Lanikai MAS-C

I am not exaggerating when I say that, at least in my opinion, one of the most beautiful mahogany ukuleles I have ever had here passed through my hands a few months ago: the Lanikai MAS-C, a concert-size ukulele made of solid mahogany.

A more flattering official photo could probably have been taken of this little gem, because in real life the ukulele is neither this dark nor this dull-looking. In the video below you will see the wonderful colours it actually has. The manufacturer could have done a somewhat better job with the colour settings of the official photographs — and, naturally, this was exactly the instrument I forgot to photograph myself.

Of course I can only speak about this ukulele in superlatives. First, you cannot decide whether to start playing it immediately or simply sit there looking at it. The wood grain with this finish is dazzlingly beautiful, and you can literally keep admiring it without getting tired of it. Then, naturally, you want to hear it, and it does not disappoint: it feels every bit as good to play as it looks. It settles into your hands and starts purring gratefully even with a simple C major chord . If someone asked me which acoustic concert-size Lanikai I considered the best, THIS is the one I would choose. You do have to reach deeper into your wallet for a solid-wood body and this level of workmanship because — as may already be obvious — this is a premium instrument. There are more expensive concert-size LanikaIs, but most of those are electro-acoustic models.

Like other Lanikai ukuleles, this one also comes from the factory with two strap buttons and a case — something we have come to expect from the brand. Finally, here is the short demonstration video: