Nord Grand 2: Save Your Money, Get This Instead!

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[@Musictron]

I totally 100% agree! Nord is like the Apple of keyboards they drip feed features and put a new number on it and act like it’s so new and revolutionary.🙄

[@DeyquanBowens]

“Drip feed” is the perfect analogy for this! 🔥 They’re so bad, they make sliders instead of knobs feel revolutionary lol!

[@soulinspiration1]

Fantastic and accurate way to describe Apple!

[@johnnulf624]

I love Nord, but the Stage 4 is really what the Stage 3 should have been. They could have easily put physical drawbars on all the models, and they already had triple sensors in their Pianos when the NS3 came out. And what a convoluted mess trying to design sound on the NS3 is because there isn’t separate fx for each layer and even synth presets (the only layers you can save presets for) are half useless because the fx don’t save with it. And no solo button for sounds until NS4 making it a pain to switch between hearing a layer on detail vs in context. They also limited pedal noise to the triple pedal then gave no flexibility to use the other pedals for things like patch changes until the NS4. There are a lot of things on the NS4 that are fresh and unexpected like the pump (sidechain sound) effect, dynamic compression, layer scene 2 for easier or temporary sound transitions, and the spring and cathedral reverbs sound absolutely amazing. Still only 2GB for the pianos and still no audio over usb. Nord is indeed like Apple: they refuse to implement basic and useful features that competitors have long embraced and that they themselves will eventually implement. But for me, Nord is the choice because as soon as you close your eyes and listen, you realize no other keyboard comes close in sound. When you buy a real piano, you don’t get mad that it can’t transfer audio digitally or that it only has one layer. The sound comes first. If I start from a place of appreciation for how expressive and real their pianos feel compared to any other keyboard I’ve tried, the rest is just icing on the cake. Flexibility only matters if the end result sounds good.

[@theprophetminstrel1597]

You also have software engineers selling the same voices in the Yamaha Mox series to owners of Mox. Same thing. I have the Mox8 and the Moxf 8. One for gigs and the other for writing at home. Not impressed with Nord. Die hard Yamaha.

[@gabrielmoore6099]

This is an absolute fact 🫱🏾‍🫲🏼

[@RRRIBEYE]

For the 1st time in 45 YEARS, I got the bug to take up piano again. (I had taken 13 years of classical lessons back when I was young - and HATED IT!) FFWD to now being retired...some people take up golf, fishing, etc. I started shopping for a nice keyboard that wasn't going to drain my bank account and I stumbled on the Yamaha DGX-670 'portable grand.' I bought a nice padded bench, a new lamp and 1st I got an annual subscription to MuseScore and then some lesson books on music theory - which was never really taught to me back when. It's been a little over a month now and I am amazed at how it has come back to me - and then some! I even mounted a flat screen monitor up on the wall in front of me and have that hooked to my computer and can really grasp how the new technology is taking playing keyboards places so well! That all said, I am VERY happy with my purchase and doubt I will ever have that need to 'upgrade'! This keyboard has plenty of amazing features and sounds and feels just like I remember our old Baldwin Acrosonic spinet piano used to sound (after a fresh tune!). Wife's in bed and I'm feeling inspired to 'hit it' for a couple hours and work on some cool new jams I'm trying.

[@LeviClay]

You're right pointing out that you can load these sounds onto many Nords, but you're missing the other real reason the Grand exists. It's the action of the keys right? It FEELS like a real piano in a way my Electro 6D and Piano 5 don't. If you're a nerd for feel, then sure.

[@DeyquanBowens]

Yeah action is definitely important! This purchase would make sense to me if you’re new into the world of Nord and wanted great action! The Nord models are marginal as far as what they can do!

[@woeye3251]

The action in the Grand is more suited towards classical players. But it’s pointless because Nord‘s sample library doesn’t have the velocity layers to support this. For classical players there are way better - and cheaper - options out there. So who is this thing for? I don’t know …

[@caseytator2264]

There's a lot of stage pianos that FEEL like a real piano these days!

[@LeviClay]

@@caseytator2264 there's a lot of pianos that claim a feel, but the fact is Nord have both the Piano 5 and the Grand, and they both feel different.

[@tuneunleashed]

Why pay 5k Nord Grand 2 with the same repackage sounds from many years and the worst Kawai keybed action of Kawai’s line when you could get a better action with the Kawai VPC1 for way less with ultimate stage pianos VST…you technically got yourself a Nord Grand…you could get a used Electro on the side if you gigging.

[@lakeshiamurray1337]

You just saved somebody alot of money!!!!! keep helping the people out!!!!! Great video by the way!!!!

[@DeyquanBowens]

Thanks fam! ✊🏾

[@danielpugh5685]

That's a great tip and probably something I wouldn't have noticed. Side note: that white noise at the end gave me a jump scare!

[@DeyquanBowens]

Lol sorry! 🙏🏾

[@mistersimba]

With respect, analysing the Nord Grand 2 promo video purely from the perspective of the sample does this particular board a disservice. The Grand is an outlier in the range because it's all about the triple sensor action. It's incredibly responsive; the holy grail because it's (by some way) the closest you'll get to an acoustic piano feel digitally. The trills and dynamic range due to the three sensors are breath takingly accurate. They've upgraded the action again for the Grand 2. They are without question ridiculously priced. But the integration between library and hardware on this board make it a unique proposition for pianists.

[@hodgheg]

Exactly. I'd always avoided Nords because however good the sounds were, their action felt stodgy and stiff to me (I think it was based on a Fatar keyboard system). Then they brought out the Nord Grand with Kawai action and it took me all of 5 minutes playing to fall in love and get my money out.

