Overview
Note: NXT series instruments have been replaced by the NXTa Active Series with dual-mode pickup. Read about the NXTa Omni Bass here.
The NXT series Omni Bass, with the familiar 34 inch bass guitar scale, is designed for the bass guitarist interested in adding the character and expressiveness of an acoustic upright bass, or the NS electric upright, to their performance palette. Available in four and five string configurations, with either Satin Black or Sunburst finish, these well-priced instruments are produced in the Czech Republic with the same meticulous care as NS Design’s renowned CR Series Omni Bass. Click here for the original NXT Series Omni Bass.
Features & Highlights
The Polar™ Bridge Pickup System combines great sound with directional sensitivity, for a rich and expressive response to Arco and Pizzicato technique. The Omni Bass responds to the bow with a natural and expressive voice, combining powerful bass resonance with brilliant harmonics. The strings are easily driven, making it possible for bassists with little bowing experience to add this beautiful dimension to their music.
The 34″ scale length of the Omni Bass is the same as standard electric bass, and is available in 4 and 5 string versions. Tuned in fourths (EADGC or BEADG), the fingering positions and spacing are identical to the bass guitar, and therefore immediately familiar to any bass player.
The fingerboard also features the TransRadius™ profile. For a left-hand feel which is familiar to the experienced bass guitarist, the radius at the nut is 9-1/4 inches. At the end of the fingerboard near the bridge, however, the radius is just 2 inches, large enough to maintain good string-to-string articulation with the bow, yet still comfortable for pizzicato (plucked/picked) style. The asymmetrical fingerboard relief facilitates an even ‘growl’ from the higher strings and a clear, powerful lower register.
The solid maple body and neck, together with the graduated fingerboard, deliver a rich, full tone that rings true for every note. The adjustable bridge and truss rod allow for low, fast action, or for higher string settings that encourage the traditional acoustic player to ‘dig in’ with gusto. NS Electric Omni Bass Strings and standard bass guitar strings fit the Omni Bass, adding unlimited set up options for musicians who want to explore and create their own unique sound.
Specifications
LENGTH: 113 cm (44″)
WIDTH: 15 cm (5.7″)
THICKNESS: 10 cm (4″)
WEIGHT: 3.2 kg (7 lbs.)
SCALE LENGTH: 86 cm (34″)
STRING TUNINGS: 4 string E,A,D,G; 5 string B,E,A,D,G or E,A,D,G,C.
STRINGS: NS Omni Bass strings by D’Addario™. The Omni Bass also accommodates most long scale bass guitar strings.
BODY/NECK: Solid, straight grain maple, with maple face (Satin Black model) or flame maple face (Sunburst model) on body.
FINGERBOARD: Hand-graduated, asymmetric. Intonation referenced with cascading dot markers & side dots. The 34″ scale length of the Omni Bass is the same as standard electric bass.
TransRadius PROFILE: The fingerboard radius at the nut is 9-1/4 inches. At the end of the fingerboard near the bridge, the radius is 2 inches.
TRUSS ROD: Single Action, accessible at nut.
TUNING HARDWARE: Fully encased worm gear tuners, black finish.
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 & CONTROLS: Passive circuit with high impedance output, no batteries required. Volume control, tone control (treble roll off) and a switch to change between arco and pizz. mode.
Performance Support Systems
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.).
NXT TRIPOD STAND: Standard with the NXTa, black painted steel, fully adjustable, self-standing tripod design. Folds for easy storage and fits into the NXT gig bag. Weight is 2.7 kg (6 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: 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).
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.
