Can You Save Keyscape Samples to a Nord Keyboard?
Ask Marc Anything 🤔
The Original Question:
@modxmike7608 asks: "Is there any way I can take some samples from Keyscape and save them into my NORD like you just did?"
Answer:
Hey Mike, the answer to your question is mostly yes, but there are some limitations. You could sample your Keyscape sounds manually into the computer and then use the Nord Sound Manager software to assign them to your own custom sample for use in the Nord. However, you won't be able to capture the velocity nuanced aspect of selected Keyscape sounds. For example, if you want to sample one of the Keyscape grand pianos, you can technically do that. However, modern piano sounds like this change their character based on how hard you press the keys. Your recording will only capture one version of this sound per key. So, at the end of the day, it won't capture the details of these sounds when the keys are presented at a different velocity. Yes, the volume can be adjusted with velocity once you have created them and moved them to the Nord, but not the instrument's character traits with various velocities. Another way to say this is that Nord Samples are velocity-sensitive for VOLUME only and do not support any other velocity-enhanced character traits.
A prime example of this is when you sample a Rhodes electric piano. When punching the lower keys of a Rhodes, you'll hear distinct distortion coming from the sound (as you would expect from a real Rhodes). Yet, you play the same key with a softer touch, and no such distortion will present itself. This works beautifully when using Keyscape, and it works beautifully when you are using a built-in Nord Rhodes as well. However, when you sample a Keyscape sound of a Rhodes, it will record only a single velocity result for each key.
Now, there are some sounds that will work great as a sample and are not affected by this limitation. Most Organ sounds and some synth sounds might work fine if they are not already velocity-sensitive to being with. Other sounds that depend on a change of character based on velocity could lead to disappointing results after they are sampled.
To get started making your own samples for your Nord keyboard, check out my free "Master the Nord Sample Editor" course found on my website here.
Want More?
Helpful affiliate links for your consideration:
👀 Buy your Nord keyboards at Sweetwater and get a 2-year warranty! https://bit.ly/Sweetwater_Nord_Keyboards (U.S. Customers)
Some links above are affiliate links that provide me with a small commission to help support My Keys To Music. The price is the same even if you use the links for your purchase. Thank you! 🙏🏻
Note: Master the Nord Stage 4 is now live!
Thanks for visiting!
Marc 🎹