I agree with the ‘proof of concept’ statement. My first Uke was a $20 ‘toy’. I had fun ‘playing’ with it so I graduated up.
So unless you are certain you want to invest, go inexpensive. If you KNOW you want to really delve into this wonderful instrument, spend the money and purchase something that won’t frustrate you.
I disagree. Get something that won't frustrate you from day one.
I agree with Kaelre's disagreement, especially when you do the math. For my re-entrant uke needs I ended up with a $2200 Kamaka custom.
I know a lot of people are like OMG!
But think of how most people do it: a $50 crappy uke, then a $100 slightly less crappy Kala, then a jump up to a $200 Ocsar Schmidt, then a jump up to a $400 Cordoba, then up to $600 Pono, then up to the Kamaka.
What is the math? 50+100+200+400+600+2200=3550
Or you could save up ( or even pay in monthly installments) and spend $2200 for a Kamaka. That's a savings of $1350.
So, the math dictates that you shouldn't pay for a succession of sh*tty made-in-China assembly-line ukes...and then buy a good ukulele; you should save one or two thousand dollars and just pay for a hawaiian ukulele.
3 days and 25 posts later, the OP hasn't checked back on this thread...
Or done talking and now playing!OP frozen in front of computer with decision paralysis
I am always a bit surprised that there is so much feedback on going cheaper to save money on a first ukulele. I would look for one that sounds good and plays well first. Most "beginner" ukes do not fall in this category since most of those that get one want to "upgrade" once they decide they like it.
I would consider a budget around $200 and then call Mim (or another excellent seller) and give her the parameters of what you are looking for and your budget. Let her guide you to a good choice. You should get a good instrument that plays well to give you the better chance of success.