[@mistersimba]

@@hodgheg you know pal. You know. The proof is in the playing, always. And if you love playing, cost falls off the menu ;)

[@revums]

@@hodgheg Prefer it as a complete package to a Kawai MP11SE?

[@curiouscurious6558]

great post! Would really like to know your feelings or experience with any of the digital piano programs, keyscape etc

[@connor_flanigan]

I played a Lead 1 in 1995 and it took me until 2014 to warm up to buying my first Nord (a used electro 4D for $1100.) since then, I've bought 6 more, which I still have, including an A1, Wave 2, C2, piano 5 73 and electro 6, all used. the electro is really the best value of all of them, so much so that I bought 2 of them.

[@DeyquanBowens]

That funny you say that, my friend has the Electro 3, 4, 5 and 6D lol!

[@connor_flanigan]

@@DeyquanBowens 😆 I actually thought about keeping it, getting a 5 and 3 just to collect them. but with Nord, the newer the better. the older ones had no display and no memory for the samples/pianos.

[@BinauralBae]

I love the Fantom and I'm really looking forward to trying the Grandstage X. It looks so god damn good

[@eugenephillips481]

There’s another perspective that all too often gets overlooked. We have to be willing to move past exclusively and narrowly looking at bread and butter sounds when making these purchases. In other words, outside of your favorite piano patch, EP patch, string, patch, etc., what else do you like about this keyboard? Think about this: the average musician will use the same 5, maybe 10 patches, on everything they do on the stage or platform. Perhaps a tweak here or there, but the same core patches. These keyboards have thousands of sounds and loads of capability, but we’re limiting ourselves by using just a handful of bread and butter patches. If the answer to that question is: “I don’t know,“ then that musician should not purchase that keyboard, unless they have the intent to dig DEEP into the functionality of that keyboard… which many people are not willing to do because we want everything to be “quick.” These instruments are soooo powerful that we are doing ourselves a disservice by purchasing these keyboards just for the “core” bread and butter sounds. Sidebar: if a musician is a good musician, then they can make any bread and butter sound on any of these keyboards sound good. Even garbage sounds will sound spectacular under the hands of a skilled musician who knows what they’re doing musically. It is always perplexing to me that purchases are made for very expensive keyboards and musicians only used a handful of sounds. If that is the case, just buy a controller that feels good under your fingers, load your favorite patches from a compatible format, then call it a day. But if musicians spend hard earned purchasing expensive keyboards, at least do yourselves a favor and take the time to comprehensively learn every exhaustive detail about that expensive keyboard. It will exponentially increase your musical creativity because you will utilize more of the keyboard’s functionality based on the workflow. Result: The thousands of dollars spent on that keyboard will then be worth it, making the purchase, at that point, a wise use of money.

[@DeyquanBowens]

Sheesh… this was good, thanks for your input! I love to dig into a board a maximize what it can do! I bought a Roland Jupiter 80 in 2017 (released in 2011) and I’m not getting rid of it any time soon! The sounds are amazing and there’s so much you can do with it! I never understood why we upgrade and continue to use the same sounds! Technology has advanced so much that the upgrades are marginal now! 🙏🏾

[@chrishonmusic7633]

Well said. Conversely, if you can boil down your core needs, then you can buy a board that does the specific things you need really well rather than something that does everything kind of alright, and probably save some money in the process.

[@kennygsmooth83]

YES!!! Been saying the same thing for a while now. I have a quality controller (M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro) with software and one hardware board (Yamaha MX61) for backup and outside gigs. I'm good. I'll sound as good as any other board out for a fraction of the cost of a Nord.

[@TheSoundConnoisseur]

Nord grand isn’t for the sounds. It’s for that playability. I have the Grand (1) And man, the hammer action on that is the best I’ve played. Feels like the real thing. It’s a Classy performance piano. The only one in the Nord family with those keys

[@hodgheg]

Me too. The action is brilliant.

[@cyclegravel]

Brilliant breakdown - really appreciate the insight. Quick question, what home use speakers/monitors do you recommend to use with a Nord or Roland etc?

[@djcoolcliff]

I just brought the Yamaha CK 88! That board for the price has one of the best sounding Fender Rhodes I ever ever heard in a keyboard! The ability to layer 3 sounds instantly and all 3 can have there own efx. Along with my iPad this board is a game changer and feels really good to play! Bluetooth, has speakers as well!! Highly suggest people to take a listen and play it! I knew within 10 minutes of playing that I was buying it!

[@joshisaac2790]

I’ve been harping about the CK for months now. Also the CP88.

[@djcoolcliff]

@@joshisaac2790 Yeah that joint too is nice!! Yeah that CK88, I don’t know what audio processing in has in it but man the Rhodes is right!!!!!!

[@joshisaac2790]

@@djcoolcliff oh yeah. It’s a very price effective model for those who want the essence of “stage piano” and still be able to manipulate some parameters without complex menu diving and all that jazz of the flagship workstations. I actually kind of cringe whenever I go to a church or something and it’s a “mainstream/industry” chasing church. I already know there’s a Nord of some model there and chances are, they’re not utilizing it to the degree they’re paying for. Especially if they’re a church that just runs VSTs all day. Why pay $4-6k for a glorified MIDI controller PLUS the software itself? Cmon man

[@djcoolcliff]

@@joshisaac2790 Yeah I feel you on that!! I done had mines on stage for like 3 shows already. When my band mates heard it at sound check it just blew there mind! Especially with the iPad! Since the board has a audio interface, you can plug up the iPad and that’s it! No extra audio in the way!! I’m actually in the process of doing a CK 88 demo to show my set up and it includes my talkbox too! Dope!!!

