Double Bass Would you get a NS Design NXT 5 if... (pics)

[RobinC]

...you already have a DB?

I got a trade offer for a NS Design NXT 5, passive version. Trade would be for a Am Dlx P that I no longer play. I'm curious about the NXT as I've never played one. Thing is... why not just use my upright?

What would you do?

 

[Brad_Pearson]

Does your upright have a low b (or possibly a high c)?

 

[RobinC]

It does not, its a 4 string and I run a standard tuning. The extra string is definitely an attractive thought!

 

[jthisdell]

The NXT has some distinct advantages in portability. I could not get a DB in my Miata but my whole NXT rig fits (barely).

 

[brianrost]

I've owned a few EUBs: Ampeg Baby Bass, Zeta Crossover and currently an Azola MiniBass.

For me they have just two functions:

1. a backup when my DB is in the shop

2. when the DB is too large to transport, bring the EUB

That's it.

Sonically, none of them sound as good as amplifying my laminate DBs so I'd expect the difference to be even more noticeable if you have a carved DB. You might find the EUB sound to be interesting in itself, though.

 

[Michael F Clef]

Quality Double Basses unfortunately were out of my budget. I bought a NXT5. I'm very happy with it, as are my fellow Jazz and Fusion Jam-fellows. The Classical Orchestra may tell me to keep walking, but hey...

 

[madbanjoman]

I don't have a NXT but I play on a busy sidewalk for a local fish market and my EUB fits where my DB doesn't. That said nothing is quite like the real thing.

 

[damonsmith]

When I've had a working EUB I have enjoyed for loud shows. I have a BG but it is not my instrument anymore. You can use your double bass techniques and sounds on them.

 

[KUNGfuSHERIFF]

No. A good EUB can serve many purposes -- a relatively bulletproof instrument for shady or wintertime gigs, a travel instrument, a good bass for tight spaces or exceptionally loud stages, and more.

NS basses are not good EUBs. They neither sound, feel or play like the real thing. Ned is a genius, but he's barking up the wrong tree with these things.

 

[RobinC]

Thanks for the input, all. I decided to pass on the trade this time around. I just couldn't justify having the NXT when I already have a nice upright available. Maybe some day in the future when I have more room and the extra cash I can add an EUB to the stable, but not today.

 

[Pat Harris]

I'm late to the party, but I consider UB and EUB to be very different instruments. They both live in different parts of the mix, and each has its given strengths depending on what you're using it for.

Purchasing an EUB with the sole purpose of trying to make it sound/function like an UB is a really tall order, and most people I know who have done this, aren't satisfied with the results. Purchasing an EUB for the sake of that particular color pallet can be an awesome investment. I have two uprights and an NS CR4M, and they all are great tools when used in the right musical environment.

 

[Michael F Clef]

Well Said Mr. Harris. I would agree wholeheartedly.