ukuleleden
Well-known member
I typically lean toward going with at least a solid wood top, but as many here already know, there are some great sounding laminate designs out there that really measure up to some solid-wood instruments. But I revisited a previous consideration for a new Soprano. The Martin OXK for $279.00 delivered. Has to be one of the better values on the market, in my opinion, and this will be the Soprano I can take with me anywhere without much worry of harm to it. I looked at the OXK a few years back and wasn't overly taken by it back then as much as I am now with it. So comparing several OXK's recently at my local dealer, I have to say the OXK is superior to what I remember especially in regard to set-up. Had my local dealer been willing to price match the lower online price, I would have brought one of the three I sampled home with me. To me, the OXK has to be among the paramount values out there for the quality build and sound you receive.
Some may not agree, but I feel Martin has really nailed down the tone, volume and playability in their HPL instruments (Ukes and Guitars alike). All of those three different OXK's at my local dealer had action and intonation that were spot on, and all really sound great with nice projection/volume. While slightly heavier, that was easily overlooked whenI A:B'd it against a few solid wood sopranos that were there to compare with. It became obvious to me that the Nazareth oversight of the Mexican factory production where these HPL's are made is translating into a quality build based on what I saw in each of these OXK's in-person. I am keeping my fingers crossed the one I have coming has the same great action and intonation, and since I asked while placing the order, the online seller said they would have their tech check it out before it ships for me. So I'm relatively confident it will be fine.
Anyone else finding any appreciation for the OXK?
Some may not agree, but I feel Martin has really nailed down the tone, volume and playability in their HPL instruments (Ukes and Guitars alike). All of those three different OXK's at my local dealer had action and intonation that were spot on, and all really sound great with nice projection/volume. While slightly heavier, that was easily overlooked whenI A:B'd it against a few solid wood sopranos that were there to compare with. It became obvious to me that the Nazareth oversight of the Mexican factory production where these HPL's are made is translating into a quality build based on what I saw in each of these OXK's in-person. I am keeping my fingers crossed the one I have coming has the same great action and intonation, and since I asked while placing the order, the online seller said they would have their tech check it out before it ships for me. So I'm relatively confident it will be fine.
Anyone else finding any appreciation for the OXK?