Nord Modular G1: The Digital Modular That Changed Everything!

Nord Modular G1: The Digital Modular That Changed Everything!

Historical Overview

The Clavia Nord Modular G1 (keyboard version) – introduced in 1997 with a compact two-octave keyboard and distinctive red chassis. It marked the first digital modular synthesizer on the market, allowing musicians to design custom synth architectures via computer software, in contrast to Clavia’s earlier fixed-architecture analogue-modelling synths (e.g. the Nord Lead from 1995).

Origins & Development: Clavia conceived the Nord Modular in the mid-1990s as an ambitious extension of their virtual analogue technology. After the success of the Nord Lead, founder Hans Nordelius and team pursued the idea of a hardware synth whose entire sound engine could be reconfigured in software.

The Nord Modular “Classic” (later called G1) was first shown in 1997 and released by early 1998. It was a landmark in synthesis, marrying DSP hardware with a PCbased modular patch editor. The initial lineup included a 25-key Nord Modular keyboard and a Nord Modular Rack (module-only version) – both identical in capability (4 DSPs) aside from the keyboard and pitch/mod controls.

In 1999, Clavia added the Nord Micro Modular, a smaller one-DSP unit offering the same synthesis engine in a half-rack box. Production Timeline & Successors : The Nord Modular G1 series was produced from roughly 1998 through 2003. Clavia provided several OS upgrades (v2.1, v3.0) adding new modules and Mac computer support.

In 2004, the G1 line was discontinued and superseded by the Nord Modular G2 series. The G2 brought expanded polyphony, new module types (e.g. delays, reverbs, MIDI out), and an updated hardware interface, addressing some limitations of the G1. Clavia officially stopped production of the G2 in 2009, and no G3 followed.

The G1 thus holds a unique place as Clavia’s pioneering modular instrument. (Notably, the Nord Lead and subsequent Nord keyboards continued alongside, but Clavia pivoted away from the Modular concept after the G2.) Design Philosophy & Clavia’s Lineage : The Nord Modular was a bold experiment for Clavia. Hans Nordelius described it as a project with “no limitation on how complicated it can be” – essentially a synth designer’s playground.

This power came at a cost: “we were draining the company… for a very small market. We almost killed ourselves. After that we said no more modular systems.” (Nordelius on the G1/G2 development). In Clavia’s product lineup, the Modular G1 was a departure from the knob-per-function simplicity of the Nord Lead – instead embracing computer software for deep editing.

It nonetheless maintained Clavia’s ethos of real-time performance control (the G1 hardware had plenty of knobs for assigned parameters). The G1 is often cited as one of the most innovative and flexible synths of its era, preserving the spirit of modular synthesis in a time when analogue modulars were rare. Clavia’s experience with the Modular also influenced their later designs indirectly (e.g. improved user interfaces in the G2 and a focus on performance keyboards thereafter).

Variants and Notable Revisions: The G1 family comprised Nord Modular Key, Nord Modular Rack, and Nord Micro Modular. The Key and Rack units shipped with DSP chips (expandable1 1214 to via a voice expansion board), while the Micro had DSP (non-expandable). All G1 units used the same editor software and OS.

In 2000, Clavia’s OS v3.03 added a 16-band vocoder, new filter/EQ modules, and Mac OS support – extending the G1’s capabilities near the end of its life. No major hardware revisions occurred (aside from the optional DSP expansion and some internal board updates labeled “Version 2” on the expansion board ). Production ceased as Clavia’s focus shifted to Stage Pianos and the simpler Nord Lead/Wave line, given that stage keyboards were “bringing home the bacon” for the company.

The Nord Modular concept, however, left a lasting legacy in Clavia’s history despite its short run.

Technical Specifications & Architecture

DSP Hardware & Polyphony: The Nord Modular G1 is powered by four Motorola 56303 DSP chips (standard configuration) on its main board. Each DSP provides processing for synthesis modules and voices; with all DSPs, the unit has a base polyphony of minimum voices, expandable to voices minimum if the Voice Expansion Board (adding more 56303 DSPs) is installed.

In practice, polyphony is dynamic – simple patches can achieve up to voices (with an expanded unit), while very complex patches might use most of a single DSP per voice, yielding only 1–4 voices.

The G1 is also 4-part multi-timbral (it provides four independent “Slots” that can each run a patch). When multiple slots are active, DSP resources are divided among them, which can further limit per-patch polyphony. Notably, an un-expanded G1 can still play a total of voices spread across slots, and an expanded (8 DSP) unit up to total concurrent voices across all slots (or more if some patches are very lightweight).

The Nord Micro Modular, with its single DSP, is limited to about voices max (total) and is monotimbral (only one patch slot). All G1 models run at kHz internal sample rate / 24-bit processing, ensuring high audio quality for the time. The DAC outputs are 18-bit/96 kHz, and ADC inputs 16-bit/48 kHz, per Clavia’s specs.

Sound Engine & Modules: The G1’s sound engine is a virtual analogue modular synth. The architecture is entirely modular – users can choose from over module types (as of OS 3.0) to construct patches. Module categories include:

• Oscillators (multiple analogue-modeled waveforms
• Digital FM operators, noise sources),
• Filters (12/24 dB LP/BP/HP, notch, parametric EQ, vocal formant filter, etc.)
• Envelopes (ADSR, multi-stage, AHD, etc.)
• LFOs (including random pattern generators)
• Mixers/VCA modules
• Effects (distortion, wave shaper, sample-rate reducer, etc.)
• Logic & Switches, and even basic Sequencer modules. (The G1 initially lacked long delay/reverb effects and MIDI output modules – these were added in the G2 generation.)
• Notably, OS upgrades added a Ring Modulator, 14-band Filter Bank, and 16-band Vocoder to the G1’s module set.

One can therefore implement subtractive synthesis, FM, additive techniques, simple physical modelling, or hybrid designs – the engine isn’t limited to a single synthesis method. The only fixed limitation is the available DSP power per patch and total (which constrains how many modules can be used at once). Signal path is freely assignable: audio outputs can be fed into control inputs and vice versa without restriction, allowing audio-rate modulation of any parameter (a key strength of the system).

Patches are loaded from the PC into the hardware; once loaded, the hardware runs them stand-alone (the computer is not involved in sound generation).

Hardware I/O & Controls: All G1 models feature analogue audio inputs (line-level) and analogue audio outputs (except the Micro, which has outs). This allows the Nord Modular to process external audio (e.g. as an effect or vocoder) and to output multiple channels or stereo signals from patches.

The input ADCs are 16-bit/48kHz and outputs via 18-bit DACs at 96kHz. A headphone output is provided as well. For MIDI, the G1 has two sets of ports: standard MIDI In/Out for musical data, and dedicated “PC” MIDI In/Out for connecting to the editor software. (These are essentially separate MIDI interfaces devoted to the high-bandwidth SysEx messages for patch editing.) The front-panel controls include endless rotary knobs on the Key/Rack (the Micro has knobs + button).

These knobs are fully assignable to patch parameters (the editor allows mapping up to parameters to hardware controls per patch). There are also dedicated buttons (for menu navigation, patch selection, etc.) and a data encoder dial for scrolling values. The LCD on the Key/Rack is a 2×16-character backlit display for patch names and menu info (the Micro uses a small 2-digit LED readout).

The Key version’s mini keyboard is notes (velocity sensitive) with octave shift buttons. Pedal inputs (sustain and control pedal) are available on the Key/Rack for additional performance control. Overall, the hardware interface allows real-time tweaking of patches (once parameters are assigned to knobs), making live performance with user-designed synths feasible.

All knobs and most parameters also send/receive MIDI CC, meaning the G1 can be automated or used as a controller for other gear. Memory & Patch Storage : The Nord Modular G1 stores its operating system and user patches in flash memory (no backup battery required). The factory spec is “9 banks of patch locations” – i.e. up to patch slots – but the actual number of patches storable depends on their size (complex patches take more memory).

In practice, users could store a few hundred averagesized patches internally. Patches can also be saved on the computer’s drive via the editor software, then loaded as needed. There are also slots for “Performances” (each performance can combine up to patches, one per slot, with multi-timbral setups and keyboard splits).

The Micro Modular, having less memory, holds up to patches in its internal storage. All G1 units support MIDI SysEx dump of patches as well, for external backup. The OS is user-upgradeable via the PC connection; Clavia released OS updates downloadable from their site. (The final official OS for G1 was v3.03, circa 2000.) The Voice Expansion when installed doesn’t change user memory, but doubles the DSPs and thus increases the processing headroom for patches and voices.

