Even though it's highly regarded already, I am just blown away by what Ko'olau is producing these days! Sheeeesh! they are every bit as good as Kamaka ( in my huble opinion) and getting better. Have you tried one recently?
Sounds like my response. It's just my perception after reading countless posts about ukes on this site. I have tried Ko olau gold strings and found them to be dead, lifeless strings. So maybe that creeped into my perceptions. If they are worth a look, I'll keep an eye out.There is another thread where more than one poster said "I don't think Ko'olau is as good as the other K-brands, even though I've never played one." How do you even respond to that?
Poi Dog, my good sir, I beg to differ! Everyone knows KoAlohas are actually free, all you have to do is ask the management!...KoAlohas are a dime a dozen...
From what I've heard/read it seems that the Ko'olau ukes have more of a "custom luthier" vibe to them than the other Hawaiian makers. I can only infer that's because they're made in smaller batches with more time for each one.
Regardless, I've never actually had the good fortune to even see one in person, much less try one. I run across Kamakas all the time. In fact, I sometimes think there are more Kamakas on sale around me than Kalas or Lanikais. KoAlohas are a dime a dozen in stores, too. Kanile'a much less so, but still around. But Ko'olau are completely absent. Hell, some stores don't even know what they are!
I'd really like to try one, myself. But even more compelling would be if I start to get good on the guitar, perhaps looking into getting a Ko'olau six string to compliment my Kanile'a four.
Now that would be da kine chordophone ohana.