The Clavia Nord Wave 2 represents a significant evolution in the world of polyphonic synthesizers, serving as both a successor to the original Wave (2007-2013) and a natural development of Clavia's acclaimed Lead family of synths. This versatile virtual analog instrument has effectively replaced the Lead 4 in Nord's lineup, offering musicians a comprehensive "Jack of all trades" synthesizer that excels across multiple synthesis methods.

Design and Build Quality

The Wave 2 features Nord's signature aesthetic with a robust metal body complemented by gray end panels. The front panel bristles with positive-action knobs and buttons familiar to Nord users, including the iconic wooden pitch stick and thin modulation wheel. A notable upgrade comes in the form of two clear white-on-dark OLED screens, which represent a substantial improvement over the cryptic two-digit LEDs used in previous generation Lead synths.

Revolutionary Keyboard Experience

One of the most significant improvements is the five-octave keyboard, a welcome expansion from the four-octave keyboards found on all preceding Nord VA synths. The keyboard features aftertouch sensitivity—a crucial addition that was notably absent from the Lead 4 and A1. The waterfall-style design incorporates a solid/rounded front and side profile with a smooth, shiny finish. With white keys measuring a compact 132mm, the semi-weighted, firmly sprung mechanism provides first-class aftertouch response, representing a massive improvement over previous Fatar mechanisms.

Four-Layer Architecture

Where the original Wave was bitimbral, the Wave 2 expands to quad-timbral capability. This four-layer system effectively provides four separate synthesizers running in parallel, each with completely independent effects sections that combine only at the single stereo line output. The versatile layer system supports:

• Complex multi-layer sounds for rich, evolving textures
• Keyboard splits with up to three split points creating four distinct keyboard zones
• Sequencing capabilities with one layer per MIDI channel
• Master keyboard functionality for controlling external MIDI modules

The Layer Control section features dedicated buttons for enabling, accessing, and soloing layers, plus faders for volume and pan control. Sophisticated options include split-point crossfades that can smoothly transition sounds across six or 12 semitones, with split points indicated by helpful panel LEDs.

Comprehensive Sound Engine

The Wave 2's chameleon-like nature stems from its four distinct sound engines available to each layer:

Virtual Analog Engine: The multimode oscillator section provides up to three oscillators per voice through innovative macro control schemes. Categories include Basic (fundamental waveforms), Shape (pulse-width and morphing variations), Shape Sine (morphing between complex harmonics and sine waves), Multi and Super (detuned combinations reminiscent of Minimoog and JP8000-style supersaws), and Sync (hard sync effects with buzzy, formant-like resonances).

Sample Playback: While not a true sampler, the 1GB sample memory supports user-configurable content via the Nord Sample Editor. Features include instantaneous sample loading, mono/stereo support, simple looping for sustain, and key-group multisampling. The system provides access to the extensive Nord Sample Library, including strings, vintage keyboards, Mellotron/Chamberlin sounds, choirs, guitars, and percussion.

FM Synthesis: The implementation offers 10 algorithms using 2-4 operators, simplified compared to typical Yamaha implementations but far more accessible. With only one modulator per algorithm with variable pitch/ratio, the three-knob interface generates broad spectra from harmonic electric pianos to experimental inharmonic textures.

Wavetable: Encompasses 46 discrete waveforms across various groups, from naturalistic to synthetic. Unlike interpolating wavetable systems, these function as static digital waves similar to late '80s Korg DW instruments.

Advanced Filtering and Modulation

The six-mode filter section provides extensive sonic shaping with three low-pass types (12dB/octave, 24dB generic, and Moog ladder emulation), a dual 12dB LP+HP filter that recalls Oberheim SEM character, plus band-pass and high-pass modes. The filter features keyboard tracking, three preset drive levels, and an invertible ADSR with velocity response.

The modulation system centers around Nord's innovative Morph functionality, replacing traditional modulation matrices. Key velocity, aftertouch, mod wheel, and expression pedal can simultaneously control multiple parameters across any desired range and polarity. The Impulse Morph feature provides momentary, instantaneous parameter changes, capable of enabling/disabling entire sections or toggling modes.

Comprehensive Effects Processing

Each layer features independent effects processing—a truly luxurious implementation allowing up to 16 simultaneous effects. The signal path includes:

• Multi-effect section (Tremolo, Autopan, Ring Mod, Phaser, Chorus, Ensemble, Vibe)
• Switchable EQ (two-band Bass/Treble or single sweepable mid)
• Drive/distortion
• Delay with digital/analog character, ping-pong, and feedback path effects
• Reverb with five algorithms (Booth to Cathedral) plus EQ/damping and modulation

Advanced Performance Features

The sophisticated arpeggiator offers standard directions (up, down, up/down, random) plus unique modes like Poly (full chord arpeggiation), Gate (rhythmic slicing), and Pattern (custom sequences with varying note lengths, rests, and pan positions). All arpeggiators sync to internal or external MIDI clock, enabling elaborate interplays between layers.

Memory and Connectivity

The Wave 2 provides 400 program slots (16 banks of 25) with intelligent management by name and category through the bright OLED displays. Each program contains complete settings for all four layers, eliminating confusing distinctions between single and multi patches.

