nord Modular G2 - Sintetizzatore 37 tasti User manual
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x :
Table of contents
Introduction 15
Welcome! 15
About the Nord Modular G2 system 15
About this manual 15
Reading the manual in Adobe Acrobat Reader 15
Clavia on the Internet 16
G2 Basics 16
Modular synthesis 16
Patches 16
Variations 17
Slots 17
Playing multitimbrally 18
Performances 18
Special features in Performances 18
Focus 19
Modules 19
Parameters 19
Assignable Knobs/Buttons 19
Parameter pages 19
Morphs 20
Synth quick tour 21
Checking out the instrument first 21
Check out some Patches! 21
Access more assigned parameters in the Patch 22
Variations 22
Load a new Patch from the internal memory 22
Check out some Performances 23
Access assigned Performance (Global) parameters 23
Loading another Performance from the internal memory 24
Changing Variations when in Global Panel mode 24
Working with the synth 25
System Functions section 26
Edit System Settings 29
List of functions in the G2 System menu 30
Sound Functions section 33
Editing Patch Settings 34
1
: NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
Working with Patches 36
Load a Patch from memory 36
Search for and load a Patch 36
Creating a blank Patch 36
Acessing (Edit) any Parameter in a Patch 37
Assign Parameters to Panel Controls 37
Patch parameter Variations 39
Store a Patch 40
Copying Patches 42
Rename a Patch 43
Delete a Patch 43
Working with Slots 43
Activate several Slots 43
Layering Patches 43
Changing Edit Focus but not Keyboard focus 44
Morph groups 44
Assign parameters to a Morph group 44
Deassign parameters from a Morph group 46
Edit parameters in a Morph group 46
Copy a Morph group from one source to another 46
Morph groups in separate Variations 46
A word about the Keyboard Morph 46
A word about the Pitch Stick Morph 47
Performances 47
Entering Performance Mode 47
Exiting Performance Mode 47
Load a new Performance from the internal memory 48
Creating a Performance 48
Editing a Performance 48
Global (Performance) Parameter Pages 49
Keyboard Split 49
Keyboard Zone 50
Storing a Performance 50
Extracting Patches from a Performance 51
Deleting Performances 52
Nord Modular G2 Engine front panel 53
Nord Modular G2 rear panel 53
2
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x :
The G2 Editor software 55
The Editor software 55
Software installation 55
Editor system requirements Windows PC 55
Editor system requirements Macintosh 55
Windows 98SE/2000/XP, Apple Mac OSX 55
When editing more than one G2 55
Installation of the usb driver 56
Installation of the Editor on a Windows PC 56
Starting up 56
Launching the Editor on a Windows PC 57
The Editor application 58
Toolbar 59
Perf: (name) 59
Master Clock 59
Slot buttons 59
Connection indicators 59
Perf 59
New 60
Init 1&2 60
Module Group selectors 60
Module Icons 60
Patch Load, Cycles and Memory 60
Undo & Redo 61
Color 61
Morph groups 61
Patch Name 61
Category 61
Voice Mode 62
Variation 62
Var Init 62
Patch Level 62
Visible cables 62
Hide all cables 62
Shake cables 62
Patch window split bar 63
Making your first patch 63
Popup menus in the Editor 68
Patch window popup 68
Module popup 69
Parameter popup 70
Cable popup 70
3
: NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
Basic module functions 71
Cables and connectors 71
Module output sample rate 71
Module input sample rate 72
Red and blue outputs, bipolar and unipolar 72
Yellow and orange outputs, logic states 72
Yellow and orange inputs 72
Display boxes and graphs 73
leds 73
Basic module parameter controls 73
Parameters 73
Parameters that can’t be changed between Variations 73
Buttons 74
Radio Buttons 74
Arrow buttons 74
Knobs 74
Sliders 74
Drop-down selectors 74
Scroll buttons 75
Name buttons 75
Modulation 76
Modulation inputs 76
Mod-amount knobs (attenuators) 77
Knob positions 77
Modulation examples 78
Maximum modulation 79
Modulation Level knob names 80
Working in the Editor 81
Sound synthesis on the G2 81
Create a new empty Patch window 81
Add modules to a Patch 81
Rename a module 82
Move a module 82
Delete a module 82
Replace a module 82
Coloring a module 83
Connecting modules 83
Edit module parameters in a Patch 84
Voice Area and FX Area 85
Download a Patch to the synthesizer 86
Store a Patch 86
Delete a Patch 88
Creating Patch parameter Variations 88
Save a Variation 89
Copy a Variation 89
Variation Init 89
midi control of Variations 89
4
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x :
Knobs and controllers 89
The Parameter Pages window 89
Assign a parameter to a knob 90
Assign all module parameters to a set of knobs 91
midi controllers 91
Morph groups 92
Assign parameters to a Morph group 93
Deassign parameters from a Morph group 93
Edit parameters in a Morph group 94
Copy a Morph group to another source 94
Morph groups in separate Variations 94
Keyboard Morph and Pitch Stick morph 94
The Editor and Performances 94
Performance mode and Patch mode 94
Uploading a Performance to the Editor 95
Creating a Performance in the Editor 95
Keyboard Split (Keyboard Range) 96
Keyboard range and G2 panel split function 96
Combining Split and Layer 96
The Global Parameter Pages 96
Storing a Performance 97
Storing in the synth 97
Saving on the computer 97
Renaming single Patches in Performances 97
Extracting Patches from a Performance 97
Extract a Patch and store it in the synth 97
Extract a Patch and save it on the computer 98
Deleting Performances in the synth 98
Exiting Performance Mode 98
Editor menu reference 99
Editor menu bar 99
File menu 99
New Patch {Ctrl-N} 99
New Performance 99
Open {Ctrl-O} 99
New To 99
Open To 100
Save {Ctrl-S} 100
Save As 100
Save All 100
Save From 100
Save InitPatch1 & 2 100
Recent Files 100
Quit {Ctrl-Q} 100
5
: NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
Edit menu 101
Undo {Ctrl-Z} 101
Redo {Ctrl-Y} 101
Cut {Ctrl-X} 101
Copy {Ctrl-C} 101
Paste {Ctrl-V} 101
Clear 101
Paste Params {Ctrl-E} 101
Select All {Ctrl-A} 101
Patch menu 102
Patch Settings {Ctrl-P} 102
Textpad {Ctrl-H} 103
