Nord is a brand of Clavia DMI, a Swedish manufacturer based in Stockholm. Founded in 1983 by Hans Nordelius, Clavia initially specialized in developing electronic drums. In 1995, Clavia released the first virtual analog synthesizer under the brand name Nord. The four-voice polyphonic Nord Lead was a huge success and laid the foundation for many other highly successful instruments. In the piano sector, these include the Nord Electro, Nord Stage, and Nord Piano.
Recognizable by their signature red casing, Nord instruments are highly regarded for their reliability, robust construction, and excellent sound quality. Another distinctive feature of Nord instruments is their unique controllers: a modulation wheel made of polished stone and a wooden pitch stick that allow for nuanced tone-bending effects.
In 2001, Clavia released the Nord Electro, a keyboard that gained many fans thanks to its focus on vintage electromechanical instruments. Not only did its compact size and light weight make it perfectly suited for live keyboardists, but the sounds were also particularly impressive: Physical modeling synthesis allowed for a detailed reproduction of the Hammond B3, while the piano section offered authentic sounds of famous vintage digital pianos, complete with classic effects—all within a compact stage keyboard.
