THE NXT ELECTRIC VIOLA

Designed to meet the demands of studio, stage, and other challenging performance environments, the NXT4 frees the violist from the limitations of an amplified acoustic viola. Based around a comfortable 16" viola string scale, key features of this instrument include the self-powered Polar™ Pickup System, patented precision tuning system, sleek, ergonomic design, and comparatively light weight. Available with either a flame maple Sunburst or Satin Black finish, the NXT features a maple body, the comfortable Custom Shoulder Rest, and an adjustable-height bridge. Most important, the NXT4 Viola offers artists exceptional amplified and recorded performance quality, and extraordinary freedom of expression. Click here for the new NXTa Active Series Viola.

The NXT's Polar pickup system is driven directly by the vibration of the strings, enabling it to produce a full spectrum of sound with power and clarity. (By contrast, an acoustic viola's amplified performance is heavily dependent upon the resonant capabilities of the body of the instrument.) The NXT set up with F-C-G-D, Octave, or even G-D-A-E strings, delivers the entire range with full richness of tone. A convenient switch beside the volume and tone controls allows selection between heightened arco and pizzicato pickup sensitivity, expanding the tonal palette even further, virtually free of wolf tones.

The Custom Shoulder Rest features a foam-padded malleable aluminum base, which the player can bend and mold to the surface to the chest and shoulder. A wide range of height and angle adjustments can be made while the instrument is in playing position. The ergonomically contoured ebony chin rest is designed to work in tandem with the Custom Shoulder Rest for control, comfort and security. The optional Adjustable Chin Rest is also available for players wanting a more extensive range of position adjustments for more customized fit and comfort. The NXT also accepts NS Design's revolutionary Balanced Shoulder Rest, which "floats" the instrument in the desired playing position.

As adaptable as it is powerful, the NXT adjusts easily to any violist's personal style and preferences. With a visual profile as striking as its sound, the affordable, road-ready NXT viola brings represents world-class design and craftsmanship. For the player looking for more when it comes to creative expression and exploration, the NXT is an exciting professional partner.

Specifications

LENGTH: 585 MM (23")

WIDTH: 117 MM (4.6")

THICKNESS: 49 MM (1.92")

WEIGHT: 650g

SCALE LENGTH: 366 MM (14.4")

BODY/NECK: Solid, straight grain maple, with maple face (Black model) or flame maple face (Sunburst model) on body.

BODY REFERENCE BOUT: Black-dyed maple bout on treble side provides standard viola reference. Easily removable for unrestricted fingerboard access.

FINGERBOARD: Hand-graduated, featuring asymmetric curvature specially designed for enhanced left-hand playing ease.

BRIDGE: Black-dyed maple, adjustable for preferred string height via screws accessed from the back.

STRINGS: NS Electric Strings by D'Addario™ are standard.  Compatible with solid and stranded core viola strings.  Synthetic core strings are not recommended.

PRECISION TUNING HARDWARE: NS Design patented tuning system. Fine tuners are mounted on the body behind the bridge for precise, stable tuning. Automatic string clamping allows for quick, easy string changes.

BRIDGE PICKUP: The Polar directional piezo pickup system responds selectively to either vertical vibration  (for remarkably even and sustained plucked/pizzicato sound, like a mandolin), or lateral vibration (for dynamic bowing, and a percussive plucked sound).

ELECTRONICS & CONTROLS: Self-powered circuit with high impedance output. Volume control and Tone control (treble roll off).

PERFORMANCE SUPPORT SYSTEMS

SHOULDER AND CHIN REST OPTIONS: The Custom Shoulder Rest is a standard with the NXT Viola and can be formed by the player to fit the body perfectly.  As an option, the violin can also attach to NS Design's revolutionary Balanced Shoulder Rest, which “floats” the instrument in the desired playing position without being “clamped” between the jaw and the shoulder.

The contoured ebony chin rest supplied with the instrument is designed to work comfortably in tandem with the Custom Shoulder Rest. The optional Adjustable Chin Rest is also available for players wanting a more extensive range of position adjustments for more customized fit and comfort.

TRANSPORT

NS VIOLA CASE: Customized for the NS Viola, this standard hardshell case with handle and shoulder strap includes separate compartments for shoulder rest and accessories, a bow compartment and exterior zipper pouch.  Made with durable Cordura® fabric, 3.2 kg (7 lb) loaded weight.

VIOLA & VIOLIN FLIGHT CASE (optional): Aluminum edged plywood. Outside Dimensions: 88 cm (34.5″) long; 28 cm (11.5″) wide; 20 cm (7.75″) high. Inside Dimensions (from foam edge to foam edge) : 32.25″ long; 9.95″ wide; 5.5″ height (including top cover recess).  Loaded weight is approximately 13 kg (30 lbs.).

Featured Technology The Polar™ Pickup System

As a player, you may not think about the direction your strings are vibrating, or even be aware that string vibrations on a musical instrument are polarized in relation to the fingerboard and the motion of the plectrum and bow. Yet direction is one of the most significant factors influencing the tone and response of a stringed instrument. In fact, instruments from the violin family are different from the lute or guitar in large part due to the effects of string polarization.

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Support Systems Custom Shoulder Rest

Getting comfortable with your violin is an important for successful practice and performance. The instrument is cradled intimately against the body,

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Support Systems Adjustable Chin Rest

Optimal chin rest position is crucial for player comfort. Full adjustment allows each player to customize the chin rest to fit vastly different body shapes and playing styles. Using the hand to overcome the friction allows the player to instantly adjust the chin rest angle as desired.

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Support Systems Balanced Shoulder Rest

The Balanced Shoulder Rest liberates violinists from the limitations of holding the violin. It uses the physics of a simple lever to counterbalance the weight of the instrument. A flexible, weighted aluminum arm wraps gently around the upper torso, lightly but securely spreading the load over the shoulder, chest, and upper back.

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