Delete Unused Modules 103
Download To Slot {Ctrl-D} 103
Performance menu 103
Performance Settings {Ctrl-R} 103
Download 104
Synth menu 104
Synth Settings {Ctrl-G} 104
Upload Active Slot {Ctrl-U} 106
Save In Synth 106
Bank Upload (From Modular) 107
Bank Download (To Modular) 108
Send Controller Snapshot {Ctrl-M} 108
Dump one {Ctrl-1} 109
Setup menu 109
Options 109
Tools menu 109
Parameter Pages {Ctrl-F} 109
Using Parameter pages to make knob assignments 110
Parameter Overview {Ctrl-L} 110
Using Parameter Overview to make knob assignments 110
Virtual Keyboard {Ctrl-K} 112
Patch Browser {Ctrl-B} 112
Assign midi to Selection 114
Deassign midi to Selection 114
Deassign All midi 114
Extended Toolbar {Ctrl-T} 114
Window menu 114
Close {Ctrl-W} 114
Close All 114
Cascade 114
Tile horizontally 115
Tile vertically 115
Tile Active Slots {Ctrl-I} 115
Tile All Slots 115
Currently open Patches/Performances 115
6
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x :
Help menu 115
Contents/Search/Index 115
Keyboard Shortcuts 115
About 115
Computer keyboard shortcuts 115
Technical reference 118
Signal types in a Patch 118
Definitions 118
Audio signals, red connectors 119
Control signals, blue connectors 119
Logic or gate signals, yellow and orange connectors 119
Bandwidth considerations 121
Resolution and audio signal headroom 121
Self-optimizing modules 121
Experiment! 122
Voice allocation and polyphony 122
Calculation order for the modules 123
Updating the Synth OS 124
midi implementation 125
What is MIDI? 125
MIDI Global Channel 126
MIDI Controllers 127
MIDI Automation 128
MIDI-Learn function (L key) 129
Troubleshooting MIDI CC#'s 129
MIDI CC# Auto assignment function 130
MIDI Talkback function 131
The G2 as a MIDI controller box 131
G2 MIDI System Exclusive Specification 132
MIDI Implementation Chart 137
7
: NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
Module reference 139
In/Out group 140
Common In/Out module parameters and definitions 140
2-Out 141
4-Out 141
2-In 142
4-In 142
FX-In 142
Keyboard 142
MonoKey 143
Device 144
Status 144
NoteDet 146
Name 147
Note group 148
NoteQuant 148
KeyQuant 148
PartQuant 149
NoteScaler 151
Glide 152
PitchTrack 152
ZeroCnt 153
LevScaler 154
Oscillator group 156
Common Oscillator parameters 156
OscA 158
OscB 159
OscC 160
OscD 160
OscPM 160
OscShpA 160
OscShpB 162
OscDual 163
OscString 164
OscPerc 165
DrumSynth 165
Noise 166
MetNoise 166
OscNoise 167
OscMaster 167
Operator 168
DXRouter 169
8
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x :
LFO group 171
Common LFO parameters 171
LfoA 173
LfoB 173
LfoC 173
LfoShpA 173
ClkGen 175
Random group 177
Common random generator parameters 177
Clocked random generator inputs and parameters 178
RandomA 179
RandomB 179
RndClkA 180
RndClkB 180
RndTrig 180
RndPattern 180
Envelope group 181
Common Envelope Generator parameters 181
EnvADSR 184
EnvH 184
EnvD 185
EnvADR 185
EnvAHD 185
EnvADDSR 186
EnvMulti 186
ModAHD 186
ModADSR 187
Shaper group 188
Common Shaper parameters 188
Clip 189
Overdrive 189
Saturate 190
ShpExp 190
WaveWrap 190
ShpStatic 190
Rect 191
9
: NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
Filter group 192
Common Filter parameters 192
FltLP 193
FltHP 193
FltNord 193
FltClassic 194
FltMulti 195
FltStatic 195
WahWah 195
FltVoice 195
Vocoder 196
EqPeak 197
Eq2Band 197
Eq3Band 198
FltPhase 198
FltComb 199
Mixer group 200
Common Mixer parameters 200
Mix1-1A 201
Mix1-1S 201
Mix2-1A 201
Mix2-1B 201
Mix4-1A 201
Mix4-1B 202
Mix4-1C 202
Mix4-1S 202
Mix8-1A 202
Mix8-1B 202
MixFader 203
MixStereo 203
Pan 203
X-Fade 203
Fade1-2 204
Fade2-1 204
10
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x :
Switch group 205
Common Switch parameters 205
SwOnOffM 206
SwOnOffT 206
Sw2-1M 206
Sw2-1 206
Sw4-1 206
Sw8-1 207
Sw1-2M 207
Sw1-2 207
Sw1-4 207
Sw1-8 207
ValSw2-1 207
ValSw1-2 207
WindSw 208
Mux8-1 208
Mux1-8 208
Mux8-1X 208
S&H 208
T&H 209
Level group 210
Common Level module parameters 210
Constant 210
ConstSwM 210
ConstSwT 210
LevAdd 211
LevConv 211
LevAmp 211
LevMult 211
Ringmodulator 212
LevMod 213
EnvFollow 215
NoiseGate 215
CompLev 215
CompSig 216
MinMax 216
ModAmt 217
Logic group 218
Common Logic module parameters 218
Gate 219
Invert 219
FlipFlop 219
ClkDiv 220
Pulse 220
Delay 221
8Counter 221
BinCounter 222
ADConv 222
DAConv 222
11
: NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
Sequencer group 224
Common Sequencer parameters 224
SeqEvent 226
SeqVal 227
SeqLev 227
SeqNote 227
SeqCtr 228
Sequencing examples 228
FX group 232
Common FX group parameters 232
StChorus 232
Phaser 232
Flanger 233
Digitizer 233
FreqShift 233
PShift 234
Scratch 235
Reverb 235
Compress 236
Delay group 237
Common Delay group parameters 237
DlySingleA 238
DlySingleB 238
DelayDual 238
DelayQuad 238
DlyEight 238
DlyShiftReg 238
DlyClock 239
DelayA 239
DelayB 239
DlyStereo 239
MIDI group 240
Common MIDI module parameters 240
CtrlSend 240
PCSend 241
NoteSend 242
CtrlRcv 243
NoteRcv 243
NoteZone 244
Automate 244
Keyboard Shortcuts 246
Synthesis basics 248
Subtractive synthesis 248
Modules - the building blocks 248
Connections 249
12
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x :
The oscillators and waveforms 249
Pitch 249
Waveform 250
The filter 254
Filter types 255
Roll-off (slope) 256
Cutoff frequency 257
Resonance 258
The Amplifier 258
Envelopes 259
ADSR-Envelope 259
AD-Envelope 262
LFOs 262
Additive synthesis 263
Creating a waveform 263
Other synthesis and modulation methods 264
FM synthesis 264
AM synthesis 264
Ring modulation 265
13
: NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
14
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x 1. Introduction: Welcome!
1. INTRODUCTION
WELCOME!
Thank you for choosing the Nord Modular G2 synthesizer and welcome to the fascinating world of
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 (except with the previous Nord Modular family). As
you will find out in a few minutes, the Nord Modular G2 manages to go where no modular synthesizer
has ever gone before.
