adam2180
Well-known member
So who makes the best solid Mahogany Uke (not including custom stuff) for under $1000?
So who makes the best solid Mahogany Uke (not including custom stuff) for under $1000?
Beyond Kiwaya/LoPrinzi is Collings, Martin, and one or two more. At these prices--$1000 and up--getting a custom built uke starts to become an attractive alternative. I've heard good things about the Collings, though, and I love the headstock.
http://www.gryphonstrings.com/instpix/31813/31813.php You may be able to find a used Collings for under $1000, and that may be a good option for you.
I bought a Loprinzi Model A, and it wasn't hard to find, I just ordered one from their website. Also, Elderly has a used one right now.
It's very loud, and has good sound and playability. Action was quite high when I got it. Of my ukes, it stands up best to other instruments like guitar. But it's not as sweet as my Pono. I would say the sound is more generic, with a strong presence. It seems to be very lightweight with thin wood, if that helps.
Before you get upset over the price of a Pono, remember it includes a good hard case which the other's don't.
I have owned a Loprinzi and Kiwaya both in Mahogany, and have have played many others; unless your talking a vintage Martin SO the Kiwaya was far better built then the Loprinzi, it was lighter, and it sounded way better. The Kiwaya I owned was their KTS-4 solid Mohogany.
Adam,
Kepasa Ukuleles are wonderful sounding custom ukuleles. Very reasonably priced & coming in under $1000. The one I tried was very light weight & had a big, vintage sound. Tone was truly exceptional. http://www.kepasaukulele.com/index.htm