This is an all solid koa concert ukulele, made by hand in Japan by Eiichi Sumi, a celebrated builder considered one of the finest in the world. These instruments are rare because most of the small output from his workshop is snapped up by the Japanese domestic market, where this luthier is rightly celebrated.

This example is likely to be one of the final ukuleles made by this luthier, who has 50 years of experience, such is the demand for his guitars too, which are commanding more of his time. It is made from premium all solid Hawaiian koa, which is set off with attractive maple binding, mother of pearl inlays on the bridge and headstock, and abalone around the soundhole, edges of the top and in a twin lined design on the back. It’s on the stunning side to look at, that’s for sure!

The uke is fitted with Worth Clear fluorcarbon strings, fantastic rear facing Gotoh UPT strings and comes with a quality hard case. This Sumi uke has a 35mm nut width, bone nut and saddle and an ebony fingerboard, bound with maple.

It sounds gorgeous, with a nice richness, plenty of clarity and great volume, with the thin top and satin finish allowing the uke to resonate beautifully. It rings, with great sustain, and offers an impressive dynamic range. It’s every inch a top drawer instrument. Of course, when you have a luthier with a global reputation, premium materials and looks to die for… there’s a cost attached too. And it might be hard to justify. But you don’t need to justify it to me! If you’ve had a special birthday, retirement fund or have won the lottery, treat yourself!

This Sumi concert uke comes with a hard case, so when you peruse the easy-to-add options at the bottom of the page, you can ignore that. Low G fitting is possible, as are strap buttons (if you want to have me trembling in the workshop while fitting one!)