ABOUT THE NORD MODULAR G2 SYSTEM
The Nord Modular G2 system consists of two parts: the synthesizer, which will be named the synth or G2
from now on, and the editor software, which is named the Editor. The G2 hardware itself is a polyphonic
MIDI synthesizer, the Editor is used to upload the synth with different sounds which were stored on a
computer or to create sounds yourself. You will find the Editor software on the CD that is included in
the back of this manual.
The Nord Modular G2 system comes in three different hardware models:
• The basic Nord Modular G2 with a three-octave keyboard, Pitchstick and Modwheel
• The large Nord Modular G2X with a five-octave keyboard and the G2 expansion board fitted as
standard plus two extra Global ModwheelAftertouchs plus a goose-neck dynamic microphone
• The 1U high 19-inch rack mountable Nord Modular G2 ENGINE, offered as a G2 system computational engine without any panel controls
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
Every time this manual wants your attention to an object on the synth panel, the name of that object will
be printed
referred to as the D
as the ‘screen’. Whenever there is a reference to the ‘keyboard’ it means the three or five octave keyboard
on the synth or to any incoming
from the synth frontpanel do not apply to the rack mountable Nord Modular G2 Engine. Since the Nord
Modular G2 Engine lacks the hardware user interface from the other G2 family models, it has to be
programmed entirely from the Editor! Therefore, if you have the Nord Modular G2 Engine, please refer
to the chapters that describe operation from the Editor.
READING THE MANUAL IN ADOBE ACROBAT READER
This manual is also available as a PDF file. It can be downloaded, free of charge, from Clavia’s web site
at http://www.clavia.se. When reading the manual as PDF file, you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0
or later. This program can be downloaded, free of charge, at http://www.adobe.com.
LIKE THIS, e.g. ‘press the STORE button’. The LCD displays on the G2 synth are always
ISPLAYS (MAIN OR ASSIGNABLE) and the computer monitor is always referred to
MIDI notes to the synth. The parts of the manual that describe operation
Page 15
1. Introduction: Clavia on the Internet NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
With Adobe Acrobat Reader it is possible to use special navigation features like hyperlinks. This means
that you can click with the mouse on a word or sentence and automatically get to the location indicated
by the word/sentence. To better show what words or sentences are hyperlinked in this manual, these
words are written in purple color.
CLAVIA ON THE INTERNET
If you have access to the Internet, you can check out the Nord Modular G2 section at Clavia’s web site.
There, you will also find a sound library with Patches for the Nord Modular G2 system. Point your
browser to http://www.clavia.se.
In the G2 section of the Clavia website you will also find links to a Nord Modular G2 dedicated Mailing
list and Forum, maintained by the Nord Modular G2 user community.
G2 BASICS
In the following paragraphs some definitions of the basic principles used in the G2 are explained. You
will need to read these paragraphs to better understand what the G2 is all about.
MODULAR SYNTHESIS
The Nord Modular G2 synthesizer is an electronic musical instrument that remains true to the traditional
modular synthesis concept. This concept of modular synthesis means that all sounds are generated by a
freely configurable set of modules. Each module will have a specific function in the sound that you create
or process. The modules themselves are easy to use, most modules look and feel similar to the devices
most musicians are familiar with, like a wahwah pedal, phaser stompbox, a tape echo, delayline, a
vocoder, etc. Just like these mentioned devices, the G2 modules have inputs and outputs. Connecting the
modules is as easy as plugging a cable from the output of an electric piano into the input of a power
amplifier. The amount of modules needed for a specific sound depends on how complex you want that
sound to be. There are many different modules available, all specialized to have a specific function in a
sound. Some modules are used to generate raw audio signals like waveforms, others modify the
waveforms by filtering, distortion or controlling the loudness dynamics like attacks and decays.
Additionally there are modules which can mix signals together or switch between signals, add effects like
echo and reverb, modules to sequence notes or modulation patterns, modules to manage
on outside events and play controllers, etc.
The current G2 system software V1.3x contains over 160 different types of modules to work with. All
modules are described in detail in the Module Reference section in this manual and in the Help-file of
the G2 Editor software.
MIDI or react
PATCHES
The name PATCH is traditionally used for how specific types of sounds are set up on a modular
synthesizer. Basically a P
ATCH that can be a ready-to-play model of a certain vintage synthesizer, a PATCH that creates a
are a P
Phaser effect on audio coming in on an external audio input, a P
thunderstorm, etc. A P
once like in a drumkit, depending on how many sound sources are used in the P
Think of a P
a Patch is monophonic it can optionally be played in Legato mode to bind the notes in the same way as
ATCH as a complete synthesizer that you can play in either polyphonic or monophonic mode. If
ATCH defines which modules are used and how they are cabled up. Examples
ATCH that creates the sound effect of a
ATCH can produce one particular sound like a synth lead, or several sounds at
ATCH.
Page 16
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x 1. Introduction: G2 Basics
on traditional monophonic synthesizers from the past. If a patch is played polyphonic it can use up to
thirtytwo voices, depending on the complexity of the sound.
P
ATCHES made on the G2 can be stored in the internal memory banks of the synth and/or saved on the
computer as a Patch-file. Patch-files can be exchanged with other G2 owners, e.g. by storing them on a
floppy disk or sending them over the Internet through email. Patch-files have the file-extension *.
Even though you have to use the Editor to create your own Patches, it is possible to use the Editor
program to only transfer Patches from the computer to the synth, then disconnect the synth from the
computer and use the synth as a stand-alone synthesizer on stage. This solution makes the Nord Modular
G2 system extremely flexible and portable.
Additionally, sounds can be dumped over
MIDI by the push of a button from the G2 panel of the G2
Keyboard and G2X models or from the G2 Editor software. Such a dump can be stored into a
using common
from a
MIDI sequencer program, even without using the G2 Editor program. It is common practice in
recording studios to store sounds this way in the ‘song’, ‘arrangement’ or ‘project’ file of a
MIDI sequencer programs. Meaning that sounds contained in MIDI-files can be uploaded
MIDI sequencer
program, to always guarantee the correct sounds for the song.
PCH2.
MIDI-file
The Nord Modular G2 has 4096 memory locations to store Patches (32 Banks with128 memory locations
each). The size of a Patch in memory depends on the complexity of the Patch, very complex Patches use
more memory, decreasing the total amount of patches you can store in the G2 Patch Banks. The Banks
should therefore be considered more like the “folders” you find on a computer.
VARIATIONS
Each PATCH can contain up to 8 different complete parameter setups which are named VARIATIONS.
A Nord Modular G2 V
ARIATION is a complete setup of module knob and push button settings plus all
patch settings like Arpeggiator On/Off, etc. In other words, it’s possible to have up to eight completely
different “sounds” as V
of the V
ARIATION buttons. If you compare a PATCH in the Nord Modular G2 with a traditional hard-
wired synth, a G2 V
ARIATIONS in each Patch. VARIATIONS can instantly be selected by pressing one
ARIATION is like a ’Sound’, ‘Program’ or ‘Preset’ in that synth, ready to be instantly
recalled.
