Had my Kamaka for 3 years now, the sound keeps getting better, the colour and grain have become even more beautiful and it's still a joy to just open the case, let alone play it, every practice is an event.
I just bought my Kamaka. I love it. I would love someday to own a Koaloha too. They each have their own personality. But truly love the Kamaka. A joy to play. I now. A Martin Koa also and love it too. It has a punchier sound. Love them both.
I have my HF-3 for 10 days and I totally agree, opening the casing is a joy and the smell of the wood 😊. I am beginning to appreciate the sound produced from the stock strings.
I purchased the Pikake from SUS... it is an amazing instrument.. i was before a Kanilea guy, owning two of those,... but the KoaLoha especially strung with wound low G sounds like nothing else! highly recommended, all my best to the team at SUS xxx
KoAloha, especially with low G, wins. Projection, clarity and warmth. "Hawaiian sound" is subjective. Not sold on machines making small "hand made" instruments. Have sold my Kamakas and Kanileas but will never sell my KTM-25.
I think if I had to start my Ukulele journey all over again I would get a Kamaka tenor first. I actually prefer the sound of the KoAloha overall, especially with a low G but a Kamaka just makes my shoulders relax every time I see and hear one. If a Kamaka is a Rolls Royce and a KoAloha maybe a Jaguar, a Kanile'a is a Ferrari with custom plates.
Excellent description. I might steal that one. I described Kamaka as being a Harley Davidson once because they are more expensive but you get the name on it that inspired you in the first place. For me Kanile'a represent the future of the Ukulele and KoAloha occupy a space that is all their own - authentic, untouchable.
Anyone would be proud to own any of the K’s. When I was looking to upgrade I looked long and hard at all 3 brands and settle on thr KoAloha because to my ears it sounded the brightest. The more I play my KoAloha tenor the better it sounds.
This was another great video Alex. To me the Kamaka is the quintessential hawaiian sound. You can't beat Kamaka out of these three brands if you are looking for the classic Hawaiian sound Kanilea produces a very articulate balanced sound with a little extra sparkle in the high notes. Also, in the pursuit of precision, Kanilea has removed the human element out of much of its production. Largely laser cut and CNC cut and milled parts are hand assembled. Even the sides are bent by a side bending robot these days. Kanilea is truly pushing modern manufacturing processes and using them as much as possible. This is enabling Kanilea to quickly and efficiently impart the balanced sparkly nature to models across the Kanilea product line. I prefer the 38mm nut and wide string spacing of Kanilea ukuleles. I think Koaloha has the warmest and fullest sound of the three when playing soft mellow music. That can also be a disadvantage when playing more aggressively. When I chose one I went with the Koaloha because I like a warmer full sound. Then I changed the nut and saddle to unbleached bone and filed the nut slots to 30mm G to A. Then I switched the strings to Aquila AGxAQ. Now the warmth is even richer and the bone is less resonant then Tusq so when playing harder it keeps nice clarity and does not sound like a slightly over driven speaker. I find I get more note clarity and better dynamic range with this setup.🙂 To my ears when playing Koaloha's and Kanilea's Tusq is more suited to the stiffer build of Kanilea's build/bracing setup.
I like all three and if you didn't have them to compare back to back, they would all sound great on their own. I bought the KoAloha KTM-00 mostly based on I liked the way it looked. With all sounding so good, that's the distinction I went with...I'm very happy with it!
I expected the Kanile'a to be my runaway favorite,; I suppose because I've seen and heard so many amazing ones on TH-cam, This one too was gorgeous and sounded great. But the Kamaka did it for me in tone. I liked it so much, I listened twice. The KoAloha was impressive in every way. Three amazing ukes. Thanks for presenting them. Yes, I'd like all three.
As someone who owns 1 Koaloha 2 Kamaka's and well... 6 Kanile`a's. I can definitely give you my opinion on the three. If you can't tell by what I own, I agree with Alex: Kanile`a just takes the win in the end. The sound of each has its benefits, sometimes I do play my Koaloha when playing a smoother slow pace song. And my Kamaka when I play Hawaiian music. But after the storm of which one beats which one. 9/10 times my Kanile`as will take the win. The quality of the finish, the feel (I mean if you ever get the chance to compare their necks, they're unbeatable), and let's be honest: no one beats Kanile`a when it comes to moral values. I can say I helped reforest Hawaii. I hope this helps.
I own a Kamaka baritone which my wife gave me in 1973 when we lived in Hawaii. I have lovingly, amateurishly, enjoyed it for many years. Thank you for telling me more about the Kamaka...
It is not lost on me that you left the best 'til last ( in my opinion anyway ). I don't own a Tenor from any of the three big K brands but I do have a Tenor scale Kanile'a and Ko'aloha. I don't like wound strings and couldn't find a low g that worked on the shorter scale Kanile'a so bought from you the Ko'aloha, which was fine, if a little cramped for my paws. I have to say that every way up it's Kanile'a. Love the width, love the neck profile and love the sound. I could happily sell everything else and just keep my two Kanile'a concert Ukes. Nicely executed comparison video though and it really illustrated the difference to the three brands in every aspect. One day my skills may actually warrant the ownership of these beautiful instruments but until then I will still enjoy the sounds that thmake in my less than expert paws. After all, I was always taught that " if you want to make the best of your skills don't buy cheap tools ". Keep up the good work Alex. 👍
I have both koaloha and kanilea. The koaloha is the dessert bar at the all-you-can-eat buffet; just gives loads of what you ask for and encourages overindulgence. The kanilea is the pinnacle of construction, natural beauty and sounds great even when just sitting on the wall. Those Aquilas must come off it. Would rather they strung then with liquorice lace; at least I'd get a sweet nibble whilst winding on some fluorocarbons. The kamaka is your grandfather's mint condition Ford Granada, you have a quick drive when you're feeling nostalgic but find your eyes wandering so end up putting it safely away.