[@joshisaac2790]

@@djcoolcliff dope! Send it to me whenever you post, would love to check it out 🤘🏾

[@scottjoyce100]

Great points. I have a 20 year old Nord Stage 88, revision B. I'm still using it for local gigs and it has everything I need except strings. No sample section on that board. But I get away with a synth pad and I love this board. I recently bought a Nord Grand though. This was hard bc it has mostly the same sounds. But I got some fantastic action and a sample section. But no organ on this one! Used Nords are very valuable still. I'm glad you got a good trade.

[@christiaanbarry]

Whats your view on the Motif XS8 sir?

[@aioxio]

I have a Nord Grand and I didn't even notice that there is a new version. Thanks for the update! I agree that you can save money by just buying a Nord Electro and you are getting most of the same sounds. However what counts is not only the sound. It's the action of the keybed that can express the dynamics best. The Nord Grand does a good job here but still not in every situation. I wonder if the Nord Grand 2 has a better control of dynamics. Can't wait to check it out. But I also wonder if a good hammer action from Yamaha (e.g. CLP 745) playing Nord sounds via Midi is the best solution.

[@jerzboybeats9555]

Man I love what Roland did with the Fantom. They made it to where it can be updated through firmware. Even with my Jupiter X having the Zencore technology for both. I believe a lot has to do with the layering and polyphony 🤷🏾‍♂️🤷🏾‍♂️

[@DeyquanBowens]

Man as far as tech goes, Roland is the 🐐 to me! I finally got to play the Jupiter X and those sounds…. 😢❤😮🎉

[@stevec.1802]

Heard a Nord Stage 2 last night at a friends gig- coincidentally i had just checked out a Stage 4 at GC. 🤔 the standard sounds i would use on gig- grands/uprights/EP/ organs/ pads/ etc- I could not justify or afford the price of the S4. The 2 gig memory sounds inviting but at the price of admission. Love your presentation. Call it what it is. 🎧

[@ferdinandogarelli3263]

Good suggestions my friend! I have a Electro 6 d 73, it sounds great an I never upload a new sounds. Now I tried to upload new sounds but there is a few memory space ( only 1gb). Isn't it possible to improve the flash memory ? I have a Nautilus 88 that sounds great too. Thanks!

[@MotifMusicStudios]

Thanks for this strong upload and some important ponders!

[@christopherknutsen]

This was a stupid recommendation. I myself have a Nord Grand (nb 1). The action is superb. And that can not be said about the old Nord. The responsiveness of the action means so much because it defines how the samples are activated. The action defines how you feel when you play. How inspired you will be! Buy Nord Grand!! I've had mine since 2020! Before that many Roland an Yamahas etc - Nord is simply much better!

[@teddypedriana]

Could just buy a Kawai. They make the keybed.

[@merlijnduynstee]

Owning a Nord Stage 2 for 8 years I can confirm that the piano sounds will all work. However the limited memory will force you to choose either between lower quality samples or less piano samples. In addition the keyboard comes to a full stop (instant silence) when you change patches/sounds. This is fixed on later versions (electro 5 and up, Stage 3 and up). This would be something I'd definitely consider if I'd use the board as primary (or only) board in your keys setup.

[@DeyquanBowens]

I guess it really depends on what you’re playing! If you’re playing in a band, are you really going to hear the difference between the XL White Grand vs the Sm White Grand?

[@arcticfoxstudios2018]

This is the Achilles heel of Nord. The Grand 2 just released with no increase in piano memory. I can't fit all Nord's piano sounds in the current model, so in the next 2-3 years when Nord has another 5 or 6 samples sets out, I'll only maybe able to fit half then? Not great.

[@merlijnduynstee]

Of coarse it depends very much on the type of band, genre of music and even skill level of musicians. I’ve played with a band where the drum,bass and electric guitar could get pretty loud and multiple vocals would take up the rest of the space, but during ballads I’d be front and center and I really needed a beautiful piano sound. It’s good to have something bright, mellow, upright and some electrics. But I must agree that the majority of people probably can’t tell the difference between an XL or L sample, that’s the burden we as musicians will feel.

[@jupitermarx]

What's your take on Korg Grandstage? I've got the SV-2 73. But im back in lessons and need 88. I too love the sound of nord. But Japanese makers. Korg, Yamaha, Kawai. Have there place. Should I or shouldn't I?

[@everynowheremusic]

Great points. I'm biased as an official Nord artist (disclaimer). But i would like to add that the differences in playability between the earlier Nord stage(s) and the later ones are BIG. With the stage 4 and new grand, for example, it feels like a real piano in the studio while tracking with headphones. Also, one of the reasons Nord offers the transferability between boards is because they do aim to build instruments for life and not leave earlier buyers behind.

[@BalakeHart-nh4xh]

My yamaha modx8 keybed isnt holding up in humidity plays random notes..and needs 4 hour key contact cleaning every year! 😢

[@Lovro-Music]

Thanks for the advice!

[@DeyquanBowens]

No problem!

[@ispianist]

I also own the Nord electro 6D 73 keys. I think is the best Nord keyboard for its value. I still think is pricey but is a good combo with my numa GT

[@meilstone]

Very insightful video, thanks! Are these sound patches really identical when played on the various models? Or do the newer models actually add something you don't get from an older one?

[@DeyquanBowens]

They sound the same to me!

