After playing only soprano ukes almost exclusively, I've decided to dabble into something a bit different, the baritone. I'm looking for a mid-range solid or solid top baritone in the $500 price range but preferably a bit lower. My main candidates so far are either standard or deluxe mahogany/acacia Pono or solid mahogany / solid top cedar Kala. My conundrum is that the Kalas go for around $400 whereas the Ponos are around $500 for the standard and $600 for the deluxe. My question to people with experience of these instruments is, is there a discernible difference between these to justify the higher price for the Ponos. I know Pono is regarded as one of the best mid-range uke brands but the Kalas I've had in the past have been decent quality as well. Unfortunately, trying these instruments out before buying is out of the question since none of my local music shops carry them, so any comments regarding the build quality, volume, sustain, playability, etc. would be appreciated.