer sound.
8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis NORD MODULAR V3.0 will “instantly” (in the case of the Nord Modular envelop generators: 0.5 ms) reach full level. If the attack is raised it will take longer to reach maximum level. If you for example have an envelope controlling volume, raising the attack will give the sound a “softer” character. If you have the envelope routed to the filter, it might give the sound a “wah” type of start.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis On the other hand, for a piano sound, you would want a sustain level of “0”, since a piano sound decays to silence if you hold the key long enough. Level Sustain (level) Time Attack (time) Decay (time) Key Down Please note that the sustain parameter represents a level, but all other envelope parameters represent times. As described above, the envelope stays at the sustain level until the key is released. It then falls back to zero level.
8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis NORD MODULAR V3.0 • If you set sustain to 0, the sound will become silent after the decay phase is finished. With short attacks moderate decay times, this can be used to simulate the behaviour of a plucked string instrument (guitar, piano etc.) where the sound always decays to silence after a while. Level Time Key Down Key Up • If you release a key before the envelope has reach its sustain level, it will immediately “jump” to the release stage.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Subtractive synthesis 2. The LFO is normally not used to produce sound, instead it is connected to other modules to provide modulation of parameters. If you for example route an LFO to control the pitch of an oscillator, you get a vibrato. If you route it to the filter’s cutoff frequency you get a wah-wah type of effect. And if you route it to the amplifier of an instrument you get a tremolo effect.
8. Synthesis basics: Additive synthesis NORD MODULAR V3.0 ADDITIVE SYNTHESIS Logically, Additive synthesis should mean the opposite of Subtractive synthesis, and basically that’s just what it is. Instead of using waveforms with rich harmonic content, such as sawtooth and pulse waves, and attenuating and amplifying different parts of the harmonics with filters, you build your waveforms by adding together a number of sine waves. This is how tonewheel organs work, for example.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Other synthesis and modulation methods OTHER SYNTHESIS AND MODULATION METHODS FM SYNTHESIS FM stands for Frequency Modulation and is a method for adding harmonic and inharmonic frequencies to a sound by modulating its frequency with another signal. A signal routed to an FM input on a module affects the pitch by modulating it linearly in the frequency scale as opposed to Pitch modulation where you modulate the frequency in the note scale.
8. Synthesis basics: Other synthesis and modulation methods amplitude NORD MODULAR V3.0 amplitude The side bands appear on each side of the carrier wave on the frequencies: fC-fM and fC+fM time fC frequency Fig 3. Amplitude Modulation RING MODULATION Ring modulation is similar to AM, but instead of using a unipolar (goes from zero level to positive levels) modulator wave, a bipolar modulator wave is used. In the example below we use the same carrier wave as in the AM example.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 8. Synthesis basics: Other synthesis and modulation methods amplitude amplitude The side bands appear on each side of the carrier wave on the frequencies: fC-fM and fC+fM time frequency Fig 3. Ring Modulation As you can see in the figures above, the main practical difference between amplitude- and ring modulation is the sideband amplitudes and the appearance of the carrier wave.
9. Appendix: Voice definition NORD MODULAR V3.0 9. APPENDIX VOICE DEFINITION The number of ‘voices’ in a synthesizer is often defined as equal to the instrument’s polyphony, i.e an 8voice instrument is 8-note polyphonic. With Nord Modular it is a bit different. A single voice in Nord Modular can consist of many different sound sources.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 9. Appendix: Sound engine SOUND ENGINE A standard Nord Modular is powered by four Sound engines (DSPs). The Sound engine power can be expanded to a total of eight DSPs with the Modular Voice Expansion kit. The allocation of the Sound engine resources is totally automatic and cannot be changed by the user. Micro Modular has got one Sound engine (DSP) and cannot be expanded.
9. Appendix: Sound engine NORD MODULAR V3.0 The Sound engine resources used for one voice in the Poly Voice Area of the active patch is shown in the PVA Load indicator on the Editor toolbar. The Σ Load cannot exceed 100%, i.e one voice in a patch can never use more than 100% of one Sound engine. The only way for a patch to use more than one Sound engine is when it comes to adding more voices.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 9. Appendix: Sound engine If we had chosen to create the whole patch only in the Poly Voice Area, i.e. all modules would had been duplicated for each voice, we would have got the following result: Sound engine 1 Sound engine 2 Sound engine 3 Sound engine 4 This comparison shows one benefit of using both voice areas of the patch, the Poly Voice Area and the Common Voice Area.
9. Appendix: Sound engine NORD MODULAR V3.0 A MULTI PATCH EXAMPLE When it comes to voice distribution of several active patches, it gets more complex. The system always tries to achieve an optimal voice distribution, i.e. “fill up” each Sound engine to maximum.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 9. Appendix: Headroom HEADROOM The headroom of the audio signals in Nord Modular is -12 dB for every sound generating module. Examples of sound generating modules are oscillators and LFOs. The headroom in the mix buses of the output modules are -6dB. If you mix more than four sound generating modules in a voice, at high or unattenuated levels, distortion may occur. This can easily be dealt with by attenuating the level of each sound generating module.
9. Appendix: Troubleshooting NORD MODULAR V3.0 TROUBLESHOOTING EDITOR AND SYNTHESIZER COMMUNICATION PROBLEMS PC The computer and Nord Modular exchange two-way MIDI Sysex messages, transferred at full MIDI rate. It has turned out that not all MIDI interfaces on the market today are able to handle this type of dense communication, even though the communication is 100% according to the MIDI standard.
NORD MODULAR V3.0 9. Appendix: Troubleshooting MACINTOSH If you want to run one or several MIDI applications at the same time with the Editor, make sure you have selected ‘MIDI in background’ in the OMS setup.
9. Appendix: MIDI implementation chart NORD MODULAR V3.
NORD MODULAR V3.
Index distortion how to deal with 215 modules 154, 155 DrumSynth module 116 E Edit button 59 Editor installation 6 options menu 74 quit 65 start 8 Envelope module group 129 envelope theory 201 EnvFollower module 136 EqMid module 145 EqShelving module 146 EventSeq module 180 Expander module 163 F file menu 64 Filter Bank module 144 Filter module group 137 filter roll-off theory 198 filter theory 196 FilterA module 137 FilterB module 137 FilterC module 138 FilterD module 139 FilterE module 140 FilterF modu
NORD MODULAR V3.
Index popup window 86 reference 93 rename 24 mono parameter 44 morph assign parameters from Nord Modular 49 from the Editor 87 button 49 editing ranges 41 groups 40, 84 using 40 Multi-Env module 135 multitimbrality 20 using only one voice 210 N Navigator buttons 49 NegEdgeDelay module 175 Noise module 114 Nord Modular about 1 introduction 1, 19 notch filter theory 198 note trig button on Micro Modular 62 NoteDetect module 98 NoteQuant module 170 notes floater 77 NoteScaler module 170 NoteSeqA module 182 N
NORD MODULAR V3.
Index sync theory 195 synth settings editing from Nord Modular 52 editing from the Editor 69 save from Nord Modular 51 synthesis theory additive synthesis 206 AM synthesis 207 FM synthesis 207 ring modulation 208 subtractive synthesis 190 System button 51 system requirements 6 T toolbar 82 triangle wave 193 troubleshooting 216 U undo 66 V velocity range editing from Nord Modular 58 editing from the Editor 68 VocalFilter module 142 Vocoder module 143 voice allocation 211 definition 210 indicator and sele
