BEST
KALA LTP-MH 4-String Ukulele with Gigbag & Tuner
- Made of mahogany wood
- Inspired by Mandy Harvey
- Comes with a Gigbag
- Boasts Nylon strings
PREMIUM
Kala KA-TE Mahogany Tenor Acoustic-Electric Ukulele
- Mahogany neck and body
- Aquila Nylon strings
- Features a digital tuner
- Instructional DVD
BUDGET
Kala MK-S Makala Soprano Ukulele Bundle with Gig Bag
- Made of mahogany
- Aquila Nylgut Strings
- Features a clip-on tuner
- includes a strap
If you’ve been digging up ukes lately so you could float on cloud nine, we can’t take it for granted that you didn’t come across the renowned uke brand known as ‘Kala’. It’s no wonder Kala is prominent for its top-of-the-line and entry-level ukuleles—perhaps, that’s why beginners fall head over heels in love with Makala Ukulele.
Kala—a.k.a. Kala Brand Music Co.—came into existence in July 2005. It was founded by Michael Upton. Although he was born in Mountain View, he moved to Hawaii in 1989. Before launching ‘Kala’, Mike also worked as a painter and he also painted the door of her wife’s house before getting married.
Kala, whose meaning—as per Mike—is ‘forgiveness and peace’, has won the hearts of hundreds of thousands of people, especially music lovers since the day it was established. Kala has got an immense number of ukulele collections.
Whether you’re a pro ukulelist or you’re just getting started with strumming, you’ll be able to get your hands on different models, namely shark, classic, dolphin, among other series, such as surf, mahogany, and koa series. Also, if you’re into checking out the bestselling ukes from Kala, you can’t miss out on the “Learn to Play” signature and starter kits.
In 2010, when ukesters’ interest in ukuleles blossomed, Kala had the opportunity to set a footing in the business and outgrow its space. Like other uke brands, Kala is also having a variety of ukuleles that vary based on size: Tenor, Soprano, Concert, and Baritone.
But don’t worry—we’ll shed light on each of them in this thorough guide and help you make an intelligent decision in the end.
7 Best Kala Ukuleles in 2023
Every day, numerous music brands are established and thousands of products are launched, making it the market even stiffer as far as the competition is concerned. The same goes for the ukulele industry. Since the market is crowded with different types of ukes, it’s no piece of cake to decide which ukulele is the best pick for you, and Kala ukes are no exception—since they’ve caught the attention of the pro ukesters.
So, without further ado, let’s get into the list of best Kala ukuleles for both beginners and pro ukesters.
1. KALA LTP-MH 4-String Ukulele with Gigbag & Tuner
Tenor ukes have always been admired by the ukulelists because they are easy to hold and offer a warm sound that touches the heart. In addition to that, you might’ve already heard about the mahogany wood, and guess what—this uke is made of satin mahogany.
So, if you’ve been questioning about the longevity of the next uke you’re willing to purchase, you can rest assured because that’s what you’ll get with this 4-string uke, courtesy of Kala.
We know you have seen hundreds of ukuleles online, however, there’s something special about this one—something that makes it stand out from the rest of the ukes. Yes, it is the floral design that has been inlaid on the body of the uke. So, it’s definitely a one-of-its-kind piece of art. Maybe, that’s the reason why Kala has become one of the most sought-after brands in the world.
Whoever bought this model seems satisfied with their purchase, that’s why it has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 which clearly indicates that ukemeisters have been loving it. Speaking of the material, its back and top are made of mahogany, and the length of the scale is 17. What’s surprising here is that it’ll stay in tune even after years. It’s super comfortable to hold and play.
Inspired by Mandy’s story, there’s nothing to dislike about this next-level tenor ukulele from Kala. From craftsmanship to sound to ease of use, they’ve topped in every perspective and offered people peace of mind. While some ukes feature a low G, this one is having a high G.
Still not pleased? It’s about time we reveal the plusses and minuses of this cool ukulele for the much-needed insights.
