Ukecaster
Well-known member
For anyone wondering how a laminate Kiwaya KS-1 may sound compared to a vintage Martin, I did this cellphone video.
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I am curious about your thoughts on the two Ukes, Ukecaster.
...What tune is that if you don't mind me asking?
Nothing really, just a pattern I've been noodling around with, in an attempt to play something which sounds remotely classical.
Love the Kiwaya laminates. Knock many similarly priced solid wood instruments out of the park, and many that cost more too.
I have a Famous FS-1 (same as the KS-1) coming on my reviews page soon.
Nice....But I think the martin wins without question.
honestly, have you guys ever herd a Ohana sk28 Nunes special edition soprano?
I have one and I am very impressed...its quite nice.
To my ears, the vintage Martin has richer low/mids, and more overtones, a more complex sound. The Kiwaya is slightly brighter, but no slouch, as far as great mahogany soprano tone. Low frets and action make it a breeze to play. We'll see if the laminate sound changes over time. Added note: the Kiwaya body is deeper than the vintage Martin: 5 mm deeper at the body bottom, and 7 mm deeper body at the heel. I'm sure that helps the laminate crank out some extra volume.
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Looking forward to that review!
I currently own a KS-1 and had a couple vintage Martins in the past. I would agree completely with Ukaster's comparison of the two. The Martins definitely have a more complex, rich sound. Amazing instruments. No question the gold standard for vintage sopranos. The Kiwaya is amazing in a different way. It is bright and punchy, perfect for a soprano. I found it slightly easier to play than the Martins (I did not measure, but I believe the Kiwaya has a wider fretboard). It is near perfect. It sounds better than many solid wood sopranos without any of the maintenance concerns.
....I did not measure, but I believe the Kiwaya has a wider fretboard)
If one were to want solid wood, the Kiwaya KTS4 is a fabulous instrument. It has all the same playability benefits and great sound from the solid wood. I once had one and in a fit of insanity I sold it.
I reviewed the KS-5 some time ago (the laminate koa one). That was an instrument far FAR better than it's price would have you believe.
http://www.gotaukulele.com/2012/12/kiwaya-ks-5-soprano-ukulele-review.html?m=0
I installed a new set of Worth Clears. Wow! It's a cannon now, and not too bright either, just perfect, and even more similar to my vintage Martin.