Fusion F1 Soprano/Concert Ukulele Limited Edition 2011 Full Review
December 13, 2011 at 5:11 am | Posted in Cases, Concert, Fusion Bags, General, Reviews, Soprano | 3 CommentsTags: Care, Full review, NAMM, posts, review, uke, ukulele
In the nature of full disclosure, I purchased this case and bag for a really good price. The idea is that how would I review it then send it back. They would never be able to sell a used bag as new and they don’t do seconds. Who would want a second on a case?
This case is the final piece of a long journey I have been on this summer in getting my Custom Boat Paddle 12 fret. I felt that I could not just put it in a plain Jane, vanilla case. It is way to cool for that. So why not the most obnoxiously colored thing I could find? Right?
Every year Fusion Bags chooses a different instrument to do a limited case for with all the bells and whistles. This year it was the ukulele!! Lucky us.
I saw prototype last year at NAMM and have been trying to get one for review all year, and it finally happened. I was really excited about the extra backpack thingy, I did not realize at the time that you can attach another whole case to it also. long story short, I got a little over a week ago and they really wanted the review quickly so they could possibly reference it, that is if they like the review.
We shall see. Read on to see my thoughts……and concerns.
Specs:
Color: Navy Blue & Lime Green
Padding: 30mm high density foam padding for all round protection
Outer material: Jacquard hard wearing, water resistant polyester, rip stop material, fashionable piping with no visible webbing. Commuter friendly reflective panels, segment piping and print
Inner material: Soft non scratch, non fibrous quality foam backed velvet and linen interior
Inner protection: Adjustable velvet padded headstock pillow with security strap and adjustable 5mm padded strip that can be molded to shape of instrument
Pockets: 2 x A4 zipped pockets to front of bag, bottom front pocket with organizer pockets and organizer compartments
Zips: Rubber zip pulls to prevent scratching of instrument, inverted zips for slick appearance
Carry system: Ergonomic adjustable backpack straps that can be stored in the rear zipped cushioned compartment. Integrated MP3 player/mobile phone pocket in backpack strap. Padded adjustable waist belt
Handles: 2 x Chunky riveted carry handles
Fuse-on: Fuse-on system on front of bag that can attach the Limited Edition Concert Ukulele case or Limited Edition 2011 Medium Backpack
Base: Hardwearing rubber base with floor studs
Branding: Limited Edition uniquely numbered metal badge with a Union Jack rubber badge at rear of bag. Rubber logos and screen printed Fusion branding
Dimensions: (Converted for us silly Americans)
External length: 31.5″ including top handle
External width: (at widest point) 14.2″
Internal length: 28.4″
Internal width upper bout: 9″
Internal width lower bout:10.2″
Weight: 4.4 lb
Full Specs:
http://www.fusion-bags.com/products-in-ukulele-gig-bags/f1-soprano-concert-ukulele-limited-edition-2011-69774
First look: (4) If they wanted to have something go gang busters in Japan, then they did it right. The bright green and flowers are a little much for me. When I carry a ukulele around I tend to not get noticed much, with this monster, big, blue and green bag on I will noticed for blocks. Will they know It is a ukulele? I doubt it since it is pretty large and does not really have the shape of a “normal” ukulele case.
on first glance I would have to say this thing looks huge and cumbersome with the huge straps, especially so with the additional bag on it, it looks insanely big. once you get closer to the bag you can tell that it is not your usual instrument case, I could mistake it for some kind of hiking bag with the waste straps and all the pockets.
Fit and Finish: (5) This is an expensive case, no way around that, and you really do get what you pay for in so many ways. Some will only see these cases online and not be able to see all the thought that went into it. Every zipper (all 9 of them on just the case) is super nice and hardcore. Almost everything zips out or off when it comes to the inside of the case. The straps that hold the neck down are attached, but the neck rest has Velcro on it to keep it down but it has a zipper to get to the padding if you want to mod it, also all the harder plastic type foam that makes the case somewhat rigid is also assessable by way of zippers. not sure how useful that is, but still nice that you can configure it beyond the normal case. One drawback might be when I travel to NAMM with this case and the TSA see all the crazy zippers and hiding places. should be fun.
With all the zippers, the stitching and construction is perfect. you will be hard pressed to find anything wrong with it. This thing was built to last. Also any zippers that could come in contact with the instrument are kept under a piece of stretch cotton so that it will not harm anything. It is the little things like that that show the craftsmanship in the case
One neat feature is the movable neck rest and also the movable padding. I found it great for my custom Boat Paddle, since it is such a weird shape I was able to make sure it does not move, keep stuff with it, and a humidifier next to it without it touching the wood itself.
When it comes to the truly unique thing about this case, the Fuse-On system, I find it a mixed bag. I love the fact that you can buy multiple cases and attach them together. The backpack parts of the case hideaway nicely so that it can be attached to another case. I am always carrying more than one uke (3-9 depending on the event) and having a nice package I can just put on my back is sweet. I was only sent one case and the additional backpack to test, but I may have to get another case so I can have 2 with me.
One of the parts I do not like is the backpack thing that you can also buy that attaches to these cases. It is weirdly designed and awkward to use. The way it attaches is very secure and that is what I base my assumption that another case would be awesome. The bag has 2 main compartments that are not all that deep and one, the deepest, is not accessible unless it is unattached from the case completely. Also the straps don’t seem to have as nice hiding place as the case does for its backpack straps. Don’t get me wrong, it is awesome that there is a bag that attaches to the case, and it is comfortable to wear and seems to not weigh the pack down when wearing both as a set. I filled it with a ton of books, binders, sheet music, capo, tuners, stickers, and case tags. It was very full and it was really nice having it attached to the case and just throwing the whole deal on my back. There is a bigger pack and it may be better. I have not seen one.
The other thing I am not a huge fan of is how much Velcro is on the sides. I wish they would have just used clips for the Fuse-on stuff. It leaves this weird, long, stabby Velcro thing on the edges and I think it looks weird, and I also trust clips more than I would the way that they attach the bag. It seemed really secure, but I am not fan.