All V
ARIATIONS in a Patch are automatically stored within a Patch or a Patch-file.
SLOTS
A Patch loads into a SLOT, which is the physical location from where a Patch can be played. A Slot has
its own
be considered an individual instrument for playing and editing. You activate a S
S
There are four S
S
to four Patches at the same time, by stacking them and/or using keyboard splits.
The
that it is using computational resources. If the Slot is inactive (
in the Slot, but the Patch is deactivated and is not using any computational resources.
The
If a S
S
MIDI channel and can have its own keyboard split range and keyboard transposition. A SLOT can
LOT by pressing one of the
LOT buttons on the Nord Modular G2 front panel.
LOTS labelled A, B, C and D on the Nord Modular G2. Any combination of these four
LOTS can be active at the same time. As you can load a different Patch in each SLOT you can play up
LED below the SLOT button indicates that the Patch in the SLOT is actually loaded and active, and
LED is dimmed) there is actually still a Patch
LED above the SLOT button will be lit to indicate that the SLOT is ready for playing by the keyboard.
LOT is active but the SLOT is not connected to the keyboard (only the lower LED lights up) the
LOT can still be played by incoming MIDI signals in the MIDI channel the SLOT is assigned to. The MAIN
Page 17
1. Introduction: G2 Basics NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
DISPLAY shows the memory bank location from where the Patch was recalled, plus the name of the
Patch as well as a possible Sound Category selected for the Patch.
PLAYING MULTITIMBRALLY
The SLOTS can receive MIDI information on separate MIDI channels, making the Nord Modular G2 up
to 4 part multitimbral. If you want to use the G2 multitimbrally, you first have to load the Patches you
want to layer into individual S
in the multitimbral configuration. Then, simultaneously press the S
LOTS. Hold down SHIFT and press the SLOT buttons you want to include
LOT buttons for the SLOTS you want
to play by the G2 keyboard.
One of the active S
optional editing. You can change the focused S
another active S
desired S
LOT button(s). The MAIN DISPLAY shows the memory location and the name of the Patch as
LOTS has its active LED flashing, this is the focused slot, the slot that is ready for
LOT by pressing the corresponding SLOT button of
LOT. To deactivate and reactivate SLOTS in a multitimbral setup, hold SHIFT and the
well as the Sound Category for the focused Patch.
T
IP! If you don’t use a slot for play by the keyboard or play by incoming MIDI you should deactivate this
LOT to allow for more voices in the other SLOTS.
S
PERFORMANCES
A multitimbral setup of Patches in the four Slots can be stored as a PERFORMANCE. Basically a
Performance groups up to four Slots with their Patches together, with the individual keyboard split and
zone settings for each Slot. By recalling a Performance which was saved earlier, the complete setup of all
four Slots and their Patches is immediately recalled. You can go into and out of Performance Mode by
just one single pushbutton. Storing a P
ERFORMANCE will store all four Slots, including what is in the
inactive Slots.
ERFORMANCES have their own memory banks, separate from the memory banks where Patches are
P
stored. This means that the Patches which are saved in a P
original Patch when they are saved in a P
ERFORMANCE will not change the original Patch stored in one of the Patch memory banks. This
P
ERFORMANCE memory bank. So, changing a Patch in a
ERFORMANCE loose their relation to their
relieves you from keeping track of any changes you make to the Patches used in Performances.
SPECIAL FEATURES IN PERFORMANCES
The idea of a Performance is that it contains ‘as much as possible’ of what you need to perform a song,
and you can recall all this ‘at the push of a button’. A Performance in the Nord Modular G2 system
doesn’t necessarily have to be just four layered/split Patches. It can also be four individual patches that
you use in different parts of the song. Or a sequenced patch plus a patch which you use to play along
with the sequence. Or three patches you play on the keyboard plus a patch controlling other equipment
by using the
three patches played by an external
The flexible routing possibilities within the Nord Modular G2 system make it possible to internally route
both audio and
configuration. Imagine a Patch which controls another Patch in another Slot by sending it
information. The four ‘inter-slot’ Audiobusses make it possible to have, for example, the audio output
signals of three Patches in three Slots routed to a “global” audio Effects Patch in the fourth Slot, and
additionally use the four Line In audio inputs, routing to the same or different audio Effects.
Performances can be used and configurated in many different ways, for many different musical purposes
and for many different musical styles.
Recalling a Performance from the G2 Performance memory banks is virtually instantly. When stored on
the computer P
MIDI OUT features of the Nord Modular G2. Or one patch you play from the keyboard plus
MIDI sequencer device.
MIDI between Patches, which can make a PERFORMANCE a really powerful
MIDI
ERFORMANCE-files will have the extension *.PRF2.
Page 18
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x 1. Introduction: G2 Basics
The Nord Modular G2 has 1024 memory locations for Performances (8 Banks with 128 memory
locations each). Since a Performance can be quite large (around 15-20 kB), it’s not likely that you will be
able to use all Performance memory locations. The Banks should therefore be considered more like
“folders” to store different projects. A Performance-file stores information about which Slots should be
active, layered and also any Keyboard Split settings plus a number of other settings.
FOCUS
An often used expression in this manual is “focus”. For example, you can put a Slot, a Patch Variation
or a sound parameter in a Patch “in focus”. This simply means that the focused object is currently
selected and enabled for editing. The focused object will be the only object affected by the editing.
MODULES
Modules are the basic building blocks used to build up a sound. A Module in the Nord Modular G2 can
be, for example, an oscillator to control pitch, an envelope generator to control the volume dynamics, a
filter to control the timbre, a step sequencer to play patterns, etc. There are currently over 160 different
types of modules available in the G2 system. The G2 is not limited to use only one module of a specific
type in a Patch. Several identical modules can be used together, creating, for example, really fat multioscillator sounds. You can add modules until all computational resources are in use. Adding an expansion
board to your system will double the computational resources and allows four more voices in Patches.
The G2X model is factory fitted with an expansion board as standard, giving you the maximum power
right out of the box.
Note! To create a totally new Patch, with your own setup of modules and signal routing between the
modules, you can use the Windows PC or Mac OSX version Editor application that is on the CD in the
back of this manual.
PARAMETERS
There are usually one or more sound parameters in each module, e.g. the parameter that sets the basic
pitch of a sound or the tempo of a modulation pattern. A parameter can be controlled by a knob, a slider,
a pushbutton or a selector switch with ‘radiobuttons’. In fact, you can think of a parameter as a ‘knob to
tweak’. You change the setting of a parameter either with an A
front panel or with the mouse in the Editor software.
SSIGNABLE KNOB/BUTTON on the synth
ASSIGNABLE KNOBS/BUTTONS
On the frontpanel are eight ASSIGNABLE KNOB/BUTTON combinations which can be linked to the
parameters of the modules used in a Patch. This will turn the ‘virtual control’ on a module into a ‘real
world’ knob or pushbutton on the frontpanel. The A
LEDs that roughly indicate the current position/value of the knob. The ASSIGNABLE BUTTONS are
placed under the A
The exact values of the knobs and buttons is displayed in the four associated D
SSIGNABLE KNOBS.
