Curious about 6-string ukuleles? Not to be confused with guitarlele, these amazing instruments have two C strings, 2 A strings, a G string, and an E string, with GCCEAA tuning. Even though they look like miniature guitars, 6-string ukuleles are in a class all their own.
6-string ukulele setups vary. Sometimes the two C strings are tuned an octave apart, expanding your range, and the two As are tuned exactly alike, so your music has a fuller, richer sound. This might be reversed too, so the A strings are an octave apart and the C strings are in unison. Sometimes both the C and A strings are tuned an octave apart, and sometimes both are tuned in unison.
Although you play a 6-string ukulele the same way you play a four-string ukulele and you use the same chord shapes you’re already familiar with, you’ll need to use just a little more of your fingertips to hold down the double C and double A strings.
This can feel challenging and many players find that it takes a little bit of getting used to. Some people feel like the wider neck is a touch more cumbersome than a standard 4-string ukulele’s neck at first, but once they’re accustomed to the feel, they really enjoy expanding their musicianship with this instrument.
Top 6-String Ukuleles Review
Although four-string ukuleles remain the standard, 6-string models are more popular. The six-string ukulele is only one of four types of ukuleles. The normal, four-stringed Ukulele is a soprano because it makes a very small sound.
The alto or concert ukulele has a deeper sound and a fretboard that’s 2-inches wider than the average. Six-stringed ukuleles are also included in the tenor category, as they produce a rich tone.
It is also more versatile and better suited to players with larger hands. A baritone, which is similar to a guitar, is smaller and has a deeper sound. 6-stringed Ukuleles are best suited for experienced players.
1. Romero Creations Baritone 6-String Ukulele
We saved one of the very best 6-string ukuleles for last. Made by none other than the fantastic luthiers at Romero Creations, this baritone 6-string is tuned from E to E for your convenience, and as expected from one of Pepe Romero’s instruments, it’s fitted with strings to match! If you prefer, you can swap them out for Pepe Romero G to G tenor guilele strings and basically enjoy two different instruments for the price of one.
This instrument sounds absolutely amazing. Don’t take our word for it: Check out the videos for yourself. Pepe Romero provides a full introduction, plus there’s a gorgeous demo of Plantation Waltz. It might not be the most popular song at the moment, but it’s a classic that gives you a great feel for the instrument’s range.
This 6-string ukulele features a stunning spruce top and a mahogany body, along with an ebony bridge and fingerboard. The 20” scale is ultra-portable, so you can take it just about anywhere while enjoying its warm, rich tone and gorgeous sound.
Even if this instrument isn’t the one for you, go take a look. You’ve got to see it if only to expand your ukulele horizons!
Features:
- Solid spruce top
- Solid mahogany back and sides
- Ebony bridge
- Ebony fingerboard
- Pepe Romero Baritone strings
- E to E tuning (can be swapped for G to G)
- 20” scale
2. Kanile’a GL6 Solid Koa 6-String Guitarlele “North Shore”
OK ….so it is a guitarlele (which is against our general beginner’s buying advice in section next) but we think you’ll enjoy taking a look anyway. You’ll fall in love with this instrument after one glance and one listen. This incredible instrument was chosen by Kaimana Souza for Terry, the son of Joe and Kristen Souza founders of Kanile’a.
This instrument is made from solid curly Koa wood, which displays beautiful color variations from lighten to darken and back again. It has a low action for easy playability. It’s made to last a lifetime and has every feature you could want. You might be tempted to buy this instrument from someone else.
This gorgeous 6-string is handcrafted in Hawaii by skilled artisans who have a lifetime of experience. It has a bright, clear sound and a rich tone. It has a super tenor-body and a 20″ scale. ADGCEA is the tuning.
Ebony is used in the fingerboard, bridge and head plates, as well as bridge pins and bridge pins. The neck is made from solid mahogany. Black TUSQ is used for the nut and saddle, which adds to the instrument’s overall appearance. The neck has a silk finish, while the body has a UV-cured high gloss finish. This protects the wood from all the beauty it has to offer.
You will receive a super-deluxe Music Area Case for free.
Features:
- Solid koawood top, back and sides
- Solid mahogany neck
- Super tenor body
- 2″ width for classical guitar nut
- Black TUSQ nut & saddle
- Ebony fingerboard
- Ebony bridge, head plate, and bridge pins
- UV-cured high gloss body finish
- Silk finish on neck
- Padded Case Included
3. KoAloha Guitarlele Opio Solid Acacia KTO-G6 “Anthrium”
We were there again! You caught us again!
The KoAloha Guitarlele will help you expand your horizons. The A-to-A tuning is available. It has the same four strings as a standard ukulele. There’s also a D string and an extra A for richer playing.