One last note about the case and the additional pack. even without a full frame (Like a hiking pack) this is super comfortable and configured to be worn for a long haul.
Smell: (New Shoes) Weird I know, but it reminds me a little of new shoes like the ones at target or Wal-Mart. Not overpowering,
Final Thoughts
people go gaga over the Reunion Blues cases since they are soft sided and all that jazz, and they are $115, spend a little more and you get a lot more, in my opinion. Over all this case seems like it is a bit over kill and crazy big, but if you love your ukulele and want to protect it, but not have some heavier case, then this thing plain rocks. Sure it is a little over the top, but it is a limited edition case, it is meant to be special and not like the others. I thought at first it was a waste of money, but I get it now. Sure I look like a weirdo with a reflective/lime green/navy case with a backpack attached to it (I play ukulele, I am use to it), but it is really nice and worth the money. Just know that these are not a permanent thing in the catalog for Fusion. they choose a new instrument to do this to every year. They will only be available for a limited time before they move on, and that is it. I am happy to say that it is permanent home for my Boat Paddle.
Please know that this is not the end of the review. After NAMM I will edit this with how it did, and if it is one carry-on or two.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 4 |
| Fit and Finish | 5 |
| Smell | New Shoes |
Places to buy on the web:
Elderly $135 for the case
Elderly $80 for the bigger pack
Gallery:
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Cooperstand Pro-Mini Ukulele Stand Full review
November 30, 2011 at 9:08 pm | Posted in Cooperstand, General, Reviews, Stands | 11 CommentsTags: Care, Full review, laser, NAMM, posts, review, Stand, uke, ukulele
If you have ever seen my wall of ukes you know I hang them by the neck. I have found that it more secure, and frankly it looks cool to boot. But when I am out playing I do not have my lovely wall or any of my large stands with me. What am I to do? That is when I rely on stands that are small enough to travel with. It has to be compact and also keep my uke from falling over and that jazz.
Last year at NAMM I was walking by a booth that had a ton of people gathered around it. I had to see what it was all about, so I elbowed my way in to see these little stands. I did not understand why they were so cool, there ukulele and guitar stands, big deal. “Cool, they fold” so what. I talked to someone and took some info on them and left. When I got home I sat down and looked at all the stuff I had taken from all the vendors and came across the flyers that I took on these stands, read a little and felt stupid for not investigating a little more. So the short of it is that I contacted them and after a bit of e-mail tag and waiting for them to catch their breath they sent me one to review. I have not had it long, but I have been traveling with it, and since this is not a ukulele I really had to shorten up the review criteria. Who cares about how the stand sounds right?
Read below for what I thought.
Specs:
Fits Soprano, Concert, and Tenor.
African Sapele construction
Inert silicon pads at contact points
Closed cell neoprene padding at exposed areas
Hard neoprene in support areas
Finish: Satin
Case: Velvet Bag
Measures 5 3/4″ x 3″ x 1 1/4″
Full Specs:
http://cooperstand.com/buypro-mini.html
First look: (5) The stand is actually pretty. I can’t say I notice music stands very often, but this one is made of really nice wood and is very different from those metal tube with foam on them. At the same time is also very unassuming since it is so small. The wood and finish are like that of a nice ukulele and it looks very expensive.
Fit and Finish: (5) Have you ever looked at something and said “OK, these people are not joking around!”? when you look at it, It looks like a folding stand, a very pretty stand, but it is a stand, it is holding a ukulele upright so you can see it in all its glory and makes it easy to just pick up your uke and play.
Many people may not appreciate the thought and the choices that went into this stand, but there are many and they are all the right ones. The wood does not matter, but it is a nice touch, it adds class and it finished really well. I am always a fan of products that use laser etching to add their logo. I think it looks really nice. The big hinge on the back is nice and beefy, and might be over kill, but is locks and is very sturdy, a good thing if you like your ukulele. Honestly the only thing I see that could break is the little hinge at the top. If a kid was playing with this it could be forced open wrong and really screw this thing up. The fact that it also opens and closed very nicely and there is no assembly is really nice too, but all those things are nice and are a small thing compared the biggest choice they made that sent this over the top for me.
The neoprene lined areas with the silicone nubs sent me over the moon with joy. I know it sounds weird, but you have to understand why this is super important. Open cell padding, like you find on cheaper (Not just super cheap) stands will eat lacquer if left in contact with it for just a few days. I have seen it happen to a guitar. The neoprene and silicone are benign and will not react with any finish, ensuring that your instrument will be safe. Another plus is that it is really grippy and will not let the ukulele slide.
Final Thoughts
Over all I really like this stand, it is a little pricey, but in comparison to the Kala stands it is right in the same price range. I do have one of the low end Kala ones that slide together and have left it in the rain and it was fine, not sure how this one would do.
In the end this one is really nice looking, sturdy, and has everything you could ever ask for in a travel stand. I really hope they come out with an Ecco version to bring the price down.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 5 |
| Fit and Finish | 5 |
| Smell | Like Rubber |
Places to buy on the web:
Cooper Stands – $54 Shipped
Amazon – $44 shipped if you have a prime account
Gallery:
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McNally StrumStick Ukulele Full Review
November 3, 2011 at 3:26 pm | Posted in Concert, General, McNally, Reviews, StrumStick | 13 CommentsTags: Full review, laser, posts, review, Solid, steel string, uke, ukulele
This is one of those reviews that I hate to write. I did ask the company to send me this uke to review, and they had no issue doing it. My problem is that in short this uke is a good idea gone wrong. I don’t fault McNally since they make instruments that are in a diatonic scale, meaning that if you hold down one string and strum that it will sound good. That being said they are not really ukulele builders, more of a rustic mountain dulcimer maker.
Just read on to see what I mean.
As a side note, they are made pretty well and care was taken in making it. It just is not a good form for a ukulele. Also please take a look at their site for a blast back to early 90’s web design
http://strumstick.com
Specs:
Concert: 15 fret
Tuners: Geared
Nut & saddle: Plastic
Top: Solid Spruce?
Sides: Solid Spruce?
Back: Solid Spruce?
