Closed my eyes during the playing segments and it was hard to distinguish between the two. Wonder if it sounds more different in person vs. through laptop speakers.
As a person learning, I can afford the Kala and have been happy with the other Kala models I have. This one would fit in nicely. I do prefer the finer thing, for me it is trumpet, so I get where you're coming from. Very helpful video. Thank you. I might step up a level as I've often found the "next up" tends to offer a lot of bang for the extra money. In the meantime, I gotta work on what I have at the moment.
My 78 year old ears cannot discern the best sounding Uke, but they both sound great to me. I have a Kala tenor and baritone but the Kanile K-1-B is really beautiful Uke. If money didn’t matter I’d buy the Kanile K-1-B. Best regards. Dr D
To my ears the Kanile'a, hands down, has a far more complex tonal spectrum and is clearly more responsive. However, if someone doesn't have (or isn't inclined to part with!) the scratch for it, trying to convince them that it was _$2400 better_ than the Kala would be pointless and probably even counterproductive. That ain't pocket change for most of us. Really the Kala is a good deal, especially at its price point. Yes, its tone sounds comparatively thin and trebly to me, but I'm sitting in a quiet indoor environment and listening critically with a trained ear. Playing in a jam with multiple other instruments, I wouldn't be nearly as inclined to notice its comparative lack of nuance and sustain, and its bias in favor of higher frequencies might actually make it easier to hear in that setting. Move the jam outside and even more bets are off. Also, its intonation seemed quite good to me, which avoids the biggest "gotcha" I've seen on lower-priced instruments. Besides, who in their right mind takes a $2,500 uke to the beach? If you like the Kala then by all means get the Kala! It'll serve you just fine. That company didn't become one of the most popular uke makers on the market by peddling junk. Every one of their instruments that I've tried personally has been at least tolerable; most have been good by any standard, and some have been downright impressive. What I _would_ be really curious about is how ukuleles in, say, the $300 to $500 price range stack up. I suspect that might be the sweet zone in sheer bang for the buck.
I love Kanile'a and own a concert. It's not just a beautiful instrument, it's artwork! Simply beautiful. But, in comparison, one day my Kala-only friend played my Kanile'a and couldn't believe the difference in the two! She really liked my Kanile'a more than her Kala. She said it was easier to play and the sound was great! Having said that, Kala is a perfectly good brand of ukulele and I recommend it to friends as an affordable, solid ukulele option. However, if you want a piece of art and an outstanding ukulele, splurge for the Kanile'a. You won't regret it.
I was blessed to play a Kanilea Baritone in Hanalei recently. It was a wonderful experience. As much as I liked it, it is way beyond my means. I also played a Kala at the same store. It is important to realize that the strings make a big difference. The factory strings on the Kala were dead and only served to check intonation. It was not what I was looking for. I ended up getting a MItchell MUB70s. It also had crummy strings but still sounded way better than the Kala that I tried. I put Aquila Red Series AQ-89 strings on it and I love it. Is it as good as a Kanilea? Of course not. Still, I am very satisfied with it and play it almost every day. My Concerts and my Tenors are very jealous. :)
Strings used affect the sound also. Fluorocarbon versus Aquila. Personally I like Savarez classical guitar things on a uke. High or hard tension strings for example. Awesome sound. Revives the uke. IMO!
I'm not sure a 25x's greater price is warranted, but they both sound good. Of course, the more expensive seems have greater depth, although in the second demo with the finger picking, I really preferred the Kala as it seemed to have more life to it. I assume the life expectancy would be longer on the more expensive one. Now, I'll listen to YOUR opinion. I didn't want to be influenced by what you had to say. :)
It might be hard to get a true visceral feel and sound listening to these in a video, but the comparison definitely comes through. Definitely agree on another comment about the “more complex tonal spectrum” of the Kanilea.
I'm just now looking into purchasing a Ukulele and a bit of advice someone gave me is, if you have the money, purchase a higher end, really nice one, that is like "calling out to you" when it's in the corner not being used, and is so nice you can't just let it sit there. Craftsmanship, beauty, material, long term value, etc all have their own place in the world and depend on each person's own values, wants, and needs. The good news I like about this video is don't let the value stop you from getting started, if that happens to be what is holding you back.
