Kala Makala Tenor Ukulele

The Kala Makala Tenor Ukulele is an excellent and popular entry-level instrument from Kala's budget-friendly Makala series. It is designed to provide a playable, good-sounding instrument at a very accessible price point, making it a fantastic choice for beginners.

There are a couple of common models for the Makala tenor ukulele, including the all-mahogany Makala Classic Tenor (MK-T) and the acoustic-electric version (MK-TE). Here's a detailed breakdown of the features they generally share:

Key Features & Specifications:

• Size: Tenor. This is a popular and versatile ukulele size, offering a good balance between the classic soprano sound and the larger, guitar-like feel of a baritone. The longer scale length and larger body produce a fuller, louder sound and provide more space between frets, which is comfortable for most players, especially those with larger hands.

  • Scale Length: Approximately 17 inches (431 mm).

  • Number of Frets: 18.

• Body Wood: Laminated Mahogany (or sometimes Agathis, which is tonally similar) Top, Back, and Sides.

  • Mahogany as a Tonewood: Mahogany is a classic tonewood for ukuleles, known for its warm, rich, and mellow tone. It provides a balanced sound that is great for both strumming and fingerpicking.

  • Laminated Construction: This is a key feature that helps keep the cost down. Laminated instruments are more durable and stable than solid wood, making them more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity.

• Neck Material: Mahogany. The mahogany neck provides stability and a comfortable profile for easy playing.

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

• Finish: Satin. The smooth, open-pore satin finish allows the wood to resonate freely, contributing to a more organic and open sound. It also feels very comfortable to play and reduces stickiness.

• Nut & Saddle: Plastic. To maintain the affordable price point, the nut and saddle are typically made of plastic.

• Tuners: Geared Tuners. These tuners are a significant advantage for beginners, as they provide smooth, reliable, and precise tuning stability, which is much better than the friction pegs found on some older or cheaper models.

• Strings: Comes factory-strung with Aquila Super Nylgut Strings. These are widely regarded as some of the best ukulele strings, known for their clear tone, good intonation, and consistent feel.

The MK-TE Acoustic-Electric Model:

Some models, specifically the MK-TE, include built-in electronics. These models are equipped with a basic passive pickup system that allows you to plug the ukulele into an amplifier or PA system. This system usually includes basic volume and tone controls, making it a very versatile option for performing or recording.

Overall Impression:

The Kala Makala Tenor Ukulele is an excellent choice for:

• Beginners: It offers a great balance of features, including the comfortable tenor size, reliable tuning, and quality strings, all at a very accessible price point.

• Students and Casual Players: Its durable laminated construction makes it a robust instrument for regular use and travel.

• Anyone on a budget: It's often cited as one of the best value-for-money tenor ukuleles on the market, providing a solid foundation for learning without a significant investment.