What is the weight of the NS Design WAV4 Electric Cello?

The instrument is exceptionally lightweight, weighing only 2kg. This makes it significantly easier to transport and hold compared to traditional acoustic cellos.

What pickup system does the WAV4 use?

It uses the proprietary Polar pickup system. This system is designed to provide a clean, feedback-free tone for both bowing and plucking.

Can I use standard acoustic strings on the WAV4?

Yes, the WAV4 is compatible with most standard acoustic cello strings. It is also designed to work optimally with NS Electric strings.

Is the bridge height adjustable on this model?

Yes, the WAV4 features a customisable bridge height. This allows the player to adjust the string action to their personal comfort level.

Does the WAV4 have a truss rod?

Yes, it includes a customisable truss rod. This allows for precise adjustments to the neck relief and fingerboard playability.

Is the WAV4 suitable for use with effects pedals?

Yes, its clean, feedback-free output makes it ideal for looping and effects processing. It handles amplification much more reliably than a mic'd acoustic instrument.

Can I play the WAV4 while standing?

Yes, the instrument supports various optional mounting systems. These allow the performer to choose between traditional seated play or a standing setup.

What finish is available for this specific model?

This specific model features the Amberburst finish. It highlights the grain of the wood while providing a professional, classic appearance.

How does the fingerboard differ from a traditional cello?

The WAV4 features an asymmetrical fingerboard. This design choice is intended to improve ergonomic comfort and facilitate easier playability across the strings.

Is the WAV4 a full-size instrument?

While it is a professional-grade 4-string electric cello, its body is much smaller than a traditional full-size acoustic. However, it maintains the standard scale length required for professional play.

Does the WAV4 produce much sound unplugged?

As a solid-body instrument, it produces very little acoustic volume when unplugged. This makes it an excellent tool for quiet practice when used with headphones through an interface or amp.

What is the typical price for the NS Design WAV4?

The instrument typically retails for approximately £1170. This places it in the mid-range category for professional electric cellos.

Gear article

NS Design WAV4 Electric Cello Amberburst

The NS Design WAV4 Electric Cello is a lightweight, four-string performance instrument designed for amplified play and recording. It features an ergonomic, solid-body design and the proprietary Polar pickup system, providing a feedback-free experience for modern cellists.

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Background and Design

The NS Design WAV4 Electric Cello represents a streamlined approach to electric bowed instruments, developed by Ned Steinberger. The instrument departs from the traditional hollow-body acoustic design, opting for a sleek, solid-body aesthetic that prioritises portability and ergonomic comfort. At a weight of just 2kg, it is significantly lighter and more compact than a standard acoustic cello, making it a viable solution for touring musicians and studio artists who require reliable portability.

Technical Features and Adjustability

The WAV4 is engineered for customisation to suit individual player preferences. It features an asymmetrical fingerboard that assists with reach and intonation across the range. The instrument includes a fully adjustable truss rod and bridge height system, allowing performers to set the action to their specific requirements. Furthermore, while it is optimised for NS Electric strings, it is compatible with most standard acoustic cello strings, offering a high degree of control over the instrument's tactile feel and tonal response.

Electronics and Sound Character

Central to the WAV4 is the Polar pickup system. This technology is designed to capture the vibrations of the strings with high fidelity while remaining completely resistant to the feedback issues that plague acoustic instruments in high-volume environments. The system is effective for both pizzicato (plucked) and arco (bowed) techniques. Because the output is clean and consistent, the WAV4 is particularly well-suited for use with effects pedals, looping stations, and high-gain amplification.

Performance Ergonomics

NS Design has developed the WAV4 to be versatile in its physical application. Depending on the chosen support system, the instrument can be played in a traditional seated position or a standing position. This flexibility, combined with its lightweight frame, reduces physical strain during long performances or recording sessions. The Amberburst finish provides a classic aesthetic touch to its otherwise modern silhouette.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the weight of the NS Design WAV4 Electric Cello?: The instrument is exceptionally lightweight, weighing only 2kg. This makes it significantly easier to transport and hold compared to traditional acoustic cellos.
What pickup system does the WAV4 use?: It uses the proprietary Polar pickup system. This system is designed to provide a clean, feedback-free tone for both bowing and plucking.
Can I use standard acoustic strings on the WAV4?: Yes, the WAV4 is compatible with most standard acoustic cello strings. It is also designed to work optimally with NS Electric strings.
Is the bridge height adjustable on this model?: Yes, the WAV4 features a customisable bridge height. This allows the player to adjust the string action to their personal comfort level.
Does the WAV4 have a truss rod?: Yes, it includes a customisable truss rod. This allows for precise adjustments to the neck relief and fingerboard playability.
Is the WAV4 suitable for use with effects pedals?: Yes, its clean, feedback-free output makes it ideal for looping and effects processing. It handles amplification much more reliably than a mic'd acoustic instrument.
Can I play the WAV4 while standing?: Yes, the instrument supports various optional mounting systems. These allow the performer to choose between traditional seated play or a standing setup.
What finish is available for this specific model?: This specific model features the Amberburst finish. It highlights the grain of the wood while providing a professional, classic appearance.
How does the fingerboard differ from a traditional cello?: The WAV4 features an asymmetrical fingerboard. This design choice is intended to improve ergonomic comfort and facilitate easier playability across the strings.
Is the WAV4 a full-size instrument?: While it is a professional-grade 4-string electric cello, its body is much smaller than a traditional full-size acoustic. However, it maintains the standard scale length required for professional play.
Does the WAV4 produce much sound unplugged?: As a solid-body instrument, it produces very little acoustic volume when unplugged. This makes it an excellent tool for quiet practice when used with headphones through an interface or amp.
What is the typical price for the NS Design WAV4?: The instrument typically retails for approximately £1170. This places it in the mid-range category for professional electric cellos.