From JIM@JMCCARTY.COM Tue Aug 21 13:40:33 2001
Subject:Nord Electro Yet Again

- My approach to the limited output "problem" - It is almost
impossible to find a stereo A/B switch. But Hosa makes a little 3 way
switch. I ran the stereo outputs to the box. I ran stereo to the
inputs on the B channel of my KBR-3D. I ran the second set of outputs
to a stereo to mono Y and ran that to the Leslie channel of the KBR-
3D. Works great, but requires an extra switch flip.

- Comments on the "drawbuttons". The response of very nice not too
fast or slow. The only drawback is that I can't pull some drawbars
faster than others. On the flip side, I can more easily "pull" some
bars and "push" others at the same time.

- The drawbar preset are very useful. A double button push and I can
quickly get to 18 presets - 8 preset, 1 random (goofy but kind of
cool), and 9 user presets.

- I think that I like the fact that a high order drawbar doesn't get
muted when I hit the percussion. I can always create a preset that
mirrors that configuration.

- I am glad that they implemented fold back as it gives the high-end
a distinctive sound. I also think they did the right thing in
extrapolating the foldback in the 5 additional high keys on the
upgoming 73 key version.

- For those who ask about the keyboard action. It is the best of any
clone. Correct size, color, weight, shape, action, and pivot point
angle.

- Although it is not a piano, I would love to be able to download a
combo organ to one of the "piano" slots. Just give me a Vox
Continental with all the drawbars out (Most Continental owners seemed
to think that was the only setting avaialble).

About the clone "experience" - 99% of the differences between a real
B3 and a clone are lost on the audience. We fret about the subtle
differences because we are aware of them and hear them. Other than
the fact a B3 looks impressive on stage, most listeners could care
less. I feel I play better at a real B3; do I? Maybe not, but it is a
special feeling to be behind the beast. However, I don't want my
precious B3 to get damaged or my back to get pulled for a casual gig
either. What is important to me: great sound but maybe not perfect
(which I feel I get from the Electro and a KBR-3D), easy setup and
teardown (Five minutes including running two lines to the FOH snake),
reasonable size (two units that fit easyily into even a small car,
and reasonable weight (85lb total - 70lb KBR-3d, 15lb Electro).