Clavia Nord Lead is a virtual analog subtractive synthesizer, which was developed in Sweden, being released to the public by Clavia in 1995.
The Nord Lead was the first synthesizer on the market to emulate analog synthesis.[1][2] The now widely accepted term "virtual analog", was first coined by Clavia with the release of the Nord Lead.[3][4] This synthesizer was distinctive for its red coloration, knob-laden surface and stone modulation wheel; it was later identified as avant-garde to the Clavia Nord Lead line of synthesizers. After the post release of the Nord Lead, several updates followed suit; such as the Nord Lead 2, Nord Lead 3, and Nord Lead 2x. The Nord Lead pursued its mission to emulate the classic analog synthesizer sounds, such like a Minimoog, ARP 2600, etc.[5]
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Clavia Nord Lead 2 was launched two years after the production of the original Lead.
Compared to synthesizers being constructed via analog components, the Clavia Nord Lead 2 uses digital signal processors (DSPs) programmed to emulate both Subtractive and FM synthesis (cross synthesis) to reproduce the warmth and richness of a traditional analog sound. As with many synthesizers, a wide variety of sounds are available via manipulation of controls. The chassis of the Nord Lead 2 is red metal with a series of LEDs scattered throughout the upper-left-hand corner of the apparatus.
The Nord Lead 3 was a more advanced version introduced in 2001, with many new features like 4 operator FM Synthesis (Sinus Modulation),[6] and an arpeggiator. The most visible new feature was replacing all the control knobs with endless rotary knobs surrounded by a lighted indicating collar to show the current setting. The Nord Lead 3 was however much more expensive than the Nord Lead 2, so the Nord Lead 2 and later Nord Lead 2X was sold in parallel to this flagship product. The Nord Lead 3 was discontinued in 2007, leaving the Nord Lead 2X the only remaining product in the Nord Lead series.
In 2003 Clavia introduced the 2X, a refresh of the Nord Lead 2. It included increased polyphony (20 voice), high-resolution 24-bit 96 kHz DACs, and vastly expanded patch memory.[7] The 2X retains the synthesis engine of its predecessor and consequently its sound characteristics.