Software Editor Environment: Programming the Nord Modular G1 absolutely requires the Nord Modular Editor software (Clavia did not provide on-synth patch editing except for tweaking assigned knobs). The Editor is a graphical patching programme for Windows (and later Mac). The G1 originally shipped with a Windows 95/98 application; by v3.0 Clavia provided a Mac OS 8.6+ version as well.

There was never an official macOS X or Windows beyond XP support from Clavia for the G1 editor – this became a challenge for later users on modern systems. The editor presents a “virtual rack” on screen: modules are selected from categorized lists (oscillators, filters, LFO, etc.) and dragged onto a canvas.

Users connect modules by drawing virtual patch cords between output and input jacks, mirroring the workflow of physical modular synths. The interface, while dated (think Windows UI aesthetics ), was revolutionary in its day – essentially similar to software like NI Reaktor or Max/MSP, but controlling a dedicated hardware synth in real time. Changes in the editor immediately reflect in sound, and the synth can audition patches live while connected.

The G1 editor communicates via MIDI (and requires a reliable MIDI interface; Clavia recommended using the dedicated “PC” ports and not merging with other MIDI traffic ). When the user is satisfied with a patch, it can be downloaded into the Nord’s memory and the computer can be disconnected – the patch will then run from hardware alone. The editor also manages patch libraries, performances, and system settings.

In terms of compatibility, running the G1 editor2235 on modern computers has required workarounds (such as Windows XP virtual machines or community-made software) – see Section on usage and Section on modern solutions.

Notable Architectural Traits: The Nord Modular G1’s architecture is very open: any module can modulate any other (given the appropriate in/out type), and polyphonic and monophonic signal paths can be mixed within a patch. Polyphonic patches mix voices at the outputs; some modules (like certain sequencers or random generators) operate in a single instance for all voices (mono modules).

One limitation of the G1 (compared to the G2) was the lack of MIDI Out or CV/Gate output modules – G1’s sequencer modules could modulate internal parameters but could not directly send MIDI to external gear. This was addressed in the G2 which added MIDI-output modules. Also, G1 did not include DSP-intensive effects like reverb or long delays (again, G2 added those).

Despite that, creative users achieved effects like chorus, flange, short delays, and even reverb-ish atmospheres using combinations of shorter delay modules. Another characteristic is that each patch in G1 is confined to one DSP’s resources – you cannot have a single patch span multiple DSPs in G1; using more DSPs means using multiple slots (and connecting them via actual audio cables if you want one patch to feed another).

This means extremely large patch structures might need to be broken into parts.

The voice expansion simply allows more voices or more slots simultaneously, but doesn’t increase single-patch complexity beyond one DSP’s limit (unlike G2 which could allocate multiple DSPs per patch). Audio quality & character : The G1’s 96kHz internal rate and Clavia’s algorithms gave it a clean yet “characterful” sound – many users praise the warmth or grit of its filters and oscillators.

Interestingly, some in the community feel the G1’s sound has a slightly different character than the later G2 (e.g “grittier” filters on the G1), though such differences are subjective.

Legacy, Impact & User Community

Influence on Synthesis: The Clavia Nord Modular G1 is often hailed as a pioneering instrument that bridged the gap between analogue-style modular synthesis and digital convenience. In the late 90s, modular synthesizers were largely considered archaic; the G1 proved that modular sound design could be modernized and made portable. It anticipated and arguably inspired the wave of software modular synths that followed.

For example, Native Instruments Generator (the precursor to Reaktor) was released in 1999, “clearly inspired by the Nord Modular” according to contemporary observation. Similarly, Propellerhead’s ReBirth and Reason were part of that trend – notably, one of Clavia’s own Nord Lead developers co-founded Propellerhead, reflecting cross-pollination of ideas.

The Nord Modular demonstrated the viability of software-based graphical patching interfaces for sound design, a concept that is now standard in many soft-synth platforms.

It also kept the ethos of modular synthesis alive during a time when virtual analogue hardware mostly offered fixed architectures. As Perfect Circuit’s retrospective puts it, “Nord awoke us from our narrow-minded focus on digital [ROMpler] synthesis and courageously kept modular concepts alive when the industry was moving on”. Many consider the G1 a spiritual forerunner to today’s Eurorack modular renaissance – though it was digital, it lowered the entry barrier to modular thinking.

It’s also cited as an influence on later hybrid systems (e.g. the Creamware/Scope PCI “Modular” system and Korg’s OASYS PCI card in the early 2000s drew obvious comparisons to the Nord Modular’s approach ). Cult Following & Continued Use : Over years later, the Nord Modular G1 maintains a cult following of synth enthusiasts. Users laud its unique combination of hardware reliability and endless patch flexibility.

As of the mid-2020s, there is an active community still creating and sharing• 5758 patches for both the G1 and G2. One author noted in 2024 that “The Nord Modular is still popular, with a cult following of users who still run the old software on new and old computers”. The instrument’s longevity is partly due to the fact that nothing quite like it (in hardware form) has reappeared since the G2’s discontinuation.

User forums and groups have been key in keeping it alive: the electromusic.com forums host the largest repository of Nord Modular patches and discussions, and there are dedicated Facebook groups (e.g. “Nord Modular G1 Users”) celebrating milestones and sharing knowledge (one such group marked its 11-year anniversary, highlighting community persistence). Enthusiasts have compiled huge patch libraries, including recreations of classic synths, algorithmic generators, and experimental soundscapes.

Clavia’s own website (legacy section) still offers the manual and some factory patch sets for download, but the community has far exceeded that with thousands of user patches available.

Community Content & Preservation Efforts: The user community has taken significant steps to preserve and extend the Nord Modular’s life. Websites like Electro-Music host not only forums but also archives of patches, FAQs, and tutorials for the G1. There is an extensive “Nord Modular FAQ v3.03” maintained by users that covers everything from technical setup to module explanations.

Enthusiasts have created third-party software editors (see Section 4) to keep the unit usable on modern OS. Additionally, some have undertaken hardware modifications : for example, converting a Micro Modular into a Eurorack module. A few intrepid tinkerers have re-housed the Micro’s circuitry behind a Eurorack panel, adding CV inputs to control its knobs via analogue signals.

One such project demonstrated a Eurorack-converted Micro Modular with CV-controlled parameters and LED feedback for each knob – effectively integrating the Nord’s digital brain into a modular synth rig. Others have explored whether the Nord’s outputs are DC-coupled to send control voltages to analogue modulars (apparently the headphone outs on some Nords can output DC, enabling some integration).

In terms of preservation, users maintain old laptops or virtual machines specifically to run the editor (since Clavia’s support ended long ago). The community has also backed up Clavia’s original resources (manuals, factory patch banks) and even the last OS update files on various sites to ensure new owners can access them. Forum support is strong for troubleshooting aging units – e.g. helping each other with repairs like replacing failing LCD backlights or encoders (see below).

There is also a spirit of keeping the knowledge alive: experienced Nord Modular programmers often mentor newcomers on how to approach modular patching, using the Nord as an educational tool (the Nord Modular has even been used in university sound synthesis courses due to its clarity in demonstrating modular concepts).

Impact on Future Tools: The legacy of the Nord Modular G1 is evident in later developments. Clavia themselves acknowledged using the Modular system internally as a “laboratory” for developing ideas for new synthesizers.

In a way, the Nord Modular concept foreshadowed today’s software/ hardware hybrids – consider how common it is now for synths to ship with computer editors or how products like Roland’s System-8 and software like VCV Rack let users swap “models” or modules.

The Nord Modular proved that a dedicated synth could have the flexibility of a software studio. It directly inspired products like the Nord Modular G2 (which expanded the concept in 2004) and influenced the design of standalone modular DSP devices (e.g. the MOD Duo or Axoloti – see Section 8).

Even though Clavia stepped back from modulars after 2004, the G1/G2’s influence can be seen in how musicians and manufacturers came to embrace modular paradigms in the digital domain.

Usage Guides & Educational Resources

Official Manuals & Documentation: Clavia provided a comprehensive Nord Modular User Manual (latest edition v3.0), which is an essential resource for any user. The manual not only covers operation but includes an introduction to modular synthesis and guided patch tutorials. For instance, it walks through building simple patches (a basic 2-oscillator synth, etc.) and gradually introduces advanced concepts (feedback loops, logic modules) with examples.

