Ohana CKP-70 Vita-Uke Full Review
January 8, 2012 at 4:10 am | Posted in Concert, General, Ohana | 6 CommentsTags: Full review, Laminate, posts, review, Solid, uke, ukulele
What is a vita-uke? I understand how a normal uke looks and why a pineapple is called a pineapple, but what is a vita? According to Frets.com “They were called “Vita” after the famous Vitaphone movie shorts in which Roy Smeck appeared.”. In short it is one of the most famous ragtime uke styles. If you know about ragtime you know about Roy Smeck and all the stuff he did. In my opinion he was one of the best uke players in the world and did great things with it musically and also did not make it seem like a toy but a fun and real instrument. If you click on the Frets.com link up above you can see what an original vita-uke looks like. It is basically the same as the Ohana CKP-70, except for some small thing like the more defined seal sound holes and the tuners and head are very different. I have had the pleasure to play a few real vita ukes over the years. They are super light and really loud. One of the hard things to see in the pictures is that the old ones had an arched back, where the Ohanas don’t. Not a big deal, it is just different. The reason you don’t see a lot of the old ones is mainly because they were super fragile and broke easily. They were made to play, not to last.
Read on to see what I thought of this crazy big butted thing.
Didn’t Freddy Mercury have a song that went “Fat bottom ukes you make the uke world go round”?
Maybe not.
Specs:
Concert : 12 Fret
Tuners: Open Geared
Nut & saddle: Bone
Top: Solid Spruce
Sides: Laminate Mahogany
Back: Laminate Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany with a Rosewood fretboard
String Attachment: Knot in a slit
Finish: Satin
Case: Not included. Reviewed with a hard case
Full Specs:
http://www.ohana-music.com/index.php?dispatch=products.view&product_id=29790
Looks
First look: (5) Are those seals for sound holes? No they are not, but close. I think this is a beautiful uke. the light wood top with a ton of grain that you can actually see is really nice. The binding on the top and bottom really makes this a nice looking ukulele and something that has a lot of workmanship and detail. From across a room you either know what it is or you are scratching your head, either way you smile.
Fit and Finish: (4)although it is a looker, it has some small cosmetic issues. The build
Glue On the neck
over all is really good with all the structural thing being spot on when it comes to straight bridge and neck and the frets are all perfect, there are none sticking out. Where I found issue is in minor things such as a little glue mark under the bridge, fret board on the body, and some at the neck joint can be seen. Also there are sanding marks on the fretboard, most noticeably where it meets the body. To be extra picky, the Ohana label is not centered on the headstock. All non-issues overall and do not have any effect on the playability or sound. For a sub-$200 (Street price) uke it is really well built.
Glue under the bridge
Sound:
Sound Type: Clear but sharp. When I say sharp I do not mean the notes. the sound cuts. it is not mellow or real warm like a mahogany. Since it is a spruce top it would be expected to be sharp, This one is the sharpest sound I have heard. Another key note is that since it is a 12 fret the sound is different from strumming above the fretboard compared to where I think it is meant to be strummed, between the top of the sound holes and the point of the fretboard. Roughly the 14-16th frets.
Intonation: (4) it is pretty good, could be better. If you are sensitive to intonation then this may not bother you so much. I could see someone going in and changing the saddle to have the E be a little more forward than the rest and it might be better. Also the nut is a little high making some first fret chords a little sharp if you press to hard. Plenty of room to get it perfect if the person knows what they are doing. It is very playable up and down, it goes noticeably off at the 7th fret area.
Volume: (5) Between the spruce and the huge butt on this uke it is loud, maybe annoyingly to some. I play spruce top most of the time and this one does not disappoint. I would not say it is banjo uke loud, but when you hit it, it screams
Sustain: (5) Long since it is so loud.
Feel:
String Height: (Low-Medium) Setup really well when it comes to string height except the nut could be lower.
Neck Radius Depth: (3/4″) Basic C shaped neck,
Frets: (5) No binding and it is still smooth as butter. You can see the slot that were made from the sides but they filled in and you can not feel a single fret on the sides. They are also well dressed and tapered off as they should be.
Tuning: (5) It tunes, stays in tune, does not get bound up. Nothing to complain about. Wished they would use friction tuners..
Comfort: (5) With its fat end to hold on to it is easy to hold. Also that sweet backend can be rested on your leg to hold it up. The edges are nice with the binding, so that is also a plus on long playing sessions..
