I owned a Ko'olau model 200 tenor for a while (koa/spruce) and absolutely loved it. based on that, I can almost guarantee that a custom CS from Noa Bonk would blow you away. I've actually missed that model 200 so much that I have been shopping around for a replacement of some sort recently. I came very close to ordering a CS with the milo body and redwood top. Milo is gorgeous wood and the example on HMS just has incredible depth of tone. The problem is that I wouldn't want to custom order one without a slotted headstock, or without the gloss finish, and with those options the price gets pretty steep. I made a sort of compromise and just ordered an old stock Ko'olau model 300 concert with redwood top and koa body. I've enjoyed playing a concert size a lot lately so I think it will be fun to try.
Also, any talk I hear about 'sounding too much like a guitar' just doesn't make sense to me. In my opinion, it's all about find something that sounds amazing, period. I guess I can understand if someone just doesn't like guitars, but personally, I don't care what it is if it sounds great and is a joy to play. If you can afford it, order the CS in tone woods that compliment your other uke(s). It probably won't matter though, as your other ukes will likely get neglected once you get the Ko'olau. One last bit of advice would be to contact HMS or Ko'olau directly and see what your options are. These ukes may be more customizable than what is shown on the HMS website. Good luck!