The body is made from solid acacia which is very similar to koa but is much cheaper. The neck is constructed from solid mahogany and the fretboard, bridge, and fretboard are made of sapele. A beautiful satin finish protects the entire ukulele and shows off the wood’s unique characteristics while picking up less smudges that a glossy finish.
This instrument has KoAloha’s Musubi soundhole. It is unique in its shape. You get a rich, clear sound and a comfortable size.
Included is a free KoAloha gig bag. Terry uses a different version to demonstrate the guitarlele’s capabilities in his KoAloha KTO-6G6 review video. However, you will get a great feeling for the sound and a close-up look at all the amazing features on the instrument. Enjoy!
Features:
- Solid Acacia wood top, sides and back
- Solid Mahogany neck
- TUSQ Nut & Saddle
- Headstock for the KoAloha 5-pointed Crown
- Sapele Fretboard and Bridge
- Inline tuners
- KoAloha’s Patented Musubi Soundhole
- Satin Finish
- 6-Strings – ADGCEA tuning
4. Caramel 6-String Ukulele
You’ve wanted to learn how to play the 6-string ukulele, but are worried that you won’t like it. Also, you don’t want to spend more than a few hundred dollars. We get it! This is a great choice. Caramel’s 6 string guitar is made from solid acacia wood. The bridge and fretboard are made from walnut. The nut and saddle are made from real buffalo bone. This instrument has 18 frets and is tuned with EADGBE (E-E) tuning.
This is not all. The instrument is equipped with a built-in tuner with 3 bands and an equalizer. It can be plugged into an amp to play. You don’t need to plug it in, this instrument can be used as an acoustic or electric guitarlele.
This 6-string ukulele comes with a padded gig bag, a strap and other nice extras. Caramel also includes a wall hanger.
You should note that the instrument can sometimes arrive in excellent condition. However, there may be minor manufacturing defects that affect the sound and feel. Most people who have experienced problems with the uke have been able get it back into playable condition and are satisfied with their overall experience.
Features:
- Solid acacia wood
- 6-strings E to E tuning
- Electronics onboard
Bundle includes a padded gigbag, a strap and a wall hanging.
5. Romero Creations Tiny Tenor 6-String Guilele “Point Break”
The Romero Creations Tiny Tenor 6 String was created by Daniel Ho, a 6-time Grammy-winning ukulele player, and Pepe Romero, a master luthier. It has incredibly beautiful sound and sustain and includes two additional bass strings to add depth and dimension to your playing.
The unique pineapple shape of this instrument is a striking feature. The instrument features a solid spruce top, solid mahogany back, and sides. It is protected by a clear finish that showcases the wood’s unique character.
The bridge and fretboard are made from contrasting ebony, and the 16-1/tuners are the finest available.
There’s more. This amazing uke includes custom setup by Pepe Romaro Jr., as well as a professional-grade Global Green Ecofriendly case by Access.
Curious? Have a listen to this Tiny Tenor and get a closer look. Terry’s video review provides a detailed tour of the Pepe Romero GUIlele.
Features:
- Top made of solid sprucewood
- Solid mahogany back/sides
- Tiny Tenor body shape
- Ebony bridge & fingerboard
- 16:1 tuners
- ADGCEA Tune
- Pepe Romero strings
Lower Line 6-String Ukuleles
1. Lanikai – MA-6T
Natural mahogany laminate is used to make the Lanikai MA-6T 6-string Ukulele. The open headstock features a traditional look with chrome open-back tuners. The pre-installed chrome buckle buttons add a great “extra”!
This ukulele has a walnut fingerboard and bridge and a natural bone nuts and saddle. The binding is white for an added visual contrast. Pre-installed Premium Aquila strings.
Although it may not be the most popular 6 string ukulele, it comes with a gig bag and padded gig bag. A “bonus uke”, which is a padded gig bag, is also included. This can be used for fun or to give to a child learning to play.
Pros:
- Great value
- Nice, sweet sound
- Enjoy some extras
Cons:
- Laminate isn’t as beautiful as solid wood, but it does sound nice
2. Kala KA-6E (with EQ)
If you are looking for an electric six-string acoustic ukulele, the Kala K-6E is the best choice. The KA-6E is the same ukulele, but it has a Shadow Ukulele NFX activate pickup that allows you to use an amp. You can adjust the volume and tone of the pickup.
The neck, top, sides, and back are made of mahogany. This version features a walnut bridge and fingerboard. The Kala KA-6E tenor ukulele is just like its acoustic counterpart.
It is also similar. It comes pre-strung and equipped with Aquila Super Nylgut string strings. This sweet-sounding, beautiful instrument has a slotted headstock, chrome tuners, and buttons in cream.
