17 Best Tenor Ukuleles (2024) That Sound Really Good

Learning a musical instrument can be daunting for even the most seasoned players.

Ukuleles, in particular, have seen a surge in popularity over the past decade, and with so many manufacturers and products out there, it can take time to realize which one you should go with.

As ukulele players, we wanted our fellow musicians to make an educated decision when selecting their instrument of choice – that’s why we put together this list of the 17 best tenor ukuleles for all levels!

Our guide will provide information on materials used, sound quality, cost range, and playability and showcase some options, from beginner-friendly instruments to more advanced models.

We hope these carefully selected options will allow you to find the right instrument that fits your needs and skill level!

The 17 Best Tenor Ukuleles

Fender Montecito Tenor Ukulele

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Fender, known for its high-quality electric, bass, and acoustic guitars, also offers a small line of exceptional ukuleles.

One of its newest releases, the Montecito Tenor, promises to be premium, even in the sub-$300 price range.

It is inspired by the California home of many celebrities, according to Fender.

The Montecito features the iconic Telecaster headstock shape, a fast and comfortable glossy nato neck, and a rosewood fretboard with 19 frets.

The body is made from koa, a traditional Hawaiian wood, with a solid koa top, laminate back and sides, and an acrylic abalone rosette and body binding for a touch of elegance.

It is well-crafted and well-set up, considering its price range.

Although Montecito has no electronics, its hardware contributes to its appeal. The 4-in-line set of sealed nickel die-cast tuners on the Tele headstock is reliable for tuning stability.

The ukulele is fitted with a ‘no-tie’ snorkeling bridge for easy string changes and a bone nut and saddle.

The all-koa construction of the Montecito gives it a bright and balanced tone with good depth.

Although it may not have the volume of other tenor-sized models, it is still more prominent in projection than smaller ukuleles, and it should get warmer and louder with age as the solid wood opens.

• Pros:
  • Sounds great.
  • High quality components.
  • Beautiful appearance.

• Cons:
  • Broken strings and bridge issues.
  • Inconsistent color compared to product images.
  • No support from customer service.

Cordoba 20TM-CE Tenor Ukulele

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If you’re looking for a great-sounding ukulele that looks stylish and affordable, then the Cordoba 20TM-CE tenor uke is a great option.

Its solid mahogany top and laminated mahogany back and sides make it a beautiful instrument with an elegant design.

The herringbone rosette adds another layer of sophistication to the look. Plus, it features a soft cutaway on the treble side to allow easy access to higher frets.

The neck is also made of solid mahogany and is joined at the 14th fret, featuring 18 frets and pearloid dot inlays on a rosewood fretboard.

Playing it is comfortable and enjoyable due to the high-quality craftsmanship from Cordoba, even at this low price range.

For hardware, there’s a piezo pickup with Cordoba UK 2000q preamp for easy amplification. There are master volume control knobs and two-band EQ (bass and treble).

There are silver open-geared tuners at one end while the other has a rosewood bridge with composite saddle/nut. The Aquila Nylgut strings give off clear notes with excellent intonation; however, some may find that these tuners need to be tighter than others in this price range.

You can still enjoy warm tones when not amplified, as this ukulele projects well for its size.

Plugging it into an amp gives you an even bigger sound without distortion or feedback issues.

Either way, this instrument looks good while giving out great sounds – something we’d expect from one of the leading names in guitars!

• Pros:
  • Beautiful instrument.
  • Has a nice, soft, mellow sound.

• Cons:
  • Does not come with a case.
  • Box was poorly packaged.
  • Some people has experience buzz issue.

Kala KA-STG Tenor Ukulele

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The Kala KA-STG Ka Koa Tenor Gloss Ukulele is a magnificent and unique musical instrument crafted by the renowned ukulele maker, Kala.

Made with hand-selected solid koa from Hawaii, this multi-colored ukulele boasts an authentic charm.

The maple-trimmed white and black accents provide a premium touch, while the laser-etched mother-of-pearl inlay adds to its luxurious aesthetic.

The cutaway gloss finish further elevates its beauty. The deep and full sound produced by this tenor ukulele provides players with the signature twangy notes characteristic of the instrument.

