Best
AFFORDABLE
BARITONE UKULELE
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Overall: All-mahogany body that creates a well-balanced, resonant tone
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Best Feature: Mahogany top, back, and sides create a warm, balanced tone
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TedScore™:
8.9/10
Best
OVERALL
BARITONE UKULELE
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Overall: All-acacia ukulele puts out warm and mellow sound
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Best Feature: Rosewood binding and a GraphTech NuBone nut and saddles
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TedScore™:
9/10
Best
BEGINNER
BARITONE UKULELE
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Overall: A wider nut for a slightly wider neck that makes playing comfortable.
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Best Feature: The NuBone nut and saddle also provide tonal support to the already tone-rich mahogany body.
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TedScore™: 9/10
I’ve discovered that the baritone ukulele is a true gem for music enthusiasts.
Unlike other ukuleles, its larger body gives it a unique sound, a blend of sweetness and depth that captures the heart. The Lanikai MA-B Mahogany Ukulele features a rosewood fretboard, which enhances playability and makes it easier for beginners to learn and handle.
My journey in finding the best baritone ukulele began as a quest for a fuller, more guitar-like sound in a compact instrument.
Let me tell you, I found it in Kala KA-SA-B Solid Acacia Baritone Ukulele, and it didn’t disappoint! I love how it delivers the classic baritone ukes tone that I was looking for. This has always been a solid choice for me!
Looking for the best baritone ukuleles can be a challenge. There are many excellent brands out there, and each brand offers amazing choices of ukuleles. So, how would you know if it’s the right bari uke for you?
You are actually in the right place! Read on to learn about the best baritone ukuleles I highly recommend!
The baritone ukulele stands out with its versatility and ease of play, making it a favorite among beginners and seasoned players.
Understanding
Baritone Ukuleles
Let me guide you through the unique aspects of the baritone ukulele, a member of the ukulele family with its distinct size and tuning.
My goal is to help you grasp its basics, understand why its design stands out, and understand why it’s different from the tenor and soprano ukuleles.
While the baritone ukulele has a different tuning compared to the soprano ukulele, the chord shapes are often identical, making the transition easier for players familiar with a soprano ukulele.
Baritone Uke Basics
The baritone ukulele is the biggest in its family, resembling a mini acoustic guitar. It’s known for its deep, rich tones that differ from traditional, higher-pitched ukuleles.
The baritone ukulele is larger than the soprano ukulele and produces a deeper, more resonant sound. At around 30 inches long, it provides a fuller sound reminiscent of a guitar.
Size and Tuning
My baritone ukulele typically tunes to DGBE, the same as the bottom four strings of a guitar. This tuning means it’s a perfect stepping stone if you’re transitioning from playing the guitar or looking to diversify your sound palette.
Its larger size also offers a more comfortable playing experience, especially if you have larger hands or find smaller ukuleles fiddly.
Acoustic vs. Acoustic-Electric Baritone Ukulele
When I go acoustic, I cherish my baritone ukulele’s pure, unamplified melody. But for performances, an acoustic-electric baritone ukulele with built-in pickups and preamps can be a game-changer.
You get to enjoy the best of both worlds: the soul-soothing acoustic sound for quiet sessions and amplified tunes when it’s showtime.
Benefits of Playing a Baritone Uke
Playing a baritone ukulele offers several benefits that make it an attractive choice for musicians. Here are some of the advantages of playing a baritone uke:
Unique Sound and Tone
One of the standout features of the baritone ukulele is its unique sound and tone. Unlike its smaller counterparts, the baritone uke produces a deeper and fuller sound, often described as a delightful blend between a ukulele and a guitar.
This distinctive tone makes it an excellent choice for musicians looking to add a new dimension to their music. Whether you’re strumming along to folk tunes, picking out a country melody, or jazzing things up, the baritone ukulele’s rich sound is sure to impress.
Versatility in Music Styles
The baritone ukulele is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any musician’s arsenal. Its deep, resonant sound is perfect for solo performances, adding a rich layer to ensemble playing and even for recording sessions.
