Donner DUC-3 Spruce Concert Ukulele

94
GEARANK

94 out of 100. Incorporating 325+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$66
Donner DUC-3 Spruce Concert Ukulele

The Donner DUC-3 is a viable option if you’re looking for an entry-level Concert uke that won’t break the bank.

It is outfitted with a laminate spruce top and laminated mahogany back and sides, geared tuners, and a rosewood bridge and fingerboard.

While the instrument probably won’t be loud enough to play unamplified in an ensemble setting, it will likely cut through a mix better. The reason for this is that the spruce gives it a brighter tone (more treble), which will help it be heard above mid and low-range (guitar and bass guitar respectively) in a recording.

Lastly, the Donner DUC-3 comes with a gig bag, an extra set of strings, a strap, and a clip on digital tuner.

Specifications

  • Top: Spruce
  • Body: Mahogany
  • Neck: Mahogany
  • Fingerboard: Rosewood
  • Frets: 18
  • Extras: Strap, Bag, Tuner, Strings

Pros:

The cool thing about this uke is that while it is intended for beginners it’s generally considered to have a pretty musical tone. It’s described as being both warm and focused, which is likely due to the combination of its spruce top and mahogany back and sides.

Cons:

While there aren't that many complaints about the uke itself, there are some who gave it slightly lower ratings because of the condition of its factory installed strings and the bundled strap.

Overall:

The Donner DUC-3 sounds more expensive than it actually is, making it very easy to recommend in its price range.

Unfortunately this is no longer available new in stores, however there are highly rated alternatives available in our guide to The Best Concert Ukuleles.

About the Author

Alexander BrionesAlexander Briones

I have been writing about and researching music gear for many years, all while serving as a music director at my local church. I engage in guitar playing and singer-songwriter stints, in addition to mentoring young musicians and teaching guitar and bass.