Gearank

The Kala KA-S Satin Mahogany Soprano Ukulele can be thought of as the neck step up from the Kala KA-15S. According to the manufacturer, the specs between the two instruments seem to be really similar as they’re both made from the same tonewoods and are built to the same dimensions.

Key Features

• Top: Mahogany
• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fretboard: Walnut
• Frets: 12

The two main upgrades with the KA-S is that it has nickel frets and binding around the edges, two features which offer slight improvements in stability. Nickel frets tend to last a bit longer than brass frets, and binding helps to strengthen the edges of an instrument.

You’re not likely to hear a big difference in tone between the KA-S and the KA-15S. Though with that in mind, the nickel frets and binding may make the upgrade worth it depending on your preferences. The price difference between the two models also isn’t so dramatic as to make the instrument unaffordable when compared to the similarly outfitted KA-15S.

NB: This was on our recommended list prior to January 2020 - there are now more highly rated options that we recommend in our guide to The Best Soprano Ukuleles - Regular & Pineapple Shaped.