Bridge Tasman Octave 5-String Electro-Acoustic Violin

This is the "Octave" version of the 5-string Bridge Tasman acoustic-electric violin. The violin body specs out the same as its standard range counterpart, but is strung with octave strings that sound one octave lower, has alterations to the pegs, nut, and bridge to accommodate the thickness of the lower strings, and its internal preamp is one specially attuned to the lower frequency range for robust, cello-like tone. Tuned C G D A e, this violin is a very convincing-sounding "chin cello."

The Tasman electro-acoustic from Bridge Violins is an excellent alternative for players looking for high-end tone at a more affordable price. Featuring the same design concepts as the higher-spec 'Golden Tasman', the standard Tasman is produced more economically at the Bridge Workshops at Eastman Strings Beijing. A fifth string gives you the full ranges of violin and viola, combined!

Unplugged, the Tasman's acoustic sound is excellent, with plenty of color and warmth, a clear, pure high end, and decent projection. The Tasman's amplified tone is where this instrument really shines -- it's darker and warmer than the Golden Tasman, with less brilliance on the high end, with a rich and powerful output signal.

The Tasman design is mostly traditional, with some noteworthy departures. Two-piece maple back, spruce top bordered with a single black purfling line, finished with a lightly antiqued rich Venetian-style spirit varnish.

Where would normally be a hand-carved scroll, Bridge's trademark shield (inspired by the 1710 Stradivari Viola da Gamba) sits atop the peg box. To mark the electro-acoustic's dual nature, a lightning bolt inlay on the shield goes in place of the stylized lowercase "b" that marks their line of purely electric instruments. The lightning theme is echoed in the subtly stylized "f-holes."

While the above features hint at the electric capability of the Golden Tasman, the designers at Bridge also go out of their way to conceal the necessary trappings of electrified playing. The battery compartment and volume control knob are tucked away on the ribs of the lower bout, invisible during performance. Rather than sticking out like a sore thumb, the 1/4" output jack is recessed into the back of the violin and is oriented at such an angle that your cable stays out of sight and out of your way.

The brilliant amplified tone is the product of Bridge's own pickup, with a piezo strip that runs the width of the bridge, capturing even signal from the full frequency range of the instrument. A lightweight onboard preamp colors the amplified tone beautifully and sends a low impedance signal from the violin, which is directly compatible with most gear inputs.

Info & Specs

Fingerboard and Nut: Made from the best quality ebony, the fingerboard and nut are professionally shaped to modern orchestral measurements and traditionally finished.

Chinrest: This is an ebony Guarneri style chinrest. The style may vary with availability but will always be of equal quality.

Tailpiece: The Tasman range of instruments is fitted with a lightweight alloy tailpiece, with individual integral fine tuners.

Endpin: Black ebony endpin, in keeping with the pegs and tailpiece.

F Hole: The F hole design reflects the lightning strike theme of the headstock giving the Tasmans a contemporary twist and unique character.

Bridge: The Tasman bridge is made from the best quality tonewood and houses the ‘Bridge’ pick up system, a piezo crystal configuration. We designed the ‘Bridge’ pick up system specifically and only for use with our instruments. It is designed to pick up both the string vibration and the body resonance generated from the hollow body. Utilizing all the properties of a traditional acoustic bridge it captures the warmth of tone synonymous with its acoustic counterpart.

Battery Holder: The battery holder is located neatly on the lower bottom rib and houses 3V coin cell battery. This small battery powers the Bridge Active Circuitry which has been cleverly designed to keep the instruments light and well balanced. It provides approximately 2000 hours playing time and only drain whilst the jack is connected. Readily available the battery is quick and easy to replace.

Active Circuitry: Each model has its own sophisticated active circuitry, frequency dedicated to each model and designed to perform in conjunction with the ‘Bridge’ pick-up system. It supplies power to drive effects and radio packs and puts the string player on equal footing with every other amplified instrument in the band.

Jack Socket: ¼ inch jack - musical instrument standard. The switch jack system automatically switches the active circuitry on and off as the jack is inserted or removed. It is carved into the back plate becoming an integral part of the instrument, positioned and angled to avoid drag and interference from the cable.

Controls: All our electric range of instruments carry a volume and tone control, easily accessible for quick adjustment during performance. The tone control is a tilt control, not a boost/cut control, changing the tonal range of the instrument.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Construction
Body Length 359mm
Neck Stop 130mm
Body Stop 195mm
Weight 500g approx

Set Up
Nut width 24.5mm
String spacing at nut 16.5mm
String spacing at bridge 34.0mm
String tunings standard G d a e’

Electronics
BRIDGE pick up Piezo Configuration
BRIDGE active surface mount pre amp
Instrument Output 100mV nominal
Load Resistance 10K Ohms minimum
Battery 1 x Lithium 3V CR1632
Battery Life playing time approx 3000 hours Output via ¼’’ jack socket

SHIPPING INFO

Shipping cost is based on weight. Most orders over $499 qualify for free standard shipping within the lower 48 United States.

To see available shipping options and rates just add product(s) to your cart and use the Shipping Calculator. See shipping policy.

We can ship most products internationally. Consult our Global page for further details.

Need it fast? Upgrade to an expedited shipping method at checkout (charges apply). If you need it tomorrow and the shipping deadline has passed, contact us immediately, as we may be able to accommodate you.

EASY 30-DAY RETURNS

We want you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. Items can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of delivery.