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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Ned Steinberger 5-String Electric Upright Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tones of the Ned Steinberger 5-String Electric Upright Bass, where tradition meets innovation. Ideal for both gigging musicians and studio artists, this sleek instrument offers a seamless transition from acoustic to electric bass with its compact design. Crafted from solid maple, the bass projects a full-bodied sound that resonates with clarity, whether you're plucking the strings or expertly bowing them. One of its standout features, the Polar Pickup System, offers a versatile range of sounds, making it adaptable to various playing styles. Switch effortlessly between pizzicato and arco modes to suit your performance needs.

The WAV5's coform fingerboard is a marvel of modern design, merging sustainable materials with exceptional playability. Its smooth, durable surface enhances your playing experience, allowing fluid transitions across its length. With no need for batteries, thanks to its passive circuit, you get pure, unadulterated sound. The JackPot potentiometers ensure every nuance of your performance is delivered directly to your amp, providing a full spectrum of tonal possibilities.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding bassist, the Ned Steinberger WAV5 stands out with its innovative design and unmatched performance. Elevate your music with an instrument that is as dynamic and versatile as your creativity demands.

Key Features:

  • Solid maple body and neck
  • Asymmetrical coform fingerboard for enhanced playability
  • Polar Pickup System with pizz/arco switch
  • Passive circuit with no batteries required
  • Comes with NS Design tripod stand
  • Optional support systems for customized playing comfort

Product specs

Type Electric Upright Bass
Number of Strings 5
Body Shape WAV5 Upright
Size Compact
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Finish Gloss
Body Material Maple
Neck Material Maple
Fingerboard Inlay Cascading Dots
Scale Length 41.73"
Tuners Worm Gear
Electronics NS Polar Pickup System
Outputs 1/4" (main out)
Strings NS Electric Strings
Case/Bag Gig Bag
Body Length 52"
Body Width 6"

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the NS Design WAV5 Electric Upright Bass?

The NS Design WAV5 Electric Upright Bass features the NS Polar Pickup System, providing a versatile sound suitable for both arco and pizzicato playing styles. It offers a rich, full-bodied tone that can be easily adapted for various genres, from classical to jazz.

Is the NS Design WAV5 suitable for travel and gigs?

Yes, the NS Design WAV5 is compact and comes with a gig bag, making it convenient for travel and live performances. Its lightweight design and durable construction make it ideal for musicians on the go.

How does the NS Design WAV5 Electric Upright Bass differ from a traditional upright bass?

The NS Design WAV5 is an electric upright bass with a compact body and modern electronics, providing a more portable option with amplified sound capabilities. Unlike traditional acoustic basses, it offers more consistent tone and volume control, especially in amplified settings.

What is the scale length of the NS Design WAV5 Electric Upright Bass?

The NS Design WAV5 Electric Upright Bass has a scale length of 41.73 inches, similar to that of a traditional upright bass, allowing for familiar playability and technique.

Can the NS Design WAV5 Electric Upright Bass be used for both arco and pizzicato playing?

Yes, the NS Polar Pickup System on the NS Design WAV5 is designed to capture both arco and pizzicato playing styles effectively, providing a natural and responsive sound for both techniques.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ned Steinberger 5-String Electric Upright Bass.

Comparisons

  • NS Designs WAV4 offers a longer scale length than the Ibanez UB804, making it feel more like a traditional upright bass, which may be preferable for seasoned players.

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  • The Steinberger Synapse model includes a strap peg extender for a more conventional bass positioning compared to the Spirit model.

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Features and functionality

  • The NS Designs basses feature active pickups as a notable difference from the WAV models, potentially affecting tonal qualities and dynamics.

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  • The Steinberger Spirit model weighs under 7 lbs and is praised for having no neck dive, enhancing its ergonomic appeal.

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  • A double strap post design helps keep the bass from falling over when leaned against an amp, eliminating the need for a stand during breaks.

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  • EMG active pickups are noted for providing versatile sound options and exceptional tuning stability in Steinberger basses.

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User experience

  • NS Designs instruments are praised for their world-class build quality and overall feel, appealing even to those unfamiliar with upright bass playing.

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  • Users appreciate the lightweight design, especially beneficial for longer playing sessions, reducing back strain compared to traditional basses.

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  • Steinberger Spirit models are praised for their lightweight and headless design, making them suitable for energetic performances and reducing shoulder strain.

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  • Some users note a sharp treble quality in Steinberger basses, which effectively cuts through distorted guitar sounds, although it may lack low-end fullness.

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Use cases and applications

  • Yamaha Silent Bass models, such as the 100sk, are noted for their aesthetic appeal and sound, although they are positioned at a higher price point.

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Build quality

  • The fold-out leg rest, attached with screws to the wood body, may become loose over time with frequent use.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Installing SD SH-1 '59 pickups has been suggested for improved tone quality in the Steinberger bass.

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Setup and maintenance

  • The headless design of Steinberger basses simplifies string changes, a noted convenience for players.

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  • Double ball strings, required for some Steinberger models, can be pricier, which may impact long-term maintenance costs.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Les Claypool uses Ned Steinberger 5-String Electric Upright Bass

Les Claypool

Singer, Bassist

Primus

...
Verified via Photo

What basses are you using on the Wonka album?

"Mostly my NS upright. There’s a lot of arco stuff. That, and my little Dobro bass."

http://www.bassplayer.com/artists/1171/les-claypool-getting-better-with-age/50228

See how Tony Levin uses Ned Steinberger 5-String Electric Upright Bass

Tony Levin

Bassist

King Crimson

...
Verified via NS Design

Levin is a featured NS artist on the official Ned Steinberger website. The section mentions several different models of stringed instruments used by Levin throughout his career.

Album Usage

The Ned Steinberger 5-String Electric Upright Bass has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

More Upright Basses

See also: Upright Basses

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