NS Design NXT4 or Aria SWB Lite?

[ikay]

I'm a novice to the world of EUBs but keen to have a go. I'm looking at either an Aria SWB Lite or NS Design NXT4. Can anyone offer any comments on either of these in terms of playability and sound quality? Do they come anywhere close to emulating an acoustic upright?

Be grateful for any input

Thanks

[TPJ]

Depends on how "close" you mean with sounding like an upright. A lot of that sound has to do with technique, strings, setup etc... Both those choices can sound nice, people have good results with the Staggs as well.

Also, if you're new to upright instruments, find a DB teacher and get some lessons about left and right hand technique when your first learning. It will make learning easier and keep you from getting injuries in the early stages. Most of all, have fun

[TheRev]

Both instruments are equal in terms of playibility and sound quality. Getting an acoustic bass sound will depend on the strings you use and your playing technique.
The biggest difference between the two is that the NXT4 is mounted on a stand wheras the Aria has a hip brace and is played held against the body.

[bassace]

I had a Steinberger and while it was a nicely made and set up bass I didn't like playing on a stand at all. It was all too rigid and the transition from double bass was not a great success. I've played 'free standing' EUBs and found them quite ok in comparison.

[ikay]

Thanks for the very useful feedback. I really need to try a few EUBs to get an idea of what they feel and sound like but they're few and far between in the regular music shops around here. I had a very brief go on a real DB a few months ago and could hardly produce a sound due to high action and the sheer physical effort of fretting a note. Which doesn't bode well for my potential abilities!

The trick I think is going to be finding something that I can get to grips with in terms of physical playability but also has the potential to produce really good sounds when it's played well. I'd rather spend a bit more and get a quality instrument that will inspire me to learn and practice rather than something that struggles to sound good even when played well.