Neck: Solid Spruce?
Strings: Steel, attached with a loop on a post
Finish: Matte
Case: Fitted Gig Bag
Specs:
http://strumstick.com/html_pages/Ukelele%20Strumstick.htm
Looks
First look: (4) Although it is weird looking, I have to not totally knock it for how it looks. It looks fun and like nothing you will see normally. That being said, yes it is not the prettiest thing in the world either.
Fit and Finish: (2) My guess on how this thing is made is that they get a 2 X 4 cut a notch down the center, spread the sides a part and stick a piece of wood between then to make the sides and neck. Then fit some pieces of wood on the top and back and trim it down to the body, then sand liberally. The next step would be to slam some frets on the “neck” and call it done.
Now to be fair, it is not sloppy or done without care. Everything is straight, and there is a really nice laser cut sound hole. The action is really good and all that, but the wood choice is weird and the neck is 2” thick?? Also the finish on the “Fret Board” makes it impossible to bend the strings at all. It is just done quick and cheap.
Sound:
Sound Type: Tinny and shallow. There is no sound box, I would have to say I would put a pickup in it.
Intonation: (4) Pretty good. Not really off and it seems good up and down the fret board.
Volume: (4) If it had nylon strings there would be no way to hear it. The steel strings make it be heard.
Sustain: (2) It is not like I am muting it with my sleeve, but it dies super quick. I expect more out of steel strings
Feel:
String Height: (medium-low) The strings are where they should be.
Bridge
Neck Radius Depth: (2″) Cut a 2 X 4 in half long ways, round the edges. That is what it is like
Frets: (2) The frets are good, they are not the issue. The fret board as whole sucks, too wide, cannot bend and dents since it is so soft
Tuning: (3) I am not sure the pictures do it justice, but the tuners are, as I can tell, cheap classical tuners that have the 3rd tuner cut off.
Classical guitars have tuners that come in 3s on each side.
Comfort: (3) Like a Risa Solid, this uke requires that you use a strap to play it. I find that the one that they included is really uncomfortable and ugly to boot. Also the super thick neck makes it extra weird to play
Sound Hole Smell: Woodshop
Final Thoughts
Ukuleles are compact enough; there is no reason to make them smaller. I have to commend them on a good try since they did pay attention to things like a nice case, and the nice laser cut sound hole inlay. Beside those things it is a total disaster from the tuning pegs to the posts that hold the custom strings that you can only get from them. The floating bridge looks nice, but is really weirdly placed, and trying to play this thing is really strange. I might be the fact it has steel strings that confuses my fingers or the tension of them, but I found this thing a bear to play. I also did not care for the sound either. Playing with others you get really dirty looks, worse than playing a reso-banjo uke in a crowd of “Normal” uke players.
I would say this thing is not for me. I think I could spend my $200 on something a little nicer.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 4 |
| Fit and Finish | 2 |
| Sound Type | Tinny and Shallow |
| Intonation | 4 |
| Volume | 4 |
| Sustain | 2 |
| String Height | Medium -Low |
| Neck Radius Depth | 2″ |
| Frets | 2 |
| Tuning | 3 |
| Comfort | 3 |
| Sound Hole Smell | Woodshop |
Places to buy on the web: You can find regular StrumSticks online, but not the Ukulele
Only place I have seen them is on their site LINK – $198
Currently the cart does not work, may have to call to order.
Response from StrumStick
“We make the Ukelele Strumstick strictly for fun and its unique sound. There are plenty of great regular ukes out there, we were not trying to make yet another traditional Uke. This has steel strings, and a tiny soundbox, it has a banjo/mandolin kind of sound, and nobody needs it. But, it is a fun character sound, it is all handmade, and the Uke has a long history of interesting novelty varieties being made. The woods are Padouk, Spruce, and Maple, all solid woods. (Not all spruce as listed in the review). This is an instrument made to be inexpensive (as handmade instruments go), simple, but well made of high quality materials, for a specific niche purpose. It is not supposed to sound like a regular Uke, and it is supposed to be as small as possible. I have no issue with anyone not liking the sound (or the looks), but I must say, no 2×4′s were slammed with frets in the making of this instrument.”
HD Audio Samples:
Gallery:
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Kala Design The Next Ukadelic Contest
September 30, 2011 at 8:29 pm | Posted in Events, General, Giveaway, Kala, Projects | 3 CommentsTags: DIY, Giveaway, home made, Kala, learning, posts, uke, ukulele
Kala is doing something that I think is really groovy. They asking you to design the next Ukadelic Uke.
Here are the quick Rules:
-Be a Kala Facebook fan.
-Email all artwork to joy@kalaukulele.com
-Information on our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kala-Ukulele/34868244956#!/pages/Kala-Ukulele/34868244956?sk=wall
-Contest ends October 31, 2011
-You can get the templates from their Facebook Page (E-mail me if you want my vector template)
What you win:
-3 of your Ukadelics with your design
-They add your design to the Ukadelics that they sell.
-they mention you as the designer
I have a couple of ideas that I am not submitting, But I can dream right?
A take on my UITW logo, and my logo. I put my logo on everything
Good Luck, and make sure to tell them that you saw the contest on Ukeeku.com when you submit your designs.
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Ukeeku’s Custom 5-String Concert Boat Paddle Uke
September 27, 2011 at 2:40 am | Posted in Boat Paddle, Concert, Family Photos, General | 4 CommentsTags: Custom, posts, Solid, uke, ukulele
It has been a while since I posted, Life and a new kitchen kind of got in the way, but I am back and I have a new ukulele that I own, sorry I will not be giving this one away any time soon.
In a nutshell I had Jerry of Boat Paddle ukes build me one of his new 12 Frets with some upgrades. I am lucky that I live only 3.5 hours away, so taking a day trip to his shop was not a big deal, and it was worth the trip. I was able to sit down with him and Thom, of the Flea Bitten Dawgs, to talk about what I wanted and what I wanted it to sound like. Jerry showed me a ton of samples and we thumped some wood. the Spruce just rang like a bell. I also gave him my logo to put on it and left it up to him to inlay it, I had a general location, but he sized it to look good. I also really like the thumb nail fret markers on a few other ukes he had pictures of so I went with those. Beyond that I contacted Mi-Si and PegHed to get those, Jerry can get them also, I just wanted to use this opportunity to review those awesome products to and see if I could work out a deal with them on those parts.
