Kala Ziricote Baritone Ukulele - Natural Gloss

The Kala Ziricote Baritone Ukulele - Natural Gloss is a striking instrument known for its distinctive appearance and rich tone. Ziricote (often abbreviated as ZCT in Kala model numbers, so likely a Kala KA-ZCT-B for Baritone or KA-ZCT-BE if it has electronics) is an exotic tonewood that sets this ukulele apart visually and sonally.

Here's a detailed look at its features:

Key Features & Specifications:

• Size: Baritone. This is the largest standard ukulele size, tuned D-G-B-E (like the top four strings of a guitar). It provides a deeper, fuller, and more guitar-like tone than smaller ukuleles.

• Body Wood: Ziricote Top, Back, and Sides. This is the star of the show. Ziricote is a highly prized exotic hardwood, known for:

  • Stunning Aesthetics: It has a dramatic, often "spider-webbing" or "landscape" grain pattern with dark chocolate browns to black lines, contrasted by lighter, often honey-blonde sapwood streaks. This makes each instrument visually unique and captivating. The "Natural Gloss" finish is specifically chosen to highlight these intricate patterns.

  • Tone: Ziricote is known for a tone that shares characteristics with rosewood and ebony. It offers a rich, warm, and resonant sound with good sustain and clarity. It can produce clear, articulate highs and a strong, booming bass response. It's often described as having a natural "reverb" or depth.

  • Construction: At this price point for Kala's Ziricote series, the body is typically made from laminated ziricote. While not solid wood, the lamination provides excellent stability and durability while still showcasing the beautiful ziricote veneer.

• Neck: Mahogany. Mahogany is a common and stable wood for ukulele necks, contributing to a warm fundamental tone.

• Fingerboard: Walnut or Rosewood. Both are durable and provide a smooth playing surface.

• Finish: Natural Gloss. This high-gloss finish not only protects the wood but also significantly enhances the visual depth and richness of the ziricote's grain patterns, making them "pop."

• Nut & Saddle: Graph Tech NuBone or Bone. These materials are designed to optimize string vibration transfer for improved sustain and clarity.

• Tuners: Chrome Open Gear Tuners (sometimes black buttons). These provide smooth and stable tuning.

• Strings: Comes factory-strung with Aquila Super Nylgut Strings. These are popular ukulele strings known for their clear tone and good intonation.

• Truss Rod: Many Kala baritone models, especially those in this price range, include a built-in truss rod. This is a valuable feature for maintaining optimal neck relief and playability.

• Strap Button: Often includes a strap button on the lower bout.

• Binding: Typically features black binding, which provides a sleek contrast to the dark ziricote wood.

Electronics (Optional - check model number):

• Some Kala Ziricote Baritone models come with built-in electronics (e.g., KA-ZCT-BE). If it's an "E" model, it will likely have:

  • Kala Active EQ System: Allowing you to plug into an amplifier or PA.

  • Volume, Bass, Mid, and Treble controls: For shaping your amplified tone.

  • Built-in Chromatic Tuner: A very convenient feature for on-the-go tuning.

  • Powered by a 9V battery.

Overall Impression:

The Kala Ziricote Baritone Ukulele - Natural Gloss is an excellent choice for players who want a visually stunning instrument with a rich, unique tonal character.

• Aesthetics: It's truly a "showstopper," with each instrument having its own unique ziricote pattern. The gloss finish makes these patterns stand out beautifully.

• Tone: The ziricote contributes to a full, resonant, and warm tone with good clarity and sustain, characteristic of a quality baritone ukulele.

• Playability: With a comfortable neck, quality nut/saddle, and typically a truss rod, it's designed for a smooth playing experience.

• Value: It offers an exotic tonewood and appealing aesthetics at a price point that is accessible for many players, making it a popular choice for those looking for something beyond the standard mahogany or koa.

It's suitable for both beginners (who appreciate its beauty and playability) and experienced players looking for a distinctive and reliable baritone ukulele, especially if it includes the EQ for amplified performance.