Well put. Kanile'a did go through a phase of sending Ukes out with different strings on last year and I sent Joe and Kaimana a package of different strings a couple of years back - I think long-term a change will come. Perhaps they just have thousands of sets of Aquilas to use up first. 🤷🏻♂️
Each is beautiful. I'm a beginner and hear a lot about the "three k's", thanks for highlighting their differences and what makes them unique. My dream is to own a Kamaka some day.
Like you said. All three of them :-) I like the koaloha sound, but when you hear them back to back its so hard to say. The kamaka sounds brightest to me, kanilea is the loudest...
I am fortunate enough to have one of each. As you said they each have their particular sound. I may have a tendency to prefer the Koaloha but enjoy each one.
Great video Alex! 🙂👍 And I absolutely agree - It would be awesome to own them all. I'm very lucky to have a Kanile'a and a Kamaka concert, and it is impossible to say which one I prefer. And I wouldn't mind owning a KoAloha too! Maybe some day.
Here in Hawaii, there's a generational split happening over K brands. Old people tend to have Kamakas, because they're family heirlooms and they pass them down. So some younger people will have them, as they inherited them. But older people here aren't buying new K brand ukes much anymore. They already have their favorite ukes. Kamaka is seen as old fashioned, the uke your grandma plays. By contrast, younger people buying K brands choose Kanile'a and KoAloha because of the innovations to both builds and finishes, along with the prettier woods those brands use. So at a uke club, you tend to have old people playing vintage Kamakas and young people playing shiny new Kanile'as and KoAlohas, and nobody is playing shiny new Kamakas.
This is not surprising to me. A variation of this is happening here in the UK as well. The audience for Kamaka are older or completionists. Nothing wrong with any of them. 🙂
I like a three of them. The Kamaka has a mellow sound, I put fluorocarbon strings onto mine and it I even brighter than my KoAloha. The KoAloha has a booming sound great for strumming. The Kamaka I think is the best for fingerpicking. The Kanilea has the best koa and finish of all of them and is very loud.
Okay friend you have just thrown a spanner in the works for me. Thankyou. i have spent days plucking up the courage to purchase this beautiful used Kanile'a K1T, here in Australia. Well guess what friend? After watching your video, I honestly can tell you, I am none the wiser. The Kamaka to me, sounds the best of the 3 Kings.
I am very lucky to own a Kamaka Cedar top tenor and a Koaloha tenor. They havent been played very much in the past year as i've gone all guitar crazy. Literally today I sat down with them both noodling wondering if i should sell them on... No way, they are both so amazing in their own way and put the Pono Mango Tenor I also own to shame. If i was forced at gunpoint to choose one, it would be the Koaloha. I feel a Uke binge coming on, oh and I need to sell the Pono.
Thank you, sir.. I'd always thought a ukulele was a ukulele, and the players made 90% of the difference. I very much appreciate your video. It let me hear the voices of the different instruments. And yes; all three are on my wish list.
Thanks as always. I said to the guys today that this video was easy to shoot as I've owned them all and spoken about them so much in the past 5+ years that it's naturally well rehearsed.
Thanks for the great video experience! I understand this would be a royal pain in the bum, but maybe for next year's comparison video, all three tenors get the same strings? I have been doing a great deal of research as to which tenor I am going to buy, your video has given me a straight line to Kamaka, thank you!
I can't really do that because when all is said and done these are Instruments for sale. If they were my own I could play around with them but we have to keep them set up for the general end user.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Send me the receipt, I'll buy the strings :-) Based on my location, (Oregon) and the fact that I'm visiting Hawaii next month, I chose to buy my HF-3 today from the fine folks at the Ukulele Site. Thank you again for your help in making my decision.
If i‘d Play better, id would be the Kanile’a. Bright and warm Sound and the Looks of every uke... Kamaka‘s brightness is Great and the bluelines look amazing Have to work on my skills☺️
i prefer kanilea i have the k1 however i want all 3 and if have the money and time i will try to get them all but it may take some time .i do have a kamaka soprano i got used .thanks alex this was a good video
Having a Kamaka Soprano is possibly the best place to start. 💪 When I got a Kamaka; I debated for ages between a Soprano and Concert and regretted getting the Concert because my personal attachment to Kamaka was all about the Soprano.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Yes I was lucky to be able to trade a guitar for it at my local shop .you have the shop so at least you are blessed to have the ability to play all the sizes but I would like to have them all but that's not practical or good for me lol my first kanilea was a concert satin finish I regretted it as I ended up buying the tenor but I still like the concert but maybe it's just a mind set we place ourselves in because they are all good ukuleles but we have preference I guess ..thanks alex keep up the good work
I have watched all three of these previous videos and it is purely academic as I will probably not own one of these in this lifetime . But I have gone Kamaka , Kanilea and finally the naughty kid at the back of the class . Kind of appropriate for an ex teacher to get there last . Kind of annoying to deal with but you admire their Freespiritedness . Koahloa this time . Which order did you buy Alex ?
I got a Kanile'a GL6 first and then a K-1 Tenor almost at the same time. Then a Pikake KoAloha Concert a few months later. I then remember doing a deal to get a KoAloha KTM-00 a year or so on but it wasn't as nice as most of the others I have seen. I traded the Tenor KoAloha for a Kamaka Concert and at some point sold my first Kanile'a GL6 and the K-1 to buy a 1970s Kamaka Tenor. Moving on a bit I swapped my HF-2 concert for an anniversary HF-3... I then went back to Kanile'as with another K-1 and eventually another GL6, the SUS model and the Manakos which is my main uke today. I also purchased 2 KoAloha Mango Ukes last year and prefer the Concert. I think for me it goes; Kamaka Soprano Koaloha concerts Kanile'a Tenors Thanks for asking me 😁
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Thanks for the detailed answer . I saw the Naupaka that you showed the other day . Fell instantly in love with it uniqueness . on my bucket list to annoy the other residents in my Macarthy and Stone days . Not quite got to that yet . 😬
More than the other 2, the Kamaka grows lovelier and lovelier. Koaloha and Kanilea make a greater immediate presence but Kamaka is the one whose love will grow over the years. Their Chinese fans say Kamaka is made of 相识木。。。wood for lovers. It cannot be explained more accurately but the gist is that it would be lifelong love of your life , not a short term fling. They would be coy but faithful. I play my Koaloha a lot though, as it is immediately responsive and does not need any teasing out. Kanilea had bracing that collapsed and it was not necessary to chance another thereafter.