Despite its premium feel and sound, this ukulele offers exceptional value for money, making it an excellent choice for those looking to experience authentic Hawaiian sound without breaking their budget.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, owning this piece of craftsmanship is an opportunity to be noticed.

• Pros:
  • Nice and sturdy.
  • Great bracing with no bend or flex to it.
  • Projects really well.

• Cons:
  • Gloss finish attracts fingerprints.
  • Very neck heavy, not a balanced instrument.

Caramel 26-inch CT103 Tenor Ukulele

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A fan of steel-string acoustic guitars or just an avid admirer of Hawaiian music?

Either way, you must check out Caramel’s 26-inch CT103 tenor ukuleles. Constructed with a solid quilted Zebra Wood body and Indian rosewood head plate, this larger-than-usual tenor uke produces a rich, full sound.

The signature touch is supplied by great Israel “Iz” Kamakawiwo’ole himself or his wife, Marlene Kamakawiwo’ole.

The ukes are built as an ode to their legendary namesake, who has made waves in the Hawaiian music circuit.

Their construction features genuine zebra wood blocks on the entire body, an east Indian rosewood head plate, and a dovetail neck joint for good measure.

You will no doubt delight in its excellent mid-range presence and sustained quality as it celebrates Iz’s legacy with utmost finesse.

Satin finish hardware makes it an all-premium package that won’t break your bank, either!

• Pros:
  • Great sound quality.
  • Attractive design and color options.
  • Good for music producers adding to their collection.

• Cons:
  • Very poor quality bag.
  • Not the best quality for the price.

Kala KA-T Tenor Ukulele

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The Kala KA-T tenor ukulele delivers excellent sound at an unbeatable price.

This ukulele features a laminated mahogany body and rosewood fingerboard and bridge so it can stand up to things like humidity and temperature changes, making it a reliable instrument to have with you as you explore the world around you.

In addition, it comes with die-cast chrome tuners to maintain stability and tension, perfect for ensuring your notes are always precise.

What makes this tenor uke even better is the bundle package that it comes in.

You’ll get the gig bag, clip-on tuner, polishing cloth, and of course, the Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD that will help any beginner get started on their musical journey.

This combination of accessories creates an inexpensive starter kit that any beginning player can appreciate.

The Kala KA-T is full of warm and punchy tones, perfect for playing covers or writing your songs.

With its affordable price point, lightweight frame, and quality sound, this ukulele has everything a new player needs to start playing immediately.

• Pros:
  • Good overall quality ukulele.
  • Sounds better than most tenor ukuleles.
  • Action is equal to or better than other ukuleles.

• Cons:
  • Did not really exceed expectations.

Martin T1K Tenor Ukulele

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The Martin T1K is a top-of-the-line tenor ukulele made with the finest Hawaiian Koa wood.

With a history dating back to 1916, Martin is one of the most respected ukulele makers in the industry.

The T1K boasts a full-sized Koa body with a high-quality satin finish and an applied dovetail neck joint for added durability.

This ukulele also features nickel open-gear tuners, providing excellent tension and ensuring that the instrument stays in tune.

The T1K also has a gig bag for easy portability and extra protection. With its tonal integrity and ease of playability, this ukulele is unmatched.

The Martin T1K is a top-quality solid koa wood product of craftsmanship and is considered one of the best tenor ukuleles available today.

The hand-rubbed satin lacquer finish, Sipo fretboard and bridge, and full tenor ukulele sound all contribute to its premium feel.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, the Martin T1K is a must-have for anyone looking for a high-quality, beautiful instrument.

• Pros:
  • Built good and not overly priced.
  • Bright instrument with a great playability.
  • Intonation is very good.

• Cons:
  • Bridge seems a bit fragile.

Kala KA-SSTU-TE Travel Tenor Ukulele

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The Kala KA-SSTU-TE tenor ukulele has been designed specifically for travel, offering tenor players a chance to take their playing on the go.

With a mid-range price of around $300, it’s an excellent option for players looking for a high-quality travel instrument.

The front of the ukulele is traditional in appearance, with a total length of just under 26 inches and a solid spruce top.

However, the sides are just 1.8 inches deep, making the body incredibly light and portable.

The back and sides are made from laminated mahogany, and the slim mahogany neck features a rosewood or walnut fretboard with 18 silver-nickel frets.