The manual’s tutorial section and included example patches (in the software’s “Tutorial” folder) serve as a great starting point for learning patch creation. Additionally, a third-party Wizoo Guide: “Nord Modular – Introduction, Modular Sound Design, Virtual Assembly Instructions” by Peter Gorges and Len Sasso was published. This book provides deep dives into programming the Nord70 • 8081 8283 Modular, with chapters on synthesis techniques (subtractive, FM, etc.) and step-by-step patch builds.

It’s considered a valuable educational resource (if one can find a copy) for G1 users developing their skills. Online Tutorials & Patching Lessons : A number of community-created tutorials exist. One notable author, Rob Hordijk, wrote extensive tutorials for the Nord Modular (and later the G2).

His writings (originally hosted on Clavia’s site and later mirrored on forums) cover topics like advanced oscillator techniques (e.g. VOSIM synthesis) with Nord patch examples, creative use of logic modules, and building polyphonic sequencers. The Electro-Music forum contains a “Nord Modular Tutorial” thread series and archives of Hordijk’s work.

Users like James Clark and Wout Blommers (long-time Nord users) also contributed guides and answered questions on mailing lists and forums – their collected tips are often compiled in FAQs. For instance, there’s a community Nord Modular FAQ that explains how to emulate a Minimoog on the Nord, how to optimise patch DSP usage, etc.

On the more modern side, some YouTube videos provide visual walkthroughs: e.g.“Tutorial: Nord Micro Modular Synthesizer Generative Chords Patching” (by Doc Bolus) demonstrates building a generative music patch on the Micro Modular, which can be instructive for G1 programming generally.

There are also videos of users live-patching the Nord to create specific sounds (pads, drum loops, etc.), which can be educational to watch step-by-step. Common Techniques & “Patch Tricks” : The Nord Modular G1, being so open-ended, invites experimentation.

Over the years, the community has identified some go-to techniques. Examples include:

• Using the Audio Input module plus envelope followers to make the Nord a dynamic effects processor (e.g. patching a guitar through Nord-built phasers/vocoders)
• Creating rich unison detune sounds by stacking oscillators (the Nord can easily do a or 14-oscillator supersaw within one voice )
• Exploiting the lack of fixed routing to make unconventional signal flows (one famous trick is the “ drone lab ” patch which feeds back an oscillator into its own phase modulation for chaotic textures).

Because the Nord allows audio-rate modulation of anything, users do things like modulate filter cutoff with oscillators in the kHz range to achieve FM-like timbres beyond normal analogue synths.

Another popular use-case is building step sequencer setups: even though the G1’s internal sequencers can’t send MIDI out, people use them to sequence notes and drums internally, crafting entire grooveboxes inside the Nord. For educational purposes, patches that emulate classic synths (Prophet-5, TB-303, etc.) have been shared – dissecting these teaches how those architectures can be recreated with modules.

The community patch archive (such as “Crosley Patch Collection” and others shared via forums/Dropbox) is an excellent learning resource: newcomers can load these patches and analyze how they’re built.

Repair, Upgrades & Troubleshooting Guides: Although the Nord Modular is a digital hardware unit, there are some hardware maintenance topics that users have documented. A common issue as these units age is encoder knobs becoming unreliable (jumping values or not responding smoothly). One simple trick circulated on forums is to “recalibrate” a scratchy encoder by twisting it fully back and forth ~20 times each direction – this can clear debris and improve response.

For more severe cases, users have identified the exact replacement part: the main dial encoder, for example, is a Bourns ECW1J series, and guides show how to open the unit and replace it.

A detailed blog on Phase57 describes an encoder repair step-by-step with photos (unscrewing the chassis, desoldering the broken encoder that got pushed through the PCB, and soldering in a new one). This indicates that, with some DIY skill, things like broken knobs can be fixed – an important consideration for keeping units functional.

Upgrades: The main “upgrade” for the G1 is 8990 9192 installing the Voice Expansion board. Clavia’s service docs and user posts confirm it’s a simple plugin procedure (attaching the expansion PCB onto the mainboard’s slot and securing two screws). Many users have performed this themselves if they could obtain an expansion board. (These boards are rare now; as noted, they contained additional DSPs and came with instructions back when sold).

Another minor “upgrade” some have done is replacing the LCD with a newer (or different colour) display for better contrast, though this is less documented. Troubleshooting : Common troubleshooting topics include editor connection issues. Because the G1 editor is finicky with certain MIDI interfaces, users discovered that older/better MIDI interfaces (e.g.

MOTU, Emagic interfaces) work more reliably for big patch transfers. A blog by David Schulman details how he solved MIDI timeout problems by using a MOTU MIDI interface and proper drivers in a virtual Windows XP setup. Another trick on MacOS (pre-OSX) was using OMS properly to dedicate a port to the Nord.

In modern times, some use a Raspberry Pi running Wine or Windows to host the Nord editor near the synth – guides like “Running the Nord Modular Editor on Raspberry Pi” exist, showing how to get a small, cheap computer to handle the editor and interface with the Nord.

For Micro Modular users, a common question is power supply issues – the Micro uses a 9V AC adapter; if it doesn’t power on, measuring the voltage regulators (LM2940, etc.) internally with a multimeter can diagnose if the PSU or regulator failed. The Electro-Music forum has threads like “Nord Micro Modular Help (hardware/power issue)” that walk through such troubleshooting.

In general, the community has produced a wealth of how-tos covering both creative and technical challenges of the Nord Modular. New users are often pointed to the Nord User Forum and electro-music threads, where most common questions have been answered over the years. Modern OS Compatibility Workarounds : Since Clavia’s editor is an older 32-bit programme, getting it to run on current OS can be tricky.

Many users in the 2010s resorted to keeping an old Windows XP laptop purely for the Nord. However, there are now a few alternative solutions: one is using a virtual machine on Windows or Mac (e.g. VMWare or VirtualBox running Windows XP) – this approach is documented to work, as long as the VM can access a physical MIDI interface.

Another solution for Mac users emerged in recent years: a third-party wrapper app called “Byte Order” that allows the Nord Modular G1 editor to run on macOS (including on M1 Macs, via a Wine-like compatibility layer). Some users on Reddit have confirmed success with that method. Furthermore, the open-source project Nomad Editor was an attempt to create a Java-based crossplatform editor for the G1.

Nomad (last updated around 2008) supports basic patch editing and can run on modern systems (requires Java). While Nomad isn’t 100% stable or full-featured compared to the original editor (some reports of MIDI issues persist ), it represents the community’s dedication to keeping the Nord usable.

In summary, while the Nord Modular isn’t plugand-play on a 2025 computer, enthusiasts have mapped out clear steps to integrate it into a modern studio (often involving either a legacy OS environment or alternative editor software).

This know-how is frequently updated on forums as people discover new tricks to streamline the process.

Comparisons & Alternatives

Contemporaries (Late 90s): When the Nord Modular G1 came out, its concept was virtually unique. The closest hardware parallel at the time were analogue modular synths (e.g. Doepfer’s Eurorack systems just starting in the mid-90s), but those were purely analogue, large, and had no patch memory.

The Nord Modular offered a similar “build your own synth” approach but in digital form, with total recall and polyphony – a huge advantage in live performance and studio efficiency. Compared to fixed-architecture virtual analogue synths of the era (like the Access Virus, Roland JP-8000, or even Clavia’s own Nord Lead), the Nord Modular was far more flexible.

Most VAs could only do subtractive synthesis with a fixed number of oscillators/filters, whereas the Nord could become an FM synth, a drum machine, a multi-effect unit, or all of these at once in a 4-part setup. That said, those fixed synths often had more voices and were simpler to programme for immediate results.

For instance, an Access Virus offered 16-part multitimbrality and lots of preset waves, whereas the Nord Modular required building sounds from scratch and effectively allocating DSP so as not to choke polyphony.

In terms of sound, users have noted the Nord’s core sound is in the same class as other high-end virtual analogues of the time – it produced convincing analogue-style tones (Clavia’s expertise from Nord Lead carried over) but also could venture into digital territories those others couldn’t (e.g. weird logic module noises, microtonal sequencers, etc.). The Waldorf MicroWave II/XT also used a Motorola 56303 DSP and provided wavetable synthesis, but wasn’t modular – it had a set architecture.

The Korg Z1 and Prophecy allowed selection of different oscillator models (physical modelling, etc.), which is conceptually semi-modular (choose building blocks), but not nearly as free-form as the Nord Modular. So the Nord really stood alone as a hardware “virtual modular studio”.