That's wonderful to read about the Kamaka, really interesting. I have never read or heard of anyone having a major issue with a Kanile'a until now. The 2-3 problems we have had over the years were I think all the result of shipping damage and not a manufacturing issue as such.
It fluctuates from one delivery to the next in the modern world. I put the links in the description each time. If I say prices it dates the videos in no time at all and makes them less effective in promoting the products we sell.
That would require KoAloha to make a Baritone. We did recently reopen this discussion with them so perhaps as time roles on that could become a reality.
I think the kanilea is not well featured in this video due to the stock Aquila strings... They're okay strings but definitely I think are holding the instrument back. A nice pair of uke logic fluorocarbon would make this uke way better sounding
Kamaka built ukes in Japan to survive lean times in the 1980s. Its a similar model the Hawaiian brands use now but each K brand currently only produce the brand named models in the US.
Listen to all blindfolded. Love the low G Koaloha. It is not the brightest (which is Kamaka), it’s not the loudest (which is Kanile’a). But Koaloha sounds smoothest and very balanced, not too bright, very clear and have a bit of the sparkle in the treble.
Great video since I am really interested in getting a solid koa ukulele. To my ear, the Kamaka has the best overall tone. But I also play guitar, so the Kanile'a might suit me better with the wider nut and neck, and the ease of changing the strings. Sorry, but I change my strings every few months on my guitars but I'm lucky to change strings annually on my ukuleles. 😁
Thanks for this video. I’m headed to Hawaii next year & plan to get one. So far leaning Kanile’a. This certainly helps. Also may be in England in the fall & hoping to visit SUS. Keep up these wonderful videos.
They all sound the same (ish)... Gentle playing, using the soft part of the hand, doesn`t show the Uke`s characteristics. Could I suggest, a little aggression, and use of the nails ? (Occasionally) This is not a critisism, more of a suggestion...
I don't take it as criticism although sadly I don't think we will see eye to eye on your suggestion. To me, all ukes sound the same when you strum with fingernails. It's the pads of the thumb that give it the nuance. That's how all 3 of the players on this channel play and on similar channels like ukulele site. You might find uke like the pros demos helpful as he does often play a more strumming style. Thanks for your comment.
Awesome video! Can you please link me to the specific clear fluorocarbon tenor strings you would recommend for the Kanile'a? I just picked up a K-1 T and after playing a Koaloha KCM-00 over the past few months I'm finding myself wanting a brighter tone from the Kanile'a. Thanks in advance!
They all sound perfect. How about playability is any neck easier to play than the others. Would be nice to see the profiles. I know the Kanileas have a flatter neck but is wider, you mentioned the Kamala has a more narrow neck, but is it flat? I have been playing my fender montecito for 4 years and cannot get the E down on a bar chord consistently. Which on of these would help me do that?
The problem you are having is much more likely to do with set up than neck profile and that particular difference is something that is personal to each player. If you find that fender hard to play then the Kanile'a is probably the hardest to play. Kamaka would probably feel easiest.
Great comparison and summary. I really appreciated the quick comparison at the end. Have you had a chance to play a Collings UT1? If so, your thoughts? Thanks for all your had work.
Yeh... Collings are good but they are so expensive that it's hard to assess whether they are really good value for money. I have only ever played 2 Collings Tenors and they reminded me of old Martins with modern gloss finishes.
cool vid, thanks, What do you think from your experience which finish is louder? I know that gloss finish makes uke midfocused, but have no idea about the volume.
I like the Kamaka sound and story but I love the boisterous kids at the back of the class. A video I would like to see would be how mixtures of wood change the sound of a uke, for example spruce top/ rosewood back and sides, cedar top/ mahogany back and sides to see how the back and sides tonewoods change the overall dynamic of an instrument.
Can you think of a good example? I'm struggling to think of a few. Its a great idea for a video though. I can only think of examples like Pono, it's got to be possible though... Il bear it in mind when the right opportunity presents itself.
I've done that before with the concert KoAlohas. That would also be a different thing to your original suggestion as each uke has the same tonewood throughout the body. Also, the batch method in which KoAloha build in 2021 means that you probably won't get a window to see a mango and koa model at the same time... I made a mango vs koa uke on Romero last year and a Mahogany vs Koa video on Kiwaya the year before. The Ponos are probably the best bet to carry out this comparison if the point is to hear what difference back and sides make.
Alex thank you for the excellent comparison. My question is about the new KTM-00 model (14 frets to the body). I have it here with me and it sounds a bit different than the older model. Have you tried it? Thanks again
I have yet to get one of these. After watching your video, I think I will get the Kamaka first. Both times hearing it… I felt like I was almost going to cry because it sounds so beautifully emotional. Are they available with electronics? If so, would you say they sound similar to the purely acoustic ones?
I've a K-2T, and you mentioned that you prefer a clear fluorocarbon string set with a Kanile'a. Which brand (with low G) would be your preference? Thank you!
@@SouthernUkuleleStore many thanks. I understand that the Worths are actually Seguar fishing leader fluorocarbon (made in Japan), which is used by Barry Maz (Gotaukulele) and others - have you any knowledge about that?
Yes, but honestly nothing you wouldn't have read on bazs blog. I found the seagaur lines to be higher tension that worth strings. The best thing you can do is just buy some strings and try them, ultimately until you know what one feels like you have no point of reference.
Lovely stuff! When I see K Brand conversations in general, I normally see Ko’olau get snubbed, what do you think it is that Ko’olau lacks that the other K brands have?
Ko'olau are great but being a custom shop quite often takes them out of the conversation. We have sold Ko'olau ukes in the past but they really didn't capture our European market in the same way. Great ukes obviously...
As I mentioned I think? They are Kamaka black nylons. Easily missed though. I can't do the same strings on all 3 because they quickly cease to be new as unplayed ukes for the end user then.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Yeah, I edited my post once I got that far in the video. Your reason is a good one, but still... Would be nice to hear a fair sound comparison using the same strings.