The KA-SSTU-TE is an electro-acoustic ukulele, so it comes equipped with B-B, advanced Emfit film pickup, and a 1.2T active preamp with simple volume and tone controls.

The ukulele also features sealed tuning machines with black keys, Aquila Super Nylgut strings, and a nut and saddle made from GraphTech’s NuBone material.

It comes with its own custom Kala-branded padded gig bag, making it easy to transport.

Despite its slim body, the KA-SSTU-TE projects well and has a bright, well-balanced sound, thanks to its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides. The slightly arched back also helps to enhance projection.

If you’re not satisfied with the acoustic projection, the innovative preamp and pickup make it easy to amplify, making the KA-SSTU-TE a great performance-worthy instrument.

Overall, the Kala KA-SSTU-TE tenor ukulele is an excellent option for players looking for a high-quality travel instrument that offers great playability and sound.

• Pros:
  • Has a great sound.
  • Comes with high quality components.

• Cons:
  • Bridge may be weak or crack easily.

Makala Tenor Mahogany Ukulele by Kala

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The Makala Tenor ukulele is a perfect pick for both beginners and professionals. It has an easy-to-use rosewood fretboard and bridge, which produces a mellow sound quality.

At an affordable price, this ukulele offers a smooth mahogany texture that comes in seven different colors and designs – making it great for kids or teenagers.

The nylon strings give the instrument a softer feel than regular strings but are not as durable when traveling in different climates.

Despite this, the Makala Tenor is still an excellent value investment for those wanting to learn how to play. It’s designed with features that make it comfortable and beginner-friendly to learn.

Available in seven colors and design variations for your taste, it includes a matte finish mahogany wood body combined with a rosewood fretboard for extra comfort and ease of playing.

With such features compressed into one instrument, you can quickly become a pro within no time!

• Pros:
  • Beautiful dark wood and satin finish.
  • Brass colored frets that are not sharp.
  • Tunes up easily and holds tune well.

• Cons:
  • Instrument is made in China.
  • Color may not match the picture or description.

Oscar Schmidt OU2T-A-U Tenor Ukulele

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The Oscar Schmidt OU2T-A-U is a top-notch tenor ukulele that stands out among the best in its category.

This ukulele is a collaboration between Oscar Schmidt and renowned luthier Pepe Romero Jr. and has been designed to meet the needs of players with bigger hands.

The body of this ukulele is made from solid mahogany and has a wider fingerboard for ease of playing. In addition, the built-in neck joint makes the ukulele more stable and lightweight, and the Aquila Nylgut strings offer excellent sound quality.

The Oscar Schmidt OU2T-A-U uses the “Spanish Heel” design, which gives the instrument a distinctive look and feel.

It also features an abalone-style rosette fingerboard and a hand-rubbed PU finish, which gives it a classic look that is sure to impress.

To protect the ukulele during transportation, it comes with a polyfoam case.

• Pros:
  • Relatively easy to play.
  • Has a good sound quality.

• Cons:
  • May not keep tune well.
  • Needs frequent adjustments.

Cordoba 15TM Tenor Ukulele

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The Cordoba 15TM Tenor Ukulele is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable yet high-quality instrument.

Despite its low cost, the Cordoba 15TM delivers a sound projection that rivals that of much more expensive professional models.

The use of mahogany on the back, sides, and top of the instrument contributes to its warm, well-balanced tone.

In addition, the 15TM is easy to play and has a comfortable feel, making it ideal for those just starting their ukulele journey.

The Ukulele’s traditional design and classic mahogany finish are eye-catching and provide a timeless look that will last for years.

Additionally, Cordoba is a well-known brand in the ukulele market, known for producing ukuleles at a variety of price points and with different levels of quality.

The Cordoba 15TM is a solid instrument with a sleek design in terms of build quality. The mahogany wood provides a natural look and feels, while the hand-rubbed PU finish gives the Ukulele a smooth and comfortable surface to hold.

In addition, using Aquila Nylgut strings ensures that this Ukulele will remain in tune and produce a clear sound for years to come.

• Pros:
  • Pleasant to play.
  • Great craftsmanship.
  • Nice bright tone and beautiful look.

• Cons:
  • String action is very high.

Lohanu (LU-T) Bundle Kit

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When first starting on an instrument, one of the most beneficial investments for a beginner is a starter package.

