Ukecaster
Well-known member
Just a thread regarding high end uke construction and bracing. I'm no builder, but find the different bracing patterns interesting.
Koaloha has their unibrace, which reportedly allows them to use very thin tops, with thicker sides, no kerfing, resulting in a very strong design (they actually stand on them in the factory tour). This design reportedly also provides great volume.
https://www.uke-fan.com/blog/koaloha-ukulele-shop-tour-pictures/
Koaloha unibrace
Not sure on the other K-brands bracing designs (fan vs x-bracing, etc), but Kanilea has their TRU bracing, where the top braces have either holes drilled in them, or the newer TRU-R design, where much of the brace doesn't even touch the top.
Kanilea TRU-R bracing
Anyone know the bracing design (fan vs X, or other) of Kamaka, Koolau or other high end ukes? Kala Elite also switched from fan to X, to what benefit I'm not sure.
I've heard that X bracing provides a stronger top, with less chance of a wavy top, or bellying. Yes, I know that bracing is only one part of the equation, but in general, what's your take on different bracing designs bracing in relation to volume, tone and long term durability/integrity?
Koaloha has their unibrace, which reportedly allows them to use very thin tops, with thicker sides, no kerfing, resulting in a very strong design (they actually stand on them in the factory tour). This design reportedly also provides great volume.
https://www.uke-fan.com/blog/koaloha-ukulele-shop-tour-pictures/
Koaloha unibrace
Not sure on the other K-brands bracing designs (fan vs x-bracing, etc), but Kanilea has their TRU bracing, where the top braces have either holes drilled in them, or the newer TRU-R design, where much of the brace doesn't even touch the top.
Kanilea TRU-R bracing
Anyone know the bracing design (fan vs X, or other) of Kamaka, Koolau or other high end ukes? Kala Elite also switched from fan to X, to what benefit I'm not sure.
I've heard that X bracing provides a stronger top, with less chance of a wavy top, or bellying. Yes, I know that bracing is only one part of the equation, but in general, what's your take on different bracing designs bracing in relation to volume, tone and long term durability/integrity?
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