It’s been called “a Nord Lead on steroids and without limits” in that it took the analogue modelling engine and removed almost all fixed constraints. 30119 Software Equivalents : On the software side, by the early 2000s, Native Instruments Reaktor (released 1999, building on Generator) became a direct competitor to the Nord Modular concept.

Reaktor offered even more modules and could run on a PC without external hardware. By mid-2000s, computers were powerful enough to handle Reaktor and other soft-synths in real-time, which somewhat eroded the Nord’s advantage. The Clavia Nord G2 itself tried to bridge the gap by improving integration (USB connection, VSTi-like routing for the editor).

However, as noted in retrospect, the hardware/software hybrid model of the Nord Modular was “swimming against the tide” once pure software instruments became prevalent. Another software comparison is Propellerhead Reason – an all-in-one music environment with virtual patch cables. Reason’s Subtractor and Malström synths and its modular Combinator could emulate some modular workflows, but still not as freely as the Nord’s module-by-module approach.

One should also mention Max/MSP and PureData (which predate the Nord Modular concept slightly, as graphical programming tools for audio). These were used more by academic electronic musicians and also allowed constructing synths with patchable objects. The Nord Modular was like a more user-friendly, dedicated synth equivalent of those, appealing to musicians rather than programmers.

Advantages vs Analog Modular: Compared to a traditional analogue modular (say a Moog or Serge system), the Nord Modular had everal advantages: polyphony (multiple notes at once, which analogue modulars generally cannot do without multiple duplicate modules), patch memory (you could instantly recall complex patches on stage), smaller size and cost (the G1 was pricey as a synth, but a comparable analogue modular setup would likely cost more, especially for 4-voice polyphony).

It also had digital-only advantages like logic modules and precise timing for sequencers, which were harder to implement in analogue. On the flip side, analogue purists might argue the Nord’s sound was “too clean” or not as organically random as analogue circuits – although Clavia’s designs did include some drift and saturation characteristics to emulate analogue.

But the absence of true analogue non-linearities and, for example, no continuously variable filter overdrive (beyond what you patch) meant the Nord could sound a bit “digital” if not programmed carefully. Some users in forums noted a certain “sheen” or aliasing in high frequencies, typical of late-90s DSP, though at kHz the Nord minimized aliasing pretty well for the era.

 

Advantages vs Software Modular: Even by today’s standards, using a Nord Modular has the benefit of dedicated DSP – meaning it doesn’t tax your computer’s CPU and has effectively zero latency for its own processing.

This can make it very stable in live performance. There’s also the tactile aspect: you have a piece of hardware that you can trust not to crash like a PC might, and immediate knob control for assigned parameters. This reliability and hands-on control appeal to many, even as software like VCV Rack offers more modules.

As one user put it in an Elektronauts discussion: software like VCV is fantastic and powerful, “but I dislike the skeuomorphic interface… [In contrast] the Nords… are very different” – implying the Nord offers a focused, instrument-like experience versus the endless open-endedness of PC software.

Modern Alternatives and Inspired Devices: In recent years, several projects explicitly draw inspiration from the Nord Modular. The Axoloti platform is a notable one – a small embedded hardware board with a patching software that looks quite similar to Nord’s editor.

It’s been described as “a modern virtual modular inspired by the Clavia Nord Modular series with modern compatibility”. Axoloti, released mid-2010s, allows users to create patches on a computer and run them on the $100 board, even making custom Eurorack modules. While Axoloti doesn’t fully replicate the Nord’s exact sound or all module types, it’s a clear spiritual successor, and even has advantages like user-created modules and active development.

Similarly, the MOD Duo / MOD Axe etc., which are pedalstyle programmable DSP boxes, carry the torch of user-programmable DSP with graphical interfaces (though oriented toward effects as much as synths).

Another comparison is the Critter & Guitari Organelle – essentially a small Linux computer running PureData patches; like a modern take on a Micro Modular (users can load community-made patches, which could be synths, samplers, etc.). It’s not as slick an interface as Nord (no dedicated editor – you programme in PD), but it fills the niche of “small hardware that can be any synth”.

Nord Modular G2 vs G1: A comparison within Clavia’s own lineage is useful. The Nord Modular G2 (first released 2004) improved on many G1 limitations: USB connectivity, more polyphony (the G2 had DSPs but each more powerful; an expansion DSP increased voices further), and crucially a bunch of new modules (like reverb, long delay, MIDI out, audio input modules with pitch tracking, physical modelling oscillators, etc.).

The G2 also had a vastly improved hardware interface – fewer knobs (8 instead of 18) but each surrounded by an LCD ring to show its parameter’s name and value, making it easier to know what you’re controlling.

However, some users felt that the raw sound character of the G2 changed – for instance, as mentioned earlier, anecdotal reports claim the G1’s filters and overdrives have a warmer or “grittier” sound, whereas the G2 sounds a bit cleaner or more hi-fi. This is subjective but is a recurring theme in user communities (some have both units and use G1 for certain “dirty” sounds and G2 for more complex polyphonic patches).

The G2’s editor is also only for modern OS (Windows/Mac of that era), which ironically has its own compatibility issues today, but overall slightly easier to get running than the G1’s editor on new systems.

Since the G2 was discontinued in 2009 with no further Nord Modulars made, many potential new users weigh the G1 vs G2 on the second-hand market. Summary: G2 is more powerful and user-friendly, but G1 is cheaper (usually) and has that original legacy vibe; importantly, the G1 has a huge library of existing patches built by users over decades, which is a treasure trove for sound exploration (G2 has a library too but smaller user base).

Other Hardware Modular Hybrids: One could also compare the Nord Modular to hardware synths that have some modular capabilities.

For example, the Roland System-1m was semi-modular (had patch points) but essentially just loaded fixed plugin models – not comparable in flexibility. The OSC Prophet or Waldorf Quantum are powerful digital synths but still have fixed signal flow (though very modulatable). In the 90s, Kurzweil K2000 had a very flexible DSP architecture (KDFX and VAST) which allowed routing algorithms.

This is somewhat analogueous to patching modules, but done via menus rather than a graphical interface, and not as free-form (it’s more like choosing from preset algorithms and customizing them).

The Nord Modular was far more user-friendly for experimentation. We can mention Kyma (Capybara/Pacarana) system – an advanced sound design DSP system that’s modular in nature (with a graphical patching environment). Kyma, however, was exorbitantly expensive and aimed at sound designers; the Nord Modular offered a more musicianoriented, real-time instrument approach at a fraction of the cost.

Summary of Pros/Cons: The Nord Modular G1’s main advantage is its unparalleled flexibility in a standalone instrument – it’s essentially many synths in one, limited mainly by the user’s imagination and the DSP power. It also excels in creating entire signal chains: e.g. you can build a synth patch that includes its own effects, step sequencers controlling parameters, even audio input processing – so one patch can be like a mini-production.

Another advantage is the community and knowledge base which new alternatives might lack; with the Nord, you’re plugging into decades of shared patches and tips.

On the limitation side: the requirement of a computer for patch creation is a hurdle for some – if you’re not keen on using a 90s GUI and wrangling old software, it can be a downside compared to modern gear that often supports on-device editing or more updated software. Also, the fixed DSP resources mean you might hit ceilings (voice stealing or unable to add that one extra module) and have to creatively optimise – whereas modern software synths on a fast CPU have higher limits.

And of course, as hardware ages, things like the editor compatibility and hardware repairs become considerations that pure software or newer devices don’t have.

Yet, many users still find the Nord Modular G1 holds a sweet spot : as one forum user summarized – it offers “the perfect balance between power, flexibility, and ease of use”, being a dedicated synth that avoids the distraction of unlimited possibilities on a computer while still providing immense sound design depth.

Availability & Market Insights

Current Second-hand Market in the UK: The Nord Modular G1 (and its variants) are discontinued and only available used. In recent years, prices for these units have notably increased due to their cult status and relative rarity. Around 2016–2017, users observed that “G1 and G2 second hand prices are going through the roof”.

As of 2017, a Nord Modular G1 (rack or keyboard) in the USA could list around $1000 (if expanded, sometimes more). In the UK specifically, prices can vary with condition and included extras: A Nord Modular G1 Rack/Key typically goes for roughly £600–£800 as of the mid-2020s, with some listings even higher if in mint condition or with the expansion. For example, a UK retailer’s secondhand listing had a Nord Modular (original) at £699 (sold).

Online marketplaces like Reverb show past UK sales around £550–£600 for a base unit in excellent shape. Expanded units (8voice) tend toward the higher end since the expansion is rare. The Nord Micro Modular tends to be cheaper, but its prices have also risen.

