Using multiple synthesis types to create a range of timbres, the Nord Drum 3P Modeling Percussion Synthesizer allows you to trigger drum sounds via six on-board drum pads and one external trigger input. This module features six channels, each with drive, ring-mod, sample-rate reduction, and EQ, as well as stereo reverb and stereo delay on a macro scale.

The device uses three separate sections to generate its sound: Tone, Noise, and Click. Tone offers resonant, subtractive, and FM synthesis to give you timbres from vibraphones to classic synth-type generators. Noise allows you to shape the sound using low-pass, high-pass, and band-pass filters with resonance and cut-off controls, giving you the ability to control the attack envelope and attack rate in the process; this can result in anything from shakers to claps. The Click section will let you blend an ultra-fast click sound into your tone, providing a variety of different fast-paced timbres with an on-board level control for combining the click with the other elements of the sound.

Version 3 Highlights

• Six integrated pads, kick-pad input and MIDI.
• Preset 'Drum Select' library for kicks, snares, toms, and more.
• Simplified user interface and sound-selection capabilities.
• Reverb and delay effects adjustable for each pad.

Synthesis Modes Explained

Resonant synthesis mode offers a range of complex spectras inspired by materials like drum heads, marimba, vibraphone, tines and cymbals. You can also tune harmonic spectra. Subtractive-wave types include sine, saw, square, pulse waveforms and T-bridge oscillators; these are suitable for creating classic synth-type drum sounds and effects. FM synthesis mode features six different FM algorithms. In this mode, the Frequency parameter controls the modulation amount and the Spectra parameter controls the modulation frequency.

Effects

Each of the Drum 3P's six channels boasts Drive, EQ, sample-rate reduction, and ring-modulation effects. Drive can add subtle overtones or outright distortion, while the sample-rate reduction is suitable for Lo-fi crackling effects. Ring modulation can be used for tremolo effects or atonal eccentricities. Each channel's parametric equalizer can be used to further polish your sounds.

Master Effects

The Nord Drum 3P features two Master Effects: Reverb and Delay. The Reverb features five algorithms with controls for tonal color. The Delay offers echoes by the millisecond, tap tempo, and adjustable feedback. The amount of Reverb and Delay can be set individually for each of the 6 channels of the Nord Drum 3P.

Scale Presets

Tuned Percussion kits can be created instantly by selecting one of the Scale Presets, which include chord scales, pentatonic, hexatonic scales and Hang tunings.

Edit All

This mode allows you to you edit all 6 channels simultaneously.

Mute Group

This feature gives you the option to create sounds that can cancel each other out. Only one of the members of the group can sound at a time, and can be used for creating a close/open hi-hat behavior and emulating muting techniques for hand percussion.

Mixer

This feature sets the level for each channel and also features a pan control for moving elements around the stereo field.

MIDI Capabilities

All of the Nord Drum 3P sound parameters can be operated via CC-controls over MIDI. Additionally, the MIDI I/O connections allow you to use the Nord Drum 3P with any compatible MIDI controller, DAW, or external MIDI sequencer via 5-pin DIN connections. The free Nord Beat app enables MIDI-sequencing of the Nord Drum 3P via iPad.

In the Box

Nord Drum 3P Modeling Percussion Synthesizer

Universal Module Mount

Universal Power Adapter

Limited 1-Year Warranty

Specifications