Well, I guess I'll jump in ahead of the others who will probably suggest a Flea. They are known for their durability, but play nice, too.
Kiwaya laminates are very good.
I'm thinking of getting a laminate soprano as a travel uke and am leaning towards the Martin 0XK. It got me wondering which laminate sopranos might give it a run for its money. Any impressions?
+1 what Howard said.
The KS-1 rocked+2 for Kiwaya. Better than a lot of solids in my book.
Many of the great options I had in mind have already been mentioned... hard to beat a Flea, Martin or Kiwaya.
My favourite laminate soprano is a Mainland "Gecko" uke with rounded back... it absolutely sings with Worth Clear strings and is bulletproof.
I can't seem to find it on their website anymore though..
As for the Gretsch, does it even approach the Martin or Kiwaya in sound or feel?