[@YotamPiano]

100% agreed brother. Big like to the video. To counter these companies, I just don't buy anything that isn't a bargain to me. Sounds get updated and keybeds go bad on these after years anyway. So no need for a 4k keys. IMO companies like Studiologic, Kawai etc. deliver a much better bang for buck and the rest could be done in software.

[@LarryOnKeys]

A thing I learned in my prerequisite psychology class in college. There are careers for psychologists in corporations when it comes to marketing.

[@DeyquanBowens]

That’s a fact 💯! Nord has mastered the art of psychology! 🧠

[@connor_flanigan]

this is how car companies convinced people they "need" an $80k "SUV" to drive 2 blocks to the grocery store on a sunny day

[@puresoulg]

💯💯 Absolutely Right

[@SlowBloke123]

They are quite transparent its all about the new keybed and functionality differences and that the sounds can be used everywhere. Not hype really - just decide if you want the "better" keybed and functionality differences.

[@DeyquanBowens]

I respect it! 🙏🏾

[@ttu_red9844]

Which nord do you recommend ( most bang for buck) or others brands and models you recommend.

[@DeyquanBowens]

I think the Nord electro 6D is the best bang for buck in my opinion. Most keyboardist are using the bread and butter sounds anyway!

[@ajotech]

Deyquan, do you think Nord will ever give a black option? I want that Stage 5 so bad but I can’t stomach the color and I’m not going to use a marker like some people do.

[@DeyquanBowens]

A black Nord would be crazy!

[@halfpastsevenakaiosh]

Big facts, i played the nord grand 2 in a store hooked up to these red speakers and i was like, this is just the damn same sounds. I wanna get good piano sounds and I think imma just get keyscape ngl

[@GospelMusic4Life]

I got to play some Nord keyboards Monday at guitar center on my way back from a work trip. I was a little surprised by the keys on the non 88 keys. They were the same as the Hammond SK pro only the Hammond felt slightly better. It as cool because I was able to play the organ on both to compare through the same model monitors. The Hammond Organ sounded like a Hammond. The Nord Electro 6D sounded good also but only one monitor was working for the SK and two for the Nord. The Hammond still sounded more authentic but they were very close. I played the Nord Grand and the keys were easy to play. Still unsure if I could pull myself to buy one for what you get at that same price but then I don’t know enough about the Nord as far sound features. That Korg PA 5x 76 keybed though. Can play organ or piano on it. 😍 Keys on the Yamaha CK 61 are skinny but that’s not a bad organ either.

[@DeyquanBowens]

Honestly I haven't played The Nord Grand yet so maybe my thoughts will change. I'm totally happy with the keybed I have. I have to play the Korg PA 5x76 soon!

[@NuanDaa]

Nord grans keys are the best feeling in my opinion.

[@GospelMusic4Life]

@@NuanDaa I may try to go buy the larger music stores again this weekend to play keyboards. I stopped locally to play what we have here. I still preferred the Roland piano keybed over the selection I had to choose from. I have not played a real piano in a long time so I’m interested in how one would feel seeing how heavy Roland’s are. The Yamahas I played were similar in the weighty feel. When I played the 88 key Nords they felt very light in comparison.

[@datAero]

Old nords have the new Akai key actions ? That’s also a selling point

[@RoozieArt]

I bought the stage 4. I didn’t have a nord before but I did compare the latest features with previous boards. I’ve bought used electronics before and was disappointed when I finally figured out a particular knob or feature didn’t work because the device was broken and the jerk didn’t tell me. Thats always on my mind when I see used electronics, especially if I don’t know everything about it yet. It’s even worse when I can’t return it, which has also happened to me. IDK, I get what the video is saying and it’s good advice if you are cool with the person you’re buying from. If it’s a stranger with no return option, or if it takes longer than 30 days to go through all of the features, I don’t recommend buying used electronics. That’s just me. I bought a brand new nord stage 4 and two of the keys were defective so I had to return it. It’s too big of a gamble for me though. Thanks for the info nonetheless.

[@briannzuwah9455]

As a pianist, keybed and portability are most important, for example, i love the kawaii vpc1, but it’s not portable.

[@DeyquanBowens]

I agree! I feel that you can get used to any keyboard! You have to adjust the dynamics and key response! When you tweak that, you can make any board work!

[@blatancyproductions8246]

I'm not so sure with the reliability of the nord tbh... both my nord grand and the piano 4 I rent have some velocity and have their key checked after a year of heavy use and daily practices, maybe I hammered it too much I heard one of my friends droped their stage 3 and went fine, but I'm going to keep using the roland as my central controller (Now that used 61key electro 6 looks seriously delicious)

[@Bigricky06]

I found a roland G8 for 500$ in great condition and feel like it's a great value. Don't you guys think?

[@DeyquanBowens]

Wow that’s a good deal!

[@ericmshore]

I have a Yamaha DGX-670. I think it’s quite a good keyboard, one of the best I’ve played in the $1000 range. You don’t need to break the bank to get a decent electric piano.

[@DeyquanBowens]

People sleep on Yamaha! Overall their stuff is amazing! I mean they do make real pianos lol! I used to play on one of those at this one church and I was blown away!

[@andybond5002]

I have the same, it’s really one of the best for the buck. Very useful sounds, if you want even better sound connect your laptop and use a sample library. These new fancy instruments are just laptops / samplers inside a master keyboard. Why would I pay 4k for something when I can buy a decent instrument for 1k and a brand new maxed out laptop for 3k?

[@tinotendamandizvidza1903]

Which brand do like the most 😊, won't lie i miss your nord stage 2ex

[@DeyquanBowens]

The Nord is most practical for the work that I’ve been doing lately! Roland’s synth stuff is amazing!

