Does anyone make a 5-string uke (soprano or concert size)?

morryll · Mar 11, 2012

I'm interested in getting a uke with five equally spaced strings. The idea is to tune it in fifths, CGDAE-- like a combination mandolin/mandola, or violin/viola, or a five-stringed violin. It would probably need to be soprano (13" scale) although concert (15" scale) might also be usable.

I've googled around and found, to my surprise, NOTHING. (There are a few 5-stiing ukes but they involve doubling one of the strings).

Anyone got an idea? If the uke I'm looking for doesn't exist, maybe I could get a six-string uke (with 2 doubled strings) and modify the nut and bridge to accomodate 5 equally spaced strings?

Liam Ryan · Mar 11, 2012

how's this?

http://www.ukuleleunderground.com/forum/showthread.php?61853-Five-String-Soprano

Kanaka916 · Mar 11, 2012

I haven't seen a production model other than Ohana and haven't heard much more as far as availability. Maybe Ken can fill us in. The only other one is Kanilea . . . check their site, I believe they have an option for a 5 string and the additional cost is $75.

Kanaka916 · Mar 11, 2012

Here's a link regarding Ohana's 5 String (G string is octaved and the spacing is similar to that of a 6 string) . . . http://www.ukuleleunderground.com/forum/showthread.php?41032-5-String-Tenor-Uke-from-Ohana!
http://www.ukuleleunderground.com/f...o-of-an-Ohana-Tk35g5-5-String-Uke-Gummi-Bears

Ken Middleton · Mar 11, 2012

Sorry, I have never heard of a uke with 5 equally spaced strings. Why not get a small guitar or 6 stringed uke? If you do get the uke, make sure it is one with equally spaced strings. Most 6 strings have 4 courses, like the Ohana.

rasputinsghost · Mar 11, 2012

John King used to play one back in the day. I think you'll have to get a custom..

rasputinsghost · Mar 11, 2012

http://www.nalu-music.com/nalu/giussani.html

Ken Middleton · Mar 11, 2012

Far out! I want one.

morryll · Mar 12, 2012

Thanks to all for the useful tips. Weighing my options. Think I'll end up buying a "normal" 5 or 6 string and getting the nut/bridge modified... cheaper anyway than a fully customized uke...

SailingUke · Mar 12, 2012

Ken Middleton said:
Far out! I want one.

Far Out ???, ok Ken now you need to do a few John Denver tunes.

zac987 · Mar 12, 2012

I've often considered this, as I also play the 5-string banjo. It could be tuned cGCEG, with a low-G string.

Ken Middleton · Mar 12, 2012

SailingUke said:
Far Out ???

I sometimes revert back to the '60's.

Does anyone make a 5-string uke (soprano or concert size)?

morryll

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Liam Ryan

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Kanaka916

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Kanaka916

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Ken Middleton

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rasputinsghost

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rasputinsghost

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morryll

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