NS Design NXT4a 4-String Electric Viola, Sunburst

Expressive Electric Viola with Active/Passive Electronics and Adjustable Playability

The NS Design NXT4a 4-String Electric Viola in Sunburst combines the rich tonal character of a traditional viola with the flexibility of modern electronic performance. Crafted in the Czech Republic, this approximately 16-inch electric viola features a solid maple body and neck with an elegant flame maple face. Its lightweight, ergonomic construction provides comfortable playing balance, while the adjustable chin and shoulder rests offer personalized support. A removable treble-side body reference bout helps preserve familiar left-hand positioning, making the transition from an acoustic viola more intuitive.

The NXT4a features NS Design's patented Polar Pickup System, which responds to different directions of string vibration for expressive bowed and pizzicato playing. Selecting lateral sensitivity emphasizes bow response and articulation, while vertical sensitivity produces smooth, sustained plucked notes. Dual-mode electronics allow players to switch between passive operation and capacitor-powered active output. Just 60 seconds of charging provides up to 16 hours of active operation, enabling direct connection to high- or low-impedance audio equipment without a separate direct box. The solid-body construction helps resist feedback during amplified performance, while the compact design makes the instrument practical for rehearsals, studio recording, and live concerts.

Features & Specifications

• Instrument: NS Design NXT4a 4-String Electric Viola
• Size: Approximately 16"
• Color & Finish: Sunburst with flame maple face
• String Configuration: Four strings with traditional viola tuning (C–G–D–A)
• Body & Neck: Solid maple construction with flame maple face
• Pickup System: Patented NS Polar bridge-mounted piezoelectric pickup
• Pickup Modes: Selectable lateral sensitivity for responsive bowing and vertical sensitivity for smooth, sustained pizzicato
• 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: Compatible with amplifiers having an input impedance of at least 1 megohm, with 3–10 megohms recommended, or a suitable direct box
• Power System: Battery-free operation using the supplied charger
• Bridge: Height-adjustable bridge for customizing string action
• Tuning System: Patented NS Design self-clamping tuning system
• Body Reference Bout: Removable treble-side bout provides familiar left-hand positioning
• Chinrest & Shoulder Rest: Ergonomic, adjustable supports for personalized playing comfort
• Feedback Resistance: Solid-body construction helps minimize feedback during amplified performance
• Scale Length: 366 mm (14.41")
• Overall Length: 585 mm (23.03")
• Width: 117 mm (4.61")
• Thickness: 49 mm (1.93")
• Instrument Weight: Approximately 650 g (1.43 lbs.)
• Included Accessories: Body reference bout, adjustable chin and shoulder rests, hardshell case, and active-mode charger
• Country of Manufacture: Czech Republic
• Recommended Uses: Amplified viola performance, studio recording, improvisation, effects processing, and contemporary ensembles