I believe it is because Ko'olau is harder to come by worldwide and essentially a custom shop. The Pono brand itself is in many ways the more well known brand of the two Ko'olau brands and it steals some of the spotlight from the Hawaiian made Ko'olau Ukes.
The description for the sound of the Kamaka is spot on. Particularly with the stock strings (or nylon strings in general) they have a really traditional and characterful sound with that low-end harmonization. A switch to fluorocarbon strings will still retain some of that sound which is a sign of the character and consistency of the brand. Even a soprano Kamaka will do that, in my experience. For me, it's still a kind of marmite uke because the sound is not for everyone, especially with those stock strings. I prefer the two other brands myself but I of course see the appeal, easily. KoAloha is indeed the punchiest of the bunch. Works a bit better in soprano and concert sizes, in my opinion, but obviously the tenor is nothing to sniff at. Kanile'a just have a really unique warm and sweet sound which usually is quite hard to pick from a recording. I had to own one before I really understood what the fuss was all about. Most modern and unique by far.
Great comment. I can't quite find the words but with KoAloha and Kanile'a, the right player gets excited and it's a connection based on reputation and love. With a Kamaka, I sometimes find that the player and the uke develop an understanding for each other as they try it for the first time. Occasionally someone comes in store and tries one only to find it's not the right uke for them but other times they come in wanting that 'kamaka sound' and they don't even know it.
Thanks for the comparison, excellent as usual. I have a question that's not related to sound. Given the price of all three of these beautiful instruments, which do you think holds its value the best? To put it another way, in ten years, which of these ukuleles will be worth the most, if I buy it today - which I wish I could afford to do!
My experience is that they retain similar long term value. I have owned and sold all three of these over a 7 year period and my memory tells me that the KoAloha was the uke that retained the most of my original investment but probably only by a few quid. The kamaka took the longest to sell but I did get 80% of my money back when it did.
We have Kanile'a and KoAloha ukes in stock right now. If the links are out of date you'll find modern Individual listings by searching by brand on our website. We do not have any Kamala HF-3s at this time.
Uncle Alex, here I am again browsing the net, and discovered other uke brands that caught my attention, the Oscar Schmidt, koolau and DeVine ukes, I'm not really familiar with them 😅 are their good brands to consider too? 😊
DeVines look lovely but it is not fair for me to have an opinion as I don't think I have played one. Most Oscar Schmidt Ukes look good but feel overbuilt and sound dull... I've probably only played 10-20 of them though so they may not all be bad.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore thanks always Alex ;) I enjoy discussing uke things with you, and as you always say, it is a great thing to absorb as many knowledge as we can :) I should practice a little more, 😆
Kiwaya are not a Hawaiian brand... we have featured them and highlighted many of their models in other videos. Personally I think the best Kiwayas tend to be soprano but the player series ukes would be a fine alternative to one of the ukes in this video.
Kamaka's sound like Martins and when will this guy stop being a shill and say the ones he likes best but can you really trust someone who has an agenda of selling something. No, you can't and all you get is a which one of these do you like the best bunch of B.S. out of him. Rather buy from Jason at U Space and Terry at Uke Like the Pros because they are upfront and say what they prefer and no beating around the bush game playing
Thanks for the comment... I think over 3 years and 200 videos I have painted a good picture of my own preferences and put them aside when demonstrating these videos that are quite clearly sales videos for products we have. It really is all just a bit of fun. Lighten up - none of what I said is bullshit, I've owned all of these instruments multiple times in my time.
Thanks for an excellent comparison of 3 exquisite instruments. If I ever play half as well as you do, I hope to reward myself with one of these.
Thanks so much for your kind words. If you ever have the money I'd graciously accept one of these Ukes as a reward 😂
Had my Kamaka for 3 years now, the sound keeps getting better, the colour and grain have become even more beautiful and it's still a joy to just open the case, let alone play it, every practice is an event.
'every practice is an event' - lovely words that I will definitely be stealing 😂
I just bought my Kamaka. I love it. I would love someday to own a Koaloha too. They each have their own personality. But truly love the Kamaka. A joy to play. I now. A Martin Koa also and love it too. It has a punchier sound. Love them both.
I have my HF-3 for 10 days and I totally agree, opening the casing is a joy and the smell of the wood 😊. I am beginning to appreciate the sound produced from the stock strings.
I purchased the Pikake from SUS... it is an amazing instrument.. i was before a Kanilea guy, owning two of those,... but the KoaLoha especially strung with wound low G sounds like nothing else! highly recommended, all my best to the team at SUS xxx
KoAloha, especially with low G, wins. Projection, clarity and warmth. "Hawaiian sound" is subjective. Not sold on machines making small "hand made" instruments. Have sold my Kamakas and Kanileas but will never sell my KTM-25.
I think if I had to start my Ukulele journey all over again I would get a Kamaka tenor first. I actually prefer the sound of the KoAloha overall, especially with a low G but a Kamaka just makes my shoulders relax every time I see and hear one. If a Kamaka is a Rolls Royce and a KoAloha maybe a Jaguar, a Kanile'a is a Ferrari with custom plates.
Excellent description. I might steal that one.
I described Kamaka as being a Harley Davidson once because they are more expensive but you get the name on it that inspired you in the first place.
For me Kanile'a represent the future of the Ukulele and KoAloha occupy a space that is all their own - authentic, untouchable.
Anyone would be proud to own any of the K’s. When I was looking to upgrade I looked long and hard at all 3 brands and settle on thr KoAloha because to my ears it sounded the brightest. The more I play my KoAloha tenor the better it sounds.
This was another great video Alex.
To me the Kamaka is the quintessential hawaiian sound.