The Lohanu Bundle Kit is an outstanding choice and provides everything needed to start playing immediately.

The ukulele is composed of laminate sapele and mahogany for the body, sides, and neck with cream binding, making it a beautifully attractive instrument. On top of this, the 18-fret rosewood fretboard offers different tones.

The setup also comes with chrome-plated strap buttons and die-cast tuning machines so you can start immediately.

Not only does it come with all essential hardware, but it also includes extras to make sure you are set up for success.

An assortment of picks, strings, paracord hangers, straps, and gig bags is part of the package.

Plus, there’s access to free video lessons and an unconditional lifetime warranty on everything included in the kit – fantastic value!

When playing the ukulele, you will be pleased with its tone. It produces well-defined notes without any dead spots along the neck and full and rich chords.

This arched-back design – usually only found in more expensive models – increases sustain and clarity of sound

Even with more petite soprano or concert sizes, you may still experience some volume loss due to the nature of those sizes, but the overall sound quality is just excellent.

So whether it’s soprano, concert, or tenor size that you’re after when starting your journey on an instrument, the Lohanu Bundle Kit certainly ticks off all boxes, making it an excellent bundle option for beginners!

• Pros:
  • Fair quality product at an affordable price.
  • Includes an electronic tuner to help start out right.

• Cons:
  • Difficult to keep the G string in tune.

Alvarez RU26T Tenor Ukulele

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The Alvarez Guitars Regent Series offers a range of acoustic guitars, classical guitars, and ukuleles that deliver advanced quality for a great price.

Today we look at the RU26T tenor ukulele, one of the best ukuleles you can get for under $100.

The RU26T is perfect for players with larger hands as it has a slightly longer length of 26” than other models and 18 frets on its rosewood fretboard – 14 in the clear. The mahogany neck is comfortable and comes with a satin finish.

The body crafted from solid spruce on the top and mahogany back and sides give this ukulele an elegant high-end look.

The pearloid soundhole rosette and black ABS binding around the top and back add to its appeal.

Hardware-wise, it comes with chrome-sealed tuning machines, a rosewood bridge with a real bone saddle and nut fitted, and Aquila Nylgut strings that make this budget-friendly piece feel more luxurious.

You notice how good it sounds when you begin playing the RU26T. It offers warmth thanks to its mahogany body but also delivers fullness and balance across registers, due to its fan-braced spruce top resulting in better projection like pricier models.

This entry-level uke has an excellent tone!

• Pros:
  • Great sounding ukulele.
  • Stays in tune well.

• Cons:
  • None.

Kala Koa Tenor Gloss (KA-KTG)

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The Kala KA-KTG Tenor Hawaiian Ukulele is the perfect pick for any ukulele enthusiast looking to take their playing to the next level.

Its body is crafted from beautiful Hawaiian koa, giving it an incredible mid-range sound that expands to upper mid-range in tenor features. It also has a glossy finish making it look as good as it sounds!

The mahogany neck helps to reduce any noises, or buzzing koa can sometimes create.

Plus, the Pau Ferro fingerboard ensures a smooth, comfortable playing experience – like playing with an old friend!

It is also amplified with GraphTech NuBone nut and saddle, so chords resonate without echoes or buzzes.

For those who appreciate authenticity, you’ll be glad to know that this uke faithfully delivers the classic tone of a traditional Hawaiian ukulele. Not only is it great looking but carriable too! However, its string action may be a bit high for some players.

Ultimately, The Kala KA-KTG Tenor Hawaiian Ukulele offers a unique blend of mahogany and koa tones that amaze even the most experienced musicians.

Its beauty, balance, and comfort make for an unforgettable musical experience – perfect for anyone wanting to go beyond their limits!

• Pros:
  • The ukulele has a beautiful tone.
  • It projects nicely and has good sustain.

• Cons:
  • The frets are very rough at the sides.
  • Its action can be far too high for some people.

Oscar Schmidt OU28TE Tenor Ukulele

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The OU28TE 8-String Ukulele is an excellent instrument for those looking to get into folk and bluegrass music or for experienced players who want something new.

Its mahogany body, NuBone saddle, and Aquila strings give it a unique sound.

However, its double-course strings set it apart from other ukuleles. This feature allows you to play two octaves with the exact string while picking or pulling a single one, creating a fuller and warmer sound.