I think I calculated the price of the uke would be around $1200 (Keep in mind the pickup alone is $350)
In the near future I will be doing 3 separate reviews for this ukulele. The Uke itself, the pickup, and the PegHed Tuners. Give me about 3 months to really play it and digest what I have done.
But expect that if you see me at a ukulele event I will have it and you are more than welcome to play it.
Specs:
Concert : 12 Fret
Tuners: PegHed with Ebony buttons
Nut & saddle: Bone and metal nut, Bone saddle
Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
Sides: Solid Walnut
Back: Solid Walnut
Neck: Walnut
String Attachment: Tied
Pickup: Mi-Si Cutless
Finish: Satin
Case: Fremont Tweed
Full Specs:
http://www.boatpaddleukuleles.com/instruments.php
Below is a gallery of the pics and two videos.
-
- Product shot of the Misi Cutless
Little video show and tell
Me playing it a little
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Boat Paddle Custom M No Strings Attached Review
August 6, 2011 at 1:26 am | Posted in Boat Paddle, General, Reviews, Tenor | 6 CommentsTags: posts, review, uke, ukulele
I have not done a NSA (No Strings Attached) review in a long time. So far most of the vendors are nice enough to let me play the instrument for a few months then I review them. Sometimes that is not an option and I do a quick play and look over the ukulele and give my impression based on the little time I had with the uke. In this case I don’t think the actual owner would have been cool with me delaying her getting her custom uke, and I don’t blame her. So here we are with a NSA of a Custom M style tenor from Boat Paddle ukuleles.
Just keep in mind that this was a quick play of the instrument, but…I have played a ton of Boat Paddle ukes. The ratings are all going to be awesome since it is a $1700 uke…and it should be super awesome.
Here is the quick rundown on the owner. Her name is Danielle Asernault and she currently lives in South Korea, but was in the states climbing and traveling. Not sure what brought her to Boat Paddle, but she wanted a custom uke, and Jerry was happy to do it.
Here are some links so you can get to know her.
http://www.dirtbagstyle.blogspot.com/
http://www.picklepresspoetry.blogspot.com/
And some songs that she did.
http://soundcloud.com/danielle-arsenault/sets/music-by-mustache-fable-and/
I was at Boat Paddle to get my concert 12 fret started and Jerry had Danielle’s uke there. I figured since I was there I could do a quick thing on it. How often do I get to play really nice custom ukes? Also I think Boat Paddle makes great ukes that more people should know about, and I am not just saying that because I will soon be a proud owner of one.
Read on and I will try to explain why Boat Paddles are so great, and what on this uke makes my heart go pitter patter.
Specs:
Tenor : 19 Fret
Tuners: Grover Stay-Tite 18:1
Nut & saddle: Bone saddle, and Bone and Metal Nut
Top: AAA Red Spruce
Sides: AAA Cocobolo Rose wood with Maple Binding
Back: AAA Cocobolo Rose wood
Neck: Mahogany with an Ebony Fretboard, Custom Heart MP Fret markers
String Attachment: Tie
Finish: Gloss with a Dark Sunburst Top
Pickup: Mi-Si Acoustic Trio
Case: Being delivered with a Fremont case
Full Specs:
http://www.boatpaddleukuleles.com/
Looks
First look: (5) I would have to say that when I first saw it I was already in love, hell it has hearts on it. The tobacco sunburst finish on top that matches the natural darkness of the rosewood sides and the contrasting maple binding are attributes that you can’t help but notice. The heart inlays are not for me, but I am guy (You know, all manly like and stuff). The inlay is really sharp; don’t get me wrong, I am not a hearts kind of person. I would do flames and skulls if it where mine. One of the unique things about all Boat Paddle ukes is that you can tell that it is not a regular uke from a mile away. The M style is so sexy and also very elegant with the large curves and sharp edges. I love how the body is not symmetrical, it just gives it such style.
Fit and Finish: (5) Of course it is perfect. Super high gloss and everything is done with highest of care. I think the only thing that Jerry does not make by hand are the tuners and the fret wire, and I know if he wanted to he could do both (Interesting fact about jerry. He was a master blacksmith for many years). One of the great things about Boat Paddle ukuleles is that Jerry is not afraid to look at the instrument that he just made and fix the issues it may have. I have seen him cut the back off a uke he completed, and I mean high gloss buffed out, to fix the bracing because it did not sound right. That to me is amazing and shows that he is only happy with perfection.
Sound:
Sound Type: Bold and Smooth. I think the low G makes it sound bold to me. I would not say that it is guitar like, defiantly a ukulele, it is a confidant sound.
Intonation: (5) One of the coolest things about Boat Paddle is the nut. If you look it has no slots cut out. He uses metal pins to separate the strings. The whole nut is shaved down to the proper height. The preciseness that Jerry uses to setup each instrument means that there is no need for setup after you buy it, and it will be perfect.
Volume: (5) I am not use to playing tenor ukuleles. This uke seemed really full and loud. I was amazed how the whole thing vibrated, including the neck.
Sustain: (5) Of any uke I have played, ever, this one rang the longest. When I was making the sound sample I was blown away how long it went between the different sections. The funny part was that I did not play the uke that hard, I used a soft touch since the uke was not mine and it was going to be picked up some time soon and it still rang like I just hit it with everything I had.
Feel:
String Height: (Medium) Setup perfectly. This is one of those things that I did not really pay attention to. It played really easily and seemed like it too no effort to make each not clearly. It did not feel like an electric guitar either. I had to use my normal pressure to make the notes and cords.
Neck Radius Depth: (Not Sure) Basic C shaped neck. Note the fact that the M Style does not have a heel like other ukes. Jerry uses this really cool neck attachment method where it is slid into the front block. Look on his site for pictures of it.