The baritone uke’s adaptability means it can easily fit into various music styles, from folk and country to jazz and beyond.
If you love experimenting with different genres, the baritone ukulele is a great instrument to explore new musical landscapes.
Ease of Learning for Beginners
Despite its larger size, the baritone ukulele is surprisingly easy to learn, especially for beginners who have experience with other stringed instruments.
The chord shapes on a baritone uke are similar to those on a guitar, making it an excellent choice for guitar players looking to transition to the ukulele.
Additionally, the baritone uke’s deeper sound makes it easier to play chords and single-note passages, providing a more forgiving learning curve.
Key Features and Materials
When I think about getting the best baritone ukulele, I focus on the woods and materials used.
It’s like a recipe: the better the ingredients, the sweeter the music.
Tonewoods and Construction
A mahogany neck and body paired with a solid spruce top often strike a delightful balance of mellow and bright, rich tone.
When a ukulele sports a solid acacia or cedar top, it’s not just showing off; solid tops are known for their superior sound resonance.
If I run my fingers down a rosewood bridge and fingerboard, I adore the smooth feel, which contributes to clear intonation and sustains. The rosewood fretboard enhances playability and allows for smoother articulation of melodies, making it easier for beginners to learn and handle the instrument.
Let’s not overlook the charm of a satin finish—it doesn’t just make the ukulele look dapper; it also affects the sound by reducing unwanted overtones.
Hardware and Accessories
The hardware plays a star role in keeping the ukulele in tune and easy to play.
I love those lightweight tuning machines with my ukulele singing in tune without adding unnecessary weight.
It’s always a delightful surprise when I receive accessories with my purchase—it’s like an extra cherry on top. A soft case, a strap, or even a tuner can make all the difference for us ukulele players.
Those add-ons mean one less trip to the music store and more time strumming sweet melodies on my new buddy.
Selecting the
Best Baritone Ukes
Now, let’s go to the fun part!
When I hunt for the perfect baritone ukulele, I focus on quality and how it feels in my hands. I also consider the prices of the ukuleles because not everyone wants to splurge on their first uke.
Top Models for Quality and Playability
Kala KA-SA-B Solid Acacia Baritone Ukulele
In my experience, the Kala KA-SA-B sets a high bar for quality. Its rich, full sound is captivating, making it a favorite for beginners and seasoned players.
I am thoroughly impressed with the Kala KA-SA-B Solid Acacia Baritone Ukulele. Its full-bodied sound and beautiful craftsmanship make it a joy to play and a standout instrument in my collection.
Kala KA-SA-B Solid Acacia Baritone Ukulele
FEATURES: All-acacia ukulele puts out warm and mellow sound
OTHER INFO: Rosewood binding and a GraphTech NuBone nut and saddles
- The comfortable neck is good for a variety of hand sizes
- The mahogany neck and walnut fingerboard is responsive and playable
- Expensive as compared to other ukes
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Cordoba 24B Baritone Ukulele - Spruce
Another model I’m fond of is the Cordoba 24B Baritone Ukulele, which offers superb playability and a mellow tone that I adore.
Its solid spruce top and exotic striped ebony back and sides deliver a crisp, articulate tone that has elevated my playing style and added a touch of elegance to my musical repertoire.
Cordoba 24B Baritone Ukulele - Spruce
FEATURES: Combination of outstanding tonewoods and quality craftsmanship
OTHER INFO: A solid spruce top over eye-grabbing spalted maple back and sides
- "C"-shaped mahogany neck and pau ferro fingerboard play brilliantly
- Padauk binding adds a touch of luxury
- Higher price point compared to entry-level instruments
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Lanikai MA-B Mahogany Ukulele - Baritone
For those who dig for a mahogany body with a brighter sound, the Lanikai baritone ukulele is a winner with its excellent projection and clarity.
The Lanikai MA-B Mahogany Baritone Ukulele has a warm, resonant tone and a comfortable playing feel, making it a great value for beginners and seasoned players seeking a quality instrument.