Sound Hole Smell: Glue.
Final Thoughts
If you are a ragtime nut, then you should have one of these in honor of Roy Smeck. Or you want a solid spruce top ukulele, then this would also be a good choice. With it being extra loud and very different, and we know uke players like to be different, this can be a real winner. I would change the strings to something warmer like Worth browns to mellow out the sound and cut some of the sharpness.
If I ever own one I would also buy the case for it since it is made for it. If Ohana stops making the cases then you will out of luck and have a hard time finding a hard case for it. I tried putting it into my Fremont case and it did not fit. The butt was to wide.
All Rating on a scale of 1-5
Click here for an explanation of reviews
| First Look | 5 |
| Fit and Finish | 4 |
| Sound Type | Clear and Sharp |
| Intonation | 4 |
| Volume | 5 |
| Sustain | 5 |
| String Height | Low-Medium |
| Neck Radius Depth | 3/4″ |
| Frets | 5 |
| Tuning | 5 |
| Comfort | 5 |
| Sound Hole Smell | Glue |
Places to buy on the web:
Elderly – $149
Ukuleleworld.com – Just the case $73
HD Audio Sample:
Gallery:
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- Sanding marks
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- Glue under the bridge
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- Glue On the neck
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Ukeeku.com Going Acoustic Video Challenge
January 4, 2012 at 2:55 am | Posted in Cooperstand, Eleuke, General, Giveaway, Kala | 21 CommentsTags: Electric, Giveaway, jamming, Play, posts, uke, ukulele
The contest is DONE!! 162 entities!! Winner will be announced soon.
Here is link to all but 1 entry
Welcome one and all the first video contest that Ukeeku.com has ever held, and like many other things it is being done a little differently.
Small Rule Change
The premise is simple; take a classically electric song (Guitar, Keyboard, violin, digiereedo…) and do it on an acoustic uke. Simple right?
RULES:
- You can use as many instruments as you like, the acoustic uke has to be the prominent instrument
- Any style (Blues, rock, country, metal, punk, hip-hop…)
- Sung, instrumental, mimed, signed…..
- You can enter as many songs as you like, with as many people as you like
- Either say, have a sign that says, or some nice intro screen ”Ukeeku.com Acoustic Challenge 2012″
- Enter by Posting your video Here, it is on Ukuleleunderground.com’s Forum *This CHANGED Jan 11,2012
- Submitted by February 14, 2012 midnight Central Time
- everyone can enter, if you live in the CONUS I pay shipping. Outside of that we split it.
Judging:
Yes I will judge you, along with some other people that I deem impartial. THIS IS NOT A POPULARITY CONTEST. It does not matter how many views you have or how “cool” you might be. We are going to choose the best video based on song, composition, video editing, and all that jazz. A simple video is nice if done well. Be creative, lively, and just have fun.
Prizes:
One Grand prize winner wins: Eleuke acoustic (EAS-C), Kala Round-about amp, Zoom A2.1U Acoustic Pedal, Cooper Stand, G7th Ukulele Capo. Worth roughly $550 US
What about the losers? Sorry I mean runners up. What do you get? I always feel bad for those that put their hearts and souls into videos and go away empty handed. So everyone else will be entered into a random drawing (1 Entry per song) for the other Eleuke acoustic…and a ton of other things like other stands and cases, shirts, and things I may get at NAMM 2012.
Go crazy and spread the word.
Sponsored By:
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Ukulele Event Calendar
December 29, 2011 at 2:09 am | Posted in General | 3 CommentsTags: fest, festival, jamming, posts, uke, ukulele
A few weeks ago I added a ukulele events calendar. The idea was originally to have a place to put the Normal Ukulele Fun Jams that happen the first Saturday of every month in Normal, IL. When I figured it out and how to share it I decided to add all the other events that I find and know of. I thought about putting performances up also but figured it would get a little cluttered with all of Jake’s, Victora Vox, and the many other touring acts. If they hold a workshop I will post that. Also I am hoping that people who are going to put on ukulele events will look at it so they can make sure they are not planning their event over another that might compete with theirs.
You will find the Events Calendar in the Events tab at the top of the site, or by going to http://ukeeku.com/events/
I will trying to keep up with all the events as I find them, but please feel free to e-mail me any that are missing. Tim@ukeeku.com
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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.
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- 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
Gallery:
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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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