NS Design NXTA 5 STRING ELECTRIC FRETTED CELLO - SATIN BLACK

NS Design and the NXT Series: A Modern Vision Born in 1990

Founded in 1990 by Ned Steinberger, NS Design develops electric instruments that combine innovation with the demands of today's musicians. The NXT series, manufactured in the Czech Republic by the workshops behind the CR series, was designed to offer impeccable craftsmanship and high performance while remaining accessible. The NXTa Active version takes versatility even further thanks to its bimode electronics and rechargeable operation, designed for intensive playing in rehearsals, on stage, or in the studio.

An Electric Cello for Demanding Musicians, from Studio to Stage

The NS Design NXTa Active is aimed at the intermediate to advanced cellist seeking a stable, adjustable instrument ready to handle the demands of amplification. Its electric format facilitates headphone practice or use through an amplification chain, and its 5-string tuning opens natural possibilities in contemporary music, jazz, pop, film scores, as well as classical arrangements requiring an extension into the lower register.

The asymmetrical fingerboard radius promotes a relaxed left hand, even in higher positions. To refine playing comfort, the instrument allows adjustment of the relief via the truss rod and simple adjustment of the string height at the bridge, to tailor the action to your style and bow attack.

Sound

The sonic foundation of the NXTa Active is based on the combination of solid maple craftsmanship (body and neck) and a carefully graded ebony fingerboard : the attack remains clear, intonation stabilizes easily, and the response is consistent from string to string. This construction provides a "full" feel under the fingers, with clear articulation, especially appreciated in amplified playing where every detail counts.

The NS Polar bridge pickup system uses specific piezo crystals mounted under the bridge to capture a wide spectrum of vibrations from the strings and body. Since vibrational energy differs between bowing (Arco) and plucking (Pizzicato), a switch allows selection of the most suitable sensitivity: you get a more natural and balanced sound, with dynamics that follow your intention, from pianissimo to strong playing.

The bimode output enhances versatility. In active mode, a power charge of about 60 seconds via the supplied charger powers an active capacitor circuit for approximately 16 hours of use: you can then plug directly into low or high-impedance inputs without a direct box, while maintaining clear fundamentals and a stable signal even with long cables. In passive mode, the NXTa Active is played with a high-impedance input or a direct box. The absence of batteries simplifies daily management and avoids interruptions during rehearsals or concerts.

Technical specifications

Format	4/4	Fingerboard	Ebony
Nbr of strings	5	Color	Black
Top	Maple

Type	electric cello	Output	active/passive bimode
Number of strings	5	Active mode power	rechargeable (no batteries)
Body	solid maple	Length	94.2 cm
Neck	maple	Width	13.9 cm
Truss rod	yes	Thickness	9.4 cm
Strings	5 strings, compatible with most standard strings	Weight	1.9 kg
Tuning	low F, C, G, D, A	Origin	Czech Republic
Pickups	piezo, NS Polar bridge pickup system