[@bimbettocavallo]

What you say is true but it applies to all Nord products, pretty much. Their sound library evolves quite slowly. What you buy a new Nord for is for the build, they action, the various other features. Sounds don’t change much and that’s always been the case.

[@itsmaistro]

I have a stage 3 compact that i got to replace a YC61 mostly for kayering capabilities and the 73 waterfall. Thats all i need. I dont see myself upgrading to the stage 4, that price is ridiculous to me

[@DeyquanBowens]

Yeah man, the stage 3 is awesome! Lol honestly the 2EX is great!

[@nnamdiogbonna8279]

Thank you!

[@netherhunter1229]

From the perspective of someone who needs a hammer action, do you think the grand 2 is worth it?

[@DeyquanBowens]

If you want the Nord sound and don’t mind dropping the cash, I’d say yes!

[@instrumentalistjade8367]

I sold alot if electros and 1 stage 2. Value doesn't depreciate easily.

[@johnnulf624]

It’s true that they “drip feed” features, but at least with the Stage 4 you get a lot of really useful functionality and new fx that aren’t present on previous keyboards. Plus a triple sensor keyboard which makes a real difference in how “real” or nuanced the piano playing experience is. I’m not sure if the Grand 2 is much of an upgrade from the Grand 1, but there’s more than just sound compatibility to consider when choosing a Nord. Which I know you know, you just don’t convey that in the video. If people don’t do their own research, they’ll buy older models of Nord keyboards only to realize that they don’t feel as dynamic, have too small memory, or lack critical features like seamless transitions. All this might be fine depending on use case (especially if you aren’t using it live) but the differences are more than just marketing. When it comes to the piano/grand line of Nord, I don’t think anybody is going to be upgrading every time a new one is released, just like you don’t get a new phone every year, you wait for the changes to stack up. Because yeah, Nord is stingy with what they give you and in no universe should their latest keyboards still only have 2 GB for all the keyed instruments.

[@bobbyallen7400]

I got the electro 6 about 3 years ago. Definitely agree. But i will prob never buy a new board again. With MainStage/Kontakt and a midi board I have all the sounds in the world PLUS the setup is SIGNIFICANTLY less expensive and NO polyphony issues.

[@DeyquanBowens]

I agree, MainStage plus some go-to VST’s are all you need! The great thing about this is that you can upgrade your controller if you want better feel!

[@bobbyallen7400]

@@DeyquanBowensYeap!!! You can get like 10 great controllers for the cost of one board.

[@DojoOfCool]

I agree I have a Stage 3 and have actually fallen out of love with it. Nice keyboard but now a Stage 4 with some changes but basically same as my Stage 3 and some of the new versions of sounds for the Stage 4 are now available for the my Stage 3 and other Nords. With how Nord prices are jumping so high used Nords are the way to go.

[@DeyquanBowens]

I use a Stage 3 at my church! I compare it to the 2 EX and it feels the same in my opinion. I end up using the same things I did in the previous models! So far, the 2 EX feels like the biggest upgrade in the stage models!

[@JH-dn9hr]

I have to double down on the resale value. I bought a used Nord Stage 3, and after being only lightly used for 1.5 years, sold it for slightly more than I bought it, which saves up for me planning to get the Grand 2 for a more piano feel. At the end of the day, you do “overpay” for the performance, but no one can hold a candle to the resale value if you change your mind later.

[@DeyquanBowens]

That’s a fact! 💯

[@jonos138]

Partly agree, but you missed one thing. The Nord Grand has the Kawai keybed which is very good. I'm not sure, but dont the other nords have the Fatar keybed that some people dont like? Guess its down to personal taste, but Kawai is supposed to be a more realistic keybed responce for piano. I guess if you have a Nord Grand, theres not much point in the Grand 2, just download the sound you need. As far as im aware, action wise its pretty much the same Kawai keybed. They've sloped the controls back a bit more to stop you hitting the buttons while playing, but that didnt matter as there is a control lock on the grand 1 anyway. I believe it has more memory for storing sounds, but is it worth the £1000 (what ever equivelant in Dollars) extra they are asking? Nah would be my answer. The only possible benefit I know of, which ive heard about. The Nord grand 1 has been known to suffer with keyboard faults. Some keys lose velocity or stop working, or create a distorted sound. Apparantly a controler board fault that Kawai became aware of. So if your one of the unlucky ones, your Nord Grand could spend longer being repaired than being played. I believe this fault has been addressed in the Grand 2. Still, its vastly over priced imo.

[@akibe7608]

They could offer a lot more, but they know people are hypnotized by that red paint, and will convince themselves that those extra features and the same ol' sounds are worth 5k+.

[@lavvafimusic8618]

Great video ❤

[@klstay]

For some the keybed is the most important consideration be it a piano variation, waterfall, or some synth action variation. Some really accomplished versatile players even want one of each for the different types of sounds they play. If this is how you make a good living and you are spending in this price range I can see how a particular keybed on a Nord (plus the build quality, touring reliability, and particular sound set) could easily be worth the price. If, like me, it is just a hobby and your playing skills are generously described as limited then I agree Nord is NOT generally a brand for you. Finally, I will state Jupiter 6 was the second great synth love of my life just after high school - enjoy that amazing piece of kit!

[@DeyquanBowens]

I agree! 👏🏾 I'm going to hang on to this synth for decades and pass it down to my children. May I ask, what's the #1 synth love of your life?

[@dhamilton_fisherman]

great vid!

[@DeyquanBowens]

Thanks for watching!

[@odellwebber9093]

I agree with the keyboard hype.....Nord should drop a piano Module for $2000 that would work with the average musician. (Pricewise)

[@TerenceFisher1]

Good stuff bro!!!

