It’s been a while since the last XR Spectra production run, as the focus has been on developing version 3. I know many of you have been asking about the next production run, and I appreciate your patience. Predicting target dates is always challenging, so I apologize if any past information has been unclear or misleading. This time, the plan is to finalize the prototype first and move directly into manufacturing—hopefully by January, assuming no further delays.
I prefer not to take preorders this time to avoid being pressed for deliverable timelines. There are simply too many projects happening simultaneously, and it’s important to manage everything carefully. However, if you’d like to make a reservation, please send us a message specifying how many units you need and which model: XR Spectra 60 (60mm rails, suitable for 6-string guitars and 4-string bass), XR Spectra 70 (70mm rails, suitable for 7-string guitars), or XR Spectra 82 (82mm rails, suitable for 8-string guitars and 5-string bass), or the Nu Multi XR Spectra Combo, which will be available for 6-string guitars (see below). There will be no reservation fee, but making an advance reservation will grant you higher priority once production begins.
As always, I start with 3D modeling to visualize the design I have in mind. Here’s the 3D rendering:
The previous version was nearly perfect, with a flat frequency response from 20Hz to 20kHz. However, I needed to address a few functional and design limitations. In Version 2, the baseplate was glued to the entire assembly, making it impossible to replace. This was a drawback, particularly for configurations like the Nu-XR (Classic) combo, where we combined it with the Nu Multi on a single PAF-style baseplate. I also shortened the coil slightly to lower the XR Spectra by 1 millimeter relative to the top of the Nu Multi. The Nu Multi is ideally positioned 1 mm from the strings, while the XR Spectra should be placed 2 mm to 3 mm from the strings for optimal performance. Furthermore, the XR Spectra 60 (designed for 6 strings) was made slightly slimmer to better fit a Strat scratch plate—addressing a common complaint.
Here’s the 3D rendering of the Nu XR Spectra Combo:
A notable improvement is the embedding of the magnets directly within the stainless-steel core, as seen in this 3D view with the coil rendered semi-transparent to expose the magnets. The design now features bobbinless coils, 1000 turns, wound with self-bonding AWG38 magnet wire:
This stuff is so cool. A goal of mine to have one someday in a guitar!