The headline for the Kai KTI-20 tenor ukulele is that an instrument that plays as well and sounds as good as this should not cost this little. When you think that people start out their ukulele journey on inexpensive and poor quality ukes direct from Amazon, and yes, they might save £20 but they get something vastly inferior. This one is difficult to believe, and I say that as someone with a decade of experience of selling ukuleles. I wish I'd coined the phrase 'there's never been a better time to be a beginner', but that accurate quote comes from my friend Alex at Southern Ukulele store. In 2010, something this good, for this price, was simply unheard of.

Anyway, I'll stop rambling and get onto the Kai KTI-20... Kai are a relative newcomer to the market, but are one of the few new brands to concentrate on quality at an affordable price, rather than churn out the cheapest stuff possible. This tenor plays really nicely, with a nice balance, and sounds bright, lively and clear, without at any point sounding strident. There's plenty of volume too.

The laminate body has a pacific walnut veneer and a satin finish, and looks very smart, letting the wood do the talking. There's a soundport on the side - which gives a little more of the ample volume directly to the player. This is a non-essential aspect, but has its advantages particularly when you are learning, it's easier to hear your mistakes (and correct them!)

The Kai KTI-20 has geared tuners and clear fluorocarbon strings. The tuners work well although the plastic buttons on them are a little large - but then again, it's so inexpensive given the sound, there had to be something I wasn't as keen on or you'd think I worked for Kai! It doesn't come with a gig bag (more expensive Kai ukes do), but it's a standard size to fit in any tenor bag or case.

In conclusion, of course there are better ukuleles, but to be significantly better, you’d have to spend a lot more. And at this price, it is VERY hard to beat.

For a quick video demo of the Kai KTI-20 tenor ukulele, click additional info below. Also there is a longer demo of the Kai in a video entitled ‘the best ukulele under £90’.

If this ukulele is available to order, it is in stock and ready to go. If at any point it is out of stock, and you'd like an email when it is back in stock again, you can complete this simple form and I'll let you know when it's available. Contact Form.

For common accessories and customisations (like strap buttons / low G fitting) scroll down to the bottom of the page where you'll be able to add these common items to your basket.