What is the primary purpose of the D'Addario NS Electric Contemporary D String?

It is designed specifically for electric double basses, particularly NS Design instruments, to provide a balanced tone and lower tension than traditional strings.

Who designed these strings?

The strings were designed through a partnership between D'Addario and Ned Steinberger, the founder of NS Design.

What size instrument does this string fit?

This specific D string is intended for 3/4 scale double basses.

What is the tension rating for this model?

This model features a Light tension rating, which is designed to reduce player fatigue and improve responsiveness.

Can these strings be used with a bow?

Yes, they are specifically designed to be responsive to a bow, making them suitable for arco playing in addition to pizzicato.

How would you describe the tone of the Contemporary series?

The tone is described as bright yet warm, offering a modern sound with a wide expressive range.

Why is lower tension beneficial for bassists?

Lower tension makes the string easier to press and manipulate, which is ideal for long performances and reduces the physical strain on the hands.

Are these strings compatible with acoustic double basses?

While they share dimensions with 3/4 strings, they are optimized for electric instruments; their performance on an acoustic bass may lack the necessary tension to drive a wooden soundboard.

What makes the Contemporary version different from traditional bass strings?

The Contemporary version focuses on a bright, clear electric response and lower physical tension, whereas traditional strings focus on acoustic projection.

What is the typical price for this D string?

In the UK market, this single D string typically retails for approximately £42.

Does D'Addario offer other strings for electric instruments?

Yes, D'Addario produces various strings for electric violins, violas, and cellos, including the Helicore and Zyex lines.

Is this string sold as a set or individually?

This specific entry refers to the individual D string, though they are often available in full sets for the NS Electric series.

Gear article

D'Addario NS Electric Contemporary Double Bass D String

The D'Addario NS Electric Contemporary Double Bass D String is a specialized 3/4 scale string developed in collaboration with designer Ned Steinberger. Engineered specifically for electric upright instruments, it features a unique design that balances bright clarity with warm tonal qualities at a reduced tension.

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Background and Development

The NS Electric Contemporary series is the result of a strategic partnership between D'Addario and Ned Steinberger, the visionary behind NS Design. Unlike traditional double bass strings designed for acoustic resonance, these strings were purpose-built to address the specific electronic and physical requirements of electric upright basses (EUBs). By focusing on the unique magnetic and piezo pickup systems found on these instruments, D'Addario created a string that optimises the output of electric basses while maintaining the feel of a classical instrument.

Technical Features and Design

This D string is constructed for 3/4 scale instruments and is designated as a 'Light' tension string. This reduced tension is a critical design choice, intended to make the instrument more physically accessible during extended performances. The construction allows for a highly responsive feel, which is particularly beneficial when using a bow (arco). The design ensures that the string can be easily manipulated for expressive vibrato and shifting without the heavy physical resistance associated with high-tension orchestral strings.

Tonal Profile

The Contemporary series is voiced to provide a modern, versatile sound. It is characterized by a bright attack that ensures note definition in a mix, while retaining enough warmth to avoid the sterile quality often associated with early electric string designs. This balance allows the player to access a broad expressive range, making it suitable for genres ranging from jazz to contemporary classical where clarity and sustain are paramount.

Target User and Compatibility

These strings are specifically tailored for owners of NS Design instruments, such as the CR, NXTa, and WAV series. While they are suited for any player looking for a lower tension setup, they are particularly ideal for professional musicians playing 'long gigs' where finger fatigue is a concern. The enhanced responsiveness to bowing also makes them a strong choice for cross-genre performers who switch frequently between pizzicato and arco techniques.

Comparison to Traditional Alternatives

Compared to standard double bass strings, the NS Electric Contemporary D string offers a distinct feel. Traditional strings, such as the Thomastik Spirocore or D'Addario Helicore series, often carry higher tension to drive an acoustic soundboard. In contrast, this string relies on its design to interact with pickups, allowing for the lower tension that improves playability without sacrificing the 'growl' and character expected from a double bass.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the D'Addario NS Electric Contemporary D String?: It is designed specifically for electric double basses, particularly NS Design instruments, to provide a balanced tone and lower tension than traditional strings.
Who designed these strings?: The strings were designed through a partnership between D'Addario and Ned Steinberger, the founder of NS Design.
What size instrument does this string fit?: This specific D string is intended for 3/4 scale double basses.
What is the tension rating for this model?: This model features a Light tension rating, which is designed to reduce player fatigue and improve responsiveness.
Can these strings be used with a bow?: Yes, they are specifically designed to be responsive to a bow, making them suitable for arco playing in addition to pizzicato.
How would you describe the tone of the Contemporary series?: The tone is described as bright yet warm, offering a modern sound with a wide expressive range.
Why is lower tension beneficial for bassists?: Lower tension makes the string easier to press and manipulate, which is ideal for long performances and reduces the physical strain on the hands.
Are these strings compatible with acoustic double basses?: While they share dimensions with 3/4 strings, they are optimized for electric instruments; their performance on an acoustic bass may lack the necessary tension to drive a wooden soundboard.
What makes the Contemporary version different from traditional bass strings?: The Contemporary version focuses on a bright, clear electric response and lower physical tension, whereas traditional strings focus on acoustic projection.
What is the typical price for this D string?: In the UK market, this single D string typically retails for approximately £42.
Does D'Addario offer other strings for electric instruments?: Yes, D'Addario produces various strings for electric violins, violas, and cellos, including the Helicore and Zyex lines.
Is this string sold as a set or individually?: This specific entry refers to the individual D string, though they are often available in full sets for the NS Electric series.