Pros
- Made using long-lasting mahogany wood
- Inspired by Mandy Harvey; features floral/bird designed personally created by Mandy’s sister
- Features a Gigbag; offers safety
- Boasts a clip-on tuner that works with most stringed instruments
- Come with the most sought-after nylon strings
- A quick-start guide to help beginners easily get started
- Fretboard is made of walnut to offer the satisfaction ukulists crave for
- Playability is up to the mark; hands down
Cons
- No picks
2. Kala KA-TE Mahogany Tenor Acoustic-Electric Ukulele
There’s a reason why people prefer a ukulele to a guitar—yes, it is the size. Ukuleles are super easy to hold and strum as compared to those large guitars, no offense. Speaking of the size, if your wish is to find a perfect fit uke in terms of size, don’t for a baritone as that is very large, however, if you want to feel as if you’re playing the guitar, you could go for a baritone.
No matter if your personal preference is a hard case or gigbag, you’re in luck—you get the freedom to choose any of these two. This 4-stringed uke boasts cream binding and walnut fingerboard. Although there’s no scalloping whatsoever in this uke, you can count on its warm and bright sound. Legend says that the neck and body of a ukulele must be made using top-notch wood. Guess what!—this one is made of mahogany.
Did you always want a ukulele that you can utilize like an acoustic and electric ukulele? Well, Kala has your day made in the first place. This Kala ukulele is capable of being played without and without electrical amplification (hence acoustic and electric). But that’s not all there is to this Kala KA-TE ukulele—there’s more that requires your attention. Continue reading to know more.
Are you a beginner and don’t know how to play the ukulele? If affirmative, don’t worry because there’s a DVD that comes packed with it that will help you set up your ukulele, play chords, and much more. As you kickstart your day with your Kala Uke, it’s vital to make sure that your stringed instrument is in tune or it’ll sound like a piece of junk and you don’t want that, do you? Luckily, there’s a clip-on tuner that comes free with this bundle and it’ll be a lifesaver while tuning your Kala Ukulele.
If you’re struggling with playing your ukulele, holding it, or reading the chords or patterns of a song, you could refer to the instructions given on the DVD that came with it.
Let’s look into the advantages and disadvantages now:
Pros
- Boasts a Mahogany neck and body
- Features 18 silver nickel frets
- Fingerboard is made of rosewood
- Equipped with Aquila Nylon strings
- Comes with a digital tuner—a win-win for beginners
- Has a DVD that includes instructions
- Features a gigbag for extended safety of uke
Cons
- Doesn’t come with picks
3. Kala LTP-T Learn to Play Ukulele Tenor Starter Kit
When you become a pro uke player, you don’t need all the accessories that you depend on as a beginner. However, we can assume that you’re just getting started. That’s why this tenor starter kit is all you need right now.
This Kala ukulele kit will make you float on cloud nine and you’ll forget all the worries you’ve been surrounded by. Its nylon strings will offer you a buttery smooth experience while running down your fingers across the fretboard. Perhaps, this is the reason why people love to learn to play using Kala’s stringed instruments.
Being a tenor uke, you will neither feel like it is way too big or small as it will fit perfectly and snugly into your hands. In fact, I believe that this will bring bang for your bucks to the table as it is reasonably priced and, therefore, is an ideal pick for beginners.
As you know that Kala believes in keeping it simple, there is no cutaway in this model—although you can find one with that as well, if that’s what you need. To help you learn all the chords right away from scratch, Kala has also provided a quick-start guide that consists of important instructions.
Not just that, there’s a free application. That means you no longer need a clip-on tuner because that can be achieved using the app. If you get stuck picking the right chords for the songs you’re trying to learn, online lessons will be a lifesaver for you.
