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Does the Nord Stage 4 Sound Better Than the Nord Stage 3?
TL;DR: Does the Nord Stage 4 Sound Better Than the Nord Stage 3? Not necessarily — it depends on what features matter most to you. Both use the same core piano library, but the NS4 adds richer effects (like Cathedral Reverb), a more advanced arpeggiator, stereo-focused sample library, and deeper synth capabilities. If you want better layering, stereo sounds, and future-forward features, NS4 is a great upgrade. But if you're happy with your NS3, the sound difference alone may not justify switching. |
Short answer: Not necessarily — it depends on what sounds and features matter most to you. While the Nord Stage 4 introduces a few audio enhancements and new capabilities, the overall sound quality is comparable to the Nord Stage 3 in many core areas.
Piano Sounds: Same Library, New Enhancements
In short: The piano sounds on both the Nord Stage 3 (NS3) and Nord Stage 4 (NS4) come from the same Nord Piano Library, so the core sounds are identical.
But here's the difference: The NS4 introduces new effects like Cathedral Reverb, which gives those same piano samples a rich, immersive sound. If ambient textures and expansive tones are important to you, this effect alone might be a selling point.
Sample Library: Quantity vs. Quality
A key difference lies in the sample libraries:
NS3 uses Nord Sample Library 3 – more samples, but many are mono (less depth).
NS4 uses Nord Sample Library 4 – fewer samples overall, but most are in stereo (broader, fuller sound).
Bottom line: If you rely on specific legacy samples, double-check compatibility. But if you prefer stereo depth and are okay with a smaller library, NS4 wins here.
Synth Engine: NS3 is Easier, NS4 is Deeper
Out of the box: The NS3’s synth engine sounds warmer and easier to dial in quickly — especially with tools like the Super Saw.
However: With a little tweaking on the NS4 (e.g., boosting the high-end EQ and using the Unison effect), the synth can match or even surpass the NS3’s tone. Plus, NS4 offers a third synth layer, which adds major creative flexibility.
Arpeggiator & Effects: NS4 Is Next-Level
The arpeggiator on the NS4 is far more advanced than the NS3’s. If you rely on rhythmic sequencing or want rich, layered effects, this is a game-changer.
Additional upgrades include:
Expanded polyphony (fewer note dropouts on lush patches)
Per-layer effect routing
Sub-oscillator support (via a recent OS update), allowing more sound without using extra layers
Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade?
No, the sound quality alone doesn't justify the upgrade. If you're content with your NS3’s sound and sample library, you’re not missing a massive tonal leap.
But if you want:
Better stereo samples
Powerful arpeggiator tools
Advanced synth layering and effects
Future-forward updates (like sub-oscillators)
…then the NS4 may be worth the investment.
Recommended Gear & Links:
🎹 Buy your Nord keyboards at Sweetwater* and get a 2-year warranty! (for U.S. Customers only)
📘 Looking to level up with Nord’s newest keyboard? Master the Nord Stage 4 course is now live!
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FAQs
Is the Nord Stage 4 worth the upgrade from the Nord Stage 3?
It depends on your needs. If you value stereo samples, advanced layering, a powerful arpeggiator, and future-forward features like sub-oscillators and per-layer FX routing, then the NS4 is a strong upgrade. But if you're happy with the NS3's core sound library and simpler workflow, the sound quality alone may not justify switching.
Do the Nord Stage 3 and Stage 4 use the same piano sounds?
Yes. Both keyboards use the same Nord Piano Library, so their core piano tones are identical. The difference lies in the effects engine—NS4 adds immersive tools like Cathedral Reverb that can enhance the feel of the same samples.
What’s the difference between Nord Sample Library 3 and 4?
Library 3 (NS3): More samples, mostly mono.
Library 4 (NS4): Fewer samples, but most are in stereo—offering a fuller, more immersive sound.
Is the synth engine better on the Nord Stage 4?
Yes, but with nuance. The NS3 is easier to dial in quickly and has a warm tone out of the box. The NS4 offers more depth, a third synth layer, unison effects, and sub-oscillator support (via OS update), giving it more creative potential once configured properly.
Does the Nord Stage 4 have a better arpeggiator?
Yes. The arpeggiator on the NS4 is significantly more advanced than the NS3’s, making it ideal for rhythmic sequencing, motion-based patches, and layered textures.
