Kala Concert Ukulele - Pickup - Mahogany

The Kala KA-CE (Kala Mahogany Concert Ukulele with EQ) is one of Kala's most popular and long-standing models. It's an acoustic-electric concert ukulele that offers the classic warm ukulele tone of mahogany along with the versatility of being able to plug into an amplifier or PA system. This model is a workhorse for many players due to its balance of quality, tone, and functionality for its price point.

Here's a detailed breakdown of its features:

Key Features & Specifications:

• Size: Concert. This is a very popular and versatile ukulele size, offering a good balance between the portability of a soprano and the fuller tone and longer scale of a tenor. Its scale length is approximately 14.875 inches (about 37.8 cm), and overall length is around 23.9375 inches (about 60.8 cm).

• Body Wood: Laminated Mahogany Top, Back, and Sides.

  • Mahogany as a Tonewood: Mahogany is a classic and widely used tonewood for ukuleles, known for producing a:

    • Warm, mellow, and rich tone.

    • Balanced sound with a good midrange presence.

    • Clear articulation for both strumming and fingerpicking.

  • Laminated Construction: At this price point, the mahogany is laminated (layered wood). This offers several benefits:

    • Durability: Laminated instruments are more robust and less susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature compared to solid wood, making them excellent for gigging or less controlled environments.

    • Consistency: Laminated construction ensures a consistent tone and build quality across units.

    • Affordability: Keeps the instrument accessible.

• Neck Material: Mahogany. Consistent with the body wood, the mahogany neck contributes to the overall warmth and stability of the instrument.

• Fingerboard Material: Walnut or Rosewood. Both are durable and provide a smooth playing surface for comfortable fretting. It typically features white dot inlays for fret markers.

• Finish: Satin. A thin, open-pore satin finish allows the wood to resonate more freely compared to a thick gloss finish, contributing to a more organic and open sound. It also feels very smooth and comfortable to play.

• 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: Chrome Die-Cast Tuners. These are closed-gear tuners, known for their precision and excellent tuning stability, keeping the ukulele in tune reliably.

• 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.

• Binding: Often features black binding around the body, providing a clean contrast to the mahogany.

• Rosette: Typically a simple but elegant laser-etched or silkscreened rosette pattern around the soundhole.

Electronics (The "E" in KACE):

• Kala UK-300T Active EQ System (or similar Kala-branded preamp): This is a custom-designed active preamp system by Kala, built into the ukulele's side. It allows you to plug the ukulele into an amplifier or PA system for live performance, recording, or amplified practice.

• Controls: The preamp typically includes:

  • Volume control: To adjust the overall output level.

  • 2-Band EQ (Bass and Treble): To shape your amplified tone, allowing you to cut or boost low and high frequencies.

  • Integrated Electronic Tuner with LCD display: A very convenient and accurate chromatic tuner for quick tuning adjustments on the go or on stage.

  • Low Battery Indicator Light: Alerts you when the 9V battery (required to power the active electronics) is running low.

Overall Impression:

The Kala KA-CE Mahogany Concert Ukulele with EQ is a perennial bestseller for good reason. It offers an excellent balance of:

• Classic Tone: The laminated mahogany construction provides that beloved warm, mellow, and balanced ukulele sound that is versatile for many styles.

• Versatile Amplification: The built-in active EQ system makes it ready for any performance setting where amplification is needed. The tuner is a huge bonus for convenience.

• Reliable Playability: Quality tuners, NuBone components, and the satin finish ensure a comfortable and stable playing experience.

• Durability: Laminated construction makes it a resilient instrument, ideal for taking to jams, gigs, or just casual playing without excessive worry.

• Value: It punches above its weight class in terms of features and quality for its price, making it a fantastic investment for its target audience.

This ukulele is an ideal choice for:

• Beginners: Who want an instrument that is easy to play, sounds great acoustically, and has the option to plug in as they progress.

• Intermediate Players: Looking for a reliable, gig-ready ukulele for rehearsals, performances, or open mic nights.

• Casual Players: Who appreciate the convenience of an onboard tuner and the option to amplify their sound.

It's a "go-to" recommendation for a solid, all-around concert ukulele with electronics.