Hi ! We completely agree. The idea is to get started and follow that calling! The rest will follow when the time is right. Thanks so much for your comment, we hope you enjoyed our video as well :D
I have the Kala baritone. Its a fun ukulele to plunk on. Im happy with it. Ive heard the Kanile'a. Its warm tones an rich sound is amazing an wonderful to hear. I may get one some day. Until than~ Ill jus Kala on. Aloha 🤙😎
I enjoyed your presentation. The Kanilea is beautiful. The Kala is plain. I will stick to the no name bari I bought in the 1960s for about $35. It has it makes sweet music to my ears. Thanks, NY Dave
I listened, eyes closed and instantly heard the switches. To my ears it's especially obvious in the higher notes, which sound a little tinny on the Kala. I'm not sure technically what the terms would be, but the expensive one sounds "integrated." The notes flow into each other differently: more smoothly. Maybe that's the resonance, I'm not sure.
Is it strange that I prefer the cheaper one?? It has such an warmer, louder, and richer sound to me. I guess the price boils down to materials, build quality, and longevity
I bought my TK1 on deep sale, about $275, and I also have a few old Martins-a 50s sop, and a sort of concert from the 20s with an unbranded headstock but a Martin stamp inside the body. There’s a projection and depth in Martins that I think approaches handmade instruments and at a lower cost.
Every ukulele has its “ own voice “ , even if they are the same make there is always a slight variation, its part of the build process,fluctuations in build materials and yes the quality of build materials the kala has a slight deeper tone compared to the $2500 dollar ukulele but something you didn’t show us is the depth of the sound box a wider box will give a deeper tone are they both exactly the same the more expensive one has more definition and sounds more clear and bright to me but I think for $2400 bucks I could get use to the kala real quick , my LAUREN baritone came from goodwill for $20 bucks and has a soft easy mellow tone with great sustain , my theory is if it sounds good play it ! “ How deep are your pockets “ 🤔
I learned on a basic Kala baritone (laminated mahogany). It sounds better than any $100 instrument has a right to sound, but sounds like a cardboard box next to my Kala cedar/acacia baritone, which is not much more expensive ($330). I suspect that sound improvements at higher price points may be diminishing returns.
Interesting comparison. So my question is do both use the same strings? Because if not they need the same strings. Give the $100 model the $2500 dollar models strings. Or vIsa versa. But personally I prefer the satin mat finish over a gloss. Also feel wise is primarily mental. Yes if your holding a $2500 dollar instrument and know its cost it most definetly will feel very different and will be apprecIated more...mentally. No way to escape that...if you know the price. If both were mat satin finish or both a high gloss finish it would be difficult to choose if you didn't know. Personally I like taking a low dollar instrument, adjusting it, experimenting with string choices and finding the beauty and sweet spot in a very low dollar instrument. Playing it well and making it sing. Plus I can take the low dollar instrument anywhere at anytime feeling very comfortable with it. The music and the actual playing to me with the right string choice far outweighs an expensive instrument.
To my ear there's not that much difference in the sound. The Kanile'A is sharper and has more definition, but than it should. If I could play better than I do I might buy the Kanile'A. Good luck with that. :)
Is there a difference? . . . . Yes. When I started playing ukulele, I had a couple of “better” Kala tenors, and a low-end concert (along with a KoAloha koa tenor). No contest. I soon sold the Kalas, as I found them to sound kind of “thick,” with not much richness of tone, resonance, or sustain. I have since owned over 30 ukuleles, mostly all “Hawaiian Ks” or high end custom Ohanas. There is definitely a difference. (Yes, I have played a number of nice Kalas - and it seems to be best with baritones. But overall, the Kanile’a will just be much better all of the time). Now, one does have to consider that the Kanile’a is 20x the cost of the Kala. While I am not the biggest fan of Kalas overall, I have always liked the Kala KA-B. It is a great value for the price, and it has a richer tone than Kalas in the concert and tenor sizes. If you’re “serious,” get the Kanile’a. But, if you’re just looking for a fun and pretty nice sounding baritone, for a “why not” cost, the KA-B is a nice choice.
The Kanile'a is certainly better sounding. Is it an additional $2400 better? I don't think so. I own the Kala and it's pretty darn decent for the price.
The Kanile has more clarity on the top. Richness in the mids, sweet overtones. The Kala model in the demo has a decent sound for the money. Great to start out or on a budget. It has some articulation. But lacks clarity in comparison. Not much in overtones. If I had the money, I’d definitely go with a higher end Kala or the Kanile.