Pros:
- Amazing price
- Nice, traditional-looking ukulele
- It sounds great, plugged in or not
Cons:
- Sold without a box
2. Kala KA-6E (with EQ)
If you are looking for an electric six-string acoustic ukulele, the Kala K-6E is the best choice. The ukulele is the same as the Kala KA-6 but it has a Shadow Ukulele NFX activate pickup that allows you to use an amp. You can adjust the volume and tone of the pickup.
The neck, top, sides, and back are made of mahogany. This version features a walnut bridge and fingerboard. The Kala KA-6E tenor ukulele is just like its acoustic counterpart.
It is also similar. It comes pre-strung and equipped with Aquila Super Nylgut string strings. This sweet-sounding, beautiful instrument has a slotted headstock, chrome tuners, and buttons in cream.
Pros:
- Amazing price
- Nice, traditional-looking ukulele
- It sounds great, plugged in or not
Cons:
- Sold without a box
3. Kala KA-6
Kala KA-6 is an tenor 6-string ukulele that features a mahogany body and a rosewood bridge. GraphTech NuBone(r) is used to make the nut and the saddle.
This ukulele is traditional and beautiful. It has a glossy finish that highlights the wood’s grain. The cream binding, cream-colored buttons, slotted headstock and chrome tuners add visual interest. This tenor ukulele has 18 frets, as with many others. It comes strung with Aquila Super Nylgut string.
The ukulele is soft and sweet with lots of projection. However, it doesn’t sound as loud as the 6-string ukuleles that we’ll be examining in a moment. The ukulele is a lot fun to play, and you will appreciate its affordable pricing if you are interested in learning more than making a purchase.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Attractive appearance combined with traditional features
- Pleasant and appealing sound
Cons:
- No bag included
4. Ohana TK-70-6
The Ohana TK-70-6 six-string ukulele has a solid sprucetop that contrasts well with the solid mahogany sides and back. Rosewood bindings add a nice touch to the ukulele, reflecting the same color of the rosewood fingerboard and bridge.
The ukulele has a mahogany neck and ends in an open headstock that features geared tuners, contrasting white buttons, and an open neck. This uke looks natural thanks to the addition of the saddle and bone nut.
This ukulele, like other ukuleles made with spruce tops has a bright sound and mellow undertones. It is a joy to play. Pre-installed GHS Tenor 6 strings.
Pros:
- Solid construction, not laminate
- Premium materials
- Satin finishes don’t attract fingerprints or smudges.
Cons:
- One report states that the instrument received was damaged
Middle-Range 6-String Ukulele
1. Kala – KA-ATP6-CTG
The six-string Kala KA-ATP6-CTG six string ukulele looks similar to Kala’s popular tenor KA-ATP-CTG model. This uke, just like its four-stringed counterpart, has a solid cedar roof that adds warmth and brilliance. The uke has acacia wood sides and back, which are protected by a gloss-finished finish. It feels great in your hands.
The contrast is provided by the walnut bridge and fingerboard, as well as the padauk binding. Six geared Grover tuners are housed in the open headstock. They have a chrome finish. This instrument has a beautiful sustain thanks to the GraphTech NuBone(r). nut and saddle. Kala offers an excellent 8-string ukulele in the same series with the same finishes.
Pros:
- Excellent sound with complex, distinct overtones
- Solid tonewoods
- High quality materials and fittings
Cons:
- It’s possible you won’t want to put it down!
High-End 6-String Ukuleles
1. Kamaka HF-36
Sam Kamaka Jr. designed the Kamaka HF-36 tenor six string ukulele. This ukulele is a classic that has been in existence since 1959. It was created to honor Queen Liliuokalani and celebrate Hawaii’s statehood.
This instrument is, as expected, of the highest quality. It is made from solid Koa wood and has a semi-gloss coating. You can choose to have Kamaka strings pre-installed or you can ask for a lower G during setup.
The Kamaka 6-string ukulele includes a wooden Kamaka hardcase and a humidifier. You can also get an upgraded humidifier and other accessories, such as strap buttons and a pickup that allows you to play amplified if desired. This ukulele will satisfy those who are looking for the best.
Pros:
- You can customize the features
- High quality fittings and materials
- Included are a humidifier and a case
Cons:
- You get beautiful instruments at premium pricing
2. Kanilea K-1 T6 Koa
Handcrafted in Hawaii by skilled artisans, the Kanilea K-1 T6 Koa 6-string tenor ukulele has been handcrafted by this family-owned business. It is made from select koa hardwood and protected with a UV high gloss finish. This enhances the wood’s natural beauty.
Kanilea’s top uses the TRU bracing system. This gives this ukulele a round back that makes it loud and clear. An internal graphite rod is used to reinforce the neck. It is made with strong South American mahogany and offers a stronger response than necks reinforced by steel.
