Nord Keyboards' 4 Officially Compatible Expression Pedals, Ranked
Nord Keyboards has a short list of officially compatible expression pedals. While there are many others that will work, we decided to rank the official list. Here’s a ranking of those 4 pedals (and one that's compatible, but not officially listed):
1. Yamaha FC-7
Pros:
- Robust build quality
- Smooth, consistent response
- Adjustable tension
- Great value for the price
Cons:
- Larger than some other options
- A bit stiff for some users out of the box
The Yamaha FC-7 takes the top spot due to its perfect balance of performance and durability. It features adjustable tension, making it versatile for a variety of playing styles. It works flawlessly with Nord keyboards, providing a smooth, precise control of expression. While it's on the larger side, its sturdiness and smooth response make it an excellent choice for serious musicians. At around $40, its relatively inexpensive, too.
2. Dunlop DVP4 Volume X Mini Pedal
Pros:
- Compact and portable
- Smooth action
- Great for space-conscious setups
Cons:
- Smaller footplate can be tricky for larger feet
- Expensive
The Dunlop DVP4 is a highly portable, mini-sized pedal that doesn’t compromise on functionality. It provides smooth volume control with a solid feel, making it ideal for musicians with limited space or those looking for a more compact option. While not as adjustable as some of its competitors, it remains a strong contender, especially for travel. Of all of the models we tested, this one is hands down the most rugged and is perfect for long tours or rough loadouts.
3. Roland EV7
Pros:
- Excellent build quality
- Smooth foot action
- Reliable with Nord Keyboards
Cons:
- Lacks adjustable tension
- Slightly less sensitive in some cases
The Roland EV7 offers great performance and compatibility with Nord Keyboards. It delivers smooth foot action and is built to last. However, the lack of adjustable tension may not suit every player’s preference, and the sensitivity is slightly less fine-tuned than some other pedals.
4. Korg EXP-2
Pros:
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Smooth action
Cons:
- Build quality feels a bit less premium
- Lacks adjustable tension
The Korg EXP-2 is an affordable, lightweight expression pedal that works well with Nord Keyboards. While it may not feel as premium as the others, it’s a solid choice for beginners or budget-conscious musicians looking for basic functionality.
5. Studiologic VP25
Pros:
- Solid build
- Smooth expression control
- Good value
Cons:
- Some users report inconsistent foot action
- Larger than other options
While the Studiologic VP25 offers solid build quality and smooth expression control, it ranks lower due to some reports of inconsistent foot action. It’s still a good choice for those looking for a sturdy and reliable pedal, but the larger size may be a drawback for some.
Final Thoughts
The Yamaha FC-7 is our top pick due to its excellent compatibility and adjustability, while the Dunlop DVP4 shines for portability and build quality.