Frets: (5) No binding and it is still smooth as butter. Great care is taken to make sure that each fret is dressed and is perfect.
Tuning: (5) With geared tuners it was super nice to tune. The unique nut also helps since the strings have nothing to stop them from moving.
Comfort: (5) Surprised by the weight. This uke felt a little heavy, where most of his other ukes seem so light. It might be the fact that I am not use to the tenor size, and this one also had a pickup installed. It was super nice to play. The M style really lends itself to being played sitting down, although I had no issues playing standing up. For a uke like this I would use the strap button that the pickup makes since having it plugged in will possibly make it a little weird to just hold.
Sound Hole Smell: Like a woodshop. A mix of fresh cut wood and lacquer.
Final Thoughts
Some might say that $1700 is crazy for a ukulele, but if you compare his prices to most any high end custom ukulele builder he is cheap. A uke like this from DeVine or Collings would be $2500+. I would have to say that this is one of the most beautiful ukes I have had the honor of playing, and I have played my share of lookers. I would be hard pressed to knock it for any reason, well…except for the hearts J
Jerry at Boat Paddle is a true craftsman. He is always researching and thinking about what he could do differently and what makes a ukulele truly sing. I love sitting down with him and talking about what it takes to build a uke. He always points out that many builders come from the world of guitars, and that is all well and good, but the ukulele is a different monster. There are things that work for ukes that would make a guitar implode if you braced them the way he does his ukes. I would say that the M style uke is one of the ukes that show his full understanding of the complexity of making a truly amazing ukulele and Daniele’s is truly a work of art.
Funny thing about Jerry is that he has been a craftsman for 20+ years. I have been told he was one of the best blacksmiths in North America. He wrote the Blacksmiths Journal (227 issues in total) for many years. The work he did as a blacksmith was really cool, at least the stuff I have seen, like a guitar stand that weighs a good 40 lb. I asked him what he likes to do better, Build ukes or metal stuff, and he gave the greatest answer. “It is a matter of what color you want your boogers to be. Black or brown. I prefer Brown for now”
I would recommend that you play a Boat Paddle ASAP. They are worth every penny. I know he will be at the Milwaukee uke fest this year, and will hopefully come to Ukulele World Congress like he did last year. If all else fails get your butt to New Haven Missouri to his shop.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 5 |
| Fit and Finish | 5 |
| Sound Type | Bold and Smooth |
| Intonation | 5 |
| Volume | 5 |
| Sustain | 5 |
| String Height | Medium |
| Neck Radius Depth | Not sure |
| Frets | 5 |
| Tuning | 5 |
| Comfort | 5 |
| Sound Hole Smell | Woodshop |
HD Audio Sample:
Mic
Pickup
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Brad Donaldson Vintage-S Full Review
July 26, 2011 at 9:50 pm | Posted in Brad Donaldson, General, Soprano | 9 CommentsTags: Full review, Koa, posts, review, uke, ukulele
What if I told you that you could buy a solid koa soprano ukulele for $300 new? Most would say I had to of stolen it, or that it has something wrong with it. Now what if I said it was made in the U.S.A? I would think people would call shenanigans and ask what sweat shop is actually making them. This is no joke. Brad Donaldson out of Eugene Oregon is doing just that. Making a $300 solid koa ukulele that rivals most ukuleles that are 3-4 times the price.
Why you may ask? Well it is simple; Brad loves you and the U.S.A.
Sappy, I know, but Brad (Known as Bradford on the Ukulele Underground) is one of the few that I call garage builders (like David Gill). These are the people that are retired, have a good pension, and like to make ukuleles and feel that it is better to get well made instruments in people’s hands than make money at it. While talking with Brad the other day he said that he played a bunch of Chinese made ukes that where nice, but he knew he could do it better and decided to take them head on. Although he can’t push out the quantity, his quality is worth every penny. Also he feels like it is better that there are more ukes made in the states. If you talk with him you can tell he has a real passion for making musical instruments, and ukuleles I would say are his favorite.
So on with the show…Brad contacted me after hearing that I like the small makers and love reviewing their ukes. I was lucky enough that he was able to get it to me before Ukulele World Congress so I could show it to everyone. I had it in a double case with the Martin S1, let’s say the S1 did not fare well in comparison.
Heres how he explained what he was sending to me in the e-mail
“It is based on a 1920 Jonah Kumalae. The two big differences are I add a bridge patch and a raised fretboard. It will be all solid koa, with PegHed tuners, normal retail price is $299”
And while he was building it he was nice enough to send me and my reader’s pictures.
On a side note; when you order yours, be prepared for the most over protected packing you have ever seen. The amount of protection that Brad uses when shipping his ukes is insane! Mine came in a box lined with cardboard, then a tomb was made of hard pink insolation, and in that wad a bubble wrapped and taped uke. He claims that none of his ukes have ever been damaged in shipping and I believe it.
Specs:
Soprano: 12
Tuners: PegHed tuners (Like these from Elderly)
Nut & saddle: Bone
Top: Solid Koa
Sides: Solid Koa
Back: Solid Koa
Neck: Koa Neck, Koa Fretboard
String Attachment: Knot in the body
Finish: Gloss
Case: No case included, but shipped so well it will blow you away.
Full Specs: No Specs, just his site.
http://donaldsonukuleles.com
Looks
First look: (5) Before I received it I knew this thing was a looker. The French polish on it really brings the wood grain out and makes it really nice. I also noticed that the waste seemed smaller and that weird shape would pull me toward it if I saw it in a shop. The simplicity of the design and inlays (Just around the sound hole) make it seem so plain, but also vintage, even though it is brand spanking new. One thing that caught me that makes it a little weird is that there is no logo on the head stock, but I can see how that would not be in the style of a vintage uke.