You can't beat Kamaka out of these three brands if you are looking for the classic Hawaiian sound
Kanilea produces a very articulate balanced sound with a little extra sparkle in the high notes. Also, in the pursuit of precision, Kanilea has removed the human element out of much of its production. Largely laser cut and CNC cut and milled parts are hand assembled. Even the sides are bent by a side bending robot these days. Kanilea is truly pushing modern manufacturing processes and using them as much as possible. This is enabling Kanilea to quickly and efficiently impart the balanced sparkly nature to models across the Kanilea product line. I prefer the 38mm nut and wide string spacing of Kanilea ukuleles.
I think Koaloha has the warmest and fullest sound of the three when playing soft mellow music. That can also be a disadvantage when playing more aggressively.
When I chose one I went with the Koaloha because I like a warmer full sound.
Then I changed the nut and saddle to unbleached bone and filed the nut slots to 30mm G to A. Then I switched the strings to Aquila AGxAQ.
Now the warmth is even richer and the bone is less resonant then Tusq so when playing harder it keeps nice clarity and does not sound like a slightly over driven speaker.
I find I get more note clarity and better dynamic range with this setup.🙂
To my ears when playing Koaloha's and Kanilea's Tusq is more suited to the stiffer build of Kanilea's build/bracing setup.
Wow I love the detail in this comment! Thanks as always.
KTM 10, next on my purchase list. Thanks for reviewing.
I like all three and if you didn't have them to compare back to back, they would all sound great on their own. I bought the KoAloha KTM-00 mostly based on I liked the way it looked. With all sounding so good, that's the distinction I went with...I'm very happy with it!
All pretty good but I think the koaloha was better. Oh and I don't even own one, I have a Kamaka.
I expected the Kanile'a to be my runaway favorite,; I suppose because I've seen and heard so many amazing ones on TH-cam, This one too was gorgeous and sounded great. But the Kamaka did it for me in tone. I liked it so much, I listened twice. The KoAloha was impressive in every way. Three amazing ukes. Thanks for presenting them. Yes, I'd like all three.
As someone who owns 1 Koaloha 2 Kamaka's and well... 6 Kanile`a's. I can definitely give you my opinion on the three. If you can't tell by what I own, I agree with Alex: Kanile`a just takes the win in the end. The sound of each has its benefits, sometimes I do play my Koaloha when playing a smoother slow pace song. And my Kamaka when I play Hawaiian music. But after the storm of which one beats which one. 9/10 times my Kanile`as will take the win. The quality of the finish, the feel (I mean if you ever get the chance to compare their necks, they're unbeatable), and let's be honest: no one beats Kanile`a when it comes to moral values. I can say I helped reforest Hawaii. I hope this helps.
I own a Kamaka baritone which my wife gave me in 1973 when we lived in Hawaii. I have lovingly, amateurishly, enjoyed it for many years. Thank you for telling me more about the Kamaka...
I like kanilea best,sound everything else,I’m just learning so could not justify g to he money yet, if Yamaha made ukuleles 4 string.
It is not lost on me that you left the best 'til last ( in my opinion anyway ). I don't own a Tenor from any of the three big K brands but I do have a Tenor scale Kanile'a and Ko'aloha. I don't like wound strings and couldn't find a low g that worked on the shorter scale Kanile'a so bought from you the Ko'aloha, which was fine, if a little cramped for my paws. I have to say that every way up it's Kanile'a. Love the width, love the neck profile and love the sound. I could happily sell everything else and just keep my two Kanile'a concert Ukes. Nicely executed comparison video though and it really illustrated the difference to the three brands in every aspect. One day my skills may actually warrant the ownership of these beautiful instruments but until then I will still enjoy the sounds that thmake in my less than expert paws. After all, I was always taught that " if you want to make the best of your skills don't buy cheap tools ". Keep up the good work Alex. 👍
I have both koaloha and kanilea. The koaloha is the dessert bar at the all-you-can-eat buffet; just gives loads of what you ask for and encourages overindulgence. The kanilea is the pinnacle of construction, natural beauty and sounds great even when just sitting on the wall. Those Aquilas must come off it. Would rather they strung then with liquorice lace; at least I'd get a sweet nibble whilst winding on some fluorocarbons. The kamaka is your grandfather's mint condition Ford Granada, you have a quick drive when you're feeling nostalgic but find your eyes wandering so end up putting it safely away.
Well put. Kanile'a did go through a phase of sending Ukes out with different strings on last year and I sent Joe and Kaimana a package of different strings a couple of years back - I think long-term a change will come. Perhaps they just have thousands of sets of Aquilas to use up first. 🤷🏻♂️
Each is beautiful. I'm a beginner and hear a lot about the "three k's", thanks for highlighting their differences and what makes them unique. My dream is to own a Kamaka some day.
Aaaahhh...someday! Another amazing comparison video, Alex. Thanks!
Like you said. All three of them :-)
I like the koaloha sound, but when you hear them back to back its so hard to say. The kamaka sounds brightest to me, kanilea is the loudest...
I am fortunate enough to have one of each. As you said they each have their particular sound. I may have a tendency to prefer the Koaloha but enjoy each one.
Everyone always has a soft spot for the naughty kid in class. Classic underdog!
Thanks for commenting
Ditto. My Ko'Aloha is my go to.
Ps. Bought from SUS and had custom tuners added, fantastic service and work, cheers boys.
Great video Alex! 🙂👍 And I absolutely agree - It would be awesome to own them all. I'm very lucky to have a Kanile'a and a Kamaka concert, and it is impossible to say which one I prefer. And I wouldn't mind owning a KoAloha too! Maybe some day.
🤞
Here in Hawaii, there's a generational split happening over K brands. Old people tend to have Kamakas, because they're family heirlooms and they pass them down. So some younger people will have them, as they inherited them. But older people here aren't buying new K brand ukes much anymore. They already have their favorite ukes. Kamaka is seen as old fashioned, the uke your grandma plays.
By contrast, younger people buying K brands choose Kanile'a and KoAloha because of the innovations to both builds and finishes, along with the prettier woods those brands use.
So at a uke club, you tend to have old people playing vintage Kamakas and young people playing shiny new Kanile'as and KoAlohas, and nobody is playing shiny new Kamakas.
This is not surprising to me. A variation of this is happening here in the UK as well. The audience for Kamaka are older or completionists.