Great video... But a few things to note... The baritone ukulele that you are playing in the video are both fine instruments. As a songwriter/composer as well as a self-administered writer/publisher under BMI, Inc and The MLC (respectively) I find that if you want a high end acoustic instrument, that will increase in value over the years to pass down in your family, or simply to add to your collection that you have, absolutely do save up and spend for the higher priced instruments like the Kanilea. But where the reality truly is, you do not have to spend a lot of money for a ukulele (regardless of body size) that plays and sounds great. The most important thing, is proper basic setup of the instrument and then care afterwards. Right now I'm in the middle of writing and recording many instrumental tracks using soprano and baritone ukuleles that cost way less (from $30 to $70) an while not heirloom instruments they still play and sound great and I'm able to secure direct payouts and other royalties from the commercially licensed music that I've been writing and recording for over 35+ years now. Have a great day... Stay safe out there.
For a beginner or above medium advanced player a 2,500,00 dollars Uke is simply not necessary and appears to be overkill. Sure, if money is no issue, all options are out and why not going for the best money can buy or the most prestigious avaiable on the market. That said, the purchase and use of a 80 to 100-plus bucks ukulele makes sense for most players, beginners and advanced, even top-notch instrumentalists, because it is still a lot of fun to play, it sounds pretty good, it doesn't feel cheap, and it can be taken everywhere outdoors in most all climates and whether conditions ( surely not during the arctic storm or the rainforest downpour ) without getting too nervous about it.
This is like a magic trick. When people say they hear a difference you start hearing it where there may not be. At best, the distinction is minute. You're asking us to buy into the illusion. But through your speakers and mine if there was a difference it's been levelled by audio technology.
The sound difference between laminate and solid wood is usually pretty drastic, and no surprises here. The Kala sounds boxy and boomy with weak sustain. The boxiness covers up many of the individual notes while strumming. The Kanile'a sounds richer and more balanced with more sustain. Each individual note rings true and clear.
Without a doubt the Kanile’a is the one I want to own. That being said I currently play a $100 Baritone with Pepe Romero Strings that sounds absolutely amazing! Just like clothes making the man, strings make the ukulele. The Kanile’a does sounds better! Does it sound $2400 better? Not really. So what are you buying with your $2400? You’re buying it’s heritage as well as it’s quality and if I am ever lucky enough to own one it is what I would refer to as, “A keeper!”
I own the KAB from Kala. I feel better about it now..... Kanile'A is obviously way better, but I can live with my Kala better now. Wish I could hold the Kanile'A......
The Kala has more mid bass, in every other aspect both ukes sound equally, at least that’s what I’ve heard here. Even having spare $2500 I would buy this Kala for sure.
I’m wondering if my baritone Oscar Shm..is laminate now?😡 I’m looking at the Martin tenor just cause of their guitars, it’s $500 🧐 nobody talks about them, are they good?
I think with a Martin you're paying $100 for the name. I'm tempted also, but look what else you can get for $500, or a little more. I'd rather have a uke that no one ever heard of but was at least as well made, but more 'exclusive'. For example, every western boot wearer knows Lucchese. In reality, there are FAR better boots for a similar price, but people pay for that name. Kindof like Bose. Maybe that's a better example ;-) BTW, love my Cordoba, want a koa.
@@bobchance2005 I can dig it, what I was looking for was the "comfort cut" Oscar Sh.When I couldn't find it / It was a impulse purchase.. Hopefully my grand kids will play this Martin.
the laminate mahogany one sounds kinda muffly to me... a lot going on. but it's still nice, my first uke was a laminate mahogany (Ohana, same price range) and I do still like its mellowness. the Kanile'a is clearer, and the sustain is lovely. and the instrument is absolutely stunning lets face it!
That's like comparing fiat and Maserati. Fiat is ok. You can move comfortable, looks not too bad. But it's not even close to Maserati. If you are on the budget Kala will be more than enough. If it's not a problem to pay $2500 you will get a piece of art.
think the kanilea has metal top g not nylon so sounds different i mean both of them should wear same string to hear it personally i felt the difference in chords balance but sound seems very similar
Soundwise there certainly wasn’t a $2400 difference in quality. There were times that I could barely tell the difference. If you’re into appearances the Kanile was much prettier. Sound and feel is more important to me.
There is extra 'rattle' from the sound box in the cheaper uke. The layers are resonating to give that bright noise. Better compression and better glue making the laminant might tune a cheaper one better. That and better work on the seams making the box?
For strumming the cheap ukulele. It seems to soften the tone. The expensive ukulele was very snappy. Great for lead and finger picking but seemed to be to much for strumming.
Less than a year has passed and now the $100 guitar is $150 on their website. :( I can't tell the difference. I'm sure others can, but I don't have the experience.
