NS Design NXT5a 5-String Electric Cello, Black

Extended-Range Electric Cello with Active/Passive Electronics and Expressive Polar Pickup Response

The NS Design NXT5a 5-String Electric Cello in Black combines the expressive capabilities of a traditional cello with an extended lower register and versatile electronic performance options. Crafted in the Czech Republic, this innovative instrument adds a low F string beneath the standard cello range, expanding its musical possibilities for contemporary repertoire, improvisation, and amplified ensemble performance. Its solid maple body and neck, graduated fingerboard, and streamlined construction provide a responsive playing experience in a compact, portable design.

The NXT5a features NS Design's patented Polar Pickup System, with selectable sensitivity for bowed and pizzicato playing. This allows cellists to choose between a smooth, sustained response and a more percussive sound. Dual-mode electronics provide both passive operation and capacitor-powered active output, with just 60 seconds of charging delivering up to 16 hours of active performance. In active mode, the instrument connects directly to high- or low-impedance audio equipment without requiring a direct box. An adjustable truss rod and bridge height allow players to customize neck relief and string action, while the included adjustable tripod stand accommodates seated or standing performance. The NXT5a offers an adaptable platform for cellists exploring extended-range playing, effects processing, and amplified sound.

Features & Specifications

• Instrument: NS Design NXT5a 5-String Electric Cello
• Color & Finish: Black
• String Configuration: Five strings with extended low F range (F–C–G–D–A)
• Body & Neck: Solid maple construction
• Fingerboard: Graduated fingerboard with asymmetrical relief for comfortable playability across all positions
• Truss Rod: Adjustable neck relief for personalized setup
• Bridge: Height-adjustable bridge for customizing string action
• Pickup System: Patented NS Polar piezoelectric pickup with transducers mounted beneath the bridge
• Pickup Modes: Selectable sensitivity for smooth, sustained arco response or more percussive pizzicato articulation
• Electronics: Dual-mode active/passive output system
• Active Mode: Capacitor-powered electronics connect directly to high- or low-impedance audio equipment without requiring a direct box
• Active Charging: Approximately 60 seconds of charging provides up to 16 hours of active operation
• Passive Mode: Operates with a compatible high-impedance amplifier input or direct box
• Power System: Battery-free operation with supplied charger
• String Compatibility: Accepts NS Electric Strings and most traditional acoustic cello strings
• Scale Length: 69.5 cm (27.36")
• Overall Length: 94.2 cm (37.09")
• Width: 13.9 cm (5.47")
• Thickness: 9.4 cm (3.70")
• Instrument Weight: Approximately 1.9 kg (4.2 lbs.)
• Tripod Stand: Fully adjustable stand accommodates seated and standing playing positions
• Country of Manufacture: Czech Republic
• Recommended Uses: Extended-range cello performance, amplified concerts, studio recording, improvisation, and contemporary ensembles