Nothing wrong with any of them. 🙂
I like a three of them. The Kamaka has a mellow sound, I put fluorocarbon strings onto mine and it I even brighter than my KoAloha. The KoAloha has a booming sound great for strumming. The Kamaka I think is the best for fingerpicking. The Kanilea has the best koa and finish of all of them and is very loud.
Okay friend you have just thrown a spanner in the works for me. Thankyou. i have spent days plucking up the courage to purchase this beautiful used Kanile'a K1T, here in Australia. Well guess what friend? After watching your video, I honestly can tell you, I am none the wiser. The Kamaka to me, sounds the best of the 3 Kings.
I solt my Kamaka several years ago about my financial problem I am still regret..
I am very lucky to own a Kamaka Cedar top tenor and a Koaloha tenor. They havent been played very much in the past year as i've gone all guitar crazy. Literally today I sat down with them both noodling wondering if i should sell them on... No way, they are both so amazing in their own way and put the Pono Mango Tenor I also own to shame. If i was forced at gunpoint to choose one, it would be the Koaloha.
I feel a Uke binge coming on, oh and I need to sell the Pono.
👍🏼👍🏼 they all start w/ K so I’ll take whichever I can get my hands on in Australia 🇦🇺
string spacing in koaloha/kamaka is to narrow. Even if these ukes sounds great its now for me.
It would be an honor to own any of these beautiful instruments. My fav is Koaloha! 🎶💕
Thank you, sir.. I'd always thought a ukulele was a ukulele, and the players made 90% of the difference. I very much appreciate your video. It let me hear the voices of the different instruments. And yes; all three are on my wish list.
Ko'olau is still the champ. Best woods, best build, best strings. The "forgotten" Big K ukulele maker in Hawai'i.
Yeah they make great instruments. They’re basically just a custom shop these days though!
“You're totally right”
Alex... cool video! You are an excellent speaker btw. Shout out fröm Germany 🇩🇪
Thanks as always.
I said to the guys today that this video was easy to shoot as I've owned them all and spoken about them so much in the past 5+ years that it's naturally well rehearsed.
Thanks for the great video experience! I understand this would be a royal pain in the bum, but maybe for next year's comparison video, all three tenors get the same strings? I have been doing a great deal of research as to which tenor I am going to buy, your video has given me a straight line to Kamaka, thank you!
I can't really do that because when all is said and done these are Instruments for sale. If they were my own I could play around with them but we have to keep them set up for the general end user.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Send me the receipt, I'll buy the strings :-) Based on my location, (Oregon) and the fact that I'm visiting Hawaii next month, I chose to buy my HF-3 today from the fine folks at the Ukulele Site. Thank you again for your help in making my decision.
If i‘d Play better, id would be the Kanile’a. Bright and warm Sound and the Looks of every uke...
Kamaka‘s brightness is Great and the bluelines look amazing
Have to work on my skills☺️
I have a mango baratone. I love the warmth. The koa definitely has a brightness. Both beautiful ukes
My fave video this year 😍
i prefer kanilea i have the k1 however i want all 3 and if have the money and time i will try to get them all but it may take some time .i do have a kamaka soprano i got used .thanks alex this was a good video
Having a Kamaka Soprano is possibly the best place to start. 💪 When I got a Kamaka; I debated for ages between a Soprano and Concert and regretted getting the Concert because my personal attachment to Kamaka was all about the Soprano.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Yes I was lucky to be able to trade a guitar for it at my local shop .you have the shop so at least you are blessed to have the ability to play all the sizes but I would like to have them all but that's not practical or good for me lol my first kanilea was a concert satin finish I regretted it as I ended up buying the tenor but I still like the concert but maybe it's just a mind set we place ourselves in because they are all good ukuleles but we have preference I guess ..thanks alex keep up the good work
I have watched all three of these previous videos and it is purely academic as I will probably not own one of these in this lifetime .
But I have gone Kamaka , Kanilea and finally the naughty kid at the back of the class .
Kind of appropriate for an ex teacher to get there last .
Kind of annoying to deal with but you admire their
Freespiritedness .
Koahloa this time . Which order did you buy Alex ?
I got a Kanile'a GL6 first and then a K-1 Tenor almost at the same time. Then a Pikake KoAloha Concert a few months later. I then remember doing a deal to get a KoAloha KTM-00 a year or so on but it wasn't as nice as most of the others I have seen. I traded the Tenor KoAloha for a Kamaka Concert and at some point sold my first Kanile'a GL6 and the K-1 to buy a 1970s Kamaka Tenor.
Moving on a bit I swapped my HF-2 concert for an anniversary HF-3... I then went back to Kanile'as with another K-1 and eventually another GL6, the SUS model and the Manakos which is my main uke today.
I also purchased 2 KoAloha Mango Ukes last year and prefer the Concert. I think for me it goes;
Kamaka Soprano
Koaloha concerts
Kanile'a Tenors
Thanks for asking me 😁
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Thanks for the detailed answer . I saw the Naupaka that you showed the other day .
Fell instantly in love with it uniqueness .
on my bucket list to annoy the other residents in my Macarthy and Stone days . Not quite got to that yet . 😬
Every example sounds like it was recorded thru Jello, on a truck, driving over cobblestones. Warbly much?
It was quite hard to drive the truck and record the sound samples at the same time but I did my best!
More than the other 2, the Kamaka grows lovelier and lovelier.
Koaloha and Kanilea make a greater immediate presence but Kamaka is the one whose love will grow over the years.
Their Chinese fans say Kamaka is made of 相识木。。。wood for lovers. It cannot be explained more accurately but the gist is that it would be lifelong love of your life , not a short term fling. They would be coy but faithful.
I play my Koaloha a lot though, as it is immediately responsive and does not need any teasing out.
Kanilea had bracing that collapsed and it was not necessary to chance another thereafter.
That's wonderful to read about the Kamaka, really interesting.
I have never read or heard of anyone having a major issue with a Kanile'a until now. The 2-3 problems we have had over the years were I think all the result of shipping damage and not a manufacturing issue as such.