A few years ago, Micros sold for about £250–£350, but more recently UK sellers have asked around £400–£500 for a Micro in good condition. One Reverb UK sale from years ago shows a Micro Modular in mint condition selling at £558 (approx $560). That included UK postage.

As availability decreases, buyers seem willing to pay a premium for a fully working unit. The Voice Expansion Board for G1 is extremely scarce on its own. When they do appear, they command high prices; one sold on Reverb (albeit from Russia) for about $500 (≈£400).

It essentially doubles the value of an unexpanded Nord if included. So a Nord Modular with expansion might sell for £800–£900+ depending on buyer demand. It’s worth noting the G2 series (especially G2 keyboard and G2 Engine) also fetch high prices (often over £1000 for a G2 Engine or much more for a G2 Keyboard), but that’s separate from G1.

Rarity and Demand: In the UK, Nord Modular G1 units appear occasionally on platforms like eBay, Gumtree, or specialist synth shops. They are not extremely rare (units were sold worldwide, and quite a few circulate in Europe), but the demand is high relative to supply. Enthusiasts often hold onto them once acquired.

A forum user speculated that the market might be interesting enough for Nord to consider a reissue, given how many people want them, but Nord has shown no intent to do so. So the second-hand market remains the only source.

Buyers in the UK sometimes import from other EU countries or the US if they find a good deal, but then must handle power supply differences (the Nord has an internal universal PSU for 230V/115V on the Rack/Key, so that’s usually fine with an IEC cable; the Micro uses an AC adapter.

UK buyers should ensure they get a 9V AC adapter appropriate for UK mains or use a step-down transformer if it’s a US unit).128 What to Check When Buying Used : Functionality : Prospective buyers should verify that the unit is fully functional, especially given its age.

This includes testing all knobs and buttons (do any encoders skip or behave erratically? One can perform the twist test on-site or see if values change smoothly), the LCD (on Rack/Key) for any missing characters or backlight issues, and the audio jacks for clean signal on all outputs. If possible, test that the synth can connect to a computer and receive patches – this is crucial since a Nord Modular that can’t communicate with the editor is of limited use.

Often sellers will mention “connects fine to my Windows XP machine” or similar; if buying locally, you might request a quick demonstration of it loading a patch from the editor. Accessories : Ensure items like the original power supply are included (for Micro Modular). The Micro uses a specific 9V AC ~ 1A adapter.

If missing, these are obtainable (e.g. from Maplin or online, one needs a matching voltage and AC output, since DC adapters won’t work properly) – but it’s a point to factor in. The Rack/Keyboard use a standard IEC mains cable (built-in PSU), so just check voltage selector (if any) is set correctly for UK 230V. Voice Expansion : Ask if the unit has the expansion installed.

Many sellers will tout “expanded to voices” if it is. If not expanded, know that finding an expansion later is difficult and expensive, so if you desire that, it might be worth waiting for an already-expanded unit even if it costs more upfront. Physical Condition : Check for any damage – specifically, the knobs and dial.

There have been cases where the large rotary dial was hit and pushed into the chassis (breaking the encoder). If a knob or dial feels loose or wobbly, it might indicate such damage. Also check the 1/4” audio jacks and MIDI ports aren’t loose (wiggle test).

For the keyboard version, inspect the keys (the 25-key bed should respond to velocity; any that don’t might need contact cleaning).

Common Faults: The Nord Modular is generally robust (Clavia built them well), but after ~25 years, minor issues can crop up. As mentioned, encoder wear is one.

Another is the LCD contrast fade – the backlight might dim over time (but replacement 2×16 LCDs are standard if one is inclined to swap). Output noise – some users report a bit of background noise on the outputs, but this might be normal at high gain; however, crackling or failing outputs could mean capacitor issues on the analogue output stage. MIDI communication – sometimes the internal MIDI ports might need reflowing solder if there’s intermittent connection (only if the unit was dropped).

It’s worth asking the seller if they’ve had any issues connecting to it; some problems could actually be the seller’s MIDI interface at fault, but if they mention “occasionally needs a couple tries to send a patch”, that could be a minor red flag (though often it’s just using a cheap USB-MIDI dongle causing timeouts).

Restoration/Maintenance Tips: If one does find an issue like a jittery knob, it’s usually fixable. UK buyers have access to electronics suppliers like RS, Farnell, or Mouser which stock the Bourns encoders and other components.

Replacing a broken knob or even every encoder (if one desired) is possible via skilled soldering. Cleaning the key contacts (if a key doesn’t trigger well) is similar to other synths – open and use contact cleaner on the rubber strip, etc. The power supply capacitors might eventually need replacement (given age) – if a Nord Modular starts having instability (rebooting or audio hum), a recap of the PSU board by a tech could solve it.

So far, no widespread reports of failing power supplies on G1, but G2 users have had to replace some PSU caps, so G1 might be due as well after two decades. It’s advisable to have a knowledgeable synth technician in mind (for UK, there are synth repair services in major cities) if one runs into serious issues. Parts Availability : Clavia (Nord) as a company focuses on current products and generally doesn’t stock parts for such old legacy units.

The G1 being long discontinued means official support is essentially nil. However, many parts are off-the-shelf: encoders, potentiometers, LCD, even the 91138 • Motorola DSP chips (though those are harder to source new nowadays, they rarely fail). The custom parts like the front panel or case obviously aren’t made anymore, but those usually don’t need replacement.

The voice expansion – since it was a specific Clavia item – is only found second-hand. Sometimes they pop up on marketplaces; for example, a Reverb listing for an expansion board in 2017 went for about £350. If one absolutely wanted an expansion and can’t find one, it’s worth watching forums; occasionally someone parts out a broken unit.

There was a community discussion about cloning the expansion (since it’s basically a PCB with DSPs and some glue logic), but no known successful clone is on the market (unlike some synths like the Waldorf Q which had usermade voice expansions, the Nord’s hasn’t been cloned publicly). For repairs, because the Nord Modular is all through-hole components on the analogue sections and socketed DSP chips, a competent electronics tech can service it.

Several UK synth repair shops (e.g. Sintetica, Cyberwave EMS, etc.) have experience with Nord products, though mostly Nord Leads and pianos – but the Modular is straightforward for someone who can handle digital and analogue circuits. UK-specific Considerations : If buying within the UK, it’s mostly plug-and-play (240V mains). If importing a unit from abroad (say EU or US), the Rack/Key has a voltage switch (or autosensing PSU) – one should double-check but Clavia often made universal PSUs.

The Micro’s adapter would need replacing or a transformer. Brexit-related note : if importing from EU, VAT and import duties might apply now – so factor that into the cost. Locally within the UK, second-hand sales between individuals won’t have added VAT.

On marketplaces like Reverb UK, the platform now handles VAT on imports, so it’s something to watch for in pricing. Market Trend : The trend seems to be that Nord Modular G1 (and G2) prices have remained strong or rising, as hardware synth collectors value them and there is no direct modern equivalent. One forum post from 2017 notes the upward trend and speculates it’s due to many new modular (Eurorack) enthusiasts discovering the Nord as a way to get polyphonic modular capabilities.

In the UK and Europe, where the Nord Modular had a good initial user base, the supply is slightly better than in, say, the US – but demand is equally high. For instance, one might see a Nord Modular appear on a UK Facebook Synth Swap and get snapped up in hours if priced reasonably. So prospective buyers should be vigilant and perhaps join synth forums or groups where such gear is traded.

Resale and Investment: For someone who owns a Nord Modular G1 in the UK, it’s worth noting that it holds its value well. If kept in good shape, one could likely resell at the same or higher price than they paid, given the current trends. It’s reached “vintage digital” status.

That said, the market could be niche – the buyer pool is mostly synth aficionados, so selling might take a bit of finding the right person, but platforms like the Nord User Forum or Muff Wiggler (now ModWiggler) have dedicated communities who actively seek these units.

Buying Advice Summary: In summary, do your homework : buy from a seller who can confirm the unit’s working state (especially editor connectivity), aim for one with the expansion if you need more polyphony (if you find one in the UK, that’s a bonus), and budget around £600–£800 for a standard unit (possibly more if mint or expanded). Be prepared to possibly invest time in setting up an older computer or VM to fully enjoy it.

If you’re in the UK, you have the advantage of 230V compatibility and relatively closer proximity to where many units were originally sold (Clavia’s distributor in the UK sold many through the late 90s, so there are units around). Check community forums for any UK-specific threads (sometimes UK-based users trade among themselves to avoid shipping).

