The Flagship of NS Design's European Fleet
The EU Series Double Bass is made in the Czech Republic to the exact same specifications as the original US Series instruments. Its revolutionary design is molded with concentric laminations of graphite and rock maple that run the entire length of the instrument for maximum sonic & structural integrity. The back of the neck is curved inward to follow the arch of the graphite fingerboard, resulting in a slim, easy to play neck with full access to the upper register.
The Polar™ Pickup System, with its ability to respond to lateral and vertical vibration separately, or both at once, is uniquely suited to an instrument that is both bowed and plucked. A fabulous bowed response and drum-like pizzicato attack are characteristic of the lateral mode, while the sustained pizzicato response of the vertical mode creates a new dimension for the upright bass.
Magnetic pickups by EMG add the ability to add a more contemporary "electric" option to the tonal pallet and with an active 2-band EQ and full control of pickup selection and blend, the sonic options are virtually unlimited.
The EU Series Double Bass - available in 5 and 6 string versions - is truly in a class of its own, offering the upright bassist unparalleled performance and tonal quality.
Maple/Graphite Laminate
The body and neck of the EU Series instruments employ a unique laminating process combining 27 alternate thin layers of maple (for the feel and warmth of wood), and graphite fibres (for brilliance, consistent sustain and stability) adhered in an epoxy matrix. The entire back of the instrument is curved forward to follow the curve of the front surface, forming a single continuous structure... The result: remarkable strength & tonal brilliance.
Concentric Neck, Body & Peghead
The back of the neck is curved inward to follow the arch of the fingerboard; this concave shape creates a broad recess for the thumb and keeps neck thickness under 25mm (1") allowing a fast feel for its entire length and ensuring structural integrity from neck to body.
CUSTOM WOODS & FINISHES
Available as standard with a sumptuous amber stain flame maple face, EU Series instruments are also available to special order with a choice of alternative exotic wood tops or a striking Slate Grey flame finish.
QUILTED MAPLE
POPLAR BURL
ZEBRAWOOD
SLATE GREY
NS DESIGN / EMG™ Pickup SYSTEM
The EU Double Bass features the unique, NS designed, bridge-mounted Polar™ directional piezo pickup system, which can respond, selectively, to either lateral vibration (for dynamic bowing, and a percussive plucked sound), vertical vibration (for sustained plucked sound), or a combination of both. Set in the lateral mode, the pickup has unparalleled sensitivity in the direction of the bow; In the vertical mode, plucked notes are remarkably even and sustained. The bridge pickup can be selectively blended with the low-impedance EMG magnetic pickups, which incorporate individually adjustable coils and neodymium magnets.
Active EQ & Mixer
Controls include volume & blend controls for the magnetic and piezo pickups, as well as individual bass & treble EQ controls. The response of the Polar Pickup can also be blended between pizzicato (vertical vibration) and arco (lateral vibration) modes.
NS Design/D'Addario™ Strings
Equipped with flatwound NS610FW Contemporary Bass Strings by D'Addario, the EU Double Bass is also compatible with most standard electric or traditional acoustic upright bass strings. In combination with the easy adjustment of its basic set-up parameters, this versatile instrument is adaptable to many different musical styles.
INCLUDED Accessories
Adjustable Tripod Stand
Heavy duty steel construction; Full height and tilt adjustments allow the player to select the ideal position, seated or standing.
Padded Gig Gag
With stand compartment, bow compartment, accessory pocket, handle and adjustable shoulder strap. Loaded weight is 11.2kg (25lbs) including stand. Fits in the overhead luggage compartment of most commercial aircraft.
Optional Extras
CR End Pin Stand
Offers full freedom of movement. Height, tilt and "right bout" angle are fully adjustable providing a more conventional feel. Weight 2.3kg (5lbs).
End Pin Conversion Kit
Converts NS Tripod Stand into a support for the End Pin Stand.
Boomerang Strap System
Provides full mobility and the freedom to play in virtually any position, with instant adjustment for bow and pizzicato technique, without stress and fatigue.
Frame Strap System
A light frame structure is supported by a single guitar style strap extending over the left shoulder. This holds the bass in the correct positions for both pizz and arco styles and offers full mobility and amazing comfort.
Custom Flight Case
Aluminium edged plywood, 145cm (57") long; 25cm (10") wide; 25cm (10") high. Loaded weight is 22kg (48lbs), including stand.