[@DeyquanBowens]

Thanks man! I appreciate your work!

[@TerenceFisher1]

@@DeyquanBowens The feeling is mutual brother!!

[@filip2949]

Well, the sounds aren't really the selling point for the Grand 2; it's mainly the Kawai keybed. The Nord Grand 2, compared to its predecessor, also has dual layers on both the piano and synth engine as well as the capacity to use individual effects on each layer. It also has a delay and reverb section that's a lot more sophisticated than on the Grand 1. The newer more slanted panel also removes the need to have a panel lock as you're very unlikely to randomly hit a button. You could almost, emphasis on almost, say it's a Piano 5 with a Kawai keybed. The keybed is upgraded from the previous model, and to me it actually feels better and alone almost merits the upgrade; though I probably won't.

[@JR01015]

*My least favourite keyboard of all time. Montage / Kronos / Phantom over any Nord for me personally.*

[@dariuswitherspoon]

Definitely agree.... All of Nord's pianos are accessible and interchangeable across the board. 2 gb of memory and a decent array of effects is more than sufficient. Nord does clever marketing.

[@DeyquanBowens]

Man I use about 5 different Nord pianos: Studio Grand 2, Silver Grand, Amber Upright, Felt Upright and Queen Upright! All of these can be uploaded to the older models!

[@dariuswitherspoon]

Yep lol

[@A106]

@@DeyquanBowens Have you White Grand and the new Soft Grand that you showing yet?

[@lesbrown8915]

Nord makes the best performance keyboards with incredible piano sounds. When people complain about the price I would tell them - Made in Sweden (not China), long-lasting quality, and almost a Steinway. Ok - so not a 180K Steinway model D - but for less than 5K. pretty darn close. Plus it can do a lot of things an acoustic piano can not. If your a concert pianist get the Steinway - everyone else - the Nord!

[@djspexx1]

I don't think Nord is selling their boards based on new sounds like the MOTIF and Roland boards....I'm a Yamaha fan but Nord is a great stage board for me....if you really want to test Nord models you need a proper PA systems...Nord sound mapping and engines are by far ahead from the rest for me.... To sounds are the same in most Nord board models but on the PA systems they articulate differently by model, I specifically enjoy the balance that Nord has when you layer sounds...

[@tuneunleashed]

Lol! I had a bunch of boards, sold them and now I have an M Audio Hammer 88 Pro should had went that route a long time ago

[@DeyquanBowens]

Bro, I have the regular Hammer 88 and I’m good! Honestly I mainly use software and only use the hardware for gigs! 😬

[@PianoLessonwithWarren]

Bro I dropped $5k on the Nord stage 3 a few years ago, and now it’s just a glorified midi controller cause my sounds are virtual. It’s the last time I ever bought a keyboard 😩😩😩😩

[@DeyquanBowens]

Yikes! It’s definitely a great tax write off lol! Most of the CCM guys use them as controllers!

[@PianoLessonwithWarren]

@@DeyquanBowens yeah, but I could’ve used that tax right off for something more practical, some cameras 📷 or lenses 😂😂😂

[@DeyquanBowens]

True! 😂

[@mattimatasch94]

I think this keyboard is made for people, that have played piano for many years and want the „realest“ feel. And since Kawai has already an extremely strong contender with their MP11SE, the nord grand 2 needed to update their keys. So while the sounds are more or less the same ones, it is about the hardware for this little niche of piano players, that want a very realistic feel when playing

[@FugaziSB]

Interesting.. you recommend not buying a new thing which you never tested, based on what? Your recommendation is based on the sounds which you can load - that makes sense if you refer to the sounds only, but did you play the previous Nord Grand? I'm not a piano player, but I got into a music shop and this big red thing set at the corner and I gave it a try, I can tell you that the actual playing experience is similar to nothing else I ever tried. A big greatness is acknowledging your faults, Nord know that their sound design is one of the best, but they know better than building their own keyboards, right? So they went the extra mile, and realized that Kawai makes the best keyboards and matched their wonderful sound design with the Kawai keyboard and this is a match made in heaven! If you really like playing keyboards, you need to try this Nord/Kawai combination before saying there is no point in buying this instrument, if I were a serious piano player looking for a digital solution I'd buy it in a heartbeat!

[@musicman102357]

Everything is so advanced they cant squeeze anything more out of them other than more memory or a better keybed. The Grand 2 has a new Kawai keybed which if its the same as the 2 K Kawai controller or even close to it would be worth it for true piano .

[@dennispena5496]

I have the Nord Piano 5, and noticed the specs of the new Nord Grand 2 is just the same specs as the Piano 5 but with the better hammer Kawai keys. Still, it does make me think of trading up my Piano5 for the Grand 2 just cus I do want those Kawai keys. :D anyway....wutever.

[@DeyquanBowens]

Hahaha, don’t let my video stop you! The feel of the keys are important! 🙏🏾

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

Why not get a Kawai instead? If the action is just Kawai's RHIII you might get it on something cheaper. Although if you love the Nord's sound then that's fine🎹🎶

[@connor_flanigan]

a played a piano 5, grand and stage 4 side by side at Guitar Center a few months ago. I can't tell a nickel's difference in the key action.

[@InciensoWorship]

Another great option is the StudioLogic Numa Piano X GT. It has the Fatar TP-400 keybed with triple sensor keybed, combined it with a macbook and keyscape and there you go, better than nord any day all day.

