NS Design Nxta - Electric Double Bass Left-Handed Black (4 Strings)

NS Design and the NXTa Series: Steinberger DNA in an Accessible Version

Founded in 1990 by Ned Steinberger, NS Design has established itself with a clear philosophy: evolving the electric instrument by combining mechanical innovations, ergonomics, and respect for fundamental playing principles. In this spirit, the NXTa series opens the door to the NS Design universe to a wider audience by offering an electric double bass designed to meet modern constraints (transport, stability, amplification) while preserving a true instrument feel.

Positioned as a range with a particularly attractive quality/price ratio, the NXTa targets musicians who want a serious and coherent instrument without immediately moving to the highest-end references. This left-handed version provides the same markers and playing comfort, without compromising on equipment.

Intended Use and Target Audience for This Electric Double Bass

The NS Design NXTa is ideal for the intermediate to advanced double bassist seeking a reliable amplification solution, but it is also suitable for a beginner already guided (conservatory, teacher) looking for a stable, easy-to-adjust, and sonically coherent instrument. Its compact size and light weight make it an excellent option for mobile musicians, frequent rehearsals, and stages where minimizing feedback and climate-related issues is important.

In terms of styles, the NXTa is comfortable in jazz, contemporary music, pop, rock, fusion, as well as in amplified classical contexts when precise arco response is sought. The standard tuning E, A, D, G facilitates the transition from a traditional double bass and guarantees immediate reference points.

Sound

The sonic heart of this NXTa relies on the Polar System piezo pickup, using specific piezo crystals mounted under the bridge. This design aims to capture the full spectrum generated by the strings and the instrument's structure, with excellent attack clarity, rich definition in the low end, and dynamics that naturally follow playing nuances.

A particularly relevant feature for double bassists: arco and pizzicato playing engage the instrument differently (direction and vibrational energy). The NXTa therefore includes a switch to select the sensitivity adapted to either mode, providing a more coherent response and a more stable balance according to your technique.

The electronics section offers active/passive operation. In active mode, the NXTa recharges via the supplied charger: a charge of about 60 seconds powers the active capacitor circuit for approximately 16 hours. The advantage is the ability to plug directly into low or high impedance inputs with minimal loss and a signal that remains clear across the entire register, even with long cables. In passive mode, the instrument is preferably used with a direct box or a high impedance input to preserve the piezo's richness and avoid a thin sound.

Recommended Compatible Accessories

This NS Design NXTa comes with a gig bag and a tripod stand, a very practical duo for transport and quick setup. For any additional accessories (specific strings, alternative stands, amplification solutions), it is advisable to verify compatibility according to your configuration and playing preferences.

Technical specifications

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

Version	left-handed	Pickup	Polar System piezo
Body	maple	Length	132 cm
Neck	maple, traditional straight shape, with easier access to the upper register	Width	15 cm
Markers	cascade dot pattern for precise position reference	Thickness	10 cm
Truss rod	adjustable	Weight	4.8 kg
Bridge	height-adjustable	Included	gig bag
Strings	4 D'Addario strings	Origin	Czech Republic
Tuning	E, A, D, and G