With this year's NAMM show coming to an end, I'm curious to hear what everybody liked best? Did you make out any trending topics?
I think one trend can bee seen in beveled armrests. Kanilea is doing a very subtle bevel, while other brands such as Rebel or Mauloa use more of a Laskin type armrest that is somewhat more obtrusive.
Still trending are mini basses, it seems, with new concepts being added from makers such as Mauloa or Cordoba, while others just copy the original U-Bass from Kala.
For the second year in a row, I am most impressed by the innovation coming from Romero Creations. I really like those three different Guilele or Mini Guitar models, as well as their idea of extending the concept of the Grand Tenor to the Concert and Soprano size.
Kanilea is introducing some nice things as well: a Pineapple tenor with very cool design elements, their new affordable Oha line, and their new cases. My personal favorite from them would be the KSR-T with a slim slotted headstock, Gotoh Stealth tuners, and a very subtle armrest. Their new bracing seems to work really well, and I bet a lot of players will love that they now use a silk finish on the neck instead of the gloss.
Seems like Rebel is getting a lot more attention, with vendors such as Mim and Southern Ukulele Store in the UK deciding to carry them. Another relatively unknown brand that has been very well received is Mauloa.
What are your impressions and favorites?
Thanks again to everyone who contributed to this thread, especially those who added their own videos and pictures!