It’s hard to find a ukulele that will meet your needs. True? True sometimes. True a lot of the time even, but certainly not true every time.
Finding the right instrument is sensitive work. We know this. We also know that musicians are desperate for a piece of equipment that they can trust to sustain their art.
For some people a ukulele is more than just an instrument, it is an extension of their self.
Which makes getting right one extremely important.
We get that. That is why we take our job of connecting people with the right instrument very seriously.
For that reason, we have assembled a list of five of the best six-string ukuleles on the market. Read on.
Contents
Top 5 Best 6 String Ukulele For The Money 2023 Reviews
What Is Out There
1 Kala KA-6 Mahogany 6-String Tenor Ukulele
First on our list, the Kala KA-6. This Mahogany based, 6-string uke is sized as a tenor. It features a simple, classic design, and a moderate price tag that will appeal to buyers that want a blend of quality and value.
You also get chrome cast tuners that are designed with longevity in mind. The design concept culminates into a uke that produces a mellow tone, sweet high-notes, and an overall robust sound profile.
In terms of issues, there isn’t a lot to mention. We did notice that it doesn’t stay in tune for as long as we usually expect to see. If you don’t mind fiddling with the tuning a little bit though, it won’t be much of an issue.
(5 / 5)- Attractive design
- Chrome cast tuners
- Robust sound profile
- Doesn’t stay in tune for very long
2 Oscar Schmidt OU26T-A-U Ukulele
The Oscar Schmidt OU26T is an affordable uke that beginners will deeply appreciate. The instrument itself is ultimately pretty basic.
However, in its simplicity, it finds much success. The mahogany body produces a rich tone, and also just looks quite good.
You do however see some of the cons that come with a product in this price range. Namely the strings themselves. Though richly doubled to produce a classic uke sound, they also struggle a bit.
They are on the cheaper side, and out of the box, it is apparent that they haven’t been strung very well.
A skilled hand might be able to tweak this, but most would prefer not to have the chore.
Still, for the price, the small con might be overlookable.
(4 / 5)- Affordable
- Mahogany Body
- Rich Sound
- Cheap, poorly strung strings
3 Luna Tribal 6-String Ukulele
The Luna Tribal is actually a combination pack. In addition to getting a six-string uke, you also get a carrying case, instructional DVD, and cleaning cloth.
The big draw, of course, will be the Tribal uke itself. The decals featured on the body of the instrument are where it gets its name. It features a “tribal” like pattern that is meant to have an authentic island look.
The real benefit though will just be the quality of the instrument. This is something of a beginner package, but that in mind, the performance is pretty satisfactory. It does sound a little bit more like a small guitar than it does a uke. However, you can tweak the sound with the tuning a bit.
All in all, this is a great opportunity for beginners that need a robust package to get started.
(4.5 / 5)- Package Deal
- Unique Design
- Affordable
- Sounds more like guitar than uke
4 Luna Tattoo 6-String Baritone Ukulele
Next, we have another product from Luna. The tattoo is another uke that gets its name from its design concept. The body is tattooed with a variety of patterns that gives the instrument a unique look to it.
The concept is good. A rich sound profile at an affordable price. This isn’t a gigging uke, but it is great for playing around the house. The mahogany build creates a nice aesthetic, and it even features chrome hardware, which should promote longevity.
The big issue we found was that the instrument was very susceptible to moisture. You are going to need to be very careful with where you use and store it, or you might find that the wood gets warped.
(3.5 / 5)- Interesting design
- Affordable
- Susceptible to moisture
5 Alvarez AU70S Artist Series Ukulele
Last but not least, we have the Alvarez AU70S Artist Series Ukulele. This final instrument features a rosewood body and a mahogany neck. You get a no-frills design concept here. It’s a low-profile instrument with a classic design, with pearl inlays, and a blondish wood gloss.
Buyers that like a good classic uke look will find plenty to appreciate. Unfortunately, this is a case of an instrument that looks better than it sounds. The sound is not abysmal, it just isn’t as nuanced as we like to see. It has a vibrating quality to it that experienced musicians might find distracting.
If you are a beginner that would like an attractive first uke, this will be one to consider. Otherwise, you may want to look for something with a slightly richer sound quality.
(3.6 / 5)- Beautiful design
- Affordable
- So, so sound quality
Best 6 String Ukulele Buying Guide
Now that you know what is out there, it is time to take a look at some important considerations. Hopefully, the information found below will help to better inform your buying decision.
Price
The nice thing about the ukulele is that it is an instrument that doesn’t have to be expensive. You can get a high-quality uke for under $100 if you need to. In the world of instruments, this is somewhat rare.
If you are a serious player, think about investing a little bit more money in the purchase. If you are just starting out, you may find a more modest investment to be safer. The good news is that there is something out there for buyers of every budget.
Size
There are actually quite a few options for ukulele size. The good news is that they all pretty much play the same way. Concert sized ukes generally tend to sound a little bit richer than the smaller soprano size.
However, the mechanics of playing them remains the same. Performance sized ukes are, naturally more expensive. Most beginners will probably start out with a soprano. However, unless you intend to perform, the size will not matter much.
Electric
Ukes can also be fitted for use through an amplifier. This is another consideration that will be a true must for performers.
It is also another consideration that will amp the cost up a little bit. If you can swing it, you might think about going for an amp capable uke. Why? They are more versatile than those that are strictly acoustic. If you think you might need an amp capable uke eventually, it might be worthier our money to buy it sooner rather than later.
Also Read: Top 8 Best Ukulele Capos For The Money Reviews & Buying Guide
Conclusion
As you can see, there is something out there for everyone. We personally found plenty to like in the Oscar Schmidt. It manages to be both affordable, and of a very high quality.
Of course, that is just our opinion. The truth of the matter is that there are great products out there for everyone. Regardless of your budget or your skill level, there is something out there that will be right for you.
Now that you know the best options out there all that is left to do is pick the one for you.