Kala Black Concert Ukulele Banjo w/ Bag

The Kala KABNJBKC Black Concert Ukulele Banjo with Bag (often shortened to "Banjolele") is a distinctive hybrid instrument that blends the compact size and tuning of a concert ukulele with the bright, twangy, and percussive sound of a banjo. It's part of Kala's Americana Series, drawing inspiration from banjoleles popular in the 1920s and 1930s.

Here's a detailed breakdown of its features:

Core Concept & Sound:

• Hybrid Instrument (Banjolele): This is the main appeal. It has the tuning (G-C-E-A, low G optional) and general feel of a concert ukulele, making it easy for ukulele players to transition, but it produces the sharp attack, sustain, and bright, percussive "plunky" tone of a banjo.

• Concert Size: This provides a comfortable playing experience with a slightly longer scale length than a soprano banjolele, contributing to a fuller tone and more fret access.

  • Scale Length: Approximately 15.5 inches

  • Overall Instrument Length: Approximately 25.25 inches

• Twangy Tone: The combination of a banjo head and nylon strings delivers a unique sound that's brighter and more cutting than a standard ukulele, but still mellower than a full-size banjo.

Construction & Materials:

• Head: Remo Weatherking Banjo Head. This is a high-quality, durable synthetic banjo head from a renowned drum and banjo head manufacturer. It's crucial for achieving the characteristic banjo tone and projection.

• Shell/Rim: Five-Ply Maple Shell. This forms the "body" of the banjo-ukulele. Maple is known for its bright, clear tone and contributes to the instrument's projection. The 5-ply construction adds stability.

• Back: Typically an open-back design. While some banjos have resonators (closed backs for more volume and projection forward), many banjoleles, especially those aiming for a more traditional or mellow banjo sound, have an open back. This can contribute to a slightly more airy and less overtly loud sound compared to a resonator banjo.

• Neck Material: Mahogany. Mahogany provides stability and a warm tonal complement to the brighter banjo head.

• Fingerboard Material: Walnut (or sometimes Laurel). Both are durable woods that offer a smooth playing surface. It typically features dot inlays (sometimes maple dots).

• Nut Material: Bone. Bone nuts are excellent for transferring string vibrations efficiently, contributing to sustain and clarity.

• Saddle: Maple/Ebony Cap Floating Bridge. This type of bridge is not glued to the head; it's held in place by string tension. The maple body with an ebony cap helps transfer string vibrations to the head effectively. Proper placement of this bridge is crucial for intonation.

• Finish: Black Satin (or Black Matte). This finish gives the banjolele a sleek, modern, and distinctive look, contrasting with the lighter maple components and the head. The satin finish also allows the wood to resonate freely.

• Hardware Finish: Often features nickel-plated hardware or pseudo-antique brass hardware for a vintage touch.

• Tuners: Open Gear Vintage Tuners (often with black buttons). These provide a classic look and offer smooth, reliable tuning stability.

• Strings: Comes factory-strung with Aquila Nylgut Strings or D'Addario Clear Nylon Strings, both popular choices for banjoleles, balancing brightness with a pleasant feel.

Included Accessory:

• Gig Bag: Comes with a custom padded banjolele gig bag. This provides convenient and protective transport for the instrument.

Overall Impression:

The Kala KABNJBKC Black Concert Ukulele Banjo is an excellent choice for:

• Ukulele Players Seeking a New Sound: It's an easy transition from a standard ukulele but opens up a whole new world of tonal possibilities.

• Players Who Love the Banjo Sound: It delivers a clear, twangy, and percussive banjo tone in a compact, ukulele-friendly package.

• Performers: The projection of a banjolele allows it to cut through in ensemble settings more easily than an acoustic ukulele.

• Those Looking for a Unique Aesthetic: The black finish and banjo styling make it a visually striking instrument.

Important Consideration:

• Setup: Like many banjo-family instruments, the floating bridge means that the setup is critical. While Kala generally does a good job, some players may find that a professional setup (adjusting bridge placement for intonation, action height, and possibly nut slot depth) can significantly enhance playability and tone.

This banjolele is a fun, versatile, and visually appealing instrument that brings a distinct voice to any musical collection.