Overview
The “traditional” version of the NS double bass is set up to satisfy the needs of the experienced upright bassist. The standard 106 cm acoustic upright scale length is preserved to insure that fingering and string tension will be consistent with acoustic instruments. While the neck shape is traditional, the small body allows unrestricted access to the upper register of the fingerboard. A small brass button on the back of the neck provides a tactile reference for the traditional “D neck” position. Dot markers provide a subtle but effective intonation reference.
NS Electric Traditional Double Bass Strings by D’Addario™, specially designed for NS basses, are standard on both 4 and 5 string CR-T models. These deliver a classic upright tone, warm and percussive, with a great response to the bow. The bridge is raised to lift the strings above the fingerboard for action typical of the acoustic upright. Higher string tension and action make it possible to “dig in” like on an acoustic, with reserves of rich sound that can be eased back for a traditional tone, or brought forward for exciting new sounds.
The CR-T neck and body are made from select maple. The full scale fingerboard is graduated for consistent response from note to note, with adjustable relief and bridge height to suit all playing styles. Our Polar™ Bridge Pickup System combines great sound with directional sensitivity, for a rich and expressive response to arco and pizzicato technique.
An End Pin Stand is standard equipment with the CR-T series. The fully adjustable mono-pod design allows the player to set the instrument in a position like that of an acoustic double bass. The point where the end pin touches the floor can be easily adjusted so that the weight of the instrument is centered over the tip. This balances the instrument leaving both hands free for expressive play. The End Pin Stand Conversion Kit attaches to the optional CR Tripod Stand to hold the instrument upright for on-stand performance or when not in use.
Features & Highlights
MAPLE BODY AND NECK: The body and neck of the CR-T Series double bass are crafted of solid European hard maple, with a flame maple face. The neck has a traditional upright shape, but with extended access to the upper register of the fingerboard. The solid-body design enhances sustain and clarity, and is resistant to the effects of temperature change and humidity.
FINGERBOARD: The fingerboard is expertly graduated with an asymmetric profile to insure that each note is even and buzz free. An adjustable truss rod allows for precise relief adjustment for different strings and playing style. A cascading dot pattern across the neck provides an accurate reference for position.
BRIDGE PICKUP: The Polar directional piezo pickup system responds selectively to either vertical vibration (for the sustained plucked sound, like an electric bass guitar), or lateral vibration (for dynamic bowing, and a percussive plucked sound).
ACTIVE EQ AND MIXER: Controls include volume, a blend control for piezo pickups, the mode of the Polar pickup direction, and individual treble EQ & bass EQ controls. The 18-volt power supply insures plenty of reserve overhead for full dynamics.
ADJUSTABLE BRIDGE: Two screws in the back of the body are used to adjust the bridge up and down. This allows the instrument to be set up to meet the requirements of many different playing styles.
SUPPORT SYSTEMS: Several interchangeable support systems are available for the bass: the CR Tripod Stand, the more conventional (standard issued) Bass End Pin Stand with optional Conversion Kit, or full mobility the Boomerang™ Strap System or the Frame Strap System.
GIG BAG AND FLIGHT CASE: The CR-T double bass includes a padded gig bag that has a pouch for the End Pin Stand and room for accessories. The loaded gig bag will fit in the overhead compartment of most commercial aircraft. An optional hard-shell flight case is available for the CR-T double bass.
Specifications
LENGTH: 132 cm (52″)
WEIGHT: 4.8 kg (10.5 lbs.); with stand & gig bag 8.2 kg (18 lbs.)
SCALE LENGTH: 106 cm (41.73″)
STRINGS: 4 or 5 (Low B or high C)
CONSTRUCTION: Solid rock maple body and neck, with a flame maple face. The neck has a traditional profile. A small brass pin on the back of the neck indicates thumb position.
FINISH: Traditional amber stain with clear semi-gloss polymer coating. Custom finish options are available for the CR-T Double Bass including Slate Gray, Quilted Maple, Poplar Burl and Zebrawood. Click here to see examples of these Custom CR Series finishes.
FINGERBOARD: Hand graduated, asymmetric relief, cascading dot pattern for position reference; 43.1mm (1.7″) wide at nut; 89.0mm (3.5″) max. width.
BRIDGE: Hard maple; radius 7.9cm (3.1″) string spacing 81mm (3.19″).
NUT: Radius 7.9cm (3.1″); string spacing 30mm (1.19″).
BRIDGE PICKUP: The Polar directional piezo pickup system responds selectively to either vertical vibration (for the sustained plucked sound, like an electric bass guitar), or lateral vibration (for dynamic bowing, and a percussive plucked sound).
ELECTRONICS: 18-volt active circuit by EMG. Mono output.
CONTROLS: (top to bottom)
Volume
Balance – counterclockwise for optimal pizzicato (plucked, sustained) sound, clockwise for optimal arco (bowed and percussive plucked) sound, center for both
Treble – boost and cut
Bass – boost and cut
TRUSS ROD: Powerful truss rod allows positive relief to provide optimal action.
TUNING MACHINES: Premium grade worm gear tuners; black finish.
STRINGS: Equipped with NS Traditional Bass Strings by D’Addario. Compatible with most standard upright bass strings.
Performance Support Systems
BASS END PIN STAND: The Bass End Pin Stand offers full freedom of movement. Height, tilt and “right bout” angle are fully adjustable providing a more conventional feel. Weight 2.3 kg (5 lbs).
CR TRIPOD STAND: Optional, a fully adjustable steel tripod stand is available for the CRT Series double bass. Weight is 3.6kg (8 lbs.).
BASS END PIN STAND CONVERSION KIT: To hold the instrument upright for on-stand performance or when not in use, the Bass End Pin Stand can be attached to the CR Tripod Stand (not compatible with the NXT Tripod Stand) using the optional End Pin Stand Conversion Kit.
BOOMERANG STRAP SYSTEM: This optional support system has a pivoting friction hub that holds the instrument firmly in place close to the body. Attached with a guitar style strap to its two support arms, the system allows the instrument to be moved into virtually any position in relation to the hands and body as it is played. Weight is .45 kg (1 lbs.).
FRAME STRAP SYSTEM: This optional accessory is a lightweight frame structure that allows full mobility to perform in standing or upright position, holding the instrument out from the body similar to the reference in traditional positioning. The system is supported by a single guitar style strap extending over the left shoulder. Weight is 0.68kg (1.5 lbs.).
