Please help me purchase my first ukulele. I have many questions.

Hi. I need some help on purchasing a ukulele. I don't know much about the instrument, but I've started to do some research lately. I want to purchase a ukulele around $40-$70. Also, I've played guitar for years on and off, so I'm comfortable with the guitar fingerboard although I have pretty small hands. Anyways, I just wanted to know what type of ukulele would be good for someone who's used to playing the guitar. I know the baritone is the closest in size, but because I'm not looking to spend much, I thought maybe a concert sized ukulele would be good. I also wanted to know, possibly from a guitar player's standpoint, if there is much difference in the concert size as opposed to the soprano in terms of playability and comfort. Also, does anyone know if "Ukulele World" a good place to order from? And lastly, I'm interested in playing a ukulele that produces a very mellow sound. Is there a particular type of ukulele or strings that can produce a mellow sound? Thanks for reading and please reply. Any information would be helpful.

Hi Amie, welcome to the UU!

amie said:

Hi. I need some help on purchasing a ukulele. I don't know much about the instrument, but I've started to do some research lately. I want to purchase a ukulele around $40-$70.

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I would suggest contacting MGM. He has quite an inventory of instruments for all budgets. Many members have purchased instruments from him and have been extremely satisfied with his service. BTW, he is also a UU member.

amie said:

Also, I've played guitar for years on and off, so I'm comfortable with the guitar fingerboard although I have pretty small hands. Anyways, I just wanted to know what type of ukulele would be good for someone who's used to playing the guitar. I know the baritone is the closest in size, but because I'm not looking to spend much, I thought maybe a concert sized ukulele would be good. I also wanted to know, possibly from a guitar player's standpoint, if there is much difference in the concert size as opposed to the soprano in terms of playability and comfort.

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This question has been previously raised. Some will prefer a tenor and some a concert. Basically, it's whats comfortable for you. You didn't mention your location, but if you have a music store close to you that sells ukes, you should go and try out the different sizes.

amie said:

Also, does anyone know if "Ukulele World" a good place to order from?

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Ukulele World has been around for awhile. I've ordered miscellaneous items from them and have had no problems.

amie said:

And lastly, I'm interested in playing a ukulele that produces a very mellow sound. Is there a particular type of ukulele or strings that can produce a mellow sound? Thanks for reading and please reply. Any information would be helpful.

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Wood combinations and builds can be quite confusing. Mahogany produces a mellow tone while spruce provides a brighter one. As far as strings go, everyone will have a favorite. If you do a search on strings, you'll see what I mean. Again, it comes down to personal preference.

Here are some threads regarding a first purchase and should provide more info;
http://www.ukuleleunderground.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5463
http://www.ukuleleunderground.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4837
http://www.ukuleleunderground.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4503
http://www.ukuleleunderground.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4888

Kanaka916 I wish I could give you more rep points. You certainly deserve them.

thanks so much for the info