Whether you’re a beginner searching for your first instrument, a student needing a reliable practice tool, or a seasoned professional seeking the perfect sound for the stage or studio, the choices for a new UKULELE can be overwhelming. This review aims to navigate that landscape, exploring the key features, advantages, and drawbacks of a variety of UKULELES to help you find the ideal match for your musical journey.
This review is not as much for the professional, but rather for the parent who’s sending their child to weekly lessons; all UKULELES are ranging from $60-$150, “BEGINNER” to “PRO”; and all instruments can be purchased on AMAZON (links and prices are provided). This review is also from the perspective of an owner of a music school, playing for over 50 years and teaching for 25 years – and a parent, who wants the best buy for their buck.
BEGINNER – The TOM 21″ Sapele Soprano Ukulele – Affordable Option Includes Solid Quick-Lock Strap, with D’Addario Strings
Price: $55
Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/476TTTW
This TOM Ukulele is a great value at only $55 – it’s the Soprano Ukulele, meaning it’s the smaller size, so it’s perfect for the young child starting out. It comes with many extras – which is really nice – a solid quick locking strap, a padded gig bag, 4 picks, Carbon Fiber Ukulele strings, and free YouTube tutorials. Plus, the rich wood looks more expensive than it is – great feature.
BEGINNER / INTERMEDIATE – The ENYA Concert Ukulele 23 Inch, Solid Mahogany Top, with Gig bag, Capo, Strap, Strings, and Pick
Price: $82
Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3UWpPDf
With over 2,500 5-star reviews on Amazon, the ENYA Ukulele is a lot of instrument packed into $82. It’s the 23 inch size (the Tom Uke is 21 inches), and it comes in three different colors. With the solid mahogany soundboard, it brings a rich, warm and balanced sound. As for tuning, high quality 18:1 Die-casting tuning gears and Enya Fluorocarbon Strings keep the concert ukulele in tune much longer – which is a must. Give it a try!
PRO – The CORDOBA 15CM-E Acoustic-Electric Concert Ukulele – Hand Crafted With Mahogany Top, Back & Sides & Edge Burst Finish – Full, Rich Sound & Premium Italian Aquila Strings – For Beginners & Professionals
Price: $150
Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/45qgOrV
The CORDOBA Acoustic/Electric Ukulele (meaning you can plug it into a sound system, for a live sound), is a great purchase for only $150. Even is you don’t plan on “plugging it in”, it’s a great option. Coming in THIRTEEN different color options, the Cordoba is built with exotic Bocote woods from Central and South America for a unique look and sound (the wood of any acoustic instrument makes all the difference). With over 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, it’s a great choice for the serious player!
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