Gear article
D'Addario NS Electric Bass Guitar/Cello High C String
The D'Addario NS Electric High C String is a hybrid flatwound string developed in collaboration between D'Addario and Ned Steinberger. Designed for 4/4 size instruments, it is compatible with both standard 34-35 inch scale electric bass guitars and NS Design Omni Bass instruments.
Overview and Design
The D'Addario NS Electric High C String represents a technical partnership between Ned Steinberger and D'Addario. It is specifically engineered to bridge the gap between electric bass guitars and the NS Design Omni Bass, often referred to as a bass cello. The string is designed for 4/4 scale instruments and focuses on providing a consistent response across both traditional and contemporary electric instrument formats.
The construction features a polished flatwound finish. This design choice is intended to offer a smooth tactile feel for the player, reducing finger noise and increasing comfort during extended play sessions. It fits standard long-scale electric bass guitars with a 34 to 35-inch scale length.
Tonal Characteristics
This string is voiced to achieve a balance between a rich bass fundamental and a clear upper register. Because it serves as a 'High C' string, it is often used by players looking to extend their melodic range upwards without sacrificing the tonal weight required for bass instruments.
Key sonic features include: * Rich low-end response. * Crystal clear articulation in the higher frequencies. * Consistent sustain across the entire length of the string.
Player Suitability
The NS Electric string is positioned as a versatile option suitable for a broad spectrum of skill levels. D'Addario markets the string to both professional performers and intermediate students. Its hybrid design makes it particularly useful for bassists who utilise cello-like techniques or those who play the Omni Bass. The smooth flatwound surface is also beneficial for players who prioritise physical comfort and 'flair' in their technique.
Comparison to Alternatives
Within the wider market of bowed and plucked strings, the NS Electric High C is highly specialised compared to traditional orchestral strings. While brands like Larsen offer dedicated cello strings (such as the Larsen Cello D) and Thomastik-Infeld produces the Spirocore series for viola, these are typically intended for acoustic instruments.
Unlike standard electric bass strings, such as the Ernie Ball Slinky series which often features a roundwound construction, the D'Addario NS series utilizes a polished flatwound finish. This provides a distinctively smoother feel and a more controlled harmonic profile than nickel-wound or M-Steel alternatives.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary purpose of the High C string?
- It is designed to extend the upper register of an electric bass or bass cello, allowing for more melodic and soloistic playing while maintaining a rich bass tone.
- Who designed this string series?
- The string was created through a partnership between D'Addario and renowned instrument designer Ned Steinberger.
- What is the scale length of this string?
- This string is designed to fit instruments with a standard scale length of 34 to 35 inches.
- Can this string be used on a standard electric bass guitar?
- Yes, it is designed to fit all standard 34-35 inch scale bass guitars in addition to the NS Design Omni Bass.
- What is the finish of the string?
- It features a polished flatwound finish, which provides a smooth feel and reduces finger noise during play.
- Is this string suitable for professional use?
- Yes, D'Addario recommends this string for both professional and intermediate players due to its high-quality construction and tonal range.
- What instrument is the Omni Bass?
- The NS Design Omni Bass is a specialized electric instrument also known as a 'bass cello' that can be played like a bass or a cello.
- How does the sound differ from a roundwound string?
- The polished flatwound finish generally provides a smoother, warmer sound with more focus on the fundamental, whereas roundwounds are typically brighter.
- What size instrument is this string meant for?
- This specific model is designed for 4/4 size instruments.
- What is the typical price for this single string?
- The typical price range for this D'Addario NS Electric string is approximately £24.
- Does this string provide a clear high end?
- Yes, it is engineered to produce a crystal clear upper register to complement its rich bass tones.
- Is this string available for different sizes?
- While this specific model is for 4/4 size, other strings in D'Addario's range, like the Helicore or Zyex series, cater to smaller sizes like 1/4 or 1/2.