[@dennispena5496]

@@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12 I thought RH3 is a Korg keybed? I used to have Korg SV-1 with RH3 keybed. I found it heavy on my fingers. I read recent review and they also stated Korg's RH3 is heavier than most keyboard weighted keys. Some players like it. I really like Nord's piano library too. And i really like the dual piano /dual synth feature that is in the Piano 5-----which is now just being introduced to this new Nord Grand 2. But I"m not excited for the look of the Grand 2. I really like the look of the new Korg GrandStage X though. But again, not a fan of their RH3 keys.

[@bveracka]

You make a fair argument for _and_ against buying one, heh! You're right - Nords are like fancy cars. They're like any high-end instrument with a big brand name, they have great resale value. These instruments are aimed at pro-level players (the guys making big bucks) that's why they cost so much - but I'm _NOT_ excusing the lack of new features…that's just lame. If you're the dude who can afford one without breaking your bank, I say go for it. You can always sell it. However, you're right to point people to the used market, and that's where the savvy buyers go. There are _thousands_ of keyboards for sale that have seen very little use and on sale for a lot less dough than a new one. Nice straight-to-the-point video BTW. I like it.

[@meaviad]

or get a decent MIDI weighted keybed (StudioLogic SL88/ Roland A88MkII/ Korg D1/ etc) and go for Keyscape, which is WAY better than any Nord piano sound out there

[@DeyquanBowens]

True! I disagree with Keyscape lol, gotta check out that Pianoverse! Seriously though, you can't go wrong with any VST! 💪🏾

[@niellseen]

Spot on

[@DeyquanBowens]

💯

[@juliosalazar7966]

Sorry but did you play this keyboard?

[@DeyquanBowens]

Did you?

[@bveracka]

You really don't need to if you've ever played a Nord Piano. Guaranteed it's the _EXACT_ keybed as the last two they've made except the housing is different. When you watch some of his other keyboard videos and see his collection, you'll see he knows what he's talking about. If you want a standard review I'm sure there are many.

[@BalakeHart-nh4xh]

But do nords hold up on lots of gigging on stage

[@matthewgaines10]

Nord is nice but not nice enough for the price. Great resell is good if you know the keyboard is only going to be in your possession for a fixed time.

[@hightolerance2500]

I'm a drummer and I'm a ride or die Roland guy. I do own a JUNO GI and Nord doesn't have the user-friendliness that Roland has for me, but it might just be me

[@DeyquanBowens]

It does take some time to learn the Nord!

[@TheSunlight74]

Agree with all this.

[@DeyquanBowens]

💯

[@JohnAReese]

Bro I got an Auturia Keylab MK2 88 and over 16k worth of software on my MacBook pro. And it took me 13 years to build where I'm at ,Nord has lost their minds with a keyboard that's 6k and not even a workstation

[@DeyquanBowens]

Amen Pastor 😂! 💯

[@jfn467]

Never really fell for the Nord, keeping my Kurzweils... ;)

[@judsonchristudas]

Buy Kurzweil K2700 If you want to replace your Nord Stage 3. Less than half of the money, you will get great piano sounds. Trust me, it is better than all Yamaha models combined but comparable to Kronos Pianos as well. It features C7 and many more.

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

By "all Yamaha models" do you mean Yamaha digital piano models? Love my DGX670🎹🎶

[@DeyquanBowens]

Kurzweil is the first keyboard to have GREAT PIANO in my opinion! People forget about Kurzweil!

[@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12]

@@DeyquanBowens Yamaha, Kawai, and Roland are a lot more common where I'm at🎹🎶

[@judsonchristudas]

Sorry to say DGX is toy series It is meant for students and cannot be classified as a professional instrument@@MERCEDES-BENZS600GUARD_V12 I also had an E series back in the days. Roland E series is super cheap and sounds way better than any of the E or DGX series combined

[@judsonchristudas]

I was blown away by the it sounded when playing next with my Motif XF. For some reason, all Yamaha Pianos sound too compressed and thinner to my ears @@DeyquanBowens

[@SuperMBARutgers2013]

Nord is pulling from the apple playbook. More hyper, brand than actual value....in my opinion

[@DeyquanBowens]

Yeah I agree! 💯

[@danielcolfer4671]

Respectfully… old nords are risky if they’ve been played alot. The action does not hold up. It gets loose and clunky and noisy. Your points regarding the sounds are true but the mechanics are poor especially the hp action. The compact sw action tends to be more resilient but isn’t well suited for piano or Rhodes playing. I’m addicted enough to keyboards where I have owned every rendition of the electro and stage staring with the stage 2 ex. And a wave 2. I currently own the stage 4 88 and stage 4 compact. They are good for what they do but honestly for most gigs I grab my moxf8 and Kronos 61. If I need a better organ sound on a particular gig than the moxf or Kronos I’ll then bring along my stage 4 or my Hammond skx pro. Regarding the new Nord grand 2 at over 4k it’s a total waste of money. But hey I wasted a lot of $ buying 2 Nord stage 4’s especially because one is always sitting unused. Your point regarding Nords resale is true, I keep my gear in showroom condition and can recoup much of it if I sell it at the right time. Love the wave 2. And it’s on sale right now for $1999. Go get one!

[@LonzCantiLife]

"i don't have an endorsement so i can talk my shit freely" 😂😂 now i'm like damn maybe i shouldn't get a nord

[@DeyquanBowens]

lol bro, get a Nord, they’re dope! Just make a conscious decision! If it’s features, get the latest, if it’s sounds, the older ones are nice too! ✊🏾

[@jonasaras]

I hear the Grand 2 on the NAMM floor being played by Jesus Molina and it sounded like any other digital piano when pumped through speakers. Actually, it sounded really muffled, as if the speakers were aimed away from the audience. Whatever

[@TylerMarletteNY]

This should’ve been the electro 7d release!!!