Let’s reveal the pros and cons of Kala LTP-T to give you an in-depth understanding of the above-mentioned ukulele:
Pros
- Made using solid mahogany; designed to last longer
- Boasts a Polynesian shark teeth laser-etched rosette
- Free online lessons to help you learn like a charm
- Features one-of-a-kind Aquila strings (from Italy)
- Packed with a quick-start guide (for beginners)
- Doesn’t require a tuner; tuning app is all you need
- The package also includes a custom logo tote bag
- Features a walnut fretboard; next-level experience
- Very reasonable; value for money
- Produces great sound and ultimate craftsmanship
Cons
- Don’t include picks
Still can’t decide?
4. Kala MK-S Makala Soprano Ukulele Bundle with Gig Bag
Although Kala says that you don’t need loads of accessories to master the art of uke playing, a beginner wouldn’t agree with this. Anyway, if you’re after a uke package that includes all the things for a newbie, this kit would be a dream come true, for sure.
Yes, you read that right—this is a complete bundle that encompasses almost everything you, as a beginner, may ever wish to get your hands on, including the gigbag, tuner, instructional DVD, polishing cloth, strap, and most significantly, extra Aquila strings. I mean, what else do you need?
To offer the customers peace of mind, Kala is also providing 2 months of free lessons that will help the ukulists step up their game of playing and ukulele like a pro. That means, in this hard time, no ukemeisters have to go anywhere to learn playing uke as you can enjoy 2 months of classroom-style lessons without going anywhere.
The full length of this ukulele is 21”, therefore, it could be a great choice if you’re on the lookout for a smaller uke. Perhaps, that’s why kids, beginners, and classic music lovers fall head over heels in love with this ukulele. Since this bundle includes accessories you would, otherwise, have to pay for separately, it’s also a bang for your buck.
Let’s reveal what this uke has to brag about:
Pros
- Top, sides, and back made of top-notch mahogany
- Boasts state-of-the-art Aquila Super Nylgut strings
- Features a walnut fretboard and satin finish
- Comes with a satin finish; good for beginners
- Bundle includes a free instructional DVD
- Packed with extra Aquila strings (to set aside)
- Has a clip-on tuner; helps keep your uke tuned
- Includes a strap for a comfortable playing experience
- Boasts a gigbag, although it’s not padded
Cons
- Plastic collars may rattle
5. Kala KA-KCG Koa Gloss Concert Ukulele
This uke is one of the best and top-of-the-line concert ukuleles out there. It’s not your typical mahogany uke, it’s been crafted using Hawaiian koa which is famous for bright, clear, and resonant tones. What’s more, koa is known for the visual beauty. So, if you’re someone who doesn’t want to compromise on looks and want great-sounding uke in the same package as well, this one is definitely a hands-down uke!
Having said that, if you’re in love with Hawaiian culture and caress everything that Hawaiian people do or have embraced their lifestyle, you can’t miss out on this one, can you?
But that’s NOT all this Kala uke boasts—there’s more to it than just meets the eye.
The headstock of this one-of-a-kind ukulele is slotted with a mother of pearl inlay that is etched using the laser. When it comes to trim, you’ll get to behold the maple with black and white accents in this uke. The overall weight of this uke is 1.8 pounds—as good as it could get. Although you may feel like this one is a bit overpriced, you could rest assured that you won.
Is this Kala uke using solid or laminate wood?
Well, it’s using laminate koa—although some ukulists have said that the top is solid whereas the back and sides are laminate in their reviews. Even the verified seller says that it is laminated. So, you can count on that.
Strings, undoubtedly, are the game-changer, that’s why one needs to be aware of what kind of strings a uke is equipped with. While you’ll come across Aquila strings in most ukes, this one is using other ones—fluorocarbon strings. But don’t worry—they don’t suck, plus, you have to freedom replace them with the Aquila strings when you think is the right time to do so.
Fretting on this uke works like a charm, even beginners don’t have any problem doing that.