While you were playing, I closed my eyes and tried to determine which uke was being played. Initially, I couldn't tell the difference, but by the third comparison, I could distinguish the richer tone of the expensive uke. Therefore, my conclusion of the comparative value is: it depends. I think if you are a professional musician, you probably want a more expensive baritone. But, if you play alone and just for yourself, the cheaper uke is just fine. I play guitar and one characteristic of cheap guitars is they are terrible to play. The necks are too round, the frets are too sharp and uncomfortable and the strings are too high. Just terrible. However, the $100 dollar baritone seemed to work just fine and you weren't struggling to make it sound good. So a beginner isn't at a total disadvantage by using the cheaper model. But, to spend $2,500+ for the Master level uke seems rather extreme and a total ego-driven decision which is fine if you have the discretionary funds to pay for the beauty. The only reason to move up the scale in price is if you move up the scale in playability and sound. If not, its just a personal choice. Thanks for sharing this info.
Maybe the comparison would be a little better if there were the same strings on both instruments? The strings make a big difference in sound and the Aquilas that are always on the Kalas just sound terrible!
Well if you spent 2500 dollars and you don't know if there's a difference or not, you need your head examined (joking). I can hear a difference obviously but the Kala sounds fine for the ordinary punter who isn't a gourmet.
I like your energy and content, but the sound quality of the video is terrible, you need to mic the ukes with something better, like condenser mic pointed to the 12th fret. Sounds like it was recorded with a cheap camera mic with a crazy noise reduction effect.
This certainly doesn't seem like a very fair "same as" ukulele comparison! Of course solid wood is going to sound better than laminate and of course the strings are going to make a difference too. They don't have the same strings! I don't know about you but I don't know a single person who could afford a $2500 ukulele but they certainly could come up with $100+...I just don't think this comparison is anywhere near fair...or "the same"! I guess I'm not impressed and feel like Kala got the short end...!
2.5k for a ukelele? thats getting silly. I wouldnt pay that, would buy a guitar. Could buy a vintage martin guitar for that price. it would sound a lot better than that 2.5k ukulele.
I actually prefer the Kala its sound brighter where as the Kanilea sounds a little semi muted its saving grace is its deeper bass if your going to play blues but generally the Kala has a brighter cleaner sound So makes it in my opinion more universal regarding playing technique's and styles or perhaps it my old ears. I suppose its a bit like a martin guitar and a regular acoustic guitar i personally hate the sound of martin guitars there to flat and and with very little treble. yet they have a massive price tag. but obviously people love them because the amount of people who play them. but most of my friends like me hate them. Could it be the name or perhaps the price tag giving a false sense of achievement when finally owning one? could be??
Sound alone, indeed, functionalities alone are never where extra money goes - I'll pay more to support hand-makers and to not support slave labor, but I'd still want more difference in sound than that - but the feel does mean a lot.
Almost indistinguishable. You have to accentuate the difference otherwise you wouldn't sell any high end but let's be honest - it's a scam. They're indistinguishable
Closed my eyes during the playing segments and it was hard to distinguish between the two. Wonder if it sounds more different in person vs. through laptop speakers.
As a person learning, I can afford the Kala and have been happy with the other Kala models I have. This one would fit in nicely. I do prefer the finer thing, for me it is trumpet, so I get where you're coming from. Very helpful video. Thank you. I might step up a level as I've often found the "next up" tends to offer a lot of bang for the extra money. In the meantime, I gotta work on what I have at the moment.
For $100, the Kala is remarkable.
My 78 year old ears cannot discern the best sounding Uke, but they both sound great to me. I have a Kala tenor and baritone but the Kanile K-1-B is really beautiful Uke. If money didn’t matter I’d buy the Kanile K-1-B. Best regards. Dr D
Slight difference, but overall this Makes me feel like I’m doing fine in sticking with good quality value ukuleles
To my ears the Kanile'a, hands down, has a far more complex tonal spectrum and is clearly more responsive. However, if someone doesn't have (or isn't inclined to part with!) the scratch for it, trying to convince them that it was _$2400 better_ than the Kala would be pointless and probably even counterproductive. That ain't pocket change for most of us.
Really the Kala is a good deal, especially at its price point. Yes, its tone sounds comparatively thin and trebly to me, but I'm sitting in a quiet indoor environment and listening critically with a trained ear. Playing in a jam with multiple other instruments, I wouldn't be nearly as inclined to notice its comparative lack of nuance and sustain, and its bias in favor of higher frequencies might actually make it easier to hear in that setting. Move the jam outside and even more bets are off. Also, its intonation seemed quite good to me, which avoids the biggest "gotcha" I've seen on lower-priced instruments.
Besides, who in their right mind takes a $2,500 uke to the beach?