Kanile'a, ! You should give the price of the ukes when you review them
It fluctuates from one delivery to the next in the modern world. I put the links in the description each time. If I say prices it dates the videos in no time at all and makes them less effective in promoting the products we sell.
Love koaloha! I’d be interested in seeing this video but with baritones ❤️
That would require KoAloha to make a Baritone. We did recently reopen this discussion with them so perhaps as time roles on that could become a reality.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore yes, let’s hope it sooner then later!
Kanilea
I think the kanilea is not well featured in this video due to the stock Aquila strings... They're okay strings but definitely I think are holding the instrument back. A nice pair of uke logic fluorocarbon would make this uke way better sounding
Kamaka ukes are the G.O.A.T. of ukuleles and the ONLY brand that produces each and every model wholly in the USA (even better, ALL in Hawai'i).
Kamaka built ukes in Japan to survive lean times in the 1980s. Its a similar model the Hawaiian brands use now but each K brand currently only produce the brand named models in the US.
Listen to all blindfolded. Love the low G Koaloha. It is not the brightest (which is Kamaka), it’s not the loudest (which is Kanile’a).
But Koaloha sounds smoothest and very balanced, not too bright, very clear and have a bit of the sparkle in the treble.
Great video since I am really interested in getting a solid koa ukulele. To my ear, the Kamaka has the best overall tone. But I also play guitar, so the Kanile'a might suit me better with the wider nut and neck, and the ease of changing the strings. Sorry, but I change my strings every few months on my guitars but I'm lucky to change strings annually on my ukuleles. 😁
You can't go wrong with them all.
Kanile’a the TONE!
I do prefer the Kamaka , it's the sweetest sounding uke and the best for jazz and hawaiian swing, the music I like the most on ukes
Thanks for your comment. I mean... I didn't play a Kamoa in the video 😂 but I'm glad that you enjoyed it.
kamaka , sorry I have a Kamoa I can't afford more expensive Ones , I meant kamaka
Hey! Its not fair... you are a feft hand player! LOL. Most of us are right hand players LOL.
Thanks for this video. I’m headed to Hawaii next year & plan to get one. So far leaning Kanile’a. This certainly helps. Also may be in England in the fall & hoping to visit SUS. Keep up these wonderful videos.
They all sound the same (ish)...
Gentle playing, using the soft part of the hand, doesn`t show the Uke`s characteristics.
Could I suggest, a little aggression, and use of the nails ? (Occasionally)
This is not a critisism, more of a suggestion...
I don't take it as criticism although sadly I don't think we will see eye to eye on your suggestion. To me, all ukes sound the same when you strum with fingernails. It's the pads of the thumb that give it the nuance. That's how all 3 of the players on this channel play and on similar channels like ukulele site. You might find uke like the pros demos helpful as he does often play a more strumming style.
Thanks for your comment.
Koaloha, no doubt...
Awesome video! Can you please link me to the specific clear fluorocarbon tenor strings you would recommend for the Kanile'a? I just picked up a K-1 T and after playing a Koaloha KCM-00 over the past few months I'm finding myself wanting a brighter tone from the Kanile'a. Thanks in advance!
TH-cam hate links... I recommend Uke Logic S-HG-C or Worth CT
They all sound perfect. How about playability is any neck easier to play than the others. Would be nice to see the profiles. I know the Kanileas have a flatter neck but is wider, you mentioned the Kamala has a more narrow neck, but is it flat? I have been playing my fender montecito for 4 years and cannot get the E down on a bar chord consistently. Which on of these would help me do that?
The problem you are having is much more likely to do with set up than neck profile and that particular difference is something that is personal to each player. If you find that fender hard to play then the Kanile'a is probably the hardest to play. Kamaka would probably feel easiest.
Great comparison and summary. I really appreciated the quick comparison at the end. Have you had a chance to play a Collings UT1? If so, your thoughts? Thanks for all your had work.
Yeh... Collings are good but they are so expensive that it's hard to assess whether they are really good value for money. I have only ever played 2 Collings Tenors and they reminded me of old Martins with modern gloss finishes.
cool vid, thanks, What do you think from your experience which finish is louder? I know that gloss finish makes uke midfocused, but have no idea about the volume.
KoAlohas are nearly always loudest regardless of whether you get one with a gloss or satin finish. 👍
Great video! What's the name of the tune you're playing? I transcribed it, but have no clue what it's called or who it is by. Thanks.
It's called 'walk in the park' written by me (ukeswithalex)
@@SouthernUkuleleStore very impressive. I love it.
I like the Kamaka sound and story but I love the boisterous kids at the back of the class. A video I would like to see would be how mixtures of wood change the sound of a uke, for example spruce top/ rosewood back and sides, cedar top/ mahogany back and sides to see how the back and sides tonewoods change the overall dynamic of an instrument.
Can you think of a good example? I'm struggling to think of a few. Its a great idea for a video though.
I can only think of examples like Pono, it's got to be possible though... Il bear it in mind when the right opportunity presents itself.
@@SouthernUkuleleStorepono MTSH-SP and ATSH-SP are the only 2 I can think of with the same top with different back and sides
@@SouthernUkuleleStore or compare Koaloha all solid mango, all solid koa/ Pikake and a Naupaka
I've done that before with the concert KoAlohas. That would also be a different thing to your original suggestion as each uke has the same tonewood throughout the body. Also, the batch method in which KoAloha build in 2021 means that you probably won't get a window to see a mango and koa model at the same time... I made a mango vs koa uke on Romero last year and a Mahogany vs Koa video on Kiwaya the year before.
The Ponos are probably the best bet to carry out this comparison if the point is to hear what difference back and sides make.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore you're right. The back and sides was the original idea I was getting at, it would be good but I think it's quite limited
Alex thank you for the excellent comparison. My question is about the new KTM-00 model (14 frets to the body). I have it here with me and it sounds a bit different than the older model. Have you tried it? Thanks again
Sorry Alex, my bad, I just noticed that you are indeed using the newer tenor from Koaloha.
