NS Design WAV-5 5-String Electric Violin, Amber Burst

Extended-Range Electric Violin with Expressive Tone and Adjustable Playability

The NS Design WAV-5 Electric 5-String Violin in Amber Burst combines the expressive capabilities of a traditional violin with the expanded range and versatility of a modern electric instrument. Designed by Ned Steinberger, this solid-body violin features a maple body and neck, an ebony fingerboard, and a fifth string tuned to low C, extending the instrument's range into viola territory. Its lightweight, balanced construction and distinctive finish make it an appealing choice for amplified performance, improvisation, and contemporary musical styles.

The WAV-5 features NS Design's patented Polar Pickup System, which responds to different string vibration directions for expressive bowed articulation and sustained pizzicato tones. Passive electronics provide convenient volume and tone controls without requiring batteries. A height-adjustable maple bridge allows players to customize string action, while the patented self-clamping tuning system simplifies string changes and provides precise tuning adjustments. The removable body reference bout offers familiar positioning for acoustic violinists, and the adjustable, padded shoulder rest supports a comfortable playing posture. Supplied with a custom hardshell case, the WAV-5 offers a practical combination of extended range, responsive amplification, and portability for rehearsals, recording, and live performance.

Features & Specifications

• Instrument: NS Design WAV-5 5-String Electric Violin
• Color & Finish: Amber Burst
• String Configuration: Five strings with extended low C range (C–G–D–A–E)
• Body & Neck: Solid maple construction with a carved interior for reduced weight and improved balance
• Fingerboard: Ebony with hand-graduated, asymmetric relief for comfortable playability
• Bridge: Black-dyed maple with adjustable height for customizing string action
• Body Reference Bout: Removable black-dyed maple bout on the treble side provides familiar violin positioning
• Tuning System: Patented NS Design self-clamping tuning system with body-mounted fine tuners
• Pickup System: Patented NS Polar directional piezoelectric pickup
• Pickup Response: Captures lateral string vibration for dynamic bowing and vertical vibration for sustained pizzicato tones
• Electronics: Passive, high-impedance output requiring no batteries
• Volume Control: Onboard output level adjustment
• Tone Control: Treble roll-off control for adjusting tonal brightness
• Strings: NS Electric Strings; compatible with solid- and stranded-core violin strings
• String Restrictions: Synthetic-core strings are not recommended
• Shoulder Rest: Adjustable, contoured, padded shoulder rest included
• Scale Length: 330 mm (13")
• Overall Length: 540 mm (21.25")
• Width: 110 mm (4 5/16")
• Thickness: 65 mm (2 9/16")
• Instrument Weight: Approximately 695 g (1.53 lbs.)
• Custom Case: Fabric-covered hard foam core case with padded, form-fitting interior, bow compartment, accessory storage, shoulder strap, and lock with key
• Included Accessories: Custom case and adjustable shoulder rest
• Designer: Ned Steinberger
• Recommended Uses: Amplified performance, extended-range violin repertoire, studio recording, improvisation, effects processing, and contemporary ensembles

NS Violin Case: Customized for the NS Violin, this standard hardshell case with handle and shoulder strap includes separate compartments for shoulder rest and accessories, a bow compartment and exterior zipper pouch. Made with durable Cordura® fabric, 3.2 kg (7 lb) loaded weight.