If you like the Kala then by all means get the Kala! It'll serve you just fine. That company didn't become one of the most popular uke makers on the market by peddling junk. Every one of their instruments that I've tried personally has been at least tolerable; most have been good by any standard, and some have been downright impressive.
What I _would_ be really curious about is how ukuleles in, say, the $300 to $500 price range stack up. I suspect that might be the sweet zone in sheer bang for the buck.
I love Kanile'a and own a concert. It's not just a beautiful instrument, it's artwork! Simply beautiful. But, in comparison, one day my Kala-only friend played my Kanile'a and couldn't believe the difference in the two! She really liked my Kanile'a more than her Kala. She said it was easier to play and the sound was great! Having said that, Kala is a perfectly good brand of ukulele and I recommend it to friends as an affordable, solid ukulele option. However, if you want a piece of art and an outstanding ukulele, splurge for the Kanile'a. You won't regret it.
I was blessed to play a Kanilea Baritone in Hanalei recently. It was a wonderful experience. As much as I liked it, it is way beyond my means. I also played a Kala at the same store.
It is important to realize that the strings make a big difference. The factory strings on the Kala were dead and only served to check intonation. It was not what I was looking for.
I ended up getting a MItchell MUB70s. It also had crummy strings but still sounded way better than the Kala that I tried. I put Aquila Red Series AQ-89 strings on it and I love it.
Is it as good as a Kanilea? Of course not. Still, I am very satisfied with it and play it almost every day. My Concerts and my Tenors are very jealous. :)
Strings used affect the sound also. Fluorocarbon versus Aquila. Personally I like Savarez classical guitar things on a uke. High or hard tension strings for example. Awesome sound. Revives the uke. IMO!
My thought as well. How much of the sound is simply a difference in the type of strings he used?
I completely agree. Strings are icing on the cake for stringed instruments.
I'm not sure a 25x's greater price is warranted, but they both sound good. Of course, the more expensive seems have greater depth, although in the second demo with the finger picking, I really preferred the Kala as it seemed to have more life to it. I assume the life expectancy would be longer on the more expensive one. Now, I'll listen to YOUR opinion. I didn't want to be influenced by what you had to say. :)
These two sound one is brighter than the other，that is the difference。
It might be hard to get a true visceral feel and sound listening to these in a video, but the comparison definitely comes through. Definitely agree on another comment about the “more complex tonal spectrum” of the Kanilea.
I'm just now looking into purchasing a Ukulele and a bit of advice someone gave me is, if you have the money, purchase a higher end, really nice one, that is like "calling out to you" when it's in the corner not being used, and is so nice you can't just let it sit there. Craftsmanship, beauty, material, long term value, etc all have their own place in the world and depend on each person's own values, wants, and needs. The good news I like about this video is don't let the value stop you from getting started, if that happens to be what is holding you back.
Hi ! We completely agree. The idea is to get started and follow that calling! The rest will follow when the time is right. Thanks so much for your comment, we hope you enjoyed our video as well :D
I have the Kala baritone. Its a fun ukulele to plunk on. Im happy with it. Ive heard the Kanile'a. Its warm tones an rich sound is amazing an wonderful to hear. I may get one some day. Until than~ Ill jus Kala on. Aloha 🤙😎
Been playing over 40 years and I prefer the Kala !
I enjoyed your presentation. The Kanilea is beautiful. The Kala is plain. I will stick to the no name bari I bought in the 1960s for about $35. It has it makes sweet music to my ears. Thanks, NY Dave
I listened, eyes closed and instantly heard the switches. To my ears it's especially obvious in the higher notes, which sound a little tinny on the Kala. I'm not sure technically what the terms would be, but the expensive one sounds "integrated." The notes flow into each other differently: more smoothly. Maybe that's the resonance, I'm not sure.
I´m actually liking more the Kala MK B :o I´m so tempted to buy one of these
Is it strange that I prefer the cheaper one?? It has such an warmer, louder, and richer sound to me. I guess the price boils down to materials, build quality, and longevity
I didn't hear hear a $2400 difference haha. The kala seemed a bit more "twangy" though.
I bought my TK1 on deep sale, about $275, and I also have a few old Martins-a 50s sop, and a sort of concert from the 20s with an unbranded headstock but a Martin stamp inside the body. There’s a projection and depth in Martins that I think approaches handmade instruments and at a lower cost.
