A Buying Guide for Getting the Best
Baritone Ukulele
What do Elvis
Presley, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Neil Armstrong, Marlon Brando, Betty
Grable and you all have in common? The answer of course is that you all, like
millions of other people throughout the world do, or did, enjoy playing the
ukulele!
As you have decided
the time is right to give a baritone uke a try the mission is, of course, to
find the best possible instrument you can, and with some effort, research and
leg work, guided by the tips and ideas covered here, that’s not an impossible
task.
Key things to
consider when looking for a great baritone uke
Your experience
There are five types
of ukulele on the market; the newest being the sopranissimo measuring just 40
cms (6 inches), the 51 cm (20 inches) soprano- the most traditional uke, size
wise, the slightly longer (58cms/23 inches) concert ukulele, a little louder
than it’s soprano sister, and the current most popular size and the choice of
many professional players - the tenor, which is 66 cms (or 26 inches) long.
The big kid in the
gang is of course the baritone, weighing in at 76 cms, or 30 inches.
Traditionally the slight outsider, due to it being the heaviest in a genre of
instruments known for their portability, and for producing deeper tones than
smaller ukes, this style is definitely gaining in popularity.
Switching up from a
smaller model takes some adjustment, so look for a baritone designed for
beginners for the best results.
What do people you
know play?
Word of mouth is
always a great way to find recommendations based on genuine personal
experiences, so if you have friends who play the uke, or you are in some kind
of musical group or club ask for advice.
If anyone has a
baritone you could try out so much the better, or try local music shops for a
practical demonstration.
Your budget
All ukes are an
investment so it doesn’t pay to go to low end and end up with a uke with a
disappointing sound, or that needs to be replaced too soon; but as a newcomer
to baritone ukes spending too much is a risk.
If possible aim to
buy at least one step above the cheapest models, although to be fair in recent
years the quality of even the lowest priced ukes has improved. Don’t forget to
consider the costs of additional items like a carry bag, if they are not
included in the price already.
The brand
The most well own
brand names in the ukulele field are Kala (known for selling ukes across the
entire price range and good starter kits), Kamaka, Mahalo, Lanakai, and luna,
as well as Pono and Kanilea which tend to speciaise in the most expensive
models.
Overall then, the
sensible way to find the best baritone ukulele for yourself is to ask around,
try a few out, read plenty of review, and know your budget. For further help
and info, visit our baritone ukulele buying guide.
