Buying my first "proper" uke

Harry R · Dec 25, 2009

For six years I've had a yellow Mahalo ukulele. As wonderful and reliable as it is, I'm going to invest in a more expensive, nicer sounding one. My budget is around £100.
What makes of ukulele are best?
(I'm looking for a SOPRANO uke by the way)

ukeCANjam · Dec 25, 2009

You can take a look into MGM's shop :

http://stores.ebay.com/Musicguymics-Room

Some good soprano ukes in particular is the Kala KA-S, or the Koalona sopranos. Some prefer the Lanikai LU-21

Just some suggestions!

KC8AFW · Dec 25, 2009

I can't say enough good things about Mainland Ukuleles. They get much love on this forum. And, they're available through Eagle Music Shop in the UK. It might be just slightly above your budget, though. http://www.eaglemusicshop.com/details1.asp/ProductID/6203/sid/23/mainland-soprano-mahogany'.htm

Kanaka916 · Dec 25, 2009

Check out this Social Group Discussion on uke dealers in the UK. It lists a few shops where an ukulele can be purchased.

Doc_J · Dec 26, 2009

I've seen alot of good reports for Brüko ukuleles in the U.K.
Check the reviews and posts.

Shipping and import fees may limit you from buying in the USA, based on you budget.

HoldinCoffee · Dec 26, 2009

Yeah, I'd go Brueko.

kissing · Dec 26, 2009

Although you'll pay additional for shipping, I still think MGM would be the best value for your money regardless of what uke you get

He sets up the ukulele so that it is in its best playing condition and upgrades the strings to Aquilas

So my suggestion is to take a look at his eBay store and find the uke that best fits your needs and budget

It will be a phenomenal upgrade from your Mahalo (it sure was in my case!)

Kanaka916 · Dec 26, 2009

They're also subject to some kind of import tax so that needs to be taken into consideration. I think Ken mentioned you'll luck out sometimes but that tax will add considerably to the cost.

pulelehua · Dec 26, 2009

£100 should be below the Customs Duty Infliction Point (CDIP). I think it's around £180, but that's off the top of my head, so you should check with Revenue and Customs.

I got positively roasted on a "cheap" digital camera I imported from the states a few years ago.

Lori · Dec 26, 2009

If at all possible, go to a local music store and try them out in person. :music: You will know when you find the one that feels and sounds right.

I have had great luck with Mainland, Kala, and Ohana brands. I haven't tried the Brüko though since they are a little harder to find in the USA. They look pretty nice though, and many people seem to like them.

–Lori

Buying my first "proper" uke

Harry R

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ukeCANjam

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KC8AFW

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Kanaka916

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Doc_J

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HoldinCoffee

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kissing

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Kanaka916

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pulelehua

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Lori

Uke Crazy

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