Though the OU28TE may be more challenging for newcomers compared to four-string ukuleles due to its tuning difficulty, plenty of benefits make it worth learning.

The increased number of strings means more space on the fretboard for fingering techniques and customizable playing styles while still being affordable compared to other eight-string models.

Overall, the OU28TE 8-String Ukulele is an excellent choice for those willing to put in some extra effort mastering this unique instrument.

With its powerful tone, enjoyable playability, and excellent price point, it’s hard not to admire this instrument.

• Pros:
  • Produces a beautiful sound.
  • High-quality craftsmanship.
  • Reasonable price.

• Cons:
  • Tuners on top are difficult to turn.
  • Difficult to keep in tune, especially with 8 strings.

Luna Tattoo Tenor Ukulele

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Luna has established a well-respected name in the ukulele industry for their exceptional quality instruments and innovative designs.

The Tattoo Tenor ukulele is no exception to this reputation. However, this unique instrument stands out with its laser-etched traditional Hawaiian tattoo design and its beautiful sun-kissed tones that keep players coming back for more.

The Tattoo Tenor’s most prominent feature is the large, laser-etched tattoo design on the mahogany top, created by Luna’s “artist in residence,” Alex Morgan.

The design incorporates classic Hawaiian tattoo elements like waves, leaves, and sharks’ teeth.

The mahogany top is matched by the mahogany back, sides, and neck for a cohesive and classic look.

The satin finish highlights the design and preserves the natural beauty of the wood.

The 19-fret fingerboard is made of walnut and features shark tooth inlays, adding to the Hawaiian vibe of the instrument.

In addition, the 19″ tenor scale and 1⅜” nut width offer more space than soprano or concert ukuleles, making it ideal for more prominent players who want classic ukulele tones without feeling cramped.

In terms of hardware, the Tattoo Tenor offers solid components. The bridge and fretboard are walnuts, while the headstock features a graphite nut and chrome pearloid open-gear tuners.

Intonation and action are generally good, and the Aquila Super NylGut strings are long lasting and provide a great tone while being gentle on the fingers.

However, tuning stability could be better, as the tuners have too much play, and the strings tend to fall out of tune quickly.

In addition, some users have reported stripped tuners straight out of the box, so upgrading to a new set may be necessary if problems persist after the initial break-in period.

When it comes to sound, the Tattoo Tenor offers incredibly melodic tones that are ready to play straight out of the box.

The high, chiming trebles and clear, distinct mids are what you would expect from a ukulele, while the lower end of the register is focused and smooth, albeit not as deep and booming as some may desire.

In addition, the tenor size offers more depth and body to the sound compared to more petite soprano or concert ukuleles, while the high end is clear, smooth, and glassy rather than thin or piercing.

The Tattoo Tenor also offers excellent sustain, with notes retaining their tone and character for much longer than many other models in this price range.

The superb articulation and sustain make this model ideal for fast finger picking and simple strumming, making it a perfect choice for both beginner and advanced players.

• Pros:
  • Great tenor ukulele for a great price.
  • The neck is comfortable and the intonation is spot-on.
  • Construction was clean, no glue spots anywhere.

• Cons:
  • The tuners are not very good.
  • May need to replace the strings for better stability.

Kala KA-8 Tenor Ukulele

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The OU28TE 8-String Ukulele is an excellent instrument for those looking to get into folk and bluegrass music or for experienced players who want something new.

Its mahogany body, NuBone saddle, and Aquila strings give it a unique sound.

However, its double-course strings set it apart from other ukuleles.

This feature allows you to play two octaves with the exact string while picking or pulling a single one, creating a fuller and warmer sound.

Though the OU28TE may be more challenging for newcomers compared to four-string ukuleles due to its tuning difficulty, plenty of benefits make it worth learning.

The increased number of strings means more space on the fretboard for fingering techniques and customizable playing styles while still being affordable compared to other eight-string models.

• Pros:
  • Good overall quality.
  • Fun to play and experiment with 8 strings.

• Cons:
  • Not everybody will like playing with 8 strings.

Kala LTP-MH Tenor Ukulele

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Ukulelists can find their perfect instrument in the Kala Tenor Ukulele.

