If your GF like plastic, get her a Makala. If she liked the sound of wood, stay with the Mahalo. They are $21.99 from Musician'sFriend or Music 123-----free shipping!!!
I drill .040 holes between where the strings go over the bridge and where they tie at the back edge. The strings are run down through the holes and forward to the sound hole. Tie them with a knot and pull them back into place. don't string forward until all strings are knotted. The Mahalo does have a plate under the bridge, so it is a secure attachment. My Bloodworks by Shawn Hines came strung that way. Lehua is now doing through the body. On the top side of the front bout ,slightly slanted back toward the waist, carefully make a one inch heart and CAREFULLY cut it out with an exacto knife. When you drill the initial hole, make several small, high speed holes that will let you begin to get the feel of removing the wood before you get to an edge. Then take a red permanent fine line felt tipped pen to the uncoloured edge make the heart stand out . I did one with three little heart \ in a slant. it is an in the face and in the ear reminder "I Love You." Yes, the sideport improves the sound from the top and also from the front. The Orange and Black one sports a Beaver 1 1/4 inches long and 5/8 high. Oregon State University colours and mascot.
I replaced the yellow and green strap with an orange one. I prefer Aquila strings.