This ukulele has a NuBone saddle and nut, a rosewood bridge, and custom chrome-geared Kanilea tuning keys. Aquila Corde strings come preinstalled and the hardshell case has a plush lining.
Pros:
- Exquisite custom instrument
- Exceptional fittings
- Includes case
Cons:
- It is possible to save!
What to Look for in a Six-String Ukulele
A 6-string uke is a smaller and more compact version of a guitar. They are tuned differently than the guitar and have different strings.
The guitar is tuned in E A D G B E from the lower string to the higher string. The 6-string ukulele is tuned in C G C E A D from the lower string to the higher string.
The strings on a 6-string ukulele are thinner than those on a guitar so they’re easier for beginners to press down and play.
You should verify that you are purchasing a six-string uke and not a guitarlele if you are looking for one. Although they look identical, the two instruments are designed to be compatible with different strings.
Quality is also important. This category isn’t as prone to poor workmanship as the 4-string ukulele, but there are still differences in tonewood, tuning machines and finishes.
Difference Between a 6-String Ukulele and a Guitar
A guitar and a six string ukulele are both part of the family of stringed instrument families. However, they may have the same physical appearances but their differences lie in the sound and size.
Six strings are common on guitars, but sometimes there are more. The string attachments to an instrument can vary in thickness, and the string composition may range from nylon to steel. You can also play the instrument with your fingers or by plucking at the strings. Finally, the sound that the guitar makes is determined by whether it’s an acoustic or electric guitar.
An acoustic guitar sounds when the strings are pulled and the hollow structure vibrates. An amplifier is required for an electric guitar to produce sound.
The ukulele also has four standard nylon strings. The size and tone of ukuleles will determine their classification. There are also ukuleles with different sizes such as the triangular fluke and the pineapple.
Conclusion
You’ll love the six-string ukuleles, no matter if you’re just starting out or an experienced player looking for a companion to share your musical journey. There are many options available at all price points, so it’s easy to get the best ukulele sound. Enjoy!
FAQ for 6-String Ukuleles
What is a ukulele?
Ukuleles are small instruments that originated in Europe. They have four strings and a decreased size, making them easier to play for many people. It was first introduced to Hawaii in 1879 by a Portuguese immigrant who lived there and played one kind of those smaller stringed instrument called a Braguinha.
The 6-string ukulele is a member of the lute family of instruments. Hawaiians were so impressed by an immigrant’s play style, they dubbed the instrument the “ukulele” or “jumping flea.” By the 1900s, ukuleles became synonymous with Hawaii.
Why are 6-string ukulele popular?
The popularity of the 6-string ukulele has been steadily rising for a number of years. One factor that contributes to this is that it is cheaper than the traditional 4-string ukulele. It also has a wider range and can be tuned to play in different keys.
What are the key differences between a 6-string ukulele over a 4-string uke?
The 6 string ukulele has been around since the 1920s. It was originally used by jazz musicians in Hawaii, but it has become popular with people who want to play more complex music.
The 6-string ukulele features a longer and wider neck than the four string uke. This means that it is easier to play chords and more advanced music on this instrument.
The six-string ukulele is also tuned differently than the four-string version of the instrument. This means that you can’t use a four-string ukulele for a six-string song, which is why most guitarists prefer to learn on an acoustic guitar instead of a uke.
What is the range on a 6-string ukulele?
The range on a 6-string ukulele is typically from G3 to C7.
How are 6-string ukuleles different from other ukes?
Six string ukuleles are different from other ukes because they have six strings instead of four. They also have a longer neck than the standard ukulele. The strings on a six string uke are also closer to the frets, which makes it easier to play chords and scales.
How does tuning 6-string ukulele compare to other ukes?
The standard ukuleles and the four-string ukuleles are tuned 2 1/2 steps higher without the two bass strings. The song will be the same if you use a tab for your guitar, but in a different key.
GCEA is the standard tuning for ukuleles, while GCCEAA is used for six-string ukuleles. The guitelele, another six-string version, is tuned the same as a guitar, but it starts on an A.
How do you play a 6-string ukulele?
The traditional Hawaiian way to play it is by holding it on your lap with the strings pointing towards you and then plucking or strumming them with your fingers or fingernails.
What is the price of a 6-string ukulele?
The price of a 6 string ukulele can depend on many factors. The most important factor is the quality of the instrument. The more expensive the instrument, the better it will sound and play. If you are looking for a cheaper option, you can find them for under $100.
Price is also dependent on where you purchase it from. If you buy it in person, then you will be paying more than if you order it online because there are no shipping costs involved with online shopping.
Where can purchase a 6-string ukulele?
There are many places where you can purchase a 6-string ukulele. For instance, music stores and online retailers.