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Strings for Double Bass:
Bass String Buyer's Guides
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Strings: Choices for NS Design CR and EU Model Basses |
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Manufactured by:
Gollihur Buyer's Guide
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Choices starting at $103.00
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Shipping Cost: Starting at $0.00*
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Bass String Choices for CR and EU model NS Design Electric Upright Basses
So, you're looking for strings for your CR or EU bass... but you don't know which strings should you get for it? Well, it depends on what you're looking for out of the bass; do you want it to sound as "authentically upright" as possible, or are you embracing the "crossover" nature of the bass? D'Addario, in conjunction with NS Design, makes sets that are sized for the NS Basses; they're available in two "flavors" to accommodate different players' tastes and preferences. Here, we break down the differences to help you decide which you'll prefer.
Note also that, like the NXT and WAV4 basses, the CR and EU basses can accommodate full (¾) size upright bass strings, by feeding the strings through the holes in the bottom and threading them up around into the "keyhole" slots on the back of the bass. If you're interested in some other choices, check out our String Guide covering Choices for NS Design NXT and WAV4 Basses - any of the advice offered there will also apply to your bass - just remember that if your bass has magnetic pickups, you should limit your choice to those which are compatible with them ( ) or you'll render the magnetic pickups useless. |
| One other thing that might help improve your sound - NS Design sets up their basses with VERY low action. Too low, in my humble opinion. To get that big, warm URB sound, the strings need enough clearance to be plucked with real vigor, with the meaty side of your finger (not with the tips, electric-bass style). And the strings need enough room to "bloom" without vibrating against the fingerboard. I raised the action a little on my WAV, and that alone improved its sound quite a bit, because I could play it more like a real Upright Bass. |
By and large, most people seem to be looking for the NS Bass to be a "stand-in" for their less-portable "real" upright bass. With that in mind, here's my philosophy on the subject (and feel free to disagree): The best any Electric Upright Bass could hope to achieve: sounding like a double bass with a pickup on it. Because, let's face it - the EUB is always being played through an amp. Since the NS basses are very tightly-constructed solid-body instruments, their habits lean towards a more electric sounding bass (more sustain, more string detail, that sort of thing.) In my experience, using strings which pull the tone towards a more "old school" upright sound (decreased sustain, a more blunt attack to notes, almost a gut string-like vibe) will counter-balance the electric leanings of the bass.
D'Addario provides you with a string that does this, as well as something a bit more modern sounding, with their NS-Electric string sets. They supply the stock strings on the upper-tier NS Design basses. The details about them are below.
You can order 4-string sets directly from this page; if you need a 5-string (Low B or High C sets are in stock and available) or even a six string set for an EU6 (!) -- click the link for the strings you prefer in "related items," below, to access the full selection of NS Electric string sets.
 NS Electric "Traditional" NS610 - for a more "authentic" vibe
The Traditional Double Bass set is constructed and tensioned similarly to acoustic upright bass strings, for a warm tone, feel, and great bowed response. They are essentially similar to the Helicore Orchestra upright bass strings, but sized for the NS EUB's. These were formerly sold as the "NS.Helicore" string set, and have recently undergone a packaging and name change. If you're looking for a more traditional vibe, with a thumpier attack, quicker decay and somewhat muted sustain - these should fit the bill. 
 NS Electric "Contemporary" NSFW610 - for a modern, electric sound
D'Addario's NS Helicore Contemporary Double Bass set produces a brighter sound, and features a lower tension feel. They are similar or identical to the stock strings on the NS Design CR4M and CR5M basses. They were previously sold as the "NSFL-Flatwound Light" set and have recently undergone a packaging and name change. A little brighter and "zingier," not as traditional in sound, for that "Crossover" vibe. They have a more electric-sounding (longer) sustain character than the traditional set, below.
Obviously, strings and tone are very subjective, but I hope this little guide provides a little insight to help you along.
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Choices starting at $103.00
(click on arrow next to Add To Cart button)
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The NS Electric line has been conceived jointly by Ned Steinberger and D’Addario. The Traditional set is designed for use with the CR4M, CR5M, NXT and WAV4 basses, from NS Design, to provide a more "traditional" upright tone...