NS Design CR 4-string Electric Cello

The NS Cello, designed by Ned Steinberger, is available in the affordable CR Series. This remarkable instrument, available with 4, 5 or 6 strings, is able to produce the delicate and precise tones of it’s acoustic parent as well as to create exciting new sounds through the tone shaping geometry of its innovative Polar™ piezo pickup system.

Interchangeable support systems provide new performance options. A fully adjustable tripod stand can be used seated or standing. The inventive Boomerang™ Strap System and Frame Strap System allows full mobility, while the conventional Cello End Pin Stand provides the traditional points of cello contact and position.

The use of standard cello strings and scale length establishes a familiar starting point for the cellist’s journey to the electric world. From there anything goes. The energetic response of the NS Cello can be tamed to deliver a traditional cello tone, or set loose to explore new territory.

Features

Solid maple body and neck: The CR Cello is crafted of European maple, with a flame maple face. This solid-body design develops a rich multi-dimensional tone free from the constraints inherent in an acoustic instrument. The traditional cello scale length and neck shape have a familiar feel, while the small body allows full access to the upper register. Brass escutcheon pin on the rear of the neck serves as a reference point corresponding to the heel of an acoustic cello. Solid construction provides structural stability to resist changes in temperature and humidity.

Fingerboard: The fingerboard is expertly graduated with an asymmetric profile to insure that each note is even and buzz free. An adjustable truss rod allows for precise relief adjustment for different strings and playing style. A cascading dot pattern across the neck provides an accurate reference for position.

Bridge Pickup: The Polar bridge-mounted piezo pickup system responds selectively to either vertical vibration (for the sustained plucked sound, like an electric bass guitar), or lateral vibration (for dynamic bowing, and a percussive plucked sound).

Active Electronics: The dual mode preamp allows the player to choose between two very distinct tone qualities. The first mode delivers the full frequency response of modern low impedance electronics, for a rich, full-blown “electric” sound. The second is balanced to produce the frequency response of the traditional cello, for a more “acoustic” sound. A three-way toggle switch allows the player to select the desired pickup and electronics options. Additional controls include volume and individual bass EQ & treble EQ controls.

String Tuning:

4 string tuning: C G D A

5 string tuning: Low F C G D A; High E tuning also available by request: C G D A E

6 string tuning: F C G D A E

Strings: NS Electric Cello Strings supplied; the NS is designed to fit and is compatible with most standard strings.

Tripod Stand: A fully adjustable tripod stand comes standard with the CR Series Cello.

Gig Bag: The standard gig bag with handle and shoulder strap, has a padded inner case for the instrument and a zipper pouch for the tripod stand. It also has a bow compartment and storage pocket with room for accessories. 99 cm (39″) long; 18 cm (7″) in diameter. Loaded weight is 5 kg (11 lbs.), including stand. Fits in the overhead luggage compartment of most commercial aircraft.

5-year NS Design Warranty

Specifications

Length: 94 cm (37″)

Width: 14 cm (5.5″)

Thickness: 9.5 cm (3.75″)

Weight: 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs.)

Scale leight: 69.5 cm (27.36″”)