Like many here I have lots of ukes, and also the opportunity to play lots more. I've noticed a few ukes, all high end and some with Hawaiian "name brands", that when held in playing position against my body had a muted sound. Hold them away from my body and the sound was great, rings like a bell. Like I said I have lots of ukes that don't do this. But it makes me leery to buy a uke without playing it 1st. I wanted to ask if anyone out there with greater experience than me knows why this sometimes happens? Is it the bracing, is it the thickness of the back, is it a certain piece of wood used for that instrument? Sure wish I knew. Thanks, Rick