A
SSIGNABLE KNOBS and have a LED that indicates if the button function is On or Off.
SSIGNABLE KNOBS are endless rotary dials with
ISPLAYS above the
PARAMETER PAGES
The eight ASSIGNABLE KNOBS/BUTTONS on the G2 frontpanel give access to parameters grouped in
one of fifteen P
width of three pages and a height of five pages. The five pages in one column each have a character
ARAMETER PAGES. These fifteen PARAMETER PAGES are arranged in a matrix with a
Page 19
1. Introduction: G2 Basics NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
assigned to them: A to E. The three pages in a row have a number assigned to them: 1 to 3. Each
ARAMETER PAGE can be selected by referencing the character and the number, like PAGE A1 or PAGE
P
D2. You can access the eight A
corresponding buttons in the panel section named P
concept gives you quick and easy access to a total of 120 A
Additionally there are 15 G
B
UTTONS can be assigned to knobs and pushbuttons in a mix from all four Slots. One button lets you
instantly switch between the P
SSIGNABLE KNOBS/BUTTONS in a certain page by pressing the
ARAMETER PAGES. The PARAMETER PAGES
SSIGNABLE KNOBS/BUTTONS in a Patch.
LOBAL PARAMETER PAGES where a total of 120 ASSIGNABLE KNOBS/
ARAMETER PAGES in a patch and the GLOBAL PARAMETER PAGES.
MORPHS
MORPHS allow you to tweak several parameters at once by one physical play controller, like by a Modwheel
or the Keyboard Aftertouch. Which basically means that one physical controller will ‘play’ several module
knobs at once. Each parameter can have its individual M
groups, each associated with its own physical controller. A total of twentyfive parameters can be assigned
to the M
ORPH groups. MORPHS can be instantly assigned and their MORPH ranges adjusted with the
panel controls on the G2 and G2X models.
ORPH range. In total there are eight MORPH
Page 20
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x 2. Synth quick tour: Checking out the instrument first
2. SYNTH QUICK TOUR
This chapter refers to the G2 Keyboard and G2X models. If you have a G2 Engine model you can
still read this chapter if you desire to do so, as virtually all described G2 Keyboard and G2X panel
functions are also available as ‘soft’ functions in the Editor program.
CHECKING OUT THE INSTRUMENT FIRST
The G2 synthesizers are crafted as fine musical instruments that let themself be played expressively. They
come with an extensive set of factory sounds in different musical styles, from traditional keyboard styles
to hardcore underground noises. You are strongly advised to first check out the G2 system as the standalone performance synthesizer it really is, before considering to connect your Nord Modular G2
Keyboard or G2X to a computer to run the Editor program. The reason that you are given this advice is
simply that if you first discover what your G2 can do for you as the expressive musical instrument it is,
it will be much easier to later use the Editor software to create perfectly playable sounds for you. Sounds
that will better suit your style of music and playing skills. After all, it is all about making music.
If you go through this and the next chapter step by step, and try out every step immediately, you will get
to know your new instrument intimately in no time. And have fun while you play...!
CHECK OUT SOME PATCHES!
Before installing and starting to use the Editor software, let’s have a look at the Nord Modular G2
synthesizer and check out some internal sounds and basic functions. Turn on the power!
When you have turned on the Nord Modular G2, a Patch is automatically loaded in Slot A and the Patch
name shows up in the M
upper right to make the 4 A
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS, 8 different Patch parameters are displayed together with their current values.
4 A
Below the A
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS, the 8 LED GRAPHS around the ASSIGNABLE KNOBS show the
parameters’ coarse values. Now, if you turn one of the A
sound, the
LED GRAPH will change and the exact value will be shown in the ASSIGNABLE DISPLAY
above the knob.
.
1:1 Bass
Chops Bass TB
AIN DISPLAY. Then, if necessary, press the PARAMETER PAGE A button to the
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS show some of the assigned Patch parameters. In the
SSIGNABLE KNOBS to make changes to the
EnvADSR1--------Attack Decay
----------------|
Sustain Release
EnvFilter1------Attack Decay
----------------|
Sustain Release
The Patch that you just loaded (and in fact all Patches) contains eight different sounds, named
ARIATIONS. Just above the middle of the keyboard you see a row of nine buttons and the left most
V
Page 21
2. Synth quick tour: Check out some Patches! NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
a
y
eight are numbered 1 to 8. Play some notes on the keyboard and press one of these numbered
ARIATIONS buttons. Listen to how these VARIATIONS are indeed complete new sounds, although all
V
based on the same Patch.
Now tweak some of the A
SSIGNABLE KNOBS while you play some notes on the keyboard. Listen to how
the sound changes. When you have lost the original sound by too much tweaking you can immediately
restore the original sound of a V
numbered button for the V
ARIATION by keeping the grey SHIFT button pressed and press the
ARIATION which has its LED blinking.
ACCESS MORE ASSIGNED PARAMETERS IN THE PATCH
To the bottom right of the front panel are 5+3
programmable P
also “Parameter pages” on page 19.
Pressing the A and the 2 buttons give access to
P
ARAMETER PAGE A2. Now, 8 new parameters are shown
in the A
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS and you can edit them right
away. If you press the 3 button, another 8 parameters are
displayed. You can continue by pressing other combinations
to check out more assigned parameters. The P
AGES buttons are conveniently arranged in a way that you
P
can press two buttons simultaneously at once with two
fingers for super fast Page selection.
ARAMETER PAGES selection buttons. See
ARAMETER
LP_Filter1------|
Freq Res
LP_Filter2------|
Freq Res
VARIATIONS
Below the 8 ASSIGNABLE KNOBS are 8 VARIATION
BUTTONS. See also “Variations” on page 17.
LEDs above the buttons show which VARIATION
The
is currently active. Select another V
pressing another V
ARIATIONS can be selected plus restored by pressing
V
S
HIFT plus the VARIATION button. This will restore
ARIATION button.
ARIATION by
EnvADSR1--------Attack Decay
the knobsettings to the same positions as when the
patch was loaded from memory.
This S
HIFT-VARIATION1-8 ‘select and restore’
function is indispensible when playing on stage, as it
undoes all the tweaks in an earlier played V
during a stage performance, S
HIFT-VARIATION1-8 gives you immediate and reliable control over what
ARIATION. If you go wild on expressively tweaking the sound
sound to play next, no matter the earlier tweaks you did on that sound.
