So both arrived in the mail today, and I knew I'd be returning one of them, may the best uke win. I had really wanted to like the Flea better, for the oh-so-shallow coolness factor: got the "Surf" edition with cool Hawaiinish top, and I just love the idea of not needing to be finicky with the plastic back and fretboard. BUT....
The Kala is just so superior. The difference in sound is really something, and I don't think it's just cuz the Kala is a soprano and Flea concert. The resonance and clean harplike tone are just awesome, whereas the Flea sounds, well, like plastic. And, I don't think this is standard: the action on the Flea at 12th fret seems really high, I can't find my good steel ruler, but bad ruler says it's a good 5mm when it should be 3.
I think the Flea will be on its way home soon, the Kala a keeper (Mim was great to deal with, and the case I got really nice, far better than the cheapo bundled case the Flea came in.
I play guitar mostly, but recently turned on to uke, and have a Gretsch 9120 on its way (bought here) which should round out my stable of 2! For now.....I know well about GAS, now we'll see if I get UAS as well!
The Kala is just so superior. The difference in sound is really something, and I don't think it's just cuz the Kala is a soprano and Flea concert. The resonance and clean harplike tone are just awesome, whereas the Flea sounds, well, like plastic. And, I don't think this is standard: the action on the Flea at 12th fret seems really high, I can't find my good steel ruler, but bad ruler says it's a good 5mm when it should be 3.
I think the Flea will be on its way home soon, the Kala a keeper (Mim was great to deal with, and the case I got really nice, far better than the cheapo bundled case the Flea came in.
I play guitar mostly, but recently turned on to uke, and have a Gretsch 9120 on its way (bought here) which should round out my stable of 2! For now.....I know well about GAS, now we'll see if I get UAS as well!