A cochlear implant system is described which includes an electrode array for implantation in the scala tympani of a cochlea. Electrodes on the outer surface of the electrode array apply electrode stimulation signals to nearby neural tissue. An implantable stimulator module develops the electrode stimulation signals. The electrode stimulation signals have different waveforms. A basal waveform for one or more electrodes at the basal end of the electrode array has the form of a sequence of conventional high-amplitude short-duration electrode stimulation signals. An apical waveform for one or more electrodes at the apical end of the electrode array has the form of a sequence of lower-amplitude longer-duration electrode stimulation signals. The apical waveform is adapted to selectively stimulate peripheral neural processes towards the apical end of the electrode array so as to provide a tonotopic place-pitch response to the electrode stimulation signals.