[@DeyquanBowens]

Amen! The Electro 7D makes so much sense! Hell, I'd appreciate a new organ from Nord.

[@TylerMarletteNY]

@@DeyquanBowens I’m guessing the c3d engine will be released soon and will work on the stage 4 with a firmware update. the c2d engine is getting really old now.

[@MDZac2024]

I think the worst part of the Nord Grand 2 is that it's basically the Nord Grand, which was released at $3500, and just 5 years later it's now $4500??? Absolute insanity.

[@DeyquanBowens]

Wow I didn’t know they hiked the price up $1K! Sheesh!

[@jumpingman8160]

Owners of the Viscount Legend 70's rejoice

[@DeyquanBowens]

I NEED TO CHECK THAT OUT ASAP! Hearing good things about it!

[@jumpingman8160]

@@DeyquanBowens get one and do the firmware updates for more goodies.

[@DeyquanBowens]

Sweet! Thanks for the plug!

[@deyvidpetromusic]

Considering the Nord Grand 2 costs £4k almost they should have at least put a wooden Key bed into them, the pricing is outrageous amd just damn right disgusting in my opinion. For that price you get Keyscape/Omnisphere, VSL pianos, plus some string vsts and a decent keyboard and all will sound so much better than what Nord are offering here for £4k, ridiculous.

[@morleriassternutatio8150]

Wenn ein Verkäufer ein echten Flügel und ein echtes klavier daneben stellt für den Klangvergleich. Wäre das mutig oder Verkaufsschädigend? Wenn sie so gut sind wie sie sagen wird es an den Verkaufzahlen zu sehen sein. 😁

[@Gearsandco]

I totally agree I think it's time for a new company to kick them in the back and actually have a true competitive market

[@DeyquanBowens]

I agree!

[@zerosum1290]

i dont care re nord grand it should have had a lower profile from the first model.

[@soulfulartmusic8487]

Actually I'm disappointed with all brands. If you take last flagships Fantom EX, Montage, their sounds aren't as mush superior as their previous generations and still far away from vsts. I make songs and will never buy those flagships. For live performance they still have space. But I wouldn't pay 6k usd to have a reliable live sound engine. Could buy old gigs for less then half of it with good sounds.

[@LordoftheBadgers]

I had a stage 2. The reason it went? I hated the 88 key action. I had an electro 5d 73. Shouldn't have sold that but times required it. Then briefly an np5 but it was faulty so I returned it. The new piano bed is better but not that good. And that's the hype there I guess... Making me accept a keybed I don't really like? Now I DO like the OG Grand cause I love that keybed. But pay more than another 1000 (and then some) for a ng2 to find they took off the flipping panel lock? 😂 get outta here. Saving pennies for OG Grand. It's what I want and that's OK.

[@bveracka]

What was up with the NP5 you said was faulty? Just curious … it's rare for Nords to have issues. Also Nothing wrong with buying a new Nord; they look cool, sound amazing, and the build quality is rock-solid. Like Deyquan pointed out, these things are like luxury cars - the resale value is great, except unlike cars they don't wear out _anywhere near_ as quickly. They hold onto their value too. You could buy one today for $3500, play it for two years, and still get as much as $3000 for it on the used market.

[@LordoftheBadgers]

@@bveracka hiya. It arrived damaged - sold as new but they admitted perhaps it should not have been sold as new. Waited some months.. Now a stage 4 owner 🤘

[@bveracka]

@@LordoftheBadgers Oh nice! That's whack that they sold you a floor model as a new-in-box, but good for you for calling them out on it! Man, that Stage 4 is the _Cadillac_ of stage pianos! Enjoy.

[@LordoftheBadgers]

@@bveracka the lowest key was rubbing against the end cheek. I decided it wasn't acceptable 😂 Part of me actually slightly wishes I'd waited for the new grand but now I sound very spoilt!! 🙄

[@bveracka]

@@LordoftheBadgers Nah, that's not spoiled. When you've got the cash for the best stuff and you pay for best stuff, you ought to get it! In the Nord price range, nothing short of perfection is acceptable.

[@ForeverLiveArt]

new nord keyboards are more memory.

[@keyoflife24]

Iphone does the same thing.....I guess they figure many musicians have iphones so why not adopt the same concept

[@DeyquanBowens]

I’m coming at these keyboard companies and I’m a diehard iPhone user lol! The contradiction 😂

[@frankweber356]

Maybe they changed the Keybet. Nord Grand 1 had the worst Keybet ever made, a pure disaster. That nobody at nord keyboards took care of this is nearly impossible.

[@DeyquanBowens]

Really? A lot of their gear features overlaps in my opinion!

[@frankweber356]

Not for a Pianist, and grand pianos are made for them, and the main aspect is focused on Keybet !!@@DeyquanBowens

[@michaelevan9184]

Keep the board you have.... stop chasing the marketing hype!

[@DeyquanBowens]

Preach that word! 🙏🏾💯

[@noahforbes1999]

I have a Nord Piano 5, and I truly cannot figure out what the difference is between the Piano 5 and the "new" Grand 2, other than a slightly better action, but a $1,000 extra price tag. Like, c'mon Nord

[@Augusto88359]

Nord is super greedy and stingy on memory… they act like a couple megabytes of memory is as rare as a dragon egg..Lol.. for the price of a nord you should get a few terabytes of memory.. it would cost them a few dollars. Ridiculous.

[@NUTZONYALIPZ]

This is the same thing iphone does lol