This is no concert-quality ukelele, but it's actually pretty darn good. It's probably fair to say that I'm a bit of an instrument snob. I play cello, violin, electric and acoustic guitar, and piano, so I know a thing or two. But I'm really happy with this purchase.
As I'd expect of any instrument with nylon strings, it takes A LOT of tuning over the first few days as the strings stretch out — especially since it came completely loose and untuned (which is the right way to ship it). But the tuners do their job nicely and after a few days the tuning starts to get pretty constant. Just get an app for your phone; they're free and do the job perfectly.
The sound is pleasant: timbre is good; it's not so loud that the kids get on my nerves while playing it, unlike when they bang away on the piano; the frets are all just about where they need to be, so it's not dissonant or hard to play. It's sturdy enough that I expect it to take the inevitable beating without disintegrating. (I've even taught my dog to strum it!) Though we do make an effort to make sure they don't use it as a club. And the bright colors and somewhat whimsical graphic design make this more interesting and fun for the kids.
But it's still a real instrument, so I can get a pretty good sound out of it, and play actual songs. That encourages the kids to make a real effort to produce something resembling music. Of course, I'm also careful not to be a jerk about it, and just let them strum nonsense so it stays fun.
For the $21 I paid, this is very well worth the price. Very very happy with this purchase.
EDIT: After a year of use and abuse, it's still going strong. One of my toddlers was banging away on the strings with a spoon, and we just lost the first string. No big deal. Will buy new strings for a few bucks.
Hape Kid’s Wooden Toy Ukulele | 21 Inch Wooden Ukulele Musical Instrument with Vibrant Sound and Tunable Nylon Strings for Ch
4.4 | 5,200 ratings
Price: 29.99
Last update: 09-10-2024
About this item
Perfect introduction to teach kids about the world of music
Sturdy ukulele for young hands yet fully playable and easily tunable
Teaches young kids about basic rhythm, strumming, and other musical techniques
Encourages children to develop auditory and creativity skills
Non-toxic finishes and child safe materials complete this fantastic product
Sturdy ukulele for young hands yet fully playable and easily tunable
Teaches young kids about basic rhythm, strumming, and other musical techniques
Encourages children to develop auditory and creativity skills
Non-toxic finishes and child safe materials complete this fantastic product
Product information
| Product Dimensions | 21.06 x 6.89 x 2.56 inches |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Country of Origin | China |
| ASIN | B00DQRV6B6 |
| Item model number | E0317 |
| Manufacturer recommended age | 3 years and up |
| Best Sellers Rank | #10,213 in Toys & Games (See Top 100 in Toys & Games) #7 in Kids' Guitars & Strings |
| Customer Reviews |
4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars
5,178 ratings
4.4 out of 5 stars |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Release date | July 7, 2013 |
| Manufacturer | Hape |
Top reviews from the United States
Jill
Great way to introduce kids to music. Keep music fun!
Reviewed in the United States on May 18, 2017Pao22
Better quality than expected
Reviewed in the United States on January 24, 2024Cody & Sarah
Playable for a toy
Reviewed in the United States on December 27, 2023Jessica crusey
I was unsure
Reviewed in the United States on December 29, 2023Ruth I Lopez
Real nice and sturdy.
Reviewed in the United States on December 25, 2023Egan Yu
The strings are in the wrong order.
Reviewed in the United States on February 28, 2024MB
High quality, still going strong after 4+ years and frequent toddler use
Reviewed in the United States on February 13, 2022
JS
Fun little uke, and absolutely tune-able (just takes a little patience)
Reviewed in the United States on June 14, 2017