This solid spruce top UK-16ST from Uma is a tenor ukulele that would come close to the top of any list of best value instruments, such is the quality compared to the outlay required to acquire one. It’s neatly made, looks good, with its satin finish, and plays really well too, with a particularly low action at the nut that assists with those tricky chords like the oft-dreaded Bb.

One thing to note is the body shape, which at first glance is relatively standard, albeit with a cutaway. However, the bottom is purposefully asymmetrical, not massively so, but the top is noticeably larger on the opposite side to the cutaway. In theory, this compensates for the amount of solid top lost to the cutaway. Does it make a big difference? Erm… difficult to tell, and possibly not - but what is certain is that the volume is big, the sprucey brightness present in abundance, with a good helping of resonant bassier tones too.

There are nice, light-feeling clear fluorocarbon strings, laminate acacia back and sides, smooth-turning geared tuners, an abalone soundhole rosette and black body binding. Oh, and a decent gig bag too. Lots and lots, really, for your money.

I like the inlays on the fretboard, which look really classy. The UK-16ST does have position markers on the side of the neck too, so you’re not thrown off by the lack of them on the fingerboard.

Uma may be a relatively new name to ukuleles as I write this in 2021, but they are very clearly going about things the right way.

For a quick video demo of the Uma UK-16ST tenor ukulele, click additional info below.

For common accessories and customisations (like strap buttons / low G fitting) scroll down to the bottom of the page where you'll be able to add these common items to your basket.