Finally, remember to ask the seller about included software or manuals – while the editor can be downloaded, having the original Nord Modular CD or printed manual is a nice plus for collectors (though all info is online if not).

Future Relevance & Developments

Clavia’s Stance and the Prospect of a “Nord Modular G3”: Officially, Clavia has moved away from modular synths. Hans Nordelius has been quite clear that the Modular line, while beloved, was not sustainable from a business perspective. “The demands from [the modular] community were increasing all the time… We were draining the company… for a very small market.

So we almost killed ourselves. After that we said no more modular systems.”. This statement, from a 2015 interview, explains why we haven’t seen a Nord Modular G3.

Instead, Clavia focuses on products like the Stage, Piano, and Lead lines which cater to a broader market (stage musicians, etc.). Therefore, it’s highly unlikely Clavia will directly re-enter the full modular arena in the foreseeable future. They continue to use the concept internally ( “We still use the modular system in our work, almost daily… as a laboratory” ) but not as a product to sell.

However, Clavia has integrated some modular-inspired features into recent gear (for instance, the Nord Wave and Stage have flexibility in layering and routing, though nothing as open as the Modular).

Ongoing Enthusiasm: The user community’s enthusiasm remains strong and even appears to be growing among a new generation of synth users. Many young electronic musicians, coming from Eurorack or VCV Rack backgrounds, discover the Nord Modular and appreciate it as a self-contained digital modular with its own character.

As evidence of ongoing interest: the existence of projects to keep the editor running on modern systems, frequent forum discussions, and the premium used prices all indicate the Nord Modular is far from forgotten. In social media and forums (e.g. ModWiggler, r/synthesizers on Reddit), one often sees threads asking if the Nord Modular is still worth it – and many experienced users weigh in with a resounding yes, citing its sound and workflow.

So in the niche of synth enthusiasts, the Nord Modular G1 is now somewhat legendary.

Clones, Emulations & Alternatives: While Clavia might not revive it, others have indirectly picked up the torch. As mentioned in Section 6, the Axoloti project is one such example – effectively a community-driven modern Nord Modular-like environment (open-source software, affordable hardware).

Another project to watch is the DSP56300 Emulator initiative in the software world. This is an open-source effort to emulate the Motorola 563xx DSP family on a PC, which has already borne fruit in the form of a working Access Virus B/C emulation (since those synths also used Motorola 563xx DSPs). The Nord Modular runs on the same DSP type, meaning that in theory, if someone dumped the Nord Modular’s firmware and OS, the emulator could potentially run a Nord Modular in software.

In fact, the DSP563 emulator team has listed the Clavia Nord Modular and Micro Modular as supported targets (with some initial tests running demos). This is a significant development: it hints that eventually we might see a Nord Modular software plugin or standalone emulator, preserving the instrument for future OS without needing original hardware. It’s early to say how fully functional that could be (the UI would still need replication – perhaps by running the original editor and intercepting DSP calls).

But this route is promising for preservation and broader access. If a fully working Nord Modular VST emerged from the emulator project, it could spark renewed interest and allow integration into modern DAWs seamlessly (imagine loading legacy Nord patches in your computer without the physical unit). It’s somewhat analogueous to how the Access Virus TI can now be run as a plugin via emulator – a few years ago that was unimaginable.

Software Revivals: Beyond emulating the original DSP code, there’s the idea of re-implementing the Nord Modular concept in new software.

Some independent developers have created modular softsynths that explicitly nod to the Nord. For example, Audulus (for iOS/desktop) or VCV Rack patches can be made to resemble Nord patches (some users have ported Nord patch designs into VCV Rack modules). Also, the Nord G2 had an official demo software which basically was a limited polyphony version of the G2 running natively on PC.

While that doesn’t cover the G1, it shows Clavia did toy with the idea of software-only release (though it was more a demo/trial than a full product). Perhaps in the future Clavia might consider releasing a Nord Modular plugin as a legacy product (similar to how Korg released legacy collections of their synths as software). There’s no indication of this yet, but if the demand is noticed (and if they see the community emulating it anyway), it could be a possibility long-term.

Integration with Modern Setups: The Nord Modular remains relevant by adaption. Musicians integrate it with modern gear using tools like Expert Sleepers interfaces (to send CV from a DAW to analogue gear – though Nord doesn’t output CV, people use it in tandem with such gear by processing audio or MIDI from modular rigs).

The blog article from Perfect Circuit noted a modern twist: using VCV Rack with hardware modules like the 4ms Pods as a way to do what Nord did – essentially running software modular patches in hardware via a module like 4ms SMR or ES-8.

It explicitly says, “the closest alternative today would be the collaboration of VCV Rack and the 4MS MetaModule… load your patches without dragging a computer around… with macro knobs – I wonder where they got that idea?”. This tongue-in-cheek reference shows that the concept pioneered by Nord is influencing new Eurorack products that host digital patches in hardware. So the legacy continues in new forms.

Future of the Community: The Nord Modular community has taken preservation into its own hands. Expect to see continued support: for instance, updated open-source editors (Nomad could be revived or new ones written – maybe as smartphone apps or web apps in the future). Also, patch repository longevity – forums like Electro-Music have been around a long time, but community members may migrate data to GitHub or other modern hosting to ensure patch files don’t disappear.

We might even see AI or machine learning applied to Nord Modular – e.g., tools that can analyze or auto-generate Nord patches given a sound target (this is speculative, but not far-fetched given similar projects for other synths). Integration into DAWs and MIDI : As DAWs become central, some have asked if the Nord Modular can be tightly synced or controlled. Already, people use Max for Live devices or custom scripts to automate Nord patches from Ableton Live (via MIDI CC).

We might see a Max/MSP Nord Modular patch converter or something that allows designing in Max and deploying to Nord – though this is complex and probably limited to academic interest. Another interesting development: projects like Ctrlr (a platform for building custom editor panels for synths) – someone could create a modern GUI panel for controlling Nord Modular performances via MIDI. Not the same as patch editing, but for live control it could integrate the Nord into a DAW environment better.

Enthusiast Mods: Looking ahead, hardware hackers might try things like increasing memory or hacking the OS. Since Clavia isn’t updating it, the only hope for new features in the G1 would be via community firmware mods. There’s no known custom OS for Nord G1 (it’s quite a complex piece of software), but not impossible if someone were dedicated.

The DSP code is likely not easily modifiable without source. More plausible is hardware modding: e.g., one could mod the Micro Modular to have 65144 • a Eurorack power input and trigger buttons, as some did. Or create a custom controller that maps to Nord’s MIDI CCs to effectively give more hands-on control (some have used MIDI controllers like the Behringer BCR2000 to have knobs controlling Nord parameters beyond the on the unit).

Forecast: In summary, the Nord Modular G1’s legacy is secure – it will continue to be referenced as a groundbreaking instrument. Its relevance among synth aficionados is still high, and might actually grow if tools like the DSP emulator bring it to people who never experienced it. In a future scenario, perhaps we’ll see an official Nord Modular app or an unofficial exact emulation plugin, bringing the red modular into modern studios without the original hardware.

Until then, the physical units remain cherished. The ethos it championed – user-driven sound construction – is now commonplace (in everything from modular synth resurgence to the patchable nature of many soft-synths). One could say Nord Modular was ahead of its time; now that times have caught up (with everyone and their neighbor having a modular synth or a modular plugin), the Nord Modular itself might shine again as people rediscover its particular flavor of synthesis.

In the context of the UK synth scene, interest in 90s digital synths (like the Yamaha FS1R, Korg Prophecy, etc.) has been rising; the Nord Modular fits right into that as a creative digital instrument that stands out from the analogue clones flooding the market. Clavia’s Use in Future : It’s interesting that Clavia still uses the Modular internally for prototyping. This implies that if they ever embark on a radically new synth, it might indirectly descend from ideas tested on a Nord Modular G2/G1.

So while a commercial G3 is unlikely, the spirit of the Nord Modular could resurface in some other Nord product (for example, a future Nord Wave or Lead might incorporate semi-modular sections or user patchable effects as a nod to that heritage). In conclusion, the Nord Modular G1 remains a beloved tool with an active user base. Its influence is evident in modern music tech both in hardware and software.

As technology evolves, the Nord Modular’s core idea – “a complete modular system housed in hardware and controlled via software” – continues to be relevant and is being reinterpreted in new ways, ensuring that the concept will live on, even if the original red boxes become collector’s pieces.

Notable Artists, Recordings & Commentary

This section lists artists known or reputed to use the Clavia Nord Modular G1, along with examples of music and their comments. We distinguish between verifiable sources (interviews, credits) and community-sourced attributions.)

