NS Design Introduces Bass Cello

NS Design has announced the USA debut of the Bass Cello, a unique new instrument. "The Bass Cello allows any bass or cello player access to the exciting world of bowed electric sound," says Ned Steinberger, creator of the NS Bass Cello.

The new 5 string instrument has a 34 inch scale set up especially for bowing. The instrument also performs particularly well as a pizzicato bass instrument and can be tuned in fourths like a standard bass, or in fifths like a cello.

The proprietary NS Polar piezo and EMG magnetic pickup systems along with the on board preamp allow the player to select attack and decay parameters to compliment both arco and pizzicato technique.

All NS instruments feature a full range of ergonomically designed stands, and the new NS Shoulder Strap System for cello and bass.

Arched Fingerboard: The Bass Cello has a highly arched fingerboard and bridge, similar to a cello, to optimize bow articulation. The high arch on the fingerboard fits the human hand, and combines with the round neck profile for a comfortable and natural feel.

34 Inch Scale: The 34 inch scale length of the Bass Cello is the same as the standard bass guitar. Tuned in fourths as a bass (E A D G C), the fingering positions are therefore immediately familiar to the bass guitarist. The Bass Cello can also be tuned in fifths, for fingerings that are natural for the cellist.

Dot Markers: Dots for each semi-tone cascade across the fingerboard in a pattern that provides a clear visual fingering reference. The logical dot pattern is of critical value to the novice player, and an invaluable tool for the seasoned pro.

Polar Pickup System™: The multiple sensor NS Polar bridge pickup system has two modes of operation, "arco" and "pizzicato". This allows the player to optimize bowed response, and to control attack and decay characteristics for plucking. The deep bass and brilliant highs possible with piezo crystal technology give the instrument a beautiful, dynamic, and versatile sound.

EMG™ Magnetic Pickups: EMG low impedance magnetic pickups have a smooth response with lots of sweet midrange for the quintessential "electric" sound.

Active Controls: Two balance controls allow unlimited mixing options for the magnetic and the dual mode Polar pickup systems. On-board pre-amplification provides master volume, bass and treble controls.

NS Bass Cello Strings: Traditional cello strings, designed for bowing, are the starting reference for NS Bass Cello Strings. Light and responsive, with singing highs and deep low register, these ultra-smooth low-tension strings are effortless to play, and minimize unwanted finger noise. They have a smooth pizzicato growl that can be made to sound very much like an acoustic, yet deliver plenty of sustain and drive when you need it. Still these strings, custom made by D'Addario, are highly specialized for bowing. They respond much quicker to the bow than traditional bass strings, so expressive bow technique is easier to develop and maintain. The Bass Cello is designed to accommodate any standard bass guitar string, adding unlimited set up options for the musician who wants to explore.

Interchangeable Support Systems: The self-standing Tripod Stand provides stable support for the instrument at virtually any angle, for standing or seated on stool. The End Pin Stand is adjustable so that the instrument remains balanced without support from the left hand. The Strap System allows full mobility for all bow and pizz. styles of play.

Hand Crafted Maple and Ebony: Each instrument is hand-made in the Czech Republic to the highest standard by craftsmen steeped in a long tradition of instrument making.

For more information, visit their web site at www.nedsteinberger.com

David Mellor says, "I want one - badly!"