What size bass is this E string designed for?

This string is designed for 3/4 scale instruments, which is the standard size for the majority of adult double bass players and electric upright basses.

Can this string be used with a bow?

Yes, the NS Electric Traditional series is specifically designed with a surface and tension that provides fantastic bow response for arco playing.

Who designed these strings?

These strings were designed in a partnership between the manufacturer D'Addario and the instrument designer Ned Steinberger.

What is the tension rating of this string?

This specific E string features a medium tension, intended to provide a bold sound while remaining easy to play for both pizzicato and arco styles.

How does the 'Traditional' version differ from the 'Contemporary' version?

The Traditional version is designed to feel and sound like an acoustic bass string with a warmer tone, whereas Contemporary versions typically offer a brighter, more modern sound.

Is this string suitable for standard acoustic double basses?

While designed for NS Electric instruments, they follow acoustic construction principles; however, players should ensure the length and tension are appropriate for their specific acoustic bridge and tailpiece setup.

What is the typical price for this single E string?

The typical price range for this specific D'Addario NS Electric Traditional E string is approximately GBP 56.

What tone should I expect from this string?

You should expect a warm tone that mimics the resonant, woody character of a traditional acoustic double bass.

Are these strings sold as a set or individually?

This specific product entry refers to the single E string (4th string), though they are also available in full four-string sets.

Does the string work well for jazz pizzicato?

Yes, the medium tension and traditional feel are designed to respond well to pizzicato, providing the 'thump' and sustain required for jazz styles.

What makes these 'Electric' strings if they feel like acoustic ones?

They are 'Electric' because they are optimised for the scale lengths and pickup responses of electric upright basses, specifically those in the NS Design range.

Is the D'Addario NS Electric Traditional string available for other instruments?

D'Addario produces various strings for different instruments like the Zyex violin or Helicore series, but the NS Electric Traditional series is dedicated to the electric upright bass.

Gear article

D'Addario NS Electric Traditional Double Bass E String

The D'Addario NS Electric Traditional Double Bass E string is a professional-grade single string designed in collaboration with Ned Steinberger for 3/4 scale electric upright basses. It is engineered to bridge the gap between electric convenience and acoustic performance, offering a medium-tension response suitable for both bowing and fingerstyle techniques.

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Overview and Development

The D'Addario NS Electric Traditional series represents a specific design philosophy aimed at electric upright bass (EUB) players who require the tactile feedback of a standard acoustic instrument. Developed in partnership with renowned instrument designer Ned Steinberger, these strings are specifically optimised for NS Design instruments but follow the dimensional standards of 3/4 size double basses.

Unlike standard electric bass guitar strings, these are constructed to accommodate the unique requirements of the EUB, where the bridge curvature and pickup systems demand a specific tension profile to accurately replicate the mechanics of an acoustic bass.

Key Features and Playability

The primary objective of the NS Electric Traditional E string is to provide a 'traditional' feel. The medium tension is calibrated to offer a bold, projecting sound without becoming overly stiff or difficult to manipulate.

Key design elements include: * Acoustic Feel: The string diameter and surface texture are designed to mimic the physical sensation of traditional upright strings. * Versatility: The construction facilitates both pizzicato (plucking) and arco (bowing) techniques, ensuring that the bow catches the string effectively for a clear sustained note. * Tension Balance: The medium tension provides enough resistance for a powerful low-end foundation while remaining accessible for complex fingerboard work.

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Tonal Character

The 'Traditional' designation in this D'Addario series refers to its warm, organic tonal profile. While many electric strings can sound overly bright or metallic, the NS Electric Traditional E string is voiced to produce a rich, resonant low end with a clear fundamental. This warmth is particularly beneficial when using piezo pickup systems, as it helps to tame high-frequency 'clatter' and produces a sound that sits naturally in jazz, classical, or folk ensembles.

Compatibility and Alternatives

While these strings are the factory standard for NS Design instruments, they are compatible with other 3/4 scale electric upright basses that require traditional string lengths. Within the D'Addario catalogue, they serve as a more organic alternative to the standard NS Electric Contemporary set, which is voiced for a brighter, more modern sound.

When compared to other specialised strings like the D'Addario Helicore or Zyex series, the NS Traditional is more specifically tailored to the electronic output of an EUB, though it retains the physical 'thump' associated with acoustic orchestral or jazz strings.

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Frequently asked questions

What size bass is this E string designed for?: This string is designed for 3/4 scale instruments, which is the standard size for the majority of adult double bass players and electric upright basses.
Can this string be used with a bow?: Yes, the NS Electric Traditional series is specifically designed with a surface and tension that provides fantastic bow response for arco playing.
Who designed these strings?: These strings were designed in a partnership between the manufacturer D'Addario and the instrument designer Ned Steinberger.
What is the tension rating of this string?: This specific E string features a medium tension, intended to provide a bold sound while remaining easy to play for both pizzicato and arco styles.
How does the 'Traditional' version differ from the 'Contemporary' version?: The Traditional version is designed to feel and sound like an acoustic bass string with a warmer tone, whereas Contemporary versions typically offer a brighter, more modern sound.
Is this string suitable for standard acoustic double basses?: While designed for NS Electric instruments, they follow acoustic construction principles; however, players should ensure the length and tension are appropriate for their specific acoustic bridge and tailpiece setup.
What is the typical price for this single E string?: The typical price range for this specific D'Addario NS Electric Traditional E string is approximately GBP 56.
What tone should I expect from this string?: You should expect a warm tone that mimics the resonant, woody character of a traditional acoustic double bass.
Are these strings sold as a set or individually?: This specific product entry refers to the single E string (4th string), though they are also available in full four-string sets.
Does the string work well for jazz pizzicato?: Yes, the medium tension and traditional feel are designed to respond well to pizzicato, providing the 'thump' and sustain required for jazz styles.
What makes these 'Electric' strings if they feel like acoustic ones?: They are 'Electric' because they are optimised for the scale lengths and pickup responses of electric upright basses, specifically those in the NS Design range.
Is the D'Addario NS Electric Traditional string available for other instruments?: D'Addario produces various strings for different instruments like the Zyex violin or Helicore series, but the NS Electric Traditional series is dedicated to the electric upright bass.