Nine Inch Nails (Trent Reznor) – Use: A Nord Modular (rack version) can be seen in NIN’s studio circa 1999; it appears in the music video for “Into The Void”. While Reznor hasn’t spoken at length about it publicly, its presence in his gear lineup during The Fragile era suggests it contributed to the dense, layered synth textures on that album.

The chaotic synth swirls and processed audio in tracks like “Where is Everybody?” could feasibly have involved the Nord Modular as an experimental sound processor (Reznor was known to route audio through various filters and modulators). Verifiability: The video appearance is a direct visual confirmation. No direct quote from Reznor on the Nord is readily available, so this falls under documented usage via visual evidence.

Autechre (Sean Booth & Rob Brown) – Use: Extensive. Autechre integrated the Nord Modular into their setup from the late 90s onward. Sean Booth was an early adopter; Richard Devine notes Sean introduced him to the Nord G1, highlighting how enthusiastic Autechre were about it. It’s believed that Nord Modular patches were heavily used on albums like Confield and in live performances of that era.

Autechre’s music is full of complex FM percussion, algorithmic sequences, and evolving timbres – exactly the kind of thing the Nord excels at. They actually released some of their Nord Modular G2 patches as part of a 2008/2010 initiative where they shared assets from live sets. For the G1, specific tracks aren’t public, but fans speculate many odd sounds (like the alien percussive hits in “Gaekwad” or the twisting sequences in “Cap.IV”) had Nord in their DNA.

Comment: Sean Booth has spoken generally about using modelling and modular approaches: “I’m really into modelling as a science, I can do it on a Nord… make samples that sound like breakbeats” (Booth, 2005 interview), implying they used the Nord to synthesize sounds from scratch that mimicked or twisted real-world sounds. Verifiability: High, from multiple sources. Community knowledge is strong here and backed by the patch releases and interviews.

The Chemical Brothers (Tom Rowlands & Ed Simons) – Use: The Chemical Brothers had a Nord Modular in their arsenal during the late 90s/early 2000s, particularly Tom Rowlands, who is the gearhead of the duo. A specific confirmed use is on the track “Don’t Fight Control” – a cover of a Primal Scream song released around 1997-98.

According to a gear blog (MusicThing / Chembase) “Nord Modular: Used on ‘Don’t Fight Control’… you can find it by the crazy noise near the end of the song”. Indeed, in that track, there’s a rising, sputtering analogue noise crescendo that stands out – likely a Nord patch feeding back or using logic modules for chaos. Additionally, in their live rig pictures from the late 90s, a Nord Modular (keyboard or rack) is often spotted on Tom’s keyboard stand (alongside a Doepfer MAQ sequencer).

It’s plausible they used the Nord for other songs needing peculiar filtering or sequencing – for example, some of the resonant sweeps in Dig Your Own Hole -era tracks could have come from it. Comment: Tom Rowlands hasn’t publicly detailed the Nord’s use in interviews (he tends to mention vintage analogues more), but the evidence from fan compendiums is strong. Verifiability: Semi-official.

 Mouse on Mars (Jan St.Werner & Andi Toma) – Use: This German electronic duo is known to have used the Nord Modular, as listed on VSE and mentioned in interviews circa early 2000s. Their album Niun Niggung and others around that time feature quirky synthetic sounds that could be Nord-sourced. For instance, the track “Diskdusk” has unusual formant-y synth gurgles and stuttering sequences – easily the work of a custom Nord patch with vocal filter modules and logiccontrolled stutters.

Mouse on Mars were always exploring new tech; Jan St. Werner even did projects with custom software. The Nord Modular likely served as a bridge between analogue-style synthesis and digital weirdness for them.

Comment: While specific quotes are scarce, Jan St. Werner did nod to using “Clavia stuff” in interviews and the Nord Modular specifically gets credits in some of their gear lists (community compiled). Verifiability: Moderate – commonly accepted in the community and reasonable given their sound, but not explicitly confirmed via direct quote that we have.

μ-Ziq (Mike Paradinas) – Use: Paradinas, an influential IDM artist and Planet Mu label head, is cited as a Nord Modular user. In late 90s productions (e.g., Lunatic Harness era) he often employed complex filtered beats and zaps. The Nord could have been used to synthesize drums or basslines.

Paradinas was known to experiment with many synths and likely got a Nord Modular as part of that wave of Warp/IDM artists adopting it. Verifiability: Appears in multiple “who used Nord Modular” lists. Not personally confirmed via interview, but likely true given his involvement in the Rephlex/Warp scene where the Nord was popular.

Speedy J (Jochem Paap) – Use: Listed as a Nord Modular user. Speedy J moved from techno into more experimental sound design by the late 90s (albums like A Shocking Hobby in 2000).

The Nord Modular would fit well in generating the unusual rhythmic glitches and noises on that album. It’s safe to say he used it as one of the tools to craft his complex percussion and textures. Verifiability: Community-verified through gear lists (no direct quote available in sources gathered).

BT (Brian Transeau) – Use: BT is known for being a tech-forward producer. According to VSE, he was an early user of the Nord Modular.

BT’s music around the late 90s (e.g., Movement in Still Life ) had a lot of intricate synth arpeggios and gated effects – while he often used things like the Access Virus, the Nord Modular could have been the secret sauce for some ambient pads or experimental breaks.

BT also pioneered stutter editing (which is more a DAW technique) but he has praised modular synthesis in interviews generally. The Nord might have contributed to, say, some sounds in his track “Smartbomb” or the warped vocoder vocals in “Hip-Hop Phenomenon”.

Comment: We don’t have a direct BT quote on the Nord, but given his appetite for cutting-edge gear, it’s very plausible he incorporated it. Verifiability: Listed by multiple sources as a user, presumably stemming from interviews or studio reports at the time. We treat it as likely but community-sourced info.

Junkie XL (Tom Holkenborg) – Use: Another big producer who loves hardware. Junkie XL’s studio in the early 2000s was famously filled with synths. The Nord Modular is listed among gear he has used.

On his album Big Sounds of the Drags, tracks like “Synasthesia” and “Legion” have evolving synth lines and effect-like sounds that a Nord could produce. Junkie XL often layered digital and analogue synths; the Nord might have provided complex sequences or pads to augment his mixes. Comment: Tom has done studio walkthrough videos in recent years, but those focus on current gear.

Historically, he likely used the Nord as part of his massive setup. Verifiability: Community-credited; no direct citation of him naming the Nord, but it’s documented in gear magazine lists of his equipment at the time.

Apparat (Sascha Ring) – Use: Apparat is a notable electronic musician from Germany. While more known for using Max/MSP and other software, he has been mentioned as a Nord Modular user. It wouldn’t be surprising – his early 2000s work, like Duplex, features crisp digital synth lines and glitchy processing that a Nord could handle. If he did use it, it may have been for creating quirky lead sounds or as a processing unit for other audio (the G1’s inputs could be used to mangle vocals or beats, something in line with Apparat’s style).

Comment: No public quote found, so this is a case of likely community reporting. We include him as a contemporary known user (as Wikipedia also cited him as a known user, albeit unsourced). Others / Legacy in Music : We should mention that beyond the electronic genre, the Nord Modular found its way into studios of diverse artists.

Astral Projection (psytrance) – they likely used it for psytrance effects and sequences (verifiable via interviews in music production mags where they list gear). The Crystal Method (big beat group) also listed Nord Modular in their gear around the Tweakend album, possibly for filter sweeps and vocoder effects (VSE mentions them).

Somatic Responses (hard IDM/breakcore) – twin brothers known for extreme distortion – used the Nord for harsh digital mayhem (they’re explicitly in the VSE list).

Each of these artists might not have detailed quotes, but the recurring listing across credible synth communities implies they indeed integrated the Nord. Community vs Verifiable Distinction : To clarify, artists like NIN, Chemical Brothers, Autechre, and Derek Sherinian have verifiable connections to the Nord Modular (via videos, direct statements, or official acknowledgment).

Meanwhile, artists such as BT, Junkie XL, Astral Projection, Somatic Responses are community-verified, meaning their use is commonly accepted knowledge in the synth community, often appearing in databases like VintageSynth or Equipboard, but might not have a primary-source quote easily at hand.

Nord Modular

Hans Zimmer (while not a G1 user as far as records show) commented on Clavia’s instruments in general being hands-on; in the broader sphere, the Nord Modular was praised for bringing that hands-on element via its interface despite being software-driven.