Every ukulele has its “ own voice “ , even if they are the same make there is always a slight variation, its part of the build process,fluctuations in build materials and yes the quality of build materials the kala has a slight deeper tone compared to the $2500 dollar ukulele but something you didn’t show us is the depth of the sound box a wider box will give a deeper tone are they both exactly the same the more expensive one has more definition and sounds more clear and bright to me but I think for $2400 bucks I could get use to the kala real quick , my LAUREN baritone came from goodwill for $20 bucks and has a soft easy mellow tone with great sustain , my theory is if it sounds good play it ! “ How deep are your pockets “ 🤔
I learned on a basic Kala baritone (laminated mahogany). It sounds better than any $100 instrument has a right to sound, but sounds like a cardboard box next to my Kala cedar/acacia baritone, which is not much more expensive ($330). I suspect that sound improvements at higher price points may be diminishing returns.
The Kanile'a has a brighter tone.....I can definitly tell that the Kanile'a is a higher quality instrument....I would love to have the Kanile'a!
Interesting comparison. So my question is do both use the same strings? Because if not they need the same strings. Give the $100 model the $2500 dollar models strings. Or vIsa versa.
But personally I prefer the satin mat finish over a gloss. Also feel wise is primarily mental. Yes if your holding a $2500 dollar instrument and know its cost it most definetly will feel very different and will be apprecIated more...mentally. No way to escape that...if you know the price. If both were mat satin finish or both a high gloss finish it would be difficult to choose if you didn't know.
Personally I like taking a low dollar instrument, adjusting it, experimenting with string choices and finding the beauty and sweet spot in a very low dollar instrument. Playing it well and making it sing.
Plus I can take the low dollar instrument anywhere at anytime feeling very comfortable with it.
The music and the actual playing to me with the right string choice far outweighs an expensive instrument.
To my ear there's not that much difference in the sound. The Kanile'A is sharper and has more definition, but than it should. If I could play better than I do I might buy the Kanile'A. Good luck with that. :)
Is there a difference? . . . . Yes. When I started playing ukulele, I had a couple of “better” Kala tenors, and a low-end concert (along with a KoAloha koa tenor). No contest. I soon sold the Kalas, as I found them to sound kind of “thick,” with not much richness of tone, resonance, or sustain.
I have since owned over 30 ukuleles, mostly all “Hawaiian Ks” or high end custom Ohanas. There is definitely a difference. (Yes, I have played a number of nice Kalas - and it seems to be best with baritones. But overall, the Kanile’a will just be much better all of the time).
Now, one does have to consider that the Kanile’a is 20x the cost of the Kala. While I am not the biggest fan of Kalas overall, I have always liked the Kala KA-B. It is a great value for the price, and it has a richer tone than Kalas in the concert and tenor sizes.
If you’re “serious,” get the Kanile’a. But, if you’re just looking for a fun and pretty nice sounding baritone, for a “why not” cost, the KA-B is a nice choice.
The Kanile'a is certainly better sounding. Is it an additional $2400 better? I don't think so. I own the Kala and it's pretty darn decent for the price.
Listening on my computer outboard speakers it is hard to decide..$2500.00 difference it ? Pride of ownership?
The Kanile has more clarity on the top. Richness in the mids, sweet overtones. The Kala model in the demo has a decent sound for the money. Great to start out or on a budget. It has some articulation. But lacks clarity in comparison. Not much in overtones. If I had the money, I’d definitely go with a higher end Kala or the Kanile.
The Kala sounds very good🤔👍
Just like hammered dulcimers, the solid wood construction has a warmer and richer sound over the laminate construction.
Great video... But a few things to note... The baritone ukulele that you are playing in the video are both fine instruments. As a songwriter/composer as well as a self-administered writer/publisher under BMI, Inc and The MLC (respectively) I find that if you want a high end acoustic instrument, that will increase in value over the years to pass down in your family, or simply to add to your collection that you have, absolutely do save up and spend for the higher priced instruments like the Kanilea. But where the reality truly is, you do not have to spend a lot of money for a ukulele (regardless of body size) that plays and sounds great. The most important thing, is proper basic setup of the instrument and then care afterwards. Right now I'm in the middle of writing and recording many instrumental tracks using soprano and baritone ukuleles that cost way less (from $30 to $70) an while not heirloom instruments they still play and sound great and I'm able to secure direct payouts and other royalties from the commercially licensed music that I've been writing and recording for over 35+ years now. Have a great day... Stay safe out there.
Thanks for the comment
@@Ukelikethepros You are Welcome.. I think you have really great quality content on your channel.
For a beginner or above medium advanced player a 2,500,00 dollars Uke is simply not necessary and appears to be overkill. Sure, if money is no issue, all options are out and why not going for the best money can buy or the most prestigious avaiable on the market. That said, the purchase and use of a 80 to 100-plus bucks ukulele makes sense for most players, beginners and advanced, even top-notch instrumentalists, because it is still a lot of fun to play, it sounds pretty good, it doesn't feel cheap, and it can be taken everywhere outdoors in most all climates and whether conditions ( surely not during the arctic storm or the rainforest downpour ) without getting too nervous about it.
