Custom Ko’olau Tenor Ukulele

Custom ukuleles by Ko’olau Ukulele Company. Absolutely stunning New Custom Ko`olau Tenor Ukulele handcrafted here on the island of Oahu by two of Hawaii’s foremost luthiers, John Kitakis and his son Noa Bonk.

This custom Ko`olau tenor ukulele is the Deluxe model by designation with all the added amenities that really lends itself to being both aesthetically pleasing and a wonderful player and recording level ukulele. Each year roughly 8-10 pieces, on estimate, are handcrafted by master luthiers John and Noa Kitakis.

The body is handcrafted with gorgeous and extremely rare Hawaii-grown Cuban mahogany wood face, back, and sides. Cuban mahogany is amongst the most prized mahogany wood in the world since it is considered commercially extinct. This wood was brought to Hawaii during the mid-19th century and was over-harvested in Cuba leading to its near extinction. The limited availability of this wood has caused prices to be substantially higher in cost than master grade Hawaiian Koa wood sets and tonally; it is remarkable; very rich with excellent overtones and chocolately in nature. Being a more dense wood than Koa, Cuban mahogany also lends itself to added clarity, sustain, and projection when in the hands of a skilled luthier such as John and Noa Kitakis of Ko`olau Ukulele Co.

Instrument grade ebony wood fretboard and bridge with slight radius on fretboard for ease of wrist angle and added comfort. Top and back Hawaiian curly Koa wood binding for aesthetic appeal with gorgeous rope marquetry on soundboard and complimentary top and side purfling lines.  Abalone or ‘paua’ shell rosette adds to a classy feel. Slotted headstock for increased sustain with a Honduras mahogany wood neck for insured stability. Hawaiian curly Koa wood headstock veneer and professional Gotoh slotted-headstock geared tuners for precise tuning.  The instrument also boasts a stylish mother-of-pearl inlay for the position markers and Ko`olau logo on the headstock. Mirror-like high gloss finish on body with satin style finish on the neck allows for the player’s hands to move freely up and down the neck without concern of ‘sticking’ as you play.

Wonderful tones that are clear, crisp, and well projected. Nice deep rich low tones and well balanced mid-range and high tones as well. Excellent projection, sustain, and clarity all the way up the neck.

A traditional tone that rings true “Hawaii” with every strum and a custom piece that is rarely available. Includes Ko`olau tenor ukulele hard case.

Price: SOLD