I have yet to get one of these. After watching your video, I think I will get the Kamaka first. Both times hearing it… I felt like I was almost going to cry because it sounds so beautifully emotional. Are they available with electronics? If so, would you say they sound similar to the purely acoustic ones?
You would get a pickup fitted. It's cheaper than ordering a factory installation and much easier from a warranty stand point.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore - right on… thanks Alex!
It would be nice to do a comparison using the same strings on all of them. The only way to get real apples to apples sound wise.
There is a high G and Low G comparison on the channel somewhere from a few years back.
Thanks for the great video! Could you make a tutorial for the first demo song you play?
Keep an eye on my Ukes with Alex channel as I will inevitably make a tutorial for this in the near future.
I've a K-2T, and you mentioned that you prefer a clear fluorocarbon string set with a Kanile'a. Which brand (with low G) would be your preference?
Thank you!
Worth CT-LG or Uke Logic S-SW4-C
@@SouthernUkuleleStore many thanks.
I understand that the Worths are actually Seguar fishing leader fluorocarbon (made in Japan), which is used by Barry Maz (Gotaukulele) and others - have you any knowledge about that?
Yes, but honestly nothing you wouldn't have read on bazs blog. I found the seagaur lines to be higher tension that worth strings.
The best thing you can do is just buy some strings and try them, ultimately until you know what one feels like you have no point of reference.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Good point, thanks 😃
Lovely stuff! When I see K Brand conversations in general, I normally see Ko’olau get snubbed, what do you think it is that Ko’olau lacks that the other K brands have?
I think it's just that they are a custom shop these days and price wise they are on another level to the ukes featured.
Kanile’a hands down.
In the states we hear about the 4 Ks
Ko'olau are great but being a custom shop quite often takes them out of the conversation. We have sold Ko'olau ukes in the past but they really didn't capture our European market in the same way.
Great ukes obviously...
Would be really nice to see this with the same strings on all three.
As I mentioned I think? They are Kamaka black nylons. Easily missed though.
I can't do the same strings on all 3 because they quickly cease to be new as unplayed ukes for the end user then.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore Yeah, I edited my post once I got that far in the video. Your reason is a good one, but still... Would be nice to hear a fair sound comparison using the same strings.
If would. I think that the Kanile'a would come into its own then 😉
How come Ko'olau are often not mentioned among these brands? Not passing judgment, I am just curious.
I believe it is because Ko'olau is harder to come by worldwide and essentially a custom shop. The Pono brand itself is in many ways the more well known brand of the two Ko'olau brands and it steals some of the spotlight from the Hawaiian made Ko'olau Ukes.
The description for the sound of the Kamaka is spot on. Particularly with the stock strings (or nylon strings in general) they have a really traditional and characterful sound with that low-end harmonization. A switch to fluorocarbon strings will still retain some of that sound which is a sign of the character and consistency of the brand. Even a soprano Kamaka will do that, in my experience. For me, it's still a kind of marmite uke because the sound is not for everyone, especially with those stock strings. I prefer the two other brands myself but I of course see the appeal, easily.
KoAloha is indeed the punchiest of the bunch. Works a bit better in soprano and concert sizes, in my opinion, but obviously the tenor is nothing to sniff at. Kanile'a just have a really unique warm and sweet sound which usually is quite hard to pick from a recording. I had to own one before I really understood what the fuss was all about. Most modern and unique by far.
Great comment.
I can't quite find the words but with KoAloha and Kanile'a, the right player gets excited and it's a connection based on reputation and love.
With a Kamaka, I sometimes find that the player and the uke develop an understanding for each other as they try it for the first time. Occasionally someone comes in store and tries one only to find it's not the right uke for them but other times they come in wanting that 'kamaka sound' and they don't even know it.
Thanks for the comparison, excellent as usual. I have a question that's not related to sound. Given the price of all three of these beautiful instruments, which do you think holds its value the best? To put it another way, in ten years, which of these ukuleles will be worth the most, if I buy it today - which I wish I could afford to do!
My experience is that they retain similar long term value. I have owned and sold all three of these over a 7 year period and my memory tells me that the KoAloha was the uke that retained the most of my original investment but probably only by a few quid. The kamaka took the longest to sell but I did get 80% of my money back when it did.
Very good but none of them are available on your site. Where can i find them please ? Thanks
We have Kanile'a and KoAloha ukes in stock right now. If the links are out of date you'll find modern Individual listings by searching by brand on our website.
We do not have any Kamala HF-3s at this time.
Uncle Alex, here I am again browsing the net, and discovered other uke brands that caught my attention, the Oscar Schmidt, koolau and DeVine ukes, I'm not really familiar with them 😅 are their good brands to consider too? 😊
DeVines look lovely but it is not fair for me to have an opinion as I don't think I have played one.
Most Oscar Schmidt Ukes look good but feel overbuilt and sound dull... I've probably only played 10-20 of them though so they may not all be bad.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore thanks always Alex ;) I enjoy discussing uke things with you, and as you always say, it is a great thing to absorb as many knowledge as we can :) I should practice a little more, 😆
Is Kiwaya not on par with these guys?
Kiwaya are not a Hawaiian brand... we have featured them and highlighted many of their models in other videos. Personally I think the best Kiwayas tend to be soprano but the player series ukes would be a fine alternative to one of the ukes in this video.
Kamaka's sound like Martins and when will this guy stop being a shill and say the ones he likes best but can you really trust someone who has an agenda of selling something. No, you can't and all you get is a which one of these do you like the best bunch of B.S. out of him. Rather buy from Jason at U Space and Terry at Uke Like the Pros because they are upfront and say what they prefer and no beating around the bush game playing
Thanks for the comment... I think over 3 years and 200 videos I have painted a good picture of my own preferences and put them aside when demonstrating these videos that are quite clearly sales videos for products we have.
It really is all just a bit of fun. Lighten up - none of what I said is bullshit, I've owned all of these instruments multiple times in my time.
@@SouthernUkuleleStore dont even worry
We enjoyed the video, and apreciate your opinions and work you put into these videos.
Keep them coming hermano
Troll!