Soprano

The soprano ukulele (21” long) was the only size that existed for 20 or 30 years, after the first immigrants from Madera, in Portugal, brought the Machete de Braga to Hawaii. The Machete was a wooden instrument with steel strings that looked much like the ukulele of today, but was much harder to play. Hawaiians strung them with gut strings, and tuned them like a guitar, making them much easier and more fun.
These days, there are some really good ukuleles being made all over the world. Weʻve searched and scouted and found some really good manufacturers of relatively inexpensive ukes, some of which are outstanding in looks, tone and playability at low prices. We have arranged for these makers to build quality instruments to our very particular specifications with our “Maui Ukulele Co.” and “Hula Ukes” brand names on the headstocks. Occasionally, we find really nice instruments with other brand names: “Pukanala”, “Makai” and a few others, and we carry those, too.
Some of these are similar to other brands of imported ukes, but we’ve gone the extra mile in specifying top-quality parts; geared tuning machines where other makers use cheaper friction pegs, for instance. We also inspect each individual uke and adjust the action to the perfect balance between volume and ease of play. If you can’t afford, or aren’t yet ready for one of our handmade Meles, these are the perfect instruments for you; supremely playable, good-looking and at unbeatable prices!

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