The solid-body NS Cello, designed by Ned Steinberger, is now available in the acclaimed CR Series. This remarkable instrument, available with 4, 5 or 6 strings, is able to produce the delicate and precise tones of its acoustic parent, as well as create exciting new sounds through the tone shaping geometry of its innovative NS Polar™ piezo pickup system.
Solid Maple Body & 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. A 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.
NS Polar™ Pickup
The NS Cello features the NS Polar bridge-mounted piezo pickup system. The Polar pickups can sense either vertical or lateral string vibration. Set in the vertical mode, plucked notes are remarkably even and sustained. In the lateral mode, the pickup has unparalleled sensitivity in the direction of the bow, with more attack when plucked. Attack and decay can be effectively controlled with the Polar pickup system.
Ebony Fingerboard
The solid ebony fingerboard is graduated for each string for ideal playing action. Cascading dot markers provide an attractive and precise reference for fingering/intonation.
Active EMG 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 3-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.
In addition, the NS Cello features an internal headphone amp circuit with mini-jack output, allowing for silent practice or self-monitoring.
Strings
The use of standard cello strings and scale length establishes a familiar starting point for the cellists 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.
Interchangeable Support Systems
The NS Cello, as with all of Ned Steinberger's concert instrument designs, features a common mount that allows the use of a range of interchangeable support systems, to suit any playing style, in any performance environment.
Tripod Stand - Supplied as standard equipment, the CR Tripod Stand provides stable support, with full height and tilt adjustment. The stand folds down to fit in the gig bag.
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End Pin Stand - An optional End Pin Stand offers the cellist a more traditional position, similar to that of an acoustic instrument. Using the additional NS End Pin Stand Conversion Kit, the End Pin Stand can be attached to the Tripod Stand to hold the instrument upright for on-stand performance or when not in use.
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Cello End Pin Stand - Provides the traditional cello points of contact and position, and is the best choice for cellists who have an animated style of playing while seated, or who play the instrument at a more horizontal angle.
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Frame Strap System - A light frame structure is supported by a single guitar style strap extending over the left shoulder, holding the cello in the correct position for both pizzicato and arco styles, whilst allowing full mobility with amazing comfort.
Transport
The NS Cello is supplied with a sturdy, nylon gig bag with handle and shoulder strap featuring 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. Measuring only 99cm (39") long and 18cm (7") in diameter, and weighing 5kg (11lb) with the instrument and tripod stand, the bag will fit in the overhead luggage compartment of most commercial aircraft.
An optional aluminium edged flight case is also available, measuring 136cm x 28cm x 27cm (53.5" x 11" x 10.5"); weight 22.2kg (49lb), fully loaded with instrument & tripod stand.
<< NS Design CR Cello User Manual
