Nord Piano 6 73-key Stage Piano User Manual

1. Introduction

The Nord Piano 6 is a 73-key stage piano designed for studio and live performance. It features an intuitive panel layout with LED faders, dual layers for Piano and Synth sections, and independent effects engines for each. The instrument incorporates a premium Triple Sensor keybed for enhanced playability. Its robust construction, including a metal chassis and wooden side panels, ensures durability. The Nord Piano 6 offers two independent piano layers, dual independent sample synths, and extensive memory, making it suitable for various musical applications.

This image displays the Nord Piano 6, a 73-key stage piano, from a top-down perspective. The instrument features a distinctive red chassis, a full set of white and black keys, and a detailed control panel with various knobs, buttons, and LED indicators for the Piano, Sample Synth, Program, and Effects sections.

2. Setup

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the Nord Piano 6 from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage.
2. Placement: Place the instrument on a stable, flat surface or a compatible keyboard stand. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
3. Power Connection: Connect the included power cable to the AC IN port on the rear panel of the Nord Piano 6 and then to a suitable power outlet.
4. Pedal Connection: Connect the Triple Pedal to the designated input on the rear panel.
5. Audio Output: Connect the audio outputs (OUT 1, OUT 2) to your amplifier, mixer, or audio interface using appropriate cables.
6. Headphones: For private practice, connect headphones to the HEADPHONES jack.
7. USB/MIDI: Connect a USB cable to your computer for MIDI communication or connect MIDI IN/OUT cables to external MIDI devices.
8. Power On: Press the POWER ON/OFF switch on the rear panel to turn on the instrument.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1. Overview of Control Panel

The control panel of the Nord Piano 6 is logically divided into several sections for intuitive sound creation and performance control:

• Piano Section: Dedicated controls for selecting piano types (Grand, Upright, Electric, Digital, Misc), adjusting timbre, and managing effects like string resonance and pedal noise.
• Sample Synth Section: Offers dual independent sample synths with controls for attack, decay, release, and filter settings.
• Program Section: Used for selecting, storing, and organizing programs (presets). Features an OLED display for clear navigation.
• Effects Section: Provides a comprehensive suite of effects including Modulation effects (Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Wah), Amp simulations, Equalizer, Delay, and Reverb, each with dedicated controls.

3.2. Basic Operation

• Selecting Sounds: Use the 'Piano Select' and 'Sample Select' buttons to browse and load different instrument sounds.
• Layering Sounds: The Nord Piano 6 supports dual layers for both Piano and Sample Synth sections, allowing you to combine sounds. Activate layers A and B using the dedicated ON/OFF buttons.
• Applying Effects: Each effect module can be activated and adjusted using its respective knobs and buttons. Effects can be applied independently to Piano and Synth layers.
• Saving Programs: After creating a desired sound combination and effect settings, save it as a program using the 'Store' function for quick recall during performances.
• Seamless Transitions: The instrument is designed for seamless program changes, ensuring no awkward gaps or interruptions when switching between sounds during live play.

4. Features

• 73-key Stage Piano/Synth with Triple Sensor Keybed
• Triple Pedal support for advanced piano techniques
• Comprehensive Onboard Effects engine with dedicated controls for each layer
• Dual independent Piano Layers
• Dual independent Sample Synths
• Intuitive panel layout with LED faders
• OLED Display for program navigation
• Seamless transitions between programs
• 16 banks with 36 programs - 576 locations
• Split Point Crossfades

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surface of the instrument. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents. For keys, a slightly damp cloth with mild soap can be used, followed by a dry cloth.
• Software Updates: Periodically check the official Nord Keyboards website for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features. Follow the instructions provided with the update carefully.
• Storage: When not in use, cover the instrument to protect it from dust. If storing for an extended period, ensure it is in a climate-controlled environment, away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
• Transportation: Always use a dedicated flight case or soft case when transporting the Nord Piano 6 to prevent damage.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Sound:
  • Check power connection and ensure the unit is turned on.
  • Verify audio cables are securely connected to outputs and input devices (amplifier, mixer).
  • Ensure master volume is turned up and not muted.
  • Check individual layer volumes (Piano, Synth) on the control panel.
  • If using headphones, ensure they are properly plugged in and the headphone volume is adjusted.
• Keys Not Responding:
  • Restart the instrument.
  • Check for any active MIDI settings or local control settings that might be interfering.
• Unexpected Behavior/Freezing:
  • Perform a factory reset (refer to the full manual for specific instructions, as this will erase user data).
  • Ensure the latest firmware is installed.
• Pedal Issues:
  • Verify the pedal is correctly connected to the designated input.
  • Check pedal settings within the instrument's menu.

7. Specifications

8. What's in the Box

• Nord Piano 6 73-key Stage Piano
• Triple Pedal
• Power Cable
• User Manual

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Nord Keyboards website. Product registration may be required to activate your warranty.

Online Resources:

• Nord Keyboards Official Website
• Nord Support Page