Pricing and availability

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "NS Wav Bass". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The NS Wav Bass is a remarkable fusion of traditional upright bass aesthetics and modern electric functionality, specifically crafted for both seasoned bassists and those venturing into the realm of electric instruments. With its NS patented Polar Pickup System, this bass delivers an incredibly authentic sound, capturing the richness of a natural upright bass without the common pitfalls of feedback. This versatile system allows seamless transition between arco and pizzicato modes, providing an expansive range of tonal possibilities that enhance expressive potential.

Constructed from a solid maple body and neck, the NS Wav Bass promises not just durability but also a full-bodied tone that resonates with clarity and depth. The innovative Coform fingerboard marries high-tech acrylic with maple, resulting in an ebony-like appearance and a smooth playing surface that facilitates fast, effortless playability. This material choice not only conserves traditional hardwoods but also enhances the harmonic content, delivering a dynamic and articulate sound.

Compact and lightweight, the NS Wav Bass is designed for musicians on the go, making it an ideal choice for gigging bassists. It comes equipped with an NXT/WAV tripod stand and gig bag, ensuring you have everything you need to transport and set up your instrument with ease. Whether you’re exploring new electronic soundscapes or sticking to classic tones, this bass offers the flexibility and performance you need to make every performance memorable.

Key Features:

  • NS patented Polar Pickup System with pizz/arco switch
  • Solid maple body and neck
  • Coform fingerboard for enhanced playability
  • Passive control circuit, no batteries required
  • Includes NXT/WAV tripod stand and gig bag

Product specs

Type Electric Upright
Number of Strings 4
Body Shape WAV4 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 type of pickup system does the NS Wav Bass use?

The NS Wav Bass features the NS Polar Pickup System, which is designed to capture the full range of the instrument's sound, providing both arco and pizzicato tones.

Is the NS Wav Bass suitable for traditional upright bass players?

Yes, the NS Wav Bass is designed to offer a familiar playing experience with its 41.73" scale length and maple neck, making it suitable for traditional upright bass players looking for an electric option.

How portable is the NS Wav Bass for gigging musicians?

The NS Wav Bass is highly portable, featuring a compact body design and a gig bag for easy transport, making it ideal for gigging musicians who need an easily transportable upright bass.

Does the NS Wav Bass require a specific type of amplifier?

The NS Wav Bass can be connected to any standard bass amplifier via its 1/4" output, allowing for versatile amplification options suitable for various performance settings.

Can the NS Wav Bass be played with a bow?

Yes, the NS Wav Bass is designed to be played both pizzicato and arco, accommodating players who use a bow as well as those who pluck the strings.

Electric Violin Shop

Electric Violin Shop

NS Design WAV bass review | Electric Violin Shop

Video thumbnail for NS Design WAV bass review | Electric Violin Shop by Electric Violin Shop

NS Design WAV bass review | Electric Violin Shop

Electric Violin Shop

Electric Violin Shop

Video thumbnail for Marcus Johnson w/ NS Design WAV4 Bass @ Bounty Music by BountymusicMaui

Marcus Johnson w/ NS Design WAV4 Bass @ Bounty Music

BountymusicMaui

BountymusicMaui

Reviews

PROS

  • Compact design offers ease of transport and stage setup

  • Switchable tone modes emulate both fretless and upright bass sounds

  • Excellent for transitioning from electric to upright bass

  • Attractive instrument with high-quality fit and finish

  • Comes with a case and stand, bow storage ready

  • Tone closely resembles amplified acoustic upright bass

  • Long flat-wound strings enhance the fretless sound experience

  • Ideal entry point for electric bassists exploring upright bass

CONS

  • Tuning knobs prone to breaking; upgrading recommended

  • Initial truss rod adjustment may be necessary for optimal setup

  • Passive piezo pickups need signal conditioning for standard amplifier use

  • Included gig bag lacks sufficient padding for protection

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about NS Wav Bass.

Features and functionality

  • The endpin stand is recommended for a more authentic upright bass experience, as it allows movement and leaning with the instrument.

    Source
  • NS series electric uprights are reported to feel like a fretless bass turned sideways, lacking the body presence of an acoustic upright.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Swapping the tuners allows for using real double bass strings, enhancing feel and sound quality.

    Source
  • Owners recommend considering the NXT model used over a new WAV for better build quality, including ebony fingerboards and overall improved parts.

    Source
  • Users recommend switching to Helicore Hybrid strings for a sound closer to an acoustic upright.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The NS Wav Bass is praised for its deep arco sound, especially effective in live performances with the right songs.

    Source
  • The NS Wav Bass is favored for gigs in space-limited scenarios like small houses or vans.

    Source
  • Electric uprights are seen as ideal for tight spaces, such as small bars, due to their compact size and ease of transport.

    Source
  • Jazz musicians may prefer acoustic uprights, as some jazz circles do not favor the electric upright aesthetic.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Adjusting the string height to an upright-like level is crucial for achieving a closer double bass sound.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the bow sound is suitable for practice but not for symphonic performances.

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  • The WAV bass's bronze roundwound strings can feel strange and sound stale, lacking authenticity compared to traditional upright basses.

    Source

Build quality

  • The WAV line often includes pau-ferro fingerboards, which feel dry and may lack the aesthetic appeal compared to rosewood.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Palatino V500, despite its flaws, is noted to have a more authentic double bass feel and sound than the NS WAV with stock strings.

    Source
  • The WAV and NXT models are similar, with the WAV being a refresh of the NXT, but the CR and NXT lines are said to offer higher quality.

    Source
  • The Stagg electric upright, combined with Spirocore strings, is noted for having qualities closer to an acoustic upright bass than the NS series.

    Source

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