Clavia will present the new Nord Lead A1 analog modeling synthesizer at the 2014 NAMM Show, featuring their "best-ever" analog modeling engine.

The new modeling technology used by Clavia is designed to recreate the complete analog signal path for improved realism and sonic quality, while allowing for parameter adjustments that expand the quantity of sounds that can be created.

The Lead A1 has 24-voice polyphony and can handle four simultaneous synthesizer parts, going against the current trend of analog synth reissues that have limited features.

According to Clavia, the Lead A1 houses their "most intuitive interface". The story goes that they listened to requests and recommendations from professional players as well as sound programmers to come up with an interface that reduces the time required for crafting and setting up your sound. The result is a simple front panel interface that has just the right amount of sophistication for advanced control over your synth sounds. The synth features a new Wave Engine that features Oscillator Configuration Shortcuts, allowing for quick programming without the need for routing and patching.

Here are the main features of the Nord Lead A1 Synth:

• Oscillators
  • Unique Oscillator concept
  • 8 Oscillator Configurations
  • Pitch, Detune, Shape, Sync, AM, Noise, Dual Osc, FM
  • Traditional Analog and Digital Waveforms
• Modulation
  • LFO with 5 waveforms
  • Mod Envelope
  • LFO as additional ModEnv
• Filter
  • 12, 24 dB low-pass filters
  • High-pass and Band-pass filters
  • Transistor and diode ladder filter simulations of Mini and TB-303
• Effects
  • Ensemble, Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Ring Modulator, Drive
• Performance
  • 4-part multi-timbral
  • Master Clock Sync of Arpeggiator, LFO and Delay
  • Velocity and Mod Wheel Morph
  • USB MIDI

The new Nord Lead A1 is planned for release this coming April, with a price tag of $1,799. For those that can't wait, you can see and hear the synth in person at Booth 6464, during the 2014 NAMM Show event. Head over to Nord Keyboards for more information.

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