LOAD A NEW PATCH FROM THE INTERNAL MEMORY
Load a new Patch into the active Slot (Slot A in this
example) by first turning the R
the Patch. If you like you can also switch between
Banks by pressing the U
button. Load a Patch into the Slot by first turning the
R
OTARY DIAL to select the Patch, then press the
ATCH LOAD button to load and activate the Patch
P
for play. Now, you can try out other Patches from the
OTARY DIAL to select
P/DOWN NAVIGATOR
1:2 Synth
Dream synth
----------------|
Sustain Release
EnvFilter1----Attack Dec
EnvADSR1------Attack Deca
Page 22
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x 2. Synth quick tour: Check out some Performances
-
internal memory banks, tweak the parameters knobs and check out different Variations as described
above.
Note that to be able to load individual Patches the Performance Mode
LED should be OFF.
CHECK OUT SOME PERFORMANCES
A Performance is a combination of up to four Slots. See
also “Playing multitimbrally” on page 18 and
“Performances” on page 18.
Enter Performance mode by pressing the
P
ERFORMANCE MODE button (button LED lights
1:1
Welcome
up). Load a Performance into the Slots by first turning
the R
OTARY DIAL to select the Performance, then
press the P
Performance for play. As you can see, several S
LEDS are now lit to indicate that several Patches are used in the Performance. The Performance name is
shown in the M
A
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS.
ATCH LOAD button to load and activate the
LOT
AIN DISPLAY and the first 8 parameters of the focused Patch are shown in the
Note that a Performance always loads in all four Slots, storing any previously loaded Patches in the Slots
in a temporary buffer, so changing back to Patch mode will reload those previously loaded Patches before
Performance mode was activated. Also note that in the loaded Performance not all Slots need to be
active. If a Slot
LED does not light up it simply indicates that this Slot is inactive.
OSC1------------|
Freq Fine
OSC2------Freq
ACCESS ASSIGNED PERFORMANCE (GLOBAL) PARAMETERS
Each Performance can have a separate set of GLOBAL
ARAMETER PAGES, in addition to the Parameter
P
Pages of each Patch in the Performance. See also
“Parameter pages” on page 19 and “Global
(Performance) Parameter Pages” on page 49.
Hold down S
button to access G
Alternatively you can ‘double click’ the P
S
ETTINGS button. Now, 8 new parameters are shown
in the A
If you go to the P
HIFT and press the PATCH SETTINGS
LOBAL PARAMETER PAGE A1.
ATCH
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS and you can edit them.
AGE A2, another 8 Performance
parameters are displayed, and so on. If you want to access the Programmable Parameter Pages of each
individual Patch, hold down S
‘double click’ the P
Slot is shown in the A
ATCH SETTINGS button. Now, the first Parameter Page of the Patch in the focused
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS.
HIFT and press the PATCH SETTINGS button again. Alternatively you can
This means that a total of 600 knob assignments can be stored in a Performance, 120 for each Slot plus
and extra 120 in the Global pages. The assignments in the Global pages can be a mix of module knob
assignments from all four Slots. Note that globally assigned knobs do not have to be previously assigned
in the individual Slot pages themselves.
--------|
Release
A:Filter2-------|
Freq Res
B:OSC2----------|
Freq Fine
Page 23
2. Synth quick tour: Check out some Performances NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
y
LOADING ANOTHER PERFORMANCE FROM THE INTERNAL MEMORY
Load another Performance into the Slots by first
turning the R
Performance. If you like you can also switch between
Banks by pressing the U
OTARY DIAL to select another
P/DOWN NAVIGATOR
1:2
Scream synth
A:EnvADSR1----Attack Deca
button. Then load the selected Performance into the
Slots by pressing the P
ATCH LOAD button. Now, you
can try out other Performances of the internal memory
and edit parameters as described above.
To revert to “Patch mode”, press the P
ODE button. If the PERFORMANCE MODE LED
M
OFF you’re back in Patch Mode.
turns
ERFORMANCE
CHANGING VARIATIONS WHEN IN GLOBAL PANEL MODE
Changing VARIATIONS differs for when the G2 is in
ATCH PANEL mode where the ASSIGNABLE
P
NOBS/DISPLAYS show Parameters from the active
K
Slot, or when the G2 is in G
LOBAL PANEL LED lights up), where the
G
SSIGNABLE KNOBS/DISPLAYS can show a mix of
A
LOBAL PANEL mode (the
Parameters from all Slots/Patches.
When in G
ARIATION with one of the VARIATION buttons will
V
LOBAL PANEL mode, selecting another
cause all active Slots to switch to this selected
V
ARIATION. However, when the G2 is in PATCH
ANEL mode (the GLOBAL PANEL LED is dimmed), selecting another VARIATION will only change the
P
ARIATION for the focused Slot.
V
--------|
Release
A:Filter2-------|
Freq Res
B:OSC2----------|
Freq Fine
Page 24
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x 3. Working with the synth: Check out some Performances
3. WORKING WITH THE SYNTH
This chapter refers to the G2 Keyboard and G2X models. If you have a G2 Engine model you can
still read this chapter if you desire to do so, as virtually all described G2 Keyboard and G2X panel
functions are also available as ‘soft’ functions in the Editor program.
NORD MODULAR G2 AND G2X FRONT PANEL
System Functions section
The frontpanel is divided in two sections, the SYSTEM FUNCTIONS section at the left side and the
OUND FUNCTIONS section at the right side.
S
In the S
multitimbral play and layering of sounds, edit system default settings,
settings changes you make in this section will be immediately memorized by the G2 and when the G2 is
powered up it will use the settings that where last made before the G2 was powered down.
In the S
This S
in a sound. A modular system can have many knobs to tweak, much more than the eight physical knobs
and buttons located under the four displays. The G2 uses a clever paging system named P
P
definitive, the sound can be stored in the G2 sound memories. Use the Store function in the System
Functions section to save your tweaks.
YSTEM FUNCTIONS setting you can recall sounds from the G2 sound banks, change modes for
OUND FUNCTIONS section you can make edits to the sound or sounds you are currently playing.
OUND FUNCTIONS section is designed to give you easy access to all tweakable knobs and buttons
AGES to access up to 120 tweakable parameters in a single sound. To make the changes to a sound
Sound Functions section
MIDI settings, etc. All system
ARAMETER
Page 25
3. Working with the synth: System Functions section NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
SYSTEM FUNCTIONS SECTION
MASTER LEVEL
The MASTER LEVEL knob controls the output level of all four OUT jacks and the
EADPHONES output. Use this knob to set the overall volume level of your instrument or
H
set the sound level when using headphones.
Tip! The Master Level knob does not send or receive any
used to control the entire instrument’s output level. To affect the volume of an individual Patch through
MIDI (.e.g. from a sequencer track), you can use MIDI CC#7, which is hardwired to the Patch Gain knobs
in the respective Slots (see more about this on “Patch Level” on page 62).
MIDI LED
The MIDI LED indicates incoming MIDI Note, MIDI CC# and MIDI SYSEX messages on any
MIDI channel. MIDI messages on any of the Slot’s MIDI Channels and/or the Global MIDI
Channel are indicated by long
LED blinks. Long LED blinks means that there should most probably be sound, and
short
short
LED blinks mean that there is MIDI information received but ignored, as this information is not in
MIDI channels the Slots are ‘listening to’.