Now, let’s get into the pros and cons:
Pros
- Boasts next-level Hawaiian koa for longevity
- Produces bright sound that wins hearts
- Gets better as it ages; strings stretch and settle over time
- Features Hawaiian koa; incorporates maple
- Equipped with rosewood fingerboard
- White fret markers to help locate the notes
- Rosewood bridge for a next-level experience
- Packed with GraphTech NuBone nut and saddle
Cons
- A little expensive
6. Kala KA-15S Mahogany Soprano Ukulele
Don’t want to spend too many bucks on your first purchase of Kala ukulele? Perhaps, this uke that is equipped with mahogany requires your attention.
Yes, you got what I mean—this uke is highly reasonable when it comes to the pricing. No matter whether you’re planning to spend your money on this uke for classroom use, acoustic performance, or your wish is to practice on it to master the art of strumming, uke has been crafted with novice players in mind.
What’s good about this uke is that it is available in all sizes: Soprano, Tenor, and Concert. That means you have the full freedom to choose any size you love. Since this one is made using mahogany, you will experience unmatched full-bodied, warm, and bright tones that will blow your mind.
While it won’t break the bank, it’s not like you’ll need to miss out on vital features and quality. Put differently, it’s also equipped with a walnut fingerboard, 12 brass frets, not to mention the most sought-after Aquila strings that feel softer on hands.
I can’t emphasize enough about Kala’s high-quality stringed and other instruments, especially ukuleles. What’s more, Kala’s ukes produce both top-of-the-line ukes and reasonably priced ones so that the requirements of both pro uke players and beginners can be met in the first place.
Looking for a uke that comes with a gig bag? Meet Kala KA-15 ukulele that comes with a case, strap, and tuner.
It’s time to meet the advantages and disadvantages of this ukulele to figure out whether or not this uke is worth your attention:
Pros
- Made of traditional mahogany with a satin finish
- Perfect choice for all beginners; inexpensive uke
- Can be used for classrooms, performance, practicing, etc.
- Boasts Aquila strings crafted in Italy
- Stands out; uses Polynesian-style shark-teeth rosette
- Great for people looking for short scale length
- One of the best entry-level ukuleles
- Boasts walnut fretboard (from NuBone)
Cons
- Couldn’t find any
7. Kala KA-TG Gloss Mahogany Tenor Ukulele Bundle
While professional uke players don’t need a tuner to ensure that the ukulele is perfectly tuned. However, those who’re just getting started with strumming need to understand how it all works.
Therefore, if you’re one of those who need a tuner, DVD, or a strap to properly hold the ukulele, this kit is definitely for you.
The bundle includes all the things you may wish for, including a clip-on tuner, instructional DVD, gig bag, and strap. The sound quality is up to the mark and it always stays in tune no matter how long you strum those soft strings (from Aquila). It’s no wonder that they’ve achieved ultimate craftsmanship, what is also great about this is that it features cream binding and gloss finish.
You’ll fall in love with the body and neck of this uke made with mahogany that comes with a high-gloss finish. Not just that, there is also a cleaning cloth that allows you to keep your Kala uke in mint condition—as fresh as new, always.
It’s value for money and giftable, too. Apart from the looks, it produces that mellow sound that makes it stand out. So, it is up to you whether you need a bright sound or a mellow one. If you have never tried a uke with mellow sound, we believe that you’d love it. Also, if you have no experience with any of these, we suggest you go with the one that boasts a mellow sound because it would get brighter with time.
Now, let’s talk about the benefits and demerits:
Pros
- Crafted with mahogany (body and neck)
- Boasts a walnut fingerboard for perfect playability
- Comes with creamy binding and high
- Bundle includes all accessories; strap, DVD, gigbag
- Kit also has extra Aquila strings for later use
- Features GraphTech NuBone’s saddle and nut
- One of Kala’s highly-rated ukuleles
Cons
- Nothing to mention
Best Kala Ukuleles — FAQs with Answers!
It’s about time you get all the questions answered you have been on your mind lately. Just browse the questions with answers laid out below.