This is like a magic trick. When people say they hear a difference you start hearing it where there may not be. At best, the distinction is minute. You're asking us to buy into the illusion. But through your speakers and mine if there was a difference it's been levelled by audio technology.
The sound difference between laminate and solid wood is usually pretty drastic, and no surprises here. The Kala sounds boxy and boomy with weak sustain. The boxiness covers up many of the individual notes while strumming. The Kanile'a sounds richer and more balanced with more sustain. Each individual note rings true and clear.
Maybe the same type of strings should have been used in the comparision?
I love the Kala sound but I love the look of the Kanalia (spelling)?
Without a doubt the Kanile’a is the one I want to own. That being said I currently play a $100 Baritone with Pepe Romero Strings that sounds absolutely amazing! Just like clothes making the man, strings make the ukulele.
The Kanile’a does sounds better! Does it sound $2400 better? Not really. So what are you buying with your $2400? You’re buying it’s heritage as well as it’s quality and if I am ever lucky enough to own one it is what I would refer to as, “A keeper!”
I own the KAB from Kala. I feel better about it now..... Kanile'A is obviously way better, but I can live with my Kala better now. Wish I could hold the Kanile'A......
Thanks for all the free stuff.
I like both!
The Kala has more mid bass, in every other aspect both ukes sound equally, at least that’s what I’ve heard here. Even having spare $2500 I would buy this Kala for sure.
Kala for me at 100.00 sound good in studio with EQ CHORUS AND REVERB
Kala is great!
It sounds like the kala has a brighter tone, but the other has more natural reverb.
I’m wondering if my baritone Oscar Shm..is laminate now?😡
I’m looking at the Martin tenor just cause of their guitars, it’s $500 🧐 nobody talks about them, are they good?
Yes, I love my TK1. Lovely strong, ringing tones. V easy to play.
I think with a Martin you're paying $100 for the name. I'm tempted also, but look what else you can get for $500, or a little more. I'd rather have a uke that no one ever heard of but was at least as well made, but more 'exclusive'. For example, every western boot wearer knows Lucchese. In reality, there are FAR better boots for a similar price, but people pay for that name. Kindof like Bose. Maybe that's a better example ;-) BTW, love my Cordoba, want a koa.
@@vkaycoff I ordered one from Sweetwater they are on back order. I hope it's back in stock this month
@@bobchance2005 I can dig it, what I was looking for was the "comfort cut" Oscar Sh.When I couldn't find it / It was a impulse purchase.. Hopefully my grand kids will play this Martin.
I felt the cheaper one was best particularly the E string
What do you think about the ukuleles with a sound hole in the top side? Does it enhance the tone much? If so, who sells them?
the laminate mahogany one sounds kinda muffly to me... a lot going on. but it's still nice, my first uke was a laminate mahogany (Ohana, same price range) and I do still like its mellowness.
the Kanile'a is clearer, and the sustain is lovely. and the instrument is absolutely stunning lets face it!
That's like comparing fiat and Maserati. Fiat is ok. You can move comfortable, looks not too bad. But it's not even close to Maserati.
If you are on the budget Kala will be more than enough. If it's not a problem to pay $2500 you will get a piece of art.
To be honest, not much difference in sound to me. I’m sure there was a big difference in feel. Thanks for the comparison.
think the kanilea has metal top g not nylon so sounds different i mean both of them should wear same string to hear it personally i felt the difference in chords balance but sound seems very similar
Are there any lower cost ukuleles (baritone and otherwise) that AREN'T made in China?
Soundwise there certainly wasn’t a $2400 difference in quality. There were times that I could barely tell the difference. If you’re into appearances the Kanile was much prettier. Sound and feel is more important to me.
There is extra 'rattle' from the sound box in the cheaper uke. The layers are resonating to give that bright noise. Better compression and better glue making the laminant might tune a cheaper one better. That and better work on the seams making the box?
For strumming the cheap ukulele. It seems to soften the tone. The expensive ukulele was very snappy. Great for lead and finger picking but seemed to be to much for strumming.
Hey Jeremy, great points. It's always interesting to hear everyones perspectives on these. Thanks for watching! :D
Less than a year has passed and now the $100 guitar is $150 on their website. :( I can't tell the difference. I'm sure others can, but I don't have the experience.
