Designed to meet the demand 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.
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™ standard. Compatible with standard viola strings.
PRECISION TUNING HARDWARE: 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.
FLIGHT CASE: Plywood, aluminum sided. 6.3 kg (14 lb) loaded weight. Padded, form fitting interior. Holds bows, shoulder rest, output cable, and extra gear, with lock and key.
About the new NXTa pickup
The new dual mode signal output electronics of the NXTa take the convenience, versatility and performance capability of the original NXT to another level.
Active Mode – Using the supplied charger, plug the NXT into any AC outlet for 60 seconds to power the capacitor-powered active circuit for up to 16 hours of performance time. The instrument can then be plugged straight into any low or high impedance device, no direct box necessary. Since there is no signal loss over the full-frequency spectrum of the instrument, the fundamentals of every note remain clear and strong, even with extra-long cables.
Passive Mode – The NXTa can be played in this mode when using a direct box or an amplifier with high impedance input. (This mode provides perfomance capabilities identical to the original NXT.)
Eco-Friendly Operation – NXTa instruments are battery-free, eliminating the hassle and cost of batteries while helping protect our environment