LED blinks. Messages on other MIDI Channels are indicated by
MIDI CC# information, but is only
MIC LEVEL
The MIC LEVEL knob controls the XLR microphone input preamp level. Below the MIC
L
EVEL knob are three LEDS which show the input level of the dynamic microphone
connected to the XLR I
will indicate the input level of the line level signal routed to the I
IC LEVEL knob only affects the XLR INPUT - not the IN 1 input.
the M
NPUT on the rear panel. If you don’t use a mic, the LEVEL LEDS
N 1 input instead. Note that
SYSTEM, PATCH AND STORE BUTTONS
Above the MAIN DISPLAY are the SYSTEM (see “Edit System Settings” on
page 29) and P
ATCH (see “Acessing (Edit) any Parameter in a Patch” on page 37)
buttons which can be used to enter all system and Patch related menus. The
S
TORE button (see “Store a Patch” on page 40 and “Storing a Performance” on
page 50) is used for storing Patches and Performances.
NAVIGATOR BUTTONS, ROTARY DIAL AND MAIN DISPLAY
Below the MASTER LEVEL knob is a set of four buttons, the
N
AVIGATOR buttons. These are used to navigate in the MAIN
ISPLAY and to select different functions. Below the
D
AVIGATOR buttons is the ROTARY DIAL. With the ROTARY
N
D
IAL you can select Patches and Performances, enter various
kind of data etc.
Note that the functions for the N
R
OTARY DIAL and the MAIN DISPLAY will change when the G2
AVIGATION BUTTONS, the
is set to a different mode. Modes can be changed by pressing
either the S
YSTEM, the PATCH, the STORE or the PERFORMANCE MODE button.
LOAD PATCH
Press this button when you want to load a selected Patch or Performance into the focused
Slot/Slots (see “Search for and load a Patch” on page 36 and “Load a new Performance from
the internal memory” on page 48).
Page 26
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x 3. Working with the synth: System Functions section
SLOT BUTTONS
Below the MAIN DISPLAY are the four SLOT buttons (A, B, C and D). You can
load one Patch in each of the Slots at a time. See “Sound Functions section” on
page 33, “Activate several Slots” on page 43 and “Creating a Performance” on
page 48 for info on how to use the Slots.
OCTAVE SHIFT BUTTONS
With these buttons you can either transpose a Patch in a Slot or transpose the whole
Keyboard globally over a range of +/-2 octaves.
In Patch Transpose mode, the O
individually. In this mode the keyboard itself is not transposed. The Patch transposition
takes effect immediately. In Patch Transpose mode only one of the five
When pressing S
HIFT plus the left OCTAVE SHIFT button the LEDs will invert, meaning that all LEDs but
one light up. This puts the octave shift controls in Global Octave Shift mode which will transpose the
keyboard globally instead of only the Slot. When in Global Octave Shift mode all Slots will be transposed
equally. The notes played on the keyboard that are send as
the synth will also be transposed, meaning that in this mode the G2 keyboard acts like a Master Keyboard.
KB HOLD/PANIC
Press the KB HOLD button to make every note or chord you play sustain until you press
any new keys. The Keyboard Hold function is also very useful together with the
Arpeggiator (see “Arpeggiator” on page 35). If notes should hang or the synth should
behave strange, press S
HIFT+KB HOLD to send an internal ALLNOTESOFF to the synth.
CTAVE SHIFT buttons transpose each of the Slots
LEDs will light up.
MIDI NoteOn through the MIDI OUT jack of
THE FOCUS/COPY/(ASSIGN/PASTE) BUTTON
To the right below the MAIN DISPLAY section you find the FOCUS/COPY button. This
button can be used in many situations, for example when you want to copy & paste
various things and also when you assign parameters to Parameter Pages. Holding
S
HIFT+FOCUS/COPY alternates the functionality to Assign/Paste.
PERFORMANCE CONTROLS
Below the MAIN DISPLAY section you find the performance controls: the PITCH
TICK and MODWHEEL. The PITCH STICK can be used to control pitch bend (see
S
“Bend” on page 35) as well as an entire Morph group. The M
ODWHEEL can control
Vibrato (see “Vibrato” on page 35) and also a separate Morph group. See “Morph
groups” on page 44 for info on how to use these controls with Morph groups.
G2X GLOBAL MODWHEELS
The Nord Modular G2X model features two extra GLOBAL MODWHEELS. These
wheels can control extra modulations. The G
LOBAL MODWHEELS are hardwired to
Morph groups 5 & 8 and can control any parameter in a Patch through these Morph
groups. See “Morph groups” on page 44 for info on how to use these controls with Morph groups.
N
OTE! In contrast to the standard Modwheel these two extra Modwheel are not affected by the keyboard
focus, meaning that they also work in Patches played from external
MIDI signals.
Page 27
3. Working with the synth: System Functions section NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
DISPLAY MODE
This button lets you switch between two different display modes for
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS. By default, the ASSIGNABLE
the A
D
ISPLAYS show module names and parameter names. When you
turn an A
the parameter name is temporarily replaced by the parameter
value. In the other display mode, the parameter names and values
are constantly displayed. However, the module names are not
shown in this mode. Think of the Display having to show three
lines of text, where the display mode lets you choose to see either
lines 1 & 2 or see lines 2 & 3.
KB SPLIT MODE
Lets you split the keyboard and play/control Slots from a left hand and a right hand keyboard zone. The
two left most Slots A and B will be assigned to the left hand keyboard zone, while the two Slots C and
D will be assigned to the right hand keyboard zone. The split point can be altered by pressing the KB
S
PLIT button while holding the SHIFT button. Repeating SHIFT/KB SPLIT will move the keyboard split
point. The
It is possible to make more advanced keyboard split settings through the system menu, see “Keyboard
Split” on page 49 and “Keyboard Zone |Pe” on page 32.
SSIGNABLE KNOB or press an ASSIGNABLE BUTTON,
FltNord1--------|
Freq Res
Freq Res
622.5Hz 1.72
LEDs directly above the keyboard show the current split point.
SUB FUNC
Hold SHIFT and press the DISPLAY MODE button to go into SUB FUNC mode and display the names
of button parameters instead of knob parameters in the A
have assigned combined knob+button parameters to the A
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS. This is useful when you
SSIGNABLE DISPLAYS.
PERFORMANCE MODE
In Performance mode you can create Keyboard Split/Layers configurations of up to 4
Slots. In Performance mode Pathes loaded to the four Slots can be saved and recalled
together as a single Performance (file). See “Performances” on page 47. When the
Performance button
LED lights up it indicates the G2 is in Performance mode. If the LED
is dimmed it indicates the G2 is in Patch mode.