Richard Devine’s quote we have via MacProVideo: “ever since the Nord G1 Modular… You could do all the patching…” (implying he loved the ability to craft unique sounds). Devine used the G2 heavily (he even contributed factory patches to the G2).

His love for the G1 shows the esteem in which sound designers hold it – a tool for endless exploration. Autechre (Sean Booth) in interviews often don’t name gear specifically (they’re cagey), but the fact they released patches means they implicitly endorse its creative power.

Some artists have noted limitations: e.g., one quote from an anonymous producer: “I loved the possibilities but felt [the Nord Modular] sounded too dated for my tastes” – a reference on Harmony Central suggested one user parted with it because of its sonic character.

This highlights that not everyone found the Nord a fit for their music; some preferred analog or newer digital synths for tonal reasons. But this is a minority view in public; more often the Nord is lauded. Continuing to Use Today : Many of the above artists (or those of similar stature) continue to use their Nord Modulars or speak fondly of them.

For instance, some years ago, Ulrich Schnauss (ambient electronic artist) mentioned he still had a Nord Micro Modular in his live rig for specific sounds – showing even decades later, these units find utility on stage or in studio. It’s not unusual to find that people like Legowelt (Danny Wolfers) – who collects quirky digital synths – has a Nord Modular and occasionally uses it for crazy digital tones (though he’s more known for analogue, he has everything in his studio).

Derek Sherinian, though more into analog and modern keyboards now, likely still respects the Nord Modular’s role (since Clavia gave him that G2 as thanks, which implies he used the G1 on high-profile projects/tours, possibly with Dream Theater in the late 90s for wild synth solos or sound effects).74 • 7172139 Contemporary Modular Artists : Some younger modular synth performers have discovered the Nord as well.

Artist Cuckoo (a Norwegian electronic musician/Youtuber) did a video on the Nord Modular G2 – not G1, but it shows interest in the concept. If focusing on G1, producers in the techno scene (like in Berlin) sometimes integrate it for digital drums or FM bass that cut through in ways analogue can’t.

Notable Tracks: Summarizing a few specific music pieces associated with Nord Modular: Nine Inch Nails – “Into The Void” (visual cameo, presumably used in production in that era).

The Chemical Brothers – “Don’t Fight Control” (confirmed use of Nord Modular for noise fx). Autechre – live patches from 2008 Quaristice tour (released, demonstrating Nord usage). Somatic Responses – “Circumflex” (album) – known for using Nord for some synth lines (community info).

Astral Projection – tracks like “People Can Fly” (live) – anecdotal reports of Nord Modular on stage for synth fx in their sets. If needed, we could cite an example of a Nord Modular patch recreation of a famous riff: e.g., someone made a Nord patch that emulates the TB-303 acid bass and used it in a track, showing it can stand in for iconic analogue gear with a twist. But that’s more demonstration than a notable released track.

In essence, the Nord Modular G1, though niche, has left fingerprints across a variety of electronic music from the late 90s to now. Artists who prize innovation in sound gravitated to it, and many still hold it in high regard or continue usage. The difference in sources is mostly whether we have direct quotes or just community consensus.

References

• About Us | Nord – https://www.nordkeyboards.com/about-us/
• History of the Clavia Nord Modular – Perfect Circuit – https://www.perfectcircuit.com/signal/nord-modular
• Nord Modular – Wikipedia – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nord_Modular
• Clavia Nord Micro Modular | Vintage Synth Explorer – https://www.vintagesynth.com/clavia/nord-micro-modular
• Clavia Nord Modular | Vintage Synth Explorer – https://www.vintagesynth.com/clavia/nord-modular
• In pictures: Inside Nord’s Stockholm factory | MusicRadar – http://www.musicradar.com/news/tech/in-pictures-inside-nords-stockholm-factory-613549
• Nord Modular G1 Expansion Board (ver. 002) | Reverb – https://reverb.com/item/9931477-nord-modular-g1-expansion-board-ver-002
• inside Clavia Nord Modular Synthesizer micromodular/NM – digital and DSP drive VA synth Consequence / Moogulator – https://www.sequencer.de/clavia_synthesizer/clavia_nordmodular_nm.html
• Clavia Nord Modular v3.03 & MicroModular – Sound On Sound – https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/clavia-nord-modular-v303-micromodular
• Get your Nord Modular working under Mac OSX | dmschulman.com – https://dmschulman.com/get-your-nord-modular-working-under-mac-osx/
• FAQ – Nord Modular & Micro Modular V3.03 – Electro-Music.com – https://electro-music.com/nm_classic/017_FAQ/
• Clavia Nord Modular G1 Group 11 Year Anniversary Celebration – https://www.facebook.com/groups/218654441592104/posts/6872268449563970/
• Interview: Richard Devine on Music, Gear, Software and his Love of … – https://www.macprovideo.com/article/audio-hardware/interview-richard-devine-on-music-gear-software-and-his-love-of-modular
• Red hot Chemical Brothers live gear porn – Music Thing – https://musicthing.blogspot.com/2008/08/red-hot-chemical-brothers-live-gear.html
• Does the Micro Modular have DC coupled outputs for Eurorack … – https://www.facebook.com/groups/218654441592104/posts/5663654327092061/
• [PDF] Nord Modular English User Manual v3.0 Edition 3.0.pdf – https://www.nordkeyboards.com/wt/documents/235/ Nord%20Modular%20English%20User%20Manual%20v3.0%20Edition%203.0.pdf
• [PDF] WIZOO Guide Nord Modular 3 – deep!sonic – https://www.deepsonic.ch/deep/docs_manuals/clavia_nord_modular_v.3.0_by_wizoo.pdf
• View topic – Rob Hordijk’s G2 Tutorial – electro-music.com – https://electro-music.com/forum/topic-1638.html
• Chapter 2. Oscillator Waveform Modification – https://cim.mcgill.ca/~clark/nordmodularbook/nm_oscillator.html
• Here’s the whole Nord G1 Keith R Crosley Patch Collection for you … – https://m.facebook.com/groups/218654441592104/permalink/432448623546017/
• How to ‘fix’ continuous encoder knobs? – Gearspace – https://gearspace.com/board/electronic-music-instruments-and-electronic-music-production/380487-how-fix-continuousencoder-knobs.html
• Phase57 – Nord Modular encoder repair – https://www.phase57.com/build/nord-modular-repair/encoder/
• Running the Nord Modular Classic Editor on Raspberry Pi – https://samesimilar.com/nordonpi.html
• View topic – Nord Micro Modular Help (hardware/power issue) – https://www.electro-music.com/forum/topic-55771.html
• nmEdit – The Nord Modular Editor Project – https://nmedit.sourceforge.net/
• File:Nord Modular.jpg – Wikimedia Commons – https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nord_Modular.jpg
• Category:Digital modular synthesizers – Wikimedia Commons – https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Digital_modular_synthesizers
• Blast from the past: Clavia Nord Modular – MusicRadar – https://www.musicradar.com/news/tech/blast-from-the-past-clavia-nord-modular-645508
• Nord Modular G1 ambient synth performance video – Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/groups/218654441592104/posts/733469006777309/
• Nord modular G2 still worth it now that we have VCV? – Elektronauts – https://www.elektronauts.com/t/nord-modular-g2-still-worth-it-now-that-we-have-vcv/192684
• Clavia Nord Modular G1 | Hi there, thanks for letting me join this group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/218654441592104/posts/559083814215830/
• How to fix a broken encoder switch on a Nord keyboard? – Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/groups/105568239533806/posts/7504741409616415/
• Modular 2nd hand pricing – Nord User Forum – https://www.norduserforum.com/viewtopic.php?t=13053
• Clavia Nord Modular G2 – https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/clavia-nord-modular-g2
• Sean Booth interview taken by Peter Hollo – March 2005 – autechre – https://autechre.neocities.org/en/interviews/interview30
• Get Autechre’s Nord G2 Patches & Run on the Nord Modular G2 … – https://spectralplex.com/get-autechres-nord-g2-patches-run-on-the-nord-modular-g2-editor-on-mac-osx/index.html
• Let’s talk about Chemical Brothers sounds – Page 2 – Gearspace – https://gearspace.com/board/electronic-music-instruments-and-electronic-music-production/1248255-lets-talk-about-chemicalbrothers-sounds-2.html
• For Autechre, Aphex Twin-like sounds, which of these is best for me? – https://www.harmonycentral.com/forums/topic/154195-for-autechre-aphex-twin-like-sounds-which-of-these-is-best-for-me/