WTB: Tenor size, for around $200

Brendan688

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Hello, I’ll admit that I’m not terribly knowledgeable in ukes. I have a guitar background so know some basics. I’m looking for a decent tenor size uke for around 200 or so. Certainly an upgrade from my kids toy one I’ve been using!
I stopped by a big box store and tried several brands. Cordoba, Luna and Gretsch were the ones I preferred.
Thanks for any advise!
 
I don't own one, but I've always liked the Cordoba's in that price range. I had a Fender for a while when I was starting and it was decent. I found that that price range was a great place to get something that would be solid enough to last and give me the chance to see it I was going to play enough to warrant an upgrade. That was five years ago, and I have to warn you, ukuleles are absolutely addictive. I have played guitar for 26 years and rarely ever pick one up anymore, but I play ukulele every day. Happy hunting!!
 
Take a look at the KALA KA-ATP-CTG. I bought one to use for going here to there, it sounds decent & has a cedar top. I put Aquila Reds on it after trying a few different sets of string & happier with them then the others.
 
Kala or Ohana are my usual recommendation for a first uke, reliable quality at a sensible price, & if bought from one of the reputable dealers, often mentioned on here, comes set up well. :)
 
Mim's Ukes on Ebay has several to choose from in the under $200 category;

https://www.ebay.com/itm/MIM-Ohana-Tenor-TK-14-Laminate-Mahogany-Setup-Ukulele-Uke-968-/182856092054
https://www.ebay.com/itm/MIM-Kala-T...op-Lam-Mahogany-Ukulele-Uke-046-/172959712885
https://www.ebay.com/itm/MIM-Kala-T...nut-Matte-Setup-Ukulele-Uke-059-/182870836657
https://www.ebay.com/itm/MIM-Kala-T...any-Matte-Setup-Ukulele-Uke-060-/172959808340

There are more, search around her site. The nice thing about Mim is she does an excellent set up and her customer service is outstanding.
You will be happy.

I've heard good things about Uke Republic's set up and service though they tend to have ukuleles at a higher price point.
http://ukerepublic.bigcartel.com/category/tenor

Big box stores sometimes have good deals but you are going to have to look after your own set up.
Mostly doable if you're inclined;
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?...427DB69BA5FF32E4996F427DB69BA5FF3&FORM=VRDGAR
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?...0022269CAF7D82A57EFD0022269CAF7D82A&FORM=VIRE
 
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Do not forget used instruments. I have several purchased from a variety of sources that are used. They come in a variety of conditions but represent a great value most of the time. In fact, looking at my own instruments, none of them were purchased new. As a case in point I purchased a really nice Mainland Tenor for $200, it included a hard foam case. I also have a Mele/Braddah that cost me $100 due to some damage and it only cost me $55 to get it fixed and is now an amazing instrument and one of my favorites - it has a great pickup already installed - so I am delighted. IMHO buying from within the UU community is a safe way to find a good used instrument.
 
I've got a used Ohana laminate for sale if you're interested. Set up by Mim. Excellent condition. $150 plus shipping. Private message me if so.
 
The Ohana TK70-R is a great uke for around $180 street price. Laminate rosewood with a solid spruce top.
MIM has them setup. I believe it is a great starter uke that will carry you into higher levels. I have several custom instruments and the TK-70 holds it own.
 
I have only tried one of the three that you mentioned. i have a Luna concert that is really nice (solid spruce top/laminate sides). Many in my ukulele group have the Luna tenor and are very happy with it. I have played a couple and they sound full bodied.

X2 on buying used - I got a really wonderful Mainland solid mahogany for under $200 from Jake Wildwood's site.
 
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