Q.1: Are Kala Ukuleles Good?
Yes, there’s no doubt that ukuleles crafted by Kala are great. But don’t just take our word for it—you could watch famous bands from all around the world use ukes from this brand. Some of those brands include 21 pilots, Zac Brown, Vance Joy, EatMyUke, Dodie, Ukulele Teacher, etc.
I mean, do you know what it means when brands like 21 Pilots use ukes of Kala—yes, it definitely means and a lot, especially when you’re a die-hard fan.
Apart from that, Kala also produces top-notch stringed and other musical instruments. In addition to having top-of-the-line ukuleles, Kala is also satisfying the needs of beginner ukulelists, thanks to the reasonably priced ukuleles.
Q.2: What is the Best Kala Ukulele?
The one ukulele from Kala, in my opinion, is “Kala LTP-MH”, which has topped this list. Not only has it gained customers’ appreciation but also it has been reasonably priced. Yes, it gets a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
If you’re having second thoughts and spend a little more bucks in exchange for the accessories the beginners need, then the uke we’re having as runner up is “Kala KA-TE” which boasts mahogany wood construction. The best thing about this one is that it is an electric-acoustic ukulele.
That means, use it as an acoustic uke when you wish to make the most out of portability and turn it into an electric uke when you intend to amplify the sound.
Q.3: How to Tune Kala Ukulele?
Did your brand-new Kala uke arrive untuned? Don’t panic!—it can be easily tuned using a step-by-step approach. The easiest way to get your Kala ukulele tuned is by using the official app that can be downloaded from Play Store. All you have to do is strum and the app will keep you informed whether or not the produced sound is up to the mark.
However, before using the app, the following things need to be done:
- Ensure that strings are stretched
- Tuning is required every time you play your uke
- Tug the strings of your uke lightly by putting your hands on the bridge while pulling them away from the uke’s face. This needs to be done for each string: G, C, E, and A
- While tuning, also check out if the letter (chord) turns GREEN because green means in tune, whereas, WHITE means untuned
Although we suggest you use the app for a straightforward way to tune your Kala ukulele, you can also go for a clip-on tuner made up for grabs by Kala.
If you still have any questions, Sam and Emily are there to help you set up your own uke (see how).
Q.4: Where are Kala Ukuleles Made?
People have been asking where Kala’s Ukes are made, some even ask whether they’re manufactured in China or Hawaii. Although most ukuleles, like the ones from the Kala® Elite series, are made at their shop located at Petaluma, California, some ukes are made in China.
While you can see where uke was made before investing in, the pricing model will clearly make a difference. However, that doesn’t mean that the ukes made in China will not be good.
I’d suggest you not think too much about the place where it was; rather, pay close attention to the tonewood, strings, and construction factors, longevity, etc.
Only love tenor ukes? You’ll love our take on “Best Tenor Ukes”.
Conclusion!
It’s no news that Kala is one of the best ukulele brands that has turned out to be a game-changer. Kala produces entry-friendly ukuleles so that beginners can easily learn ukes without having to spend too many bucks, hence the reasonability. Whether you decide to go for the #1 uke on this list or second to it, I can guarantee that you’ll enjoy it to the fullest.
If this is your first time, I recommend you go for a Kala ukulele that is made using mahogany. Think about the tonewood so you could feel the taste in the sound that you’re on the lookout for. We’ve already explained the things you need to consider while looking for a ukulele, be sure to keep them in mind while making an intelligent decision. You should also avoid the mistakes that most beginners make while picking their first uke.
So, that’s it for today. I believe that any one of Kala’s ukes reviewed above caught your attention. If there’s any that did, I recommend you get your hands on that and bring home your all-new musical companion.
Get a Kala Uke and Strum Like a Pro!
Don’t miss out on the best Kala Ukuleles; rather, stay one step ahead and steal the deal. Also, keep in mind all the things we’ve mentioned above so you don’t end up buying a piece of junk.