While you were playing, I closed my eyes and tried to determine which uke was being played. Initially, I couldn't tell the difference, but by the third comparison, I could distinguish the richer tone of the expensive uke. Therefore, my conclusion of the comparative value is: it depends. I think if you are a professional musician, you probably want a more expensive baritone. But, if you play alone and just for yourself, the cheaper uke is just fine. I play guitar and one characteristic of cheap guitars is they are terrible to play. The necks are too round, the frets are too sharp and uncomfortable and the strings are too high. Just terrible. However, the $100 dollar baritone seemed to work just fine and you weren't struggling to make it sound good. So a beginner isn't at a total disadvantage by using the cheaper model. But, to spend $2,500+ for the Master level uke seems rather extreme and a total ego-driven decision which is fine if you have the discretionary funds to pay for the beauty. The only reason to move up the scale in price is if you move up the scale in playability and sound. If not, its just a personal choice. Thanks for sharing this info.
Which sounds better 2500 on lessons or 2500 0n an instrument?
Maybe the comparison would be a little better if there were the same strings on both instruments? The strings make a big difference in sound and the Aquilas that are always on the Kalas just sound terrible!
Kala for sure.
I'm happy I got a £100 ukulele
I didn’t hear a $2400 difference.
It may not sound 2400$ better for the average but it might feel better..and subtle nuances..
I'd rather have that raw bass sound from the less expensive uku for finger picking blues.
Let's see
The Kanilea does sound a little nicer, but not 25 times nicer :-)
Kanilea sounded way better even through my ipad speakers.
The sound of the 2500 dollar one is more precise... Very precise with the sound
And the Kala one has more hazy sound and loud
There is a little difference. But not $2000 worth of difference! The strings likely make more of a difference than the wood.
Kala is sound like a bass.
Kanile'a is sound like an acoustic guitar. I like kanele'a.
Well if you spent 2500 dollars and you don't know if there's a difference or not, you need your head examined (joking).
I can hear a difference obviously but the Kala sounds fine for the ordinary punter who isn't a gourmet.
I don't think that this is a really valid comparison as long as the Kala has the cheap strings it came with and the Kanile'a has expensive strings
Would I pay $2400 extra for the Koa & manufacturing site... based on the obvious tonal differences...no.
I like your energy and content, but the sound quality of the video is terrible, you need to mic the ukes with something better, like condenser mic pointed to the 12th fret. Sounds like it was recorded with a cheap camera mic with a crazy noise reduction effect.
This certainly doesn't seem like a very fair "same as" ukulele comparison! Of course solid wood is going to sound better than laminate and of course the strings are going to make a difference too. They don't have the same strings! I don't know about you but I don't know a single person who could afford a $2500 ukulele but they certainly could come up with $100+...I just don't think this comparison is anywhere near fair...or "the same"! I guess I'm not impressed and feel like Kala got the short end...!
The strings are different
2.5k for a ukelele? thats getting silly. I wouldnt pay that, would buy a guitar. Could buy a vintage martin guitar for that price. it would sound a lot better than that 2.5k ukulele.
$2.5 for a uke isn’t that much. I sell ukes in the $6 range and some even over $10k. There is a price point for everyone
Certainly not a $2,400 difference.
I think no significant difference for beginner ear.
for 2500 the kanilea is overpriced without a great increase in sound quality. I own kanilea's and kamaka's and kala's
Not a huge difference. The more expensive one does sound better but not by much.
I actually prefer the Kala its sound brighter where as the Kanilea sounds a little semi muted its saving grace is its deeper bass if your going to play blues but generally the Kala has a brighter cleaner sound So makes it in my opinion more universal regarding playing technique's and styles or perhaps it my old ears. I suppose its a bit like a martin guitar and a regular acoustic guitar i personally hate the sound of martin guitars there to flat and and with very little treble. yet they have a massive price tag. but obviously people love them because the amount of people who play them. but most of my friends like me hate them. Could it be the name or perhaps the price tag giving a false sense of achievement when finally owning one? could be??
Not $2400 dollar difference.
Kala sings sweeter ,the other has a thump in the bass
Sound alone, indeed, functionalities alone are never where extra money goes - I'll pay more to support hand-makers and to not support slave labor, but I'd still want more difference in sound than that - but the feel does mean a lot.
0:12 If you are going to spend that much money, there better be, otherwise why bother paying more - just get the cheaper instrument! 😉
Almost indistinguishable. You have to accentuate the difference otherwise you wouldn't sell any high end but let's be honest - it's a scam. They're indistinguishable
Starts 4:47
Answer this question in 10 years and see which is better.
People with bad ears can save a lot of money on ukuleles.