What is the primary function of the Nord EP15?

The Nord EP15 is an expression pedal used to control assignable parameters such as volume, modulation, and filter sweeps on compatible electronic instruments. It functions as a controller rather than an audio-processing effect pedal.

What material is the Nord EP15 chassis made from?

The pedal features a heavy-duty steel chassis. This design is intended to provide durability and a stable, reliable feel underfoot for live performances and studio use.

Can the resistance of the pedal be adjusted?

Yes, the EP15 allows users to adjust the pedal friction. This feature enables a customisable response, ranging from a light to a heavier feel to suit the player's preference.

What is the degree of throw on the EP15?

The pedal features a 15-degree throw. This specific range is designed to provide smooth and precise control over the full range of the assigned parameter.

Is the Nord EP15 compatible with non-Nord instruments?

Yes, while it is compatible with all Nord products featuring a control pedal input, it also works with a wide range of other instruments and devices. It is a flexible addition to various electronic music setups.

Does the pedal have a non-slip surface?

The EP15 is equipped with a rubber pedal surface. This material is chosen to keep the user's foot secure during long practice sessions or busy live performances.

How does the EP15 compare to the Yamaha FC7?

Both serve as expression pedals, but the EP15 features a heavy-duty steel chassis and adjustable friction. The Yamaha FC7 is a common alternative, though the EP15 is positioned as a premium Nord-branded accessory.

What is the typical price range for the Nord EP15?

The typical price for the Nord EP15 is approximately GBP 170. This price point reflects its professional-grade construction and adjustable mechanical features.

Does this pedal process audio like a distortion or delay pedal?

No, the EP15 does not process audio signals directly. Unlike a Boss DD-3T or Big Muff, it sends a control signal to another device to change its settings.

Is the EP15 suitable for studio recording?

Yes, its precise 15-degree throw and stable steel construction make it highly suitable for studio environments. It allows for repeatable and accurate parameter movements during tracking.

Can I use the EP15 to control a Wah effect?

If your instrument or multi-effects unit has a 'Wah' parameter assignable to an expression input, the EP15 can control it. However, it does not contain the internal circuitry of a dedicated wah pedal like a Mick Ronson Cry Baby.

How durable is the Nord EP15 for touring?

The pedal is specifically designed for 'regular use' and 'live performance' with a heavy-duty steel build. It is engineered to handle the physical demands of professional touring and frequent transport.

Gear article

Nord EP15 Expression Pedal

The Nord EP15 is a heavy-duty expression pedal designed for precise control of volume, modulation, and other assignable parameters. Constructed with a steel chassis and a 15-degree throw, it is engineered for professional durability across live, studio, and practice environments.

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Overview

The Nord EP15 is a professional-grade control accessory designed primarily for keyboardists and musicians requiring real-time parameter manipulation. Unlike standard effects pedals that process audio signals, the EP15 acts as a controller for external hardware. It is built to withstand the rigours of touring, featuring a robust steel chassis and a high-grip rubber surface to ensure stability and foot security during operation.

Design and Key Features

One of the defining features of the EP15 is its customisable tactile response. Users can adjust the pedal's friction, allowing for a transition between a light, fast action and a heavier, more resistant feel based on personal preference. The unit provides a 15-degree throw, which is calibrated to offer smooth and precise transitions for modulation or volume swells. Its heavy-duty construction is aimed at providing a reliable feel underfoot that does not slip or shift during intense performances.

Compatibility

While developed by Nord to integrate seamlessly with their own range of instruments—including any Nord product equipped with a control pedal input—the EP15 is designed for broader versatility. It is compatible with a wide range of third-party electronic instruments and devices that support standard expression pedal inputs. This makes it a flexible tool for players who use multi-brand setups.

Applications

The pedal is primarily used for controlling assignable parameters such as:

Volume Swells: Providing smooth crescendos and decrescendos.
Modulation: Adjusting the intensity of effects like vibrato or tremolo.
Filter Sweeps: Controlling synthesizer cutoff frequencies.
Organ Expression: Mimicking the swell pedal functionality of a tonewheel organ.

Market Comparison

Within the expression pedal market, the EP15 sits as a premium, durable option compared to plastic-bodied alternatives like the Yamaha FC7. While it shares some functional similarities with performance-oriented pedals like the Digitech Whammy Ricochet or various wah pedals, the EP15 is a dedicated controller rather than a standalone audio effect. Its focus on adjustable friction and steel construction distinguishes it from budget-tier utility pedals.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Nord EP15?: The Nord EP15 is an expression pedal used to control assignable parameters such as volume, modulation, and filter sweeps on compatible electronic instruments. It functions as a controller rather than an audio-processing effect pedal.
What material is the Nord EP15 chassis made from?: The pedal features a heavy-duty steel chassis. This design is intended to provide durability and a stable, reliable feel underfoot for live performances and studio use.
Can the resistance of the pedal be adjusted?: Yes, the EP15 allows users to adjust the pedal friction. This feature enables a customisable response, ranging from a light to a heavier feel to suit the player's preference.
What is the degree of throw on the EP15?: The pedal features a 15-degree throw. This specific range is designed to provide smooth and precise control over the full range of the assigned parameter.
Is the Nord EP15 compatible with non-Nord instruments?: Yes, while it is compatible with all Nord products featuring a control pedal input, it also works with a wide range of other instruments and devices. It is a flexible addition to various electronic music setups.
Does the pedal have a non-slip surface?: The EP15 is equipped with a rubber pedal surface. This material is chosen to keep the user's foot secure during long practice sessions or busy live performances.
How does the EP15 compare to the Yamaha FC7?: Both serve as expression pedals, but the EP15 features a heavy-duty steel chassis and adjustable friction. The Yamaha FC7 is a common alternative, though the EP15 is positioned as a premium Nord-branded accessory.
What is the typical price range for the Nord EP15?: The typical price for the Nord EP15 is approximately GBP 170. This price point reflects its professional-grade construction and adjustable mechanical features.
Does this pedal process audio like a distortion or delay pedal?: No, the EP15 does not process audio signals directly. Unlike a Boss DD-3T or Big Muff, it sends a control signal to another device to change its settings.
Is the EP15 suitable for studio recording?: Yes, its precise 15-degree throw and stable steel construction make it highly suitable for studio environments. It allows for repeatable and accurate parameter movements during tracking.
Can I use the EP15 to control a Wah effect?: If your instrument or multi-effects unit has a 'Wah' parameter assignable to an expression input, the EP15 can control it. However, it does not contain the internal circuitry of a dedicated wah pedal like a Mick Ronson Cry Baby.
How durable is the Nord EP15 for touring?: The pedal is specifically designed for 'regular use' and 'live performance' with a heavy-duty steel build. It is engineered to handle the physical demands of professional touring and frequent transport.