Discovering Your Perfect Ukulele Size: Scale Lengths and Our Top Recommendations
Embarking on a ukulele journey entails finding the perfect size that brings harmony to your musical aspirations. Among the diverse range of options, ukuleles come in four main sizes, each distinguished by its scale length. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the unique qualities of each size and delve into our top recommendations for the ultimate tone, playability, and overall best handcrafted ukulele experience.
Smaller ukulele sizes offer a more treble-forward tone: a higher pitched or "twangy" sound. As the scale length and body size increases, more resonant bass tones emerge to give more of a nuanced sound.
The Ukulele Sizes
1. Soprano Ukulele (13-15 inches Scale Length)
The soprano ukulele, with its charming scale length of 13-15 inches, is the original and most traditional size. Ideal for beginners and those with smaller hands, it produces the iconic, bright, and delightful ukulele sound reminiscent of the instrument's Hawaiian roots.
Concert ukuleles are most commonly tuned to G-C-E-A, known as C Tuning, with the G string tuned higher than the C string, known as re-entrant tuning.
2. Concert Ukulele (15-17 inches Scale Length)
The concert ukulele, with a scale length of 15-17 inches, strikes a harmonious balance between size and sound. Versatile and resonant, it offers a fuller tone compared to the soprano, making it suitable for various playing styles, from strumming to fingerpicking.
Concert ukuleles are most commonly tuned to G-C-E-A, known as C Tuning, with the G string tuned higher than the C string, known as re-entrant tuning.
3. Tenor Ukulele (17-19 inches Scale Length)
With a scale length of 17-19 inches, the tenor ukulele's larger body delivers a rich and warm tone, making it a favorite for solo performances and fingerstyle playing. Its wider fret spacing enhances comfort for players with larger hands.
Tenor ukuleles are most commonly tuned to G-C-E-A, known as C Tuning. Most tenor ukulele players use re-entrant tuning, where the G string is higher than the C string, while others prefer linear tuning where the G string is an octave lower, and all four strings
4. Baritone Ukulele (19-21 inches Scale Length)
The baritone ukulele, with a scale length of 19-21 inches, offers a unique alternative with its deep, guitar-like tones. It serves as a great transition instrument for guitar players, and its size may appeal to those seeking a distinctive ukulele experience.
Baritone Ukuleles are typically tuned to D-G-B-E, which is the same tuning as the top four strings on a guitar.
Our Recommendation
For the ultimate tone, playability, and overall best handcrafted ukulele experience, our top recommendation goes to the Tenor ukulele, followed closely by the Concert. The Tenor's warm and resonant sound, combined with its comfortable fret spacing, strikes a perfect balance for players of all levels. The Concert ukulele's versatility and smaller size make it a close contender, ensuring an enchanting musical journey for every ukulele enthusiast.
Conclusion
As you embark on your ukulele adventure, considering the scale lengths of these four sizes is essential in finding the perfect match. Whether you choose the bright charm of the Soprano, the versatility of the Concert, the warmth of the Tenor, or the uniqueness of the Baritone, let the strings of your preferred ukulele resonate harmoniously with your musical soul, as you create melodies that bring joy to your heart and those around you.
