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What's the best wood for a ukulele?
There isn’t a “best” wood. It really depends on what your eyes and ears prefer. Mahogany, the wood we use in our Ahua and Hokua lines, typically produces a warm, mellow tone. Spruce, which we use on our Kaiko’o line typically sounds brighter, while Zebrawood, again used in our Kaiko’o ukes, offers a nice full sound.
Why don't you make a Koa-wood model?
The supply of Koa is limited. We think it is best to save it for our friends in Hawaii and smaller luthiers to use.
How are Nalu ukes different?
First thing you notice about a Nalu is that it sounds amazing. We spent two years designing, choosing wood and components, and testing to put together a great sounding uke. As well, during that same time, we put some focused design time in to come up with a very distinctive looking uke.
Lastly, it’s important to know that we maintain a constant state of “constructive dissatisfaction” with our ukes that keeps us looking for ways to improve upon what we already have.
What are the different sizes of ukulele?
A Soprano is the smallest of the ukes, followed by Concert, Super Concert (a Concert body with a Tenor neck and Tenor scale length), and Tenor. There are also Baritone ukuleles that are one step larger than Tenors. Nalu does not make a Baritone yet.
What are the differences between each of Nalu’s lines?
- Ahua: Simple solid mahogany with few embellishments. PPS nut and saddle.
- Hokua: Mahogany with binding and lots of inlay. Black Tusq nut and saddle.
- Kaiko’o: Sitka Spruce top with Zebrawood back and sides, lots of inlay.
What is the pick-up used in Nalu ukuleles?
Nalu uses a Mi-Si Acoustic Trio pickup in our ukuleles. The Mi-Si Acoustic Trio is an active, battery-free preamp. All you have to do is charge it for 60 seconds using the provided Mi-Si Power Charger, and it will provide up to 16 hours of performance time.
Can I customize a model?
Why would you want to? They’re great as they are. All kidding aside, Nalu is currently exploring customization options but does not offer customization at this time.
What are the best strings to use?
Again, like the “best wood” question above, it depends on your ears. However, here at Nalu, after we tested and played nearly every string possible, we finally went out and developed our very own string, the Nalu Titanium. It rocks our ukes and will make any uke you put them on sound fantastic.
How often should I change strings?
Depends on how hard and often you play. Look for wear and tear and a loss of ability to tune them. Then, when you replace them, replace them as a set.
How should I care for my ukulele?
Wash on gentle cycle with similar colors. Tumble dry on low heat. No, seriously, take a look at our Uke Care page for all you need to know.
Can I get any of your ukes as a left-handed ukulele?
We don’t currently make a dedicated left-handed ukulele, but our existing ukes can be strung left-handed. However, it is possible that some adjustment to the nut slots may be required. This can be done by a local luthier or respected guitar shop.