SWITCHING BETWEEN PATCH AND PERFORMANCE MODES
Patch Mode and Performance Mode are completely separate modes, each with its own separate buffer
to hold the Patches loaded in all Slots for that mode. This means that when changing to Performance
mode, all Patches loaded in the four Slots in Patch Mode remain in their buffer. Switching back to Patch
Mode will automatically bring up those four original Patches from the Patch Mode buffer again. Note
that this ‘double buffering’ allows you to have up to eight Patches instantly standby, four Patches in
Performance mode and four Patches in Patch mode. Simply pressing the P
ERFORMANCE button allows
you to switch between these two sets of up to four Patches.
COPYING PATCHES BETWEEN PATCH AND PERFORMANCE MODES
Holding the SHIFT button while pressing the PERFORMANCE button will ‘transport’ a copy of the
Patches to the other mode. This will overwrite the temporary Patch buffers for the Patch and the
Performance modes. While in Patch mode, pressing S
HIFT-PERFORMANCE will transfer a set of up to
four Patches into a new Performance, which can then be stored as a Performance in the Performance
memory banks. While in Performance mode, pressing S
HIFT-PERFORMANCE will ‘separate’ the
Performance into individual Patches to be played or edited in Patch mode.
Page 28
NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x 3. Working with the synth: Edit System Settings
y
y
y
KB SPLIT MODE/SET SPLIT POINT
Lets you split the keyboard and play/control different Slots from different keyboard
zones. See “Keyboard Split” on page 49.
KEYBOARD SPLIT LEDS
Above the keyboard are four Keyboard Split LEDs which
indicate current keyboard split position in Keyboard Split
mode (see “Keyboard Split” on page 49). These
light up if the Keyboard Split is set up through the KB Split
function on the front panel of the G2 Keyboard and G2X models. See also “Activate several Slots” on
page 43 and “Layering Patches” on page 43.
THE SHIFT/CLEAR BUTTON
The SHIFT button is used to activate functions printed below some buttons on the front
panel. It’s also used for deleting entire Morph groups and for clearing Variations.
DUMP ONE
Hold down SHIFT and press the SYSTEM button to send a MIDI
SYSEX dump of the Patch in the focused Slot, or of an entire
Performance in Performance Mode. Note that an average
SYSEX dump of a Patch is approximately 5 kB and that of a
Performance nearly 20 kB. This means the recording device - a
sequencer, for example - must be prepared for this amount of data.
It takes a
MIDI cable about one second to transfer 3kB of data, so it might take up to seven seconds before
a Performance Dump is completed. See also “G2 MIDI System Exclusive Specification” on page 132.
LEDs only
MIDI
Sustain |Pa
On
ADSR-Env1
Attack Deca
DUMP CC (SEND CONTROLLER SNAPSHOT)
Hold down SHIFT and press the PATCH button (DUMP CC) to
send the values of all
MIDI CC# controllers used in the Patch in the
active Slot. See also “MIDI SendCtrl |Pa” on page 31, “MIDI
Controllers” on page 127 and “MIDI Automation” on page 128.
Sustain |Pa
On
EDIT SYSTEM SETTINGS
Press the SYSTEM button to access the system parameters and
functions. The System menu is divided into three types of
parameters:
1. System parameters, which are global for the entire synth (indicated in the DISPLAY by ‘|SY’ in the upper right corner).
Note that changing System parameters has an effect at the ‘top level’ of the synthesizer, meaning
that they will affect all Slots equally.
2. Patch parameters, which are unique for the currently focused Patch (indicated in the DISPLAY by
A’ in the upper right corner)
‘|P
Note that as changing a Patch parameter will only have an effect on the currently focused patch you
will have to first select the Patch you want to apply a change to with the Slot buttons. You can do
this by simply pressing the Slot button the Patch is in.
Sustain |Pa
On
ADSR-Env1
Attack Deca
ADSR-Env1
Attack Deca
Page 29
3. Working with the synth: List of functions in the G2 System menu NORD MODULAR G2 V1.3x
3. Performance parameters, which are unique for the currently active Performance (indicated in the
ISPLAY by ‘|PE’ in the upper right corner)
D
Note that some Performance parameters are actually a group of parameters for the Slots used in the
Performance. The setting for each Slot can be different to that of the other Slots. Just like with the
Patch parameters, you can select a Slot by pressing its Slot button and them change the Performance
parameter for that particular Slot. But note that the settings for all the Slots used in the performance
are actually saved in the Performance and not in the individual Patches.
Select a function with the DOWN NAVIGATOR button.
LIST OF FUNCTIONS IN THE G2 SYSTEM MENU
MASTER TUNE |SY
Use this function to transpose the keyboard in semitones and/or fine
tune the synth to other instruments or already recorded tracks. The
transposition range is from -6 to +6 semitones and is set with the
R
OTARY DIAL.
Note that if you want to transpose up from A to Bes you just go one semitone up. If you would need to
transpose down from A to E you will have to go 5 semitones down, so the display shows ‘-5 semi’.
Transposing down from A to D is done by first transposing 5 semitones up and additionally set the
Global Octave Shift for the keyboard one octave down with the Octave Shift buttons. This results in a
total transposition of seven semitones down.
Fine adjustment ranges from -100 to +100 cents. 100 cents is one semitone. All Oscillator and Filter
modules that are set to track the keyboard are affected by the Master Tune function. Select the fine tuning
amount with the R
OTARY DIAL.
Master Tune |Sy
semi 0 cent
0
MIDI LOCAL |SY
Turn the MIDI Local Control On or Off. Select Local On to be able
to control the synth from the internal keyboard and the pedals.
data is also transmitted via the
the keyboard and pedal actions are transmitted only via
MIDI OUT jack. In the Local Off mode,
MIDI and do
MIDI Local |Sy
MIDI
n
O
not play the synth itself.
Local Off is a function found on almost all
Imagine that the
IN jack. Now imagine that you play a note on the keyboard to play a sound on the synth, and this note is
also send out through
MIDI OUT jack of the synthesizer is routed back, via the external sequencer, to the MIDI
MIDI to the sequencer. If the sequencer ‘echoes’ this note back to the synth, the
note will be played a second time, now from the
MIDI Local Off will prevent this, as in this mode only the ‘echoed’ note will sound. This way you can also
be sure that the sequencer did actually receive the played note.
setting named
ECHO that will set if the sequencer will or will not retransmit the received notes back. So,
you will have to check the sequencer as well when making a change to this
MIDI synthesizers and is used with external MIDI sequencers.
MIDI IN jack, which in general does not sound good.
MIDI sequencers do in general have a
MIDI Local setting.
MIDI SLOT CH |SY
Set the MIDI channel for each SLOT (A-D). The set channels will be
used for receiving and transmitting
Slot will not receive or transmit any
S
LOT button and set MIDI channel with the ROTARY DIAL. Then,
MIDI data. If you select ‘Off’, the
MIDI data at all. Press desired
MIDI Slot Ch |Sy
1
234
Page 30
Loading...