You want to start playing the ukulele but are overwhelmed by all the choices out there.Let’s make it easy for you to pick the right ukulele so you can start playing right away!
There are 4 main sizes to choose from when deciding to play the ukulele:
Soprano, Concert, Tenor and Baritone.
Soprano: These are the smallest and the most popular of all the Ukes. When most people think Ukulele – this is the one they are thinking about. They are usually the least expensive way to get started playing and they are a perfect size for kids as well. These are usually around 21 inches and have 12-15 frets.
Concert:The next size up from the Soprano is the Concert. Most adults with medium to large hands appreciate the extra room on the fret-board of a Concert sized Uke. These also tend to have a bit of a fuller sound due to the larger body. They are usually around 23 inches and range from 15-20 frets.
Tenor:The next jump up in size is the Tenor Uke. With an even larger body, the tenor Uke has a warm and full sound. Not quite as “jangly” as a Soprano or Concert size, the Tenor has its own unique tone. These are usually around 26 inches and have 15 or more frets.
Baritone:The largest of the four most common sized Ukes is the Baritone. The Baritone has its own sound and is normally tuned differently than the other 3. It is tuned to what is known as DGBE [the notes of the strings when played open]. This is also the same tuning as the highest 4 strings on a guitar which makes it really easy for a guitar player to switch over and pick up Baritone Uke. It is known for its deep and soulful sound. They usually are 30 inches and have 19 or more frets.
When learning any instrument it is essential that it’s tuned correctly (so your chords and notes sound in tune with other players or any pre-recorded song).The Soprano, Concert and Tenor Ukes are tuned the same way: GCEA.These are the ‘tones’ of the open strings.
The Baritone Uke is tuned differently: it is tuned DGBE (similar to the top 4 strings of a guitar).
Do not try to tune a Soprano, Concert or Tenor Uke to a Baritone tuning.The tension on any of these models would be incorrect and uncomfortable to play.
Using a clip-on tuner is a great way to quickly and accurately tune any Ukulele you may purchase.
As you can see there is a Uke for everyone. Most people start with one and add different sizes to their collection as they continue their Uke journey.
If you are still not sure which one to get - just give us a call at 800-544-7625 and we will help find you a perfect fit!