Released in 1995,[1] the original Nord Lead was the digital synthesizer that made the term virtual analog synthesis popular.

The Nord Lead was also unusual for its time in being "covered in knobs",[3] which gave the player a direct access to all sound parameters without having to walk through editing menus.

The Nord Lead 3 was a more advanced version introduced in 2001, with many new features like 4 operator FM Synthesis (Sinus Modulation),[7] and an arpeggiator.

[10] The new variant boasts an updated sound engine, new filter sections and a "True Voice Unison" mode which can support up to 4 oscillators simultaneously.

Furthermore, similar to the Nord Wave, the Lead 4 has a dedicated FX section featuring reverb, delay, crush and distortion.

[12] The model attempts to make the Nord Lead line accessible to a wider user base, with a new oscillator interface and numerous enhancements intended to facilitate quick and creative sound design.