Lanikai MA-B Mahogany Ukulele - Baritone
FEATURES: A wider nut for a slightly wider neck that makes playing comfortable. The rosewood fretboard allows for smoother articulation of melodies and enhances the playability of the instrument, making it easier to learn and handle for beginners.
OTHER INFO: The NuBone nut and saddle also provide tonal support to the already tone-rich mahogany body.
- The cream binding provides a beautiful contrast to the mahogany body.
- Chrome die-cast tuning machines offer solid support for staying in tune
- Comes with rosewood fingerboard
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Finding the Right Ukulele for Your Budget
These next ones are my recommendations for a uke musician looking for an affordable yet decent yet consistent-quality baritone ukulele.
Cordoba U1B Baritone Ukulele
If your budget is tight, the Cordoba U1B Baritone Ukulele could be your best pick. It has surprisingly good sound quality despite its low price.
As a professional musician, I consistently recommend this to my students for its reliable build quality and warm mahogany tone.
Cordoba U1B Baritone Ukulele - Natural Mahogany
FEATURES: All-mahogany body that creates a well-balanced, resonant tone
OTHER INFO: Mahogany top, back, and sides create a warm, balanced tone
- Baritone body size contributes a deep feel
- Excellent choice for guitar players because its tuning closely mirrors the standard tuning of guitars
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Kala KA-B Baritone Ukulele
As a seasoned ukulele instructor, I frequently recommend the Kala KA-B Baritone Ukulele with its satin mahogany finish.
Its durable construction, consistent tone, and affordability make it an excellent instrument for students to develop their skills.
Kala KA-B Baritone Ukulele - Satin Mahogany
FEATURES: The perfect balance between baritone tonality and uke portability
OTHER INFO: Traditional design and mahogany construction
- Quality geared tuners
- Traditional white binding
- Factory strings may not suit all playing styles
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Luna Tribal Mahogany 6-String Baritone Ukulele
As a professional ukulele teacher, I often suggest the Luna Tribal Mahogany 6-String Baritone Ukulele to my students because of its unique 6-string design, which enhances chordal richness, and its robust mahogany construction, which ensures a warm, balanced tone.
The eye-catching tribal design and satin natural finish make it visually striking and a versatile instrument that meets the needs of players looking to expand their sonic palette.
Luna Tribal Mahogany 6-String Baritone Ukulele - Satin Natural
FEATURES: Great for exploring new and interesting uke chord patterns up and down the mahogany neck
OTHER INFO: Great for fingerpicking or flat-picking
- The design is based on traditional body ornamentation from Hawaii
- Walnut Bridge provides further tone support
- Others may opt for a traditional design
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Choosing the Right
Baritone Ukuleles for You
Choosing the right baritone ukulele can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when selecting a baritone uke:
Considerations for Baritone Ukes
When it comes to selecting the perfect baritone ukulele, there are several key factors to consider:
Look for a baritone ukulele that produces a rich and full sound. The type of wood used, such as solid spruce or mahogany, and the instrument’s construction play significant roles in its tonal quality. High-quality electronics, like built-in pickups and preamps, can also enhance the sound, especially if you plan to play amplified.
Choose a baritone ukulele that feels comfortable in your hands. A smooth fretboard and well-aligned frets are essential for a pleasant playing experience. The neck’s shape and size should also suit your hand size and playing style.
Consider the size and weight of the baritone ukulele. While the baritone is the largest in the ukulele family, it should still be well-balanced and easy to handle. A lighter instrument can be more comfortable for extended playing sessions.
If you plan to perform or record with your baritone ukulele, look for one with high-quality electronics. Built-in pickups and preamps can significantly improve the sound when amplified.
Baritone ukuleles come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Set a budget that suits your needs, and look for instruments that offer the best value within your price range.
By considering these factors, you can find a baritone ukulele that meets your needs and provides years of playing enjoyment. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the right baritone uke can enhance your musical journey and open up new creative possibilities.
