Double Bass Next step up - quality and sound

[mrpackerguy]

I currently use an NS WAV4 EUB. What a great introduction to EUB it has been for me. If I were to consider a step up in both quality of instrument and a better, perhaps more tweakable onboard pre, what direction would you go without breaking the bank. Used is fine. It seems to me there are the sort of entry levels like the NS WAV4, but then the next step up requires a major investment like the CRM models NS puts out. Does an intermediate level EUB exist less than $3k?

 

[Pat Harris]

You can get a CR4M for under $3000, and I would highly recommend it.

 

[babebambi]

How is the CR4M actually better than the WAV4 or the NXT?

I have the CR4M and like it quite a bit, but I would like to know how they differ too.

You can get the CRxM for under $3000 easily if you go used.

 

[Mark Gollihur]

How is the CR4M actually better than the WAV4 or the NXT?

I have the CR4M and like it quite a bit, but I would like to know how they differ too.

CRxM vs NXT:

• Nicer, better quality woods, optional top veneers are gorgeous
• And more transparent, satin finishes show the beauty of the wood better than the NXT
• "M" models include EMG-designed magnetic pickups in addition to the Polar Pickups - and don't sneer at the EMGs, they're tailor-designed for the bass and sound quite good
• Blending Active Preamp (NXT is passive) - also includes BLEND for polar pickup (instead of switch) and active EQ
• Much better hardware; tuning machines, switches, pots, etc.
• Heavy duty tripod stand is more adjustable, much heavier-duty, like a double-braced drum stand (not the lightweight aluminum one that comes with NXT/WAV)
• Nicer quality Gig Bag
• Better strings

These are just off the top of my head...

 

[bassdaddyfive]

mrpackerguy, try giving Dino at BSX basses a call. I have seen some going used for some pretty attractive prices. Good build quality and very flexable pre amp and on board pickup controls. IMO.