This four-string uke is made of satin mahogany, a durable and long-lasting wood that imparts a warm sound.

But this particular uke doesn’t just have excellent sound quality; it is also an exquisite work of art with a unique floral design inlaid onto its body.

This craftsmanship has gained brand recognition as one of the most sought-after names in the industry today.

And, to match its stellar looks, it features an impressive 4.8 out of 5-star rating based on customer reviews.

That will give any aspiring musician peace of mind when choosing this instrument!

Designed with comfort and playability in mind, the uke has a scale length of 17 inches and comes with premium nylon strings preferred by many experienced players.

In addition, it comes equipped with a Gigbag for added protection and a clip-on tuner for easy tuning.

These features are complemented by its walnut fretboard, ensuring satisfaction for even the pickiest musicians!

This tenor ukulele offers all these benefits at an attractive price and has rightfully earned its place among the top ukes on the market today. The only downside is that it does not come with picks.

Still, this instrument offers excellent value for money considering all its unique pros, such as staying in tune over time, inspired designs by Mandy Harvey’s sister, and so much more!

• Pros:
  • Good overall quality.
  • Relatively easy to tune.
  • Comes with a clip-on tuner.

• Cons:
  • Lightweight bag.
  • May lack some resonance.

What is a tenor ukulele and how is it different from other ukuleles?

A tenor ukulele is a type of stringed musical instrument that is similar in appearance to a small guitar.

It is part of the ukulele family, including soprano, concert, and baritone ukuleles.

The tenor ukulele is typically more significant than a soprano ukulele and has a longer scale length, which results in a deeper, warmer tone and increased projection.

The tenor ukulele usually has 17 to 19 frets and is typically tuned to the same pitch as a soprano ukulele (GCEA).

The larger body size of the tenor ukulele provides more room for the vibrating strings, which results in a more complex tonal range.

The longer scale length of the tenor ukulele also results in more balanced string tension, making it easier for players to achieve a clear, ringing tone.

In comparison, the soprano ukulele is the smallest size of the ukulele, with a scale length of around 13 inches. It is characterized by its bright, cheerful tone and is often used in Hawaiian music.

The concert ukulele, slightly larger than the soprano, has a scale length of around 15 inches and is often used for strumming and fingerpicking.

Finally, the baritone ukulele, the largest size of the ukulele, has a scale length of about 19 inches and is tuned like a four-stringed guitar (DGBE).

Overall, the tenor ukulele is a versatile and popular choice for players of all skill levels looking for a larger ukulele with a deeper, warmer tone.

In addition, it is suitable for various playing styles, from strumming and fingerpicking to solo performances.

Don’t know which ukulele size is the best for you? In this video you will find the answer:

Which size ukulele is best for you? (Soprano, Concert, Tenor, or Baritone)

What should I look for when buying a tenor ukulele?

When buying a tenor ukulele, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that you get a high-quality instrument that meets your needs and preferences. Some of the key things to keep in mind when shopping for a tenor ukulele include:

Materials: The materials used for the body, neck, and fretboard of the ukulele can significantly impact the instrument’s tone and playability.

Some common materials used in ukulele construction include koa, mahogany, acacia, and wood laminate.

Choosing materials suitable for the type of sound you are looking for and the conditions in which you plan to use the ukulele is essential.

Build quality: A well-built ukulele will have tight joints, a smooth and even finish, and a sturdy, well-attached bridge.

The ukulele should also be braced to ensure it has the right amount of stability and resonance.

Tuners: Good quality tuners are essential for keeping your ukulele in tune. Look for tuners that are smooth, accurate, and durable.

The ukulele should stay in music for a reasonable amount of time, even after being played for a while.

Playability: The ukulele should be easy and comfortable to play, with a smooth neck and well-placed frets.

The action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) should be set correctly to ensure that you can easily play the ukulele.

Sound quality: The ukulele should have a clear, balanced tone and excellent projection. Try to play the ukulele before buying it to make sure that you like how it sounds.

Brand reputation: Consider the reputation of the brand that makes the ukulele.

Some brands have a strong reputation for producing high-quality ukuleles, while others are known for making lower-quality instruments.

Price: The price of a tenor ukulele can vary widely, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Remember, however, that a higher price does not always guarantee better quality.