Accessories and Upgrades
Deciding to enhance my baritone ukulele with the right accessories and upgrades was the best decision I made. These additions can make the baritone uke feel like it’s truly mine.
Must-Have Add-Ons
I always make sure I have a sturdy padded gig bag to protect my baritone ukulele when I’m on the move. The convenience of carrying it without worrying about bumps or scratches makes a gig bag essential.
Kala Baritone Bags
The Kala Baritone Ukulele Bags offer a convenient, protective solution for transporting your instrument. They feature a durable exterior and a plush interior that guards against scratches and minor impacts.
Additional pockets for accessories and comfortable straps make these bags a practical choice for ukulele players on the go.
Kala Transit Series Ukulele Bag - Baritone
FEATURES: Water-resistant polyester protects your uke from dings and dents
OTHER INFO: Interior plush padding is removable
- The large exterior compartment is ideal for gig extras like strings
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
On-Stage GBU4101S Deluxe Striped Baritone Ukulele Gig Bag
I’m thoroughly impressed with the On-Stage GBU4101S Deluxe Striped Baritone Ukulele Gig Bag‘s robust padding and durable exterior offer great protection for baritone ukes.
The stylish striped design stands out, and the multiple pockets are incredibly handy for storing all ukulele accessories.
On-Stage GBU4101S Deluxe Striped Baritone Ukulele Gig Bag
FEATURES: A padded interior that cradles your instrument and protects it from bumps and bruises
OTHER INFO: Reinforced zippers make sure that your instrument stays safely
- Padded carry handle and backpack straps let you carry it your way
- The bright exterior pattern showcases your personality
- Might be too colorful for some
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
I also found that investing in good-quality ukulele tuners can make a world of difference in maintaining the ukulele’s pitch perfectly. This is vital for both practice and performance.
Snark SN-6X Ukulele Tuner
I’ve found the Snark SN-6X Ukulele Tuner to be incredibly user-friendly and accurate. Its clear display and responsive clip-on design make tuning my ukulele quick and effortless.
Its compact size and reliability have made it an indispensable tool in my music gear for practice and performance.
Snark SN-6X Ukulele Tuner
FEATURES: A faster chip than its predecessor for improved accuracy
OTHER INFO: Upgraded high-definition display rotates 360 degrees for easy viewing
- High-sensitivity vibration sensor
- The tuner can be used on the front or back of the headstock
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Another game-changer for me was adding straps and strap buttons. Once I added a strap, the playability of my ukulele improved because I wasn’t so focused on holding the instrument.
This let me focus entirely on my strumming and fretting, making the playing experience much more enjoyable.
Kala Sonoma Coast Ukulele Strap - Goat Rock Gray
I’ve been using the Kala Sonoma Coast Ukulele Strap in Goat Rock Gray, and I’m impressed with its sturdy build and comfortable fit, which allows me to play for hours without strain.
The stylish, understated gray color complements my ukulele’s aesthetics, and the strap’s easy adjustability makes it a top choice for performers of all statures.
Kala Sonoma Coast Ukulele Strap - Goat Rock Gray
FEATURES: Fully adjustable and features sturdy leather ends
OTHER INFO: Includes a contrasting inner strap and leather Kala “K” logo badge
- Adjustable for a comfortable fit
- Essential if you want to play your ukulele standing up
- None!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Enhancing Your Ukulele's Sound
I’ve learned that not all strings are created equal, and Aquila Super Nylgut strings stand out for their quality. They offer a richer and more resonant sound than standard strings.
Aquila USA 116U Lava Nylgut Baritone Ukulele Strings - Low D with Wound D & G
I’ve strung my baritone ukulele with the Aquila USA 116U Lava Nylgut strings and have been pleased with the rich, warm sound they produce, especially with the low D tuning that adds depth to my playing.
Adding the wound D and G Aquila strings provides a nice tonal contrast and improved projection, which has been particularly beneficial during live performances.
