Mattyukaholic
Well-known member
I feel like a very lucky boy! Yesterday I received not one, but two
ukuleles. I've been wanting for some time to invest in a K brand and realised that because of my rampant UAS (my fiancée despairs!) I had enough ukuleles that don't get enough attention that I could sell. So I headed on eBay and trimmed the herd down significantly.
The results meant that I could afford two! Well why not?! So first I bought the pikake from a lovely gentleman from UU and then got the Kanile'a from the Southern Ukulele Store in Bournemouth (who I can't recommend highly enough!)
Having played lovely but eastern factory produced ukes I could tell the difference instantly. Both were easy to play and the intonation are spot on. I hadn't really noticed intonation being 'off' on my other ukuleles but having played these they don't seem as perfect. The K1 plays like butter. The frets are so smooth and the neck is nice and slim. In fact the K1 is such a beautiful Uke. The UV gloss and pearl position markers are classy and I like the understated design which shows off the stripey koa.
I have to say though, out if the two I actually prefer the sound of the Koaloha. I think this is partly down to the soprano size, but also because it has such a loud yet traditional sound. I can see why some people say the Kanile'as sound muted. I wouldn't call it muted, more that the tone is mellow and bass-y. I've tried worth browns and mediums already (I'm a stringaholic!!) but on the advice of various people here have ordered some of Ken Middleton's Living Waters.
I'm so happy with both of these ukuleles. I still sometimes feel like a beginner but feel ready for these instruments now having played a few years. And it is true - they really do make it even more of a pleasure to play.
I will say one thing though. There's still something about them Mainlands!!! I've had these two beautiful ukes for only a day and I still couldn't resist picking up my mainland mango for a strum. It's been my favourite Uke and just feels like a part of me.
I'll post some photos here. I'm far too shy for a video yet though. Working up the courage to post some of my songs here one day!
Matt
Ps. I just wanted to say thanks to all the people I've spoken to and got ukes from on UU. I've had the pleasure of dealing with some of the nicest and friendliest people on t'internet!