Hmmmm, kind of depends on which Mele vs which Mainland vs which Ohana. I am a huge fan of the "value/price" index. I have a Mele solid koa tenor that I was worried about. It "opened up" rather suddenly, now sounds sweet and loud. My son has a Mainland long neck concert pineapple I think is amazing, and I know there are some Ohanas out there that are incredible values for the money. Not sure I'd pay full retail for a Mele though. Just got a used Mele solid mahogany soprano for $125. Action at nut too low, needs 1/2mm shim or new nut. Glad I didn't buy it new, but it's loud resonates well, and with Hilo strings, has that real "Hawaiian" sound.