Aquila USA 116U Lava Nylgut Baritone Ukulele Strings - Low D with Wound D & G
FEATURES: Provides stable and good intonation
OTHER INFO: Resistant to abrasion for longer string life
- Half Lava Nylgut and half wound
- No Cons!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
My ukulele sang with happiness the moment I strung it with these!
Maintaining Your
Baritone Ukulele
As a professional, I decided that keeping my baritone ukulele in top shape is a priority.
I’ve noticed that a bit of tender loving care can go a long way in preserving its beautiful sound and appearance!
Cleaning and Care
I always lightly dust my ukulele with a soft, dry cloth to protect its finish.
For those pesky fingerprints, I use a slightly damp cloth and then dry it immediately to keep the shine gleaming.
The strings prefer a gentle wipe after each session, which helps maintain their crisp, bright sound.
I also check the nut width and frets; a soft toothbrush can dislodge any grime without causing harm.
Tuning and String Replacement
Any baritone uke enthusiast will tell you tuning is key.
I use tuners for that perfect pitch; they’re stable and super reliable.
It’s normal for different strings to wear out or break, so I change mine every few months. When threading new strings, I make sure they’re seated well at the bridge and wound properly around the tuning pegs for that sweet, perfect intonation.
Regular tuner maintenance and a proper string setup ensure my baritone ukulele sounds fantastic for every performance and jam session!
Best Baritone Ukulele:
My Last Words!
When I’m in the mood for some strumming, my go-to is a trusty baritone ukulele.
It’s the big brother in the ukulele family, boasting a deeper, fuller sound. I love how it combines a ukulele’s portability with a guitar’s richness!
For the best sound quality, look for solid wood construction.
If you’re on a budget, a laminate with a gloss finish can still be a good pal.
Playability is key, so find one with a comfortable neck and smooth fretboard.
What’s super important? The strings!
They’re the secret sauce that brings out the ukulele’s character. Aquila Nylgut is a crowd favorite, balancing warm tones and durability.
And don’t overlook the tuning pegs; geared tuners offer easy and precise adjustments.
Each baritone ukulele has its personality, and the best one really sings to you. So go on, strum a few chords, and you’ll find your four-stringed companion in no time!
Wait! There’s more!!!
Reading this next article gives you a detailed overview and review of Cordoba’s range of ukuleles, helping both beginners and seasoned players understand and compare each model’s sound quality, build, and playability.
This article is a powerful resource for making an informed decision when selecting a Cordoba ukulele that best fits your musical needs and preferences.
While I appreciate the depth of this article, particularly on baritone ukulele’s size and tuning, I believe there’s a missed opportunity in not discussing more on the playing techniques specific to baritone ukuleles. They offer a rich, deep tone that’s quite unique from other ukuleles, and mastering them can be challenging but rewarding. Would love to see more content that delves into the complexities and nuances of playing styles and how they affect the sound and playability of the instrument.
Thank you for the feedback! I’ll definitely consider diving into playing techniques in future articles. It’s always exciting to explore the full potential of these instruments.
I second this! The baritone uke is such a versatile instrument, and exploring its full potential requires a deeper understanding of its capabilities. Fingerpicking patterns, in particular, can dramatically showcase its range.
kinda cool how u can choose btwn acoustic and electric acoustics didn’t know that. gotta save up for one tho lol
Interesting read on the baritone ukuleles. I’ve been playing guitar for years, and I’m curious about crossing over to the baritone uke. How does the transition usually go for most guitarists? Are there specific aspects of technique or music theory that need adjusting?
Hey! Guitarist turned uke player here. The transition was smoother than expected, just had to get used to the size and high G string. Give it a shot!
Just wanted to drop a quick note of thanks! As someone who’s recently picked up their baritone uke again after years, this article was a treasure trove. Understanding the differences in size, tuning, and especially the distinction between acoustic and acoustic-electric ukes was super helpful. Also, appreciated the thoughtful advice on selecting ukes based on budget. Makes jumping back into music feel a bit less daunting. Lewis Turner, keep these insightful articles coming!