What is the primary advantage of the WAV5 over an acoustic cello?

The primary advantage is the elimination of acoustic feedback and 'wolf tones' when playing at high volumes. The solid-body design allows for clear amplification in live settings where a microphone would be impractical.

Does the NS Design WAV5 require batteries?

No, the WAV5 uses a passive electronic system. This means it does not require a battery to operate, ensuring the instrument is always ready to play without the risk of power failure during a performance.

What is the purpose of the fifth string?

The fifth string expands the tonal range of the cello. It is commonly tuned to a low F or a high E, allowing the cellist to reach notes that are outside the standard range of a four-string instrument.

Can I play the WAV5 while standing up?

Yes, the design is highly flexible and supports both seated and standing positions. Various mounting systems from NS Design allow the player to move freely on stage while maintaining proper playing posture.

What is the Polar pickup system?

The Polar pickup is a proprietary directional piezo system. It allows the player to switch between modes that are specifically EQ'd for bowing (Arco) or plucking (Pizzicato) to ensure the best possible response for each technique.

Is the bridge on the WAV5 adjustable?

Yes, the WAV5 features a fully adjustable bridge. This allows the player to raise or lower the string height to achieve their preferred action and playability.

What kind of maintenance does the neck require?

The neck contains a two-way adjustable truss rod. This allows for periodic adjustments to the neck's curvature to compensate for changes in humidity or string tension, ensuring consistent playability.

What finish is available for this model?

This specific model features a Transparent Black finish. This allows the grain of the wood to be visible through the dark tint, providing a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Can I use standard cello bows with the WAV5?

Yes, the WAV5 is compatible with standard cello bows. Players can use traditional wood bows like the Gewa Jaeger or modern alternatives like the Coruss Carbon Bow.

Does the WAV5 include onboard volume and tone controls?

Yes, it features passive controls for volume and tone. These allow the player to make quick adjustments to their sound directly from the instrument without needing to reach for an amplifier.

How does the weight compare to a traditional cello?

The WAV5 is significantly lighter and more compact than a traditional acoustic cello. Its streamlined body design makes it easier to transport and less fatiguing to hold during long performances.

Which rosin is recommended for use with this instrument?

Standard cello rosins, such as Pirastro Cellisto, are perfectly suitable. The choice of rosin depends more on the player's preference for bow grip and string response than the instrument itself.

Gear article

NS Design WAV5 Electric Cello

The NS Design WAV5 is a professional-grade five-string electric cello designed by Ned Steinberger to provide amplified performance without the feedback issues common to acoustic instruments. It features a lightweight, ergonomic design and the proprietary Polar pickup system, allowing for seamless transitions between bowed and plucked playing styles.

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Overview

The NS Design WAV5 Electric Cello, finished in Transparent Black, represents a modern evolution of the traditional cello. It is engineered to provide cellists with a versatile instrument that excels in amplified environments. Unlike traditional hollow-body instruments, the WAV5 utilizes a solid-body construction that eliminates 'wolf tones' and acoustic feedback, making it ideal for high-volume stage performances or studio recording.

Design and Ergonomics

One of the defining characteristics of the WAV5 is its physical versatility. The instrument is designed to be lightweight, supporting a full range of motion that traditional cellos cannot accommodate. It can be configured for both seated and standing performance styles through various stand and strap systems. The neck features a two-way adjustable truss rod, allowing players to fine-tune the action and relief to their specific preferences, while the fully adjustable bridge permits customisation of string height.

The Polar Pickup System

At the heart of the WAV5's electronics is the Polar pickup system. This specialized piezo technology is directional, enabling it to respond differently based on the vibration of the strings. The system includes a switch that optimizes the output for either 'Arco' (bowed) or 'Pizzicato' (plucked) techniques. In the Arco setting, the pickup focuses on the lateral string movement for a smooth, traditional tone; in the Pizzicato setting, it captures the vertical attack for a punchy, percussive sound with sustained decay.

Sound Character

The WAV5 is designed to deliver the fundamental tonal quality of an acoustic cello but with significantly more clarity and projection when amplified. The fifth string (typically a low F or high E) expands the melodic range of the instrument. Because the electronics are passive, the signal is clean and does not require batteries, though many players choose to pair it with an external preamp or effects pedals to further shape the transparent, modern sound.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to entry-level electric cellos like the Stentor Harlequin or Gear4music Student series, the NS Design WAV5 offers a more sophisticated pickup system and professional-grade hardware. While student models like the Stentor Messina focus on mimicking the traditional acoustic feel, the WAV5 prioritises portability and feedback rejection. It sits as a mid-to-high-tier option, offering more tonal flexibility than standard four-string electric cellos due to its additional fifth string.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary advantage of the WAV5 over an acoustic cello?: The primary advantage is the elimination of acoustic feedback and 'wolf tones' when playing at high volumes. The solid-body design allows for clear amplification in live settings where a microphone would be impractical.
Does the NS Design WAV5 require batteries?: No, the WAV5 uses a passive electronic system. This means it does not require a battery to operate, ensuring the instrument is always ready to play without the risk of power failure during a performance.
What is the purpose of the fifth string?: The fifth string expands the tonal range of the cello. It is commonly tuned to a low F or a high E, allowing the cellist to reach notes that are outside the standard range of a four-string instrument.
Can I play the WAV5 while standing up?: Yes, the design is highly flexible and supports both seated and standing positions. Various mounting systems from NS Design allow the player to move freely on stage while maintaining proper playing posture.
What is the Polar pickup system?: The Polar pickup is a proprietary directional piezo system. It allows the player to switch between modes that are specifically EQ'd for bowing (Arco) or plucking (Pizzicato) to ensure the best possible response for each technique.
Is the bridge on the WAV5 adjustable?: Yes, the WAV5 features a fully adjustable bridge. This allows the player to raise or lower the string height to achieve their preferred action and playability.
What kind of maintenance does the neck require?: The neck contains a two-way adjustable truss rod. This allows for periodic adjustments to the neck's curvature to compensate for changes in humidity or string tension, ensuring consistent playability.
What finish is available for this model?: This specific model features a Transparent Black finish. This allows the grain of the wood to be visible through the dark tint, providing a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Can I use standard cello bows with the WAV5?: Yes, the WAV5 is compatible with standard cello bows. Players can use traditional wood bows like the Gewa Jaeger or modern alternatives like the Coruss Carbon Bow.
Does the WAV5 include onboard volume and tone controls?: Yes, it features passive controls for volume and tone. These allow the player to make quick adjustments to their sound directly from the instrument without needing to reach for an amplifier.
How does the weight compare to a traditional cello?: The WAV5 is significantly lighter and more compact than a traditional acoustic cello. Its streamlined body design makes it easier to transport and less fatiguing to hold during long performances.
Which rosin is recommended for use with this instrument?: Standard cello rosins, such as Pirastro Cellisto, are perfectly suitable. The choice of rosin depends more on the player's preference for bow grip and string response than the instrument itself.