Buying Guide for the Best Concert Ukuleles
Choosing the right concert ukulele can be a delightful experience if you know what to look for. Concert ukuleles are slightly larger than soprano ukuleles, offering a fuller sound and more room on the fretboard, making them a popular choice for both beginners and experienced players. To find the best fit for you, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your playing style and preferences.Size and Scale LengthThe size and scale length of a concert ukulele are important because they affect the instrument's playability and sound. Concert ukuleles typically have a scale length of around 15 inches, which provides a balance between the compact size of a soprano and the larger tenor. This makes them comfortable for players with larger hands while still being portable. If you prefer a more spacious fretboard and a slightly deeper tone, a concert ukulele is a good choice.
TonewoodTonewood refers to the type of wood used to construct the ukulele, and it significantly impacts the instrument's sound quality. Common tonewoods for concert ukuleles include mahogany, koa, spruce, and cedar. Mahogany offers a warm, balanced tone, koa provides a bright, rich sound, spruce delivers a clear, loud tone, and cedar offers a warm, mellow sound. Choose a tonewood based on the sound you prefer: warm and balanced, bright and rich, clear and loud, or warm and mellow.
Build QualityBuild quality encompasses the craftsmanship and materials used in the construction of the ukulele. A well-built ukulele will have smooth, even joints, a straight neck, and properly aligned frets. High-quality materials and attention to detail ensure better sound, durability, and playability. Inspect the ukulele for any visible flaws and test it for comfort and sound quality to ensure it meets your standards.
StringsThe type of strings on a concert ukulele can affect its sound and playability. Common string materials include nylon, fluorocarbon, and gut. Nylon strings are durable and produce a warm tone, fluorocarbon strings offer a brighter, louder sound, and gut strings provide a traditional, rich tone but require more maintenance. Consider the type of music you want to play and your preference for tone and feel when choosing strings.
Tuning MachinesTuning machines, or tuners, are the mechanisms that hold the strings in place and allow you to adjust their pitch. High-quality tuning machines are essential for maintaining accurate tuning and ease of use. Look for geared tuners, which provide more precise tuning adjustments compared to friction tuners. Reliable tuning machines will help keep your ukulele in tune longer and make tuning adjustments smoother.
ActionAction refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. The action affects the playability and comfort of the ukulele. Low action makes it easier to press the strings down, which is ideal for beginners and players who prefer a lighter touch. However, if the action is too low, it can cause buzzing. Higher action can produce a clearer sound but may require more finger strength. Choose an action height that feels comfortable for your playing style.
FinishThe finish of a concert ukulele not only affects its appearance but also its sound. Common finishes include gloss and satin. A gloss finish provides a shiny, polished look and can enhance the durability of the wood, but it may slightly dampen the sound. A satin finish offers a more natural look and feel, allowing the wood to resonate more freely. Choose a finish based on your aesthetic preference and how you want the ukulele to sound.