Considering these factors when shopping for a tenor ukulele, you can be confident that you will find an instrument that meets your needs and provides you with years of musical enjoyment.

What is the best brand of tenor ukulele available right now?

Determining the best brand of tenor ukulele depends on your individual needs and preferences as a player.

Many well-respected brands offer high-quality tenor ukuleles, each with unique features and sound. Some of the most popular and highly regarded brands include:

1. Kala: Kala is a California-based brand well-known for its high-quality ukuleles, including tenor models. They offer a wide range of ukuleles made from various materials, such as koa, mahogany, and acacia, and are known for their playability and sound quality.
2. Cordoba: Cordoba is a Spanish brand known for its stringed instruments, including ukuleles and tenor models. They offer a wide range of ukuleles made from various materials, such as cedar, rosewood, and mahogany, and are known for their playability and sound quality.
3. Fender: Fender is an American brand widely regarded as one of the best makers of musical instruments, including ukuleles, such as tenor models. Their ukuleles are made from high-quality materials and are known for their excellent craftsmanship, tone, and projection.
4. Oscar Schmidt: Oscar Schmidt is an American brand known for its affordable and well-made ukuleles, including tenor models. They offer a wide range of ukuleles made from various materials, such as koa, mahogany, and acacia, and are known for their playability and affordability.
5. Martin: Martin is a Pennsylvania-based brand that is widely regarded as one of the best makers of guitars and ukuleles, including tenor models. Their ukuleles are known for their high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and excellent tone and projection.

Remember that the best brand of tenor ukulele for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences, such as your budget, the type of music you play, and your skill level as a player.

Consider trying out a few different brands and models in person before making a final decision.

If you are interested in knowing some extra options of the best tenor ukuleles, we suggest you give this video from Southern Ukelele Store a watch:

10 OF THE BEST TENOR UKULELES RIGHT NOW

Difference between a cutaway and a non-cutaway tenor ukulele

The difference between a tenor ukulele with a cutaway and one without a cutaway lies in the design of the instrument’s body.

A cutaway is a section of the ukulele’s body that has been removed, typically on the lower bout, to allow easier access to the higher frets.

A tenor ukulele without a cutaway is more traditional in design and has a whole, unmodified body.

Some players favor tenor ukuleles with cutaways because they offer greater accessibility to the higher frets, allowing for more advanced playing techniques and greater versatility in terms of the types of music you can play on the instrument.

They also often have a more modern, stylish look that appeals to some players.

However, tenor ukuleles without cutaways are favored by other players because they tend to produce a warmer, more resonant tone, which is often better for certain types of music, such as traditional Hawaiian music.

Additionally, these ukuleles are often considered more traditional and are preferred by players who want an instrument that is true to the original design of the ukulele.

Ultimately, the choice between a tenor ukulele with a cutaway and one without a cutaway will depend on personal preference and the playing you plan to do.

If you are a beginner or play mostly basic chords, a tenor ukulele without a cutaway may be a good option for you.

However, a tenor ukulele with a cutaway may be a better choice if you are an advanced player or plan to play a broader range of music.

What are some of the best tenor ukuleles for beginners?

There are several important factors to consider when it comes to finding the best tenor ukulele for beginners.

These include the quality and playability of the instrument, its affordability, and its ease of use. Here are some of the best tenor ukuleles for beginners:

The Kala KA-T is a beginner-friendly tenor ukulele that delivers quality and value for its price.

Its solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and smooth satin finish provide comfort and durability.

It’s known for its high-quality construction and easy-to-play design, making it a top pick for first-time players.

The Luna Vintage Mahogany Tenor Ukulele is an attractive and budget-friendly choice for beginners.

With a mahogany body and neck and rosewood fingerboard, it produces a warm, resonant tone.

Its classic design and affordability make it a popular option for starting ukulele players.

The Cordoba 15TM Tenor Ukulele is a top-performing instrument for beginners, made with solid mahogany top, back, and sides.

It delivers a rich, warm tone suitable for a variety of music styles and its comfortable neck and easy-to-play design make it a great choice for first-time players.

The Oscar Schmidt OU52T Tenor Ukulele is another top option for beginners, featuring a mahogany body, neck, and fingerboard that create a warm, rich tone for strumming and fingerpicking.

Its affordability and user-friendly design make it a top pick for first-time players.