This semi-hollow model features design elements of historical value. The model name "Nicolo" actually is derived from the famous violin luthier Nicolo Amati from Cremona, Italy. The shape of the F-Hole dates back to one of Amatis' violin models from 1635. For our Nicolo model we scaled up this exact F-hole design from 1635 to match the size of a bass instrument.  Often the sound of electric basses is largely influenced by the electric components like pickups and preamps. However we at Ulrich follow a different concept with our Nicolo model. Since we have a background in building acoustic instruments of the finest kinds we thought: Why not use our experience from the acoustic world and transfer it precisely to electric basses? So that is what we did with the Nicolo model. The construction of this instrument is close to the acoustic shape. The pickups in this case merely help to amplify what already sounds great acoustically.

Despite the semi-hollow construction the Nicolo model brings you long sustain and a very fast attack. Its secret lies in the rigid connection between the neck piece and the body. The neck is fully glued in until the bridge-position pickup. Furthermore this solid connection and the sustainblock in the middle of the body prevent any feedback-problems while playing. The resonating chambers on both sides of the solid centre-piece provide the acoustic character of this instrument. The soundboard and the back side are made of Alpine spruce or Western red cedar, depending on the customers wishes. Already for centuries both tonewoods have been used as preferred materials for soundboards in acoustic instrument making.

The Ulrich Nicolo features a solid wooden bridge, which was designed especially for this fretless model. It consists of a one-piece woodblock, which is placed into the body. The height can be adapted to your individual preference with two adjusting screws. The string action can therefore be changed within seconds using an Allen key. The strings are mounted inside the solid mid-piece of the body behind the bridge. The Nicolo bridge-system provides the ultimate natural tone due to its optimal resonating properties. 

While benefiting from traditional luthier methods, the Nicolo still is an instruments fit for the future: The USB-C connection allows you to charge the battery for the active electronic system from multiple sources: Just connect your instrument to a laptop, power-socket or powerbank to prepare your instrument for the stage. You no longer need to change batteries!