Fit and Finish: (4) Let me start with why I gave it a 4 out of 5. Brad makes amazing ukes, there is no doubt in that. I will have him build me one someday, but I see some issues with his finishing on this uke. I have been told that he does not do gloss all that often and that he prefers a matte finish, just as I do. I also know that he rushed this uke out to me so I would have it for UWC, in saying that I know that some of this is due in part to that. What I found is that I see little dots in circular pattern in the finish. I think this is caused by putting it on a non-slip mat while it was still tacky, almost unnoticeable unless you are looking for issues. The other things I saw had to do with sanding marks. The bridge has some finish on it and some of it was sanded off at the top, and also there are sanding marks at the 12 and 13 frets, all minor things that make no difference in the sound. I have found that many of the garage ukulele builders have small issues when it comes to finishing. Over all this is one of the best made instruments I have ever played. I see no pulling up at the bridge, it is so sturdy but light and it just sings. For $300 you would be hard pressed to find a uke that sounds like this. The only changes I see that I would make would be to angle off the saddle at the edges, since they kind of stick out, and fret markers at 3 and 12. But I might be picky.
Sanding Marks on fretboard
Sound:
Sound Type: A very forward mellow sound. What does that even mean? I found that this uke is very clear and almost on the verge of over the top, but is keeps it’s mellow Koa sound that you expect.
Intonation: (5) Perfect. Just like all other details of this uke, he pays close attention to intonation.
Volume: (5) One of the loudest sopranos I have ever played.
Sustain: (5) LOOOOOOOOOOOONG and clear.
Feel:
String Height: (medium-low) The strings are where they should be.
Neck Radius Depth: (3/4″) C shaped neck but with a flat edge that makes it feel really wide.
Frets: (5) You can see them from the sides, so it is not bound, but there is no place you can feel them. They are angled and rounded off on the edges as they should be. Frets do not feel super low, but they are. Very easy to make every note crisp and clear.
Tuning: (5) I have never had PegHed tuners before (Geared peg tuners, just like these from Elderly). Super smooth operation, I may put them on all my nicer ukuleles. Stay in place and super easy to use. Is it me or does it blow your mind that he uses $80 tuners?
Comfort: (5) One of the lightest ukes I have ever played. I am always surprised when I pick it up and it is so super light. If I had a scale I would weigh it. Also all the edges are nice and rounded and it just fits so perfectly in my arm to hold it. The other thing I noticed is that it is super balanced. The body and head seem to not be heavier than the other, which makes it super nice to hold and play for a long time.
Sound Hole Smell: Woodshop
Final Thoughts
As you can see by the scores, I think this uke is a must have. I think in general having a Brad Donaldson of some sort is a must have. The combination of woods, workmanship, sound, and price make this uke spectacular, especially in the price range. I have met a few people that have one on order and can’t wait to get theirs.
I think brad is one of the main reasons that I love the ukulele. I have never heard of any other community that is willing to make something just for the reason of making the world a better place. It is not about the $$$, it is about making people happy, and himself happy. That is a great thing, and I think many of us could learn something from him.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 5 |
| Fit and Finish | 4 |
| Sound Type | Forward Mellow |
| Intonation | 5 |
| Volume | 5 |
| Sustain | 5 |
| String Height | Medium -Low |
| Neck Radius Depth | 3/4″ |
| Frets | 5 |
| Tuning | 5 |
| Comfort | 5 |
| Sound Hole Smell | Woodshop |
Places to buy on the web: Not Super easy to find online
Have to e-mail or call. WEBSITE
HD Audio Samples:
Gallery:
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- Sanding Marks on fretboard
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Mahalo ULP-30CH Les Paul Ukulele Full Review
July 14, 2011 at 11:48 pm | Posted in Mahalo, Soprano | 10 CommentsTags: cheap, Full review, Laminate, posts, review, uke, ukulele
Let me start with a little legal junk. This is not a Les Paul uke. The Gibson Les Paul uke does exist and it is not the same as this one. There are subtle differences, and it may kind of look like it in some ways.
Now for real life…this is a Les Paul ukulele. Mahalo made some small changes to the body, but we all know what it is supposed to look like. I think it is funny how Mahalo has had it out for years and Gibson finally just released the Epiphone Les Paul this year.
One of the best parts about being a uke player is that you can afford many more ukes than guitar players can buy guitars, and this one is just fun to own, and it is SUPER cheap. I would buy one just to make it awesomer (Yes, AWESOMER).
Read the review below and at the end I will compare what I know about the Epiphone to this Mahalo and tell you what I would do if I owned it.
Specs:
Soprano : 19
Tuners: Geared Nickel with green buttons
Nut & saddle: Nu Bone
Top: Laminate Maple
Sides: Laminate Maple
Back: Laminate Maple
Neck: Mahogany with a Rosewood fretboard
String Attachment: Tie
Finish: Sunburst and Gloss
Case: Custom shaped gig bag
Full Specs:
http://www.sagamusic.com – Not on the site currently
Looks
First look: (5) This uke is unique looking in so many ways. I love the sunburst finish and the fact it looks like a Les Paul with the body shape, tuners and trapezoid fret markers (Something the Epiphone version does not have)
Fit and Finish: (4) Far from perfect, but this is a cheap uke and it is amazing that they are able to make it so cheap. It has some cosmetic issues like discoloring in the binding, but overall it is built fine. I wish they would use a lower and less chunky bridge. The bridge on it is too tall and they needed to bring the saddle down a lot to make the strings low.
Sound:
Sound Type: I would liken it to any laminate uke. A little muted with very little depth to the sound.
Intonation: (3) Not awesome, but to be expected. Beyond the 7th fret it gets a little off as you go down. I think it is funny that they have a compensated saddle; you would expect it to be better than it is.
Volume: (4) Not a screamer. It puts out sound well enough. I would put a cheap pickup in it any ways.
Sustain: (4) Not super long, but it lasts long enough to not seem lacking.
Feel:
String Height: (Medium) Playable. Not much room for improvement.
Neck Radius Depth: (3/4″) Basic C shaped neck.
Frets: (5) Bound fretboards make it much easier for the builder to not mess up and have frets sticking out the side. The frets are nice and low.
Tuning: (5) I am normally a traditionalist when it comes to what tuners should be on a uke, but for a rocking one like this I have to say they nailed it with the jade green knobbed geared tuners. They are almost just like the old LP guitars that you see from the 60’s. Good choice, and work well to boot.