Connectivity includes stereo outputs, headphone output, sustain and expression pedal inputs, DIN MIDI In/Out, USB Type B, and a 3.5mm audio input. The supporting software includes Nord Sample Editor for custom sample sets and Nord Sound Manager for comprehensive program organization.

Technical Specifications

General Architecture

• Type: 4-Layer Polyphonic Synthesizer with LED faders
• Synthesis Types: Virtual Analog, Wavetable, FM, Sample Playback
• Polyphony: 48 voices total
• Sample Memory: 1 GB for Nord Sample Library 3.0
• Programs: 400 locations (16 banks × 25 programs)

Keyboard

• Keys: 61-key semi-weighted with aftertouch
• Key Length: 132mm (white keys)
• Design: Waterfall style with solid/rounded profile
• Octave Shift: ±2 octaves via dedicated buttons
• Split Points: Up to 3 split points with 8 location options
• Split Crossfade: 6 or 12 semitones

Oscillator Section

• Display: Dedicated OLED for oscillator settings
• Analog Categories: Basic, Shape, Shape Sine, Multi, Sync, Bell, Noise
• Wavetable Categories: Wavetables, Formants (46 discrete waveforms)
• FM Categories: Dual, Triple, Vocal, Multi with Harmonic/Inharmonic options
• Sample Support: Nord Sample Library 3.0 compatibility
• Tuning Range: Semitone (-24 to +24), Fine tune
• Unison: 3 amount options

Filter Section

• Types: 6 modes - 12dB LP, 24dB LP, Band Pass, High Pass, Ladder M, LP+HP
• Controls: Cutoff, Resonance, Envelope Amount
• Envelope: ADSR with velocity sensitivity
• Keyboard Tracking: Off, 1/3, 2/3, Full
• Distortion: Adjustable filter drive

Amplifier Section

• Envelope: ADSR with Transient Attack mode
• Velocity Response: 3 levels
• Voice Modes: Poly, Legato, Mono with Glide

Modulation System

• LFO: Triangle, Square, Sawtooth, Inverted Sawtooth, Sample & Hold
• LFO Destinations: Filter Frequency, Osc Pitch, Osc Mod
• Additional Envelope: AD/AR (Osc Mod envelope)
• Vibrato: Dedicated polyphonic LFO, 3 delay modes (0.25s, 1s, 1.5s)
• Morph Sources: Wheel, Aftertouch, Velocity, Control Pedal
• Impulse Morph: Instant parameter override functionality

Arpeggiator/Gate

• Range: 1-4 octaves
• Modes: Up, Down, Up/Down, Random, Zig-Zag
• Special Modes: Poly (chord arpeggiation), Gate (rhythmic slicing)
• Pattern Mode: 30+ editable presets plus custom patterns
• Clock Sync: Internal Master Clock or external MIDI Clock

Layer Control

• Layers: 4 independent layers with LED faders
• Group Function: Multi-layer editing capability
• Layer Lock: Locks current layer configuration
• Solo Mode: Individual layer isolation
• Pan Control: Individual per layer

Effects (Per Layer)

• Multi-Effects: Tremolo, Pan, Ring Mod, Chorus, Ensemble, Vibe
• EQ: Bass/Treble or Parametric 1-Band
• Drive: Tube distortion simulation
• Delay: Rate/Time, Tap Tempo, Analog Mode, Stereo Ping-Pong
• Delay Feedback: Chorus, Vibe, Ensemble effects plus HP/LP/BP filters
• Reverb: 5 algorithms (Booth, Room, Stage, Hall, Cathedral)
• Reverb Options: Dark, Bright, Chorale (modulated)

Performance Controls

• Pitch Stick: Classic Nord wooden design with programmable range
• Modulation Wheel: With fast destination assignment
• Aftertouch: Full keyboard aftertouch sensitivity
• Master Clock: Controls Arpeggiator, LFO, Effects, Delay
• Live Mode: Performance-optimized interface

Memory & Programs

• Program Storage: 400 locations (16 × 25 banks)
• Program Features: Gain control, Transpose, Copy/Paste
• Display: Large OLED for program management
• Organization: By name, category, filtered subsets, alphabetical

Audio Specifications

• Outputs: 2 × ¼" unbalanced line outputs
• Headphones: ¼" stereo jack
• DAC: High-resolution 24-bit, low-noise
• Audio Input: 3.5mm stereo input

MIDI Features

• Connectors: 5-pin DIN MIDI In/Out, USB MIDI
• Implementation: All knobs/switches send/receive CC messages
• Clock Sync: Master Clock syncs to incoming MIDI Clock
• Modes: Global and Layer MIDI modes
• Channels: Independent layer MIDI channel assignment

Control Inputs

• Sustain Pedal: ¼" jack
• Control Pedal: ¼" TRS jack (Yamaha FC-7, Roland EV-5/EV-7, Korg EXP2/XVP10 compatible)
• Expression: Integrated into Morph system

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions: 990 × 100 × 295 mm (38.9" × 3.9" × 11.6")
• Weight: 8.75 kg (19.29 lbs)
• Power: IEC C14 connector with included power cord
• Construction: Metal body with gray end panels

Software Support

• Nord Sample Editor: Drag-and-drop sample set creation (Windows/macOS)
• Nord Sound Manager: Program organization, backup/restore (Windows/macOS)
• Sample Library: Nord Sample Library 3.0 compatibility

Included Accessories

• User Manual
• Power Cord with IEC C14 connector