Kala Concert Riptide Surfboard Uke

The Kala KA-SURF-RIPTIDE (Kala Surf Series Riptide Concert Ukulele) is a visually distinctive instrument that celebrates California's surf culture with a unique graphic design. It's designed for players who want a fun, eye-catching ukulele that still delivers a good, clear sound.

Here's a detailed look at its features:

Core Concept & Aesthetics:

• Surf Series Design: This is the defining characteristic. The ukulele features a screen-printed graphic design inspired by ocean waves, retro surf patterns, and sometimes described as having an "Atari" or early 80's retro vibe. The "Riptide" specifically features sweeping, multi-color (often blue, green, and white) patterns that evoke crashing waves. This design is applied to both the body and often the headstock.

• Spirit of Summer: It's marketed to embody the "electric spirit of California's surf culture and the pursuit of an endless summer."

• Finish: Satin. A thin, open-pore satin finish allows the wood to resonate more freely and contributes to a smooth, comfortable feel. It also helps the graphic design stand out clearly.

Construction & Materials:

• Size: Concert. This is a popular and versatile ukulele size, offering a good balance between portability and a fuller, louder sound compared to a soprano.

  • Scale Length: Approximately 14.8125 inches (37.6 cm)

  • Overall Instrument Length: Approximately 23.9375 inches (60.8 cm)

  • Number of Frets: 18

• Body Top: Laminated Spruce. Spruce is a classic tonewood for instrument tops, known for its bright, clear, and resonant qualities. Being laminated (layered wood) makes the instrument more durable, stable, and helps keep the price accessible.

• Body Back & Sides: Laminated Mahogany. Mahogany provides a warm tonal foundation. The laminated construction contributes to the instrument's overall sturdiness and resistance to environmental changes, which is beneficial for a ukulele designed for casual use and potentially "beach vibes."

• Neck Material: Mahogany. The mahogany neck contributes to the overall warmth of the instrument and provides good stability.

• Fingerboard Material: Rosewood. A durable and commonly used wood for fingerboards, offering a smooth playing surface. It typically features white dot inlays for fret markers.

• Nut & Saddle: Graph Tech NuBone. This is a high-quality synthetic material designed to enhance sustain, clarity, and consistent string vibration transfer, mimicking the properties of natural bone.

• Tuners: Open Gear Tuners. These provide smooth and stable tuning, with a classic aesthetic.

• Strings: Comes factory-strung with Aquila Super Nylgut Strings. These are widely popular among ukulele players for their clear tone, good intonation, and consistent feel.

• Electronics: None. This is an acoustic-only ukulele.

• Strap Button: Includes a black strap button on the lower bout for convenience if you wish to add a strap.

• Headstock: Standard headstock, also with a screen-printed graphic.

Included Accessory:

• Gig Bag: While not explicitly mentioned in every product listing as "included," the Surf Series ukuleles often come with a padded gig bag that sometimes features complementary Surf Series branding. It's always a good idea to confirm with the specific retailer if a bag is part of the "outfit."

Overall Impression:

The Kala Riptide Surfboard Concert Ukulele (KA-SURF-RIPTIDE) is an appealing choice for:

• Beginners: It offers a comfortable size, good playability with quality components (NuBone, Aquila strings), and reliable tuning, making it easy to learn on.

• Players looking for a unique aesthetic: The vibrant "Riptide" graphic truly makes this ukulele stand out from the crowd and is perfect for those who want their instrument to reflect a fun, laid-back personality.

• Casual players and hobbyists: Who want a reliable and visually engaging ukulele for strumming songs, taking to the beach (with care, as it's still wood!), or just having around the house.

• Travelers: Its durable laminated construction makes it a good option for taking on adventures.

It provides a good balance of a pleasant, bright acoustic tone and a distinctive, fun visual design, making it a very engaging instrument.