Comfort: (5) With the width of the neck being the same from nut to 19th fret it feels nice and wide. Usually the neck is narrower at the nut and widens as it gets closer to the body. Also the nice finish makes the edges nice and rounded off. I think that with a pickup it would add the needed strap button to make it easier to rock out.
Sound Hole Smell: Elmers Glue
Final Thoughts
I have 2 thoughts on this. The first is that I would say this would be a good uke to start with if you have never played an instrument before. It plays fine and it is fun and very rock and roll.
The other side is that I would get one of these as a project uke. In so many ways I wish I could take stuff from the Mahalo and the Epiphone and make the perfect Les Paul ukulele. The Mahalo had the right trapezoid fret markers, along with the right tuner buttons. It is missing the right head stock, pick guard, and a pickup. The headstock is not doable, but the pick guard and pickup are. I would buy THIS pickup and then just make a pick guard from some thin vinyl. I might also see if I could come up with a different bridge since the one on it is a little clunky.
Epi v. Mahalo
I would say that it is worth the $52 no matter what. With enough distortion (After you put a pickup in it) it will sound awesome.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 5 |
| Fit and Finish | 4 |
| Sound Type | A little muted |
| Intonation | 3 |
| Volume | 4 |
| Sustain | 4 |
| String Height | Medium |
| Neck Radius Depth | 3/4″ |
| Frets | 5 |
| Tuning | 5 |
| Comfort | 5 |
| Sound Hole Smell | Elmers Glue |
Places to buy on the web:
HD Audio Sample:
Gallery:
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- Epi v. Mahalo
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Mahalo Uke-Banjo –Red Cedar Full Review
July 12, 2011 at 1:43 pm | Posted in Mahalo, Soprano | 7 CommentsTags: banjo, banjolele, cheap, Full review, Laminate, posts, review, uke, ukulele
I am so confused by this ukulele for so many reasons. For starters is NOT a banjo uke! It is a camp uke, and I told Saga music that over a year ago. The other thing is that the name says cedar, but is actually a solid spruce top with laminate mahogany sides and back. I think the proper name would be Spruce top Camp uke. By no means is this a 1925 Lyon & Healy Monkeypod Camp Uke, but being round like a frying pan makes it a camp uke, just like being oval-ish makes a uke a pineapple uke.
I am happy to see the camp uke being made since it is such a fun shape, and Mahalo actually has 3 to choose from.
Today I am reviewing the Mahalo Uke-Banjo –Red Cedar, one of the 39 ukes under the Mahalo name. Saga also makes Hamano and Diamond Head ukes.
I won’t lie, I have been playing this uke on and off, and every time I have a different opinion of it. It is a weird uke. Read more to get the full picture.
Specs:
Soprano : 14
Tuners: Gold with black plastic buttons
Nut & saddle: Nu Bone
Top: Solid Spruce
Sides: Mahogany Laminate
Back: Mahogany Laminate
Neck: Mahogany with a Mahogany fretboard
String Attachment: Knot in a slot
Finish: Matte
Case: Custom shaped gig bag
Full Specs:
http://www.sagamusic.com/catalog/details.aspx?ProductID=UB-30RC
Looks
First look: (2) I have one word for how it looks, Cheap. You would never know that it has a solid spruce top. It looks like nato (Basic nondescript wood used in really cheap ukes). Also with the slide on Mahalo logo at the top it does not help. My friend Alex said to me other day “The headstock looks like a tongue depressor”.
Fit and Finish: (3) I would give it a 2, but it is a really cheap uke. There are glue marks all over, and the finish is uneven. I also noticed that the grain is raised on the sides and back, probably caused from a really wet stain. The bridge is straight and so is the neck. For the most part it is cosmetic and to be expected of a uke in the price range. One big thing that I noticed is that the top is stupid thick. Not sure why they braced it, it is so thick.
GLUE!!!
Sound:
Sound Type: It depends on if you are the player or the person listening. When I play it I hear it but it is really muted and seems trapped, but if I have someone else play it or I make the front face me it sounds clear and punchy. I would liken it to an old-time sound. After a little while I figured out the difference in sound. I have a small belly that I press the uke against, well, if it is not pressed against my belly it sounds so much better! I guess the sound depends on how fat you are.
Intonation: (3) I expected so mush more from this uke since it has this really nice compensated saddle, but a lass it is not that good. I would give it a 2, but it is fixable if you lower the action…I think.
Volume: (4) When standing in front of it is loud. Although the player might think it is very muted and dead sounding. This thing is in need of a side port-hole.
Sustain: (3) Not long, but that contributes to the old-time kind of sound
Feel:
String Height: (High) It is higher than it should be. It can be lowered since there is no pulling.
Neck Radius Depth: (3/4″) Basic C shaped neck.
Frets: (4) Not bad. You can kind of feel the frets on the side, but I have to forgive it a little for the price. My fingers are not caught on them and over all they are not sharp.
Tuning: (4) I do like traditional friction tuners, and these work. They are very cheap plastic tuners, I would upgrade them.
Comfort: (4) Weird to hold compared to a standard ukulele since it has a round body and the bridge is so far back, but they make things a little easier with the strap button on the butt of the uke standard. Using a strap makes it pretty comfortable to play. I did find the edges a little sharp and I had to hold it just in back of the bridge and ended up muting it a little when I did not use the strap.
Sound Hole Smell: Elmers Glue
Final Thoughts
I am not super impressed by this uke. As first uke or a beater I would say that it is ok, but I would go with a cheap Oscar Schmidt over this one. It is fun looking and the other versions are nicer looking but play the same.
I just wish they would change the name to Camp Uke.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 2 |
| Fit and Finish | 3 |
| Sound Type | Depends on how fat you are |
| Intonation | 3 |
| Volume | 4 |
| Sustain | 3 |
| String Height | High |
| Neck Radius Depth | 3/4″ |
| Frets | 4 |
| Tuning | 4 |
| Comfort | 4 |
| Sound Hole Smell | Elmers Glue |
Places to buy on the web:
HD Audio Samples:
Gallery:
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- GLUE!!!
