I've heard folks refer to a DaSilva as an heirloom. Keeper. I feel the same way about my 2005 Compass Rose. It is a mahogany tenor with antique red finish, supposedly built by Rick for the NAAM show. As pretty as it is, the reason I keep it is the tone. Terrific! I suspect the DaSilvas are steller players as well.
Has anyone heard of the soundboard warping? Someone told me that since his tops are so thin that it happens. I am going by what someone told me so no proof. I'm sure it can happen with any custom uke.