Clavia have achieved to make their idea of a modular system quite user-friendly, given the comparatively high complexity of modular synthesizer systems. Install the editor-software on your computer of choice (Macintosh- and Windows-systems are supported), then connect the Modular hardware to the host-computer via MIDI or (in the case of the G2) USB and start experimenting.

A minimum amount of knowledge of how a synthesizer actually works is definitely helpful when using the Nord Modular, apart from that Clavia's software makes things quite easy and the learning curve is not very steep. Working with the software proves straightforward due to the clean layout of the software, the possibility to drag-and-drop the modules and cable connections, and Clavia's trademark Morphing functionality (one knob can alter several parameters at the same time). The patches can then be saved to the computer's hard disc and the Modular hardware.

A patch browser within the editor software helps organize the files. As the patch-files are very small (just a few kilobytes of size), they can easily be exchanged between computers via email or floppy disc. There's literally thousands of Nord Modular patch files on the internet, so those who are too lazy to create their own patches might as well be happy to alter existing ones. Not that it makes much sense to use pre-set sounds with an instrument like the Nord Modular, considering the huge creative potential it has to offer.

Looking back to the past, the otherwise flawless image of the original Modular version was spoiled a bit by its quite snobbish behaviour when partnered with certain MIDI-interfaces. Some interfaces would not work properly when put in charge with the dense realtime communication between Clavia's hard- and software. Unfortunately, there was no way of telling if a certain MIDI-interface would team up with the original Nord Modular or not: some cheap interfaces (like the MIDIlink device by small Swedish company Danka Data Devices) would handle the communication fabulously, while some high-end interface would resign after a few minutes.

The problems would also depend on the computer hardware configuration and operating system used. Clavia have recognized this long ago, but have pointed out that the fault was not theirs, as the communication between hardware and editing software uses the standard MIDI protocol, though at full bandwidth. Whoever to blame, these problems are exclusive to the Nord Modular I hardware, as the new Modular G2 connects to the computer via USB for editing purposes, which should provide a more trouble-free communication straight out of the box.
 
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