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Martin S1 Full Review
June 17, 2011 at 3:58 am | Posted in Martin, Soprano | 12 CommentsTags: Chris Martin, Full review, Martin, NAMM, posts, review, uke, ukulele
Ding dong the witch is dead, the witch is dead, ding dong the wicked witch is dead!!! By the witch I mean the Martin SO uke that we have had to wonder about for the past few years. I felt like Martin was missing the boat this whole time with only having one production uke and it was not worth $300, maybe $150 tops.
Yes the S1 is made in Mexico, and that pisses some off, but that is what they have to do to keep costs down. Otherwise I think this uke would be $500+. I have to applaud them for making a great sounding uke and going back to the drawing board to make the S1, and the other new ones that just came out recently, and finally joining the ukulele party…again.
Funny story about how I was able to get the S1 just before winter NAMM where the announced it. Last summer NAMM while I was in Nashville I received a random e-mail from Martin guitars that they are coming out with the S1 and replacing the SO. Not an hour later I receive another e-mail saying that the last e-mail was not suppose to go out. I had to ask when I got there. I made b-line to Martins booth and asked, and was told to not speak of it, and I didn’t really tell too many people. At least I did not put it up on Ukeeku.com. It was hard news to keep to myself. Well….over time I kept e-mailing randomly asking about it and I think I broke them down. 1 week before I was to leave for winter NAMM I get the S1 and was told that I need to put something about it on my site no earlier than 10 am the first day of the show. How was I going to make it to NAMM, be at the Martin Booth and also publish it just as they announced it? Work iPad to the rescue. I had it written and just before I walked in the door I hit publish. One of the best hit days in the history of Ukeeku.com. 5 months later and I am getting around to reviewing it. I think subconsciously I did not want to send it back, but all good things must come to an end.
Read on to see what I thought
Specs:
Soprano : 17 Fret
Tuners: Grover Friction tuners with white buttons
Nut & saddle: Bone
Top: Single Piece Solid Mahogany
Sides: Solid Mahogany
Back: Single Piece Solid Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany with a Morado fretboard
String Attachment: Knot in a slit
Finish: Satin
Case: Padded Gig bag
Full Specs:
http://www.martinguitar.com/ukuleles/ukuleles.php?uke=S1 Uke
Looks
First look: (4) By no means do I think the S1 looks cheap or ugly, it just looks plain. No bling or binding. The only inlay is around the soundhole. I commend them for using the nice gold martin lettering, it is raised, it is not just printed on, it is placed. One thing that does shine on it is the wood, it is really nice and has a lot of contrast. It actually changes color depending on the angle you look at it. If it had binding it would get a 5, but that jacks the price up another $150. Also what is up with the microscopic fret markers?
Fit and Finish: (5) I have never seen or played a Martin instrument that was not perfect in the fit and finish, well except a new SO, but that is in the past. The S1 is super nice and well made. The bracing does not let the bridge pull the bridge up at all, and it still sounds great. Every joint is tight, no glue marks, and the finish is perfect.
Sound:
Sound Type: Warm but forward. I think that the sound is what an old SO sounded like when it was new. It is the ukulele sound that you would expect if you did not play ukulele, and thought that they should sound like a full mature instrument.
Intonation: (5) With the ultra thin bridge there is no room to compensate it at all, and yet it is perfect from the nut down. I have found that many brands cannot get sopranos right to save their souls. This is something that makes it a little more, and it is worth not having to have it setup after you get it.
Volume: (5) Many sopranos are meek and don’t project at all. the few that really do project have an arched back and super light bracing. The S1 holds its own to all others and is actually loud, but still retains a nice warm sound.
Sustain: (5) Long and nice like it should be for a well made instrument.
Feel:
String Height: (Medium) Setup perfectly. Not low like an electric, and not high so it won’t buzz if there is an issue. Seems to be setup perfectly.
Neck Radius Depth: (5/8″) Basic C shaped neck,
Frets: (5) No binding and it is still smooth as butter.
Tuning: (5) I am happy to see that Martin did not fall like the gaggle of other makers that use geared tuners and stayed true to the friction tuners. The Grovers are really nice once you find the right tension for the screw.
Comfort: (5) Still not as light as some of the old Martins, but pretty light and balanced. The edges are still crisp but it is comfortable to hold and play.
Sound Hole Smell: Like a new Martin. I have a Martin DC16-GTE (For sale for $1000) and it smelled just like this uke does. I think it is their oil or something that gives it that signature Martin smell. I think they should bottle it and sell it as a cologne or perfume. I would buy it.
Final Thoughts
My thing about this uke is that I want it to be better for the price, or at least look a little nicer. I can get a solid wood uke that sounds the same for about $100 less. You do pay for the name and what comes with that. The expectation of quality and perfection that they seem to have come back to on the ukuleles. I think my issue is that I feel Martin may be coming back to the regular consumer ukulele world a little late. Why did they not do this 3 years ago when it started to get hot again? The OXK was a great step and showed that they are watching the market, and the S1 is in the same vain. Thank you Martin for coming back and showing us that you care about uke players that can’t afford a $5000 ukulele, but I hope that it is not too little to late with the S1 and the others that were just announced.
Oh, one other funny thing. When I was at winter NAMM I asked “So can you show me the concert and tenor versions?” They looked at me like I was am international spy. I took that as there was something in the works and they could not tell me otherwise Chris would have to take me out.
If you think Martin is not serious about ukes, here is 14 minute video they just made, but they don’t talk about the S1 at all…so, yeah, take that how you want to.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 4 |
| Fit and Finish | 5 |
| Sound Type | Warm and Forward |
| Intonation | 5 |
| Volume | 5 |
| Sustain | 5 |
| String Height | Medium |
| Neck Radius Depth | 5/8″ |
| Frets | 5 |
| Tuning | 5 |
| Comfort | 5 |
| Sound Hole Smell | Like a new Martin |
Places to buy on the web:
Elderly – $379
Sweet Water – $379
HD Audio Sample:
Gallery:
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