If you’re in the market for a Hawaiian ukulele, you may be wondering how to find the best one. Any ukulele is suitable for people who simply desire an island souvenir to hang on their wall. However, if you want to learn to use it and produce beautiful music, there are several factors to consider before making your purchase.

What to Consider When Buying a Hawaiian Ukulele

1. Size

Hawaiian ukuleles typically come in four sizes, which are known as soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. At 20 inches, the soprano is the smallest and produces the most traditional sound. (Think Old Navy, Target and Gap TV ads) The baritone, on the other hand, is the largest at about 30 inches in length, and it creates a deep tone that’s similar to a guitar with nylon strings. The concert and tenor sizes tend to be the ones most players will go for with the tenor being the most popular of them all. 

2. Shape

The notes will reverberate inside the instrument, so the silhouette of your ukulele’s body will have a significant impact on how it sounds. The figure eight shape is the most popular and traditional; however, manufacturers can make custom variations to suit your musical preferences.

3. Materials

The best ukuleles are made of solid wood because the natural material produces a richer, more resonant tone. Commonly used woods are koa, mahogany, spruce, cedar, and redwood, and each material specializes in a distinct sound. For example, midrange notes standout when playing on a mahogany instrument, while spruce has a lot of bass response. Because koa is a Hawaiian endemic wood (it grows nowhere else in the world), has a bright, brilliant tone and is aesthetically beautiful, it is the #1 wood choice for a Hawaiian-made ukulele.

4. Sound

If you have the opportunity to walk into a musical instrument store to play a Hawaiian-made ukulele, DO IT! You’ll hear the difference of a well-crafted handmade ukulele from the others. And when it has been built in the place that the ukulele was born, it makes it all the more special.

If you want to buy a beautiful instrument, turn to the skilled and knowledgeable craftsmen at Kanile’a ‘Ukulele in Kaneohe, HI. For over 20 years, this family-owned shop has designed and manufactured custom Hawaiian ukuleles for clients and professional musicians around the globe, including Willie K, Kapena, and Keauhou. They also provide beginners and experts alike with quality accessories, such as picks, stands, cases, and pedals. Shop their selection online, or call (808) 234-2868 to speak with a specialist about a custom design.