Best Kala Bass Ukuleles 2026
So, you're thinking about a Kala bass uke? Smart move. They've really become the go-to for a lot of players looking for that upright-esque low end without the bulk and complexity. Kala pretty much defined the modern bass uke market, and for good reason - they nailed the ergonomics and tone early on. Let's break down what makes their basses tick and which model might be right for your gig or studio setup.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best bass ukuleles in 2026 are Kala U-Bass Solid Body 5-String JBK (top pick), Kala U-Bass Solid Body 4-String CAR for tighter budgets, and Kala U-Bass Solid Body 5-String TB for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $347–$696, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Kala U-Bass Solid Body 5-String JBK
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Folk
World Music
Bass Lines
Key Feature:
This JBK is a seriously cool, versatile instrument. It's perfect for ukulele players looking to transition to bass, or bassists wanting a lighter, more portable option with a unique voice. The 5-string setup opens up a lot of creative possibilities and the solid body construction gives it a surprising amount of punch.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a surprisingly warm, resonant low-end.
- • 5-string expands harmonic possibilities and offers unique voicings.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a stable, responsive playing feel.
- • Kala humbucker pickup offers a focused, punchy tone with good clarity.
CONS
- • Okoume, while nice, isn't a premium tonewood like mahogany or koa.
- • The 597mm scale can feel cramped for bassists accustomed to longer scales.
- • The enclosed tuners, while functional, aren't the highest-grade hardware.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 584891
$464
Kala U-Bass Solid Body 4-String CAR
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
4-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Bass Lines
Ukulele Ensembles
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
The Kala U-Bass Solid Body CAR is a fantastic gateway into the bass world, especially for ukulele players looking for a unique instrument. It nails that upright bass vibe without the bulk, offering a surprisingly powerful and punchy tone. It's perfect for gigging musicians needing a portable, versatile bass option or songwriters wanting a fresh, distinct low-end.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising projection.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides stability and a comfortable, familiar feel.
- • Kala split coil pickup offers a surprisingly full, bass-like tone.
- • Enclosed tuners ensure accurate tuning stability even with aggressive playing.
CONS
- • Okoume, while nice, isn't as tonally complex as more premium woods.
- • The shorter scale limits low-end extension compared to a full-size bass.
- • Candy Apple Red finish can be a fingerprint magnet and shows wear easily.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 575725
$348
Kala U-Bass Solid Body 5-String TB
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Folk
Unique Sound
Portable Bass
Key Feature:
This Kala U-Bass 5-String TB is a surprisingly versatile instrument—it’s got a solid feel, a good low end, and the humbucker gives it a real growl. It's a fantastic option for ukulele players wanting to explore bass lines or bassists looking for a lighter, more portable option without sacrificing too much sonic character. It's a great entry point into the world of bass ukuleles.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a warm, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • 5-string configuration expands harmonic possibilities and low-end range.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy feel and easy playability.
- • Kala humbucker delivers a thick, punchy tone suitable for various genres.
CONS
- • Okoume body can be slightly heavier than other ukulele bass materials.
- • 597 mm scale length might feel cramped for experienced bass players.
- • Laurel fretboard, while playable, isn't as luxurious as ebony or rosewood.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 584897
$464
Kala U-Bass Solid Body 4 Fret Blue
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
22 frets
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Portable Bass
Bass Lines
World Music
Key Feature:
The Kala U-Bass 4-Fret Solid Body is a neat little package. It’s fantastic for ukulele players looking to explore bass lines or for bassists wanting a super portable, unique instrument. The solid body construction gives it a surprisingly full sound, and the short scale makes it easy to handle.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a surprisingly resonant, warm low-end for a solid body.
- • Maple neck and laurel fingerboard offer smooth playability and comfortable feel.
- • Kala split coil pickup provides a surprisingly robust and articulate tone.
- • Sealed machine heads ensure stable tuning, a significant upgrade for the price.
CONS
- • 597mm scale can feel cramped for bassists accustomed to longer scales.
- • Okoume, while nice, isn't a premium tonewood, impacting ultimate sustain.
- • Limited fretboard space restricts advanced playing techniques and soloing.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 600196
$348
Kala U-Bass Solid Body 5-Str FL TB
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Bass Lines
Unique Sound
Portable Bass
Key Feature:
This Kala U-Bass is a seriously cool instrument for bassists wanting something different. The fretless design and humbucker pickup give it a really unique voice – think upright bass meets electric bass, but in a much more portable package. It’s a great option for gigging musicians or studio players looking for a novel tonal palette.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a warm, resonant tone with surprising projection.
- • Fretless design encourages expressive slides and a unique bass timbre.
- • Kala humbucker delivers a thick, punchy sound suitable for various genres.
- • Maple neck and laurel fingerboard offer a comfortable playing experience and good sustain.
CONS
- • Okoume, while warm, can be a bit less articulate than denser hardwoods.
- • 597mm scale feels shorter than a standard bass, requiring adjustment for some players.
- • Fretless learning curve is steeper; intonation demands careful attention and practice.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 584893
$464
Kala U-Bass Solid Body 5-Str FL JBK
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Ukulele Ensembles
World Music
Folk
Key Feature:
This Kala U-Bass is a seriously fun instrument. The fretless action and 5-string configuration open up a ton of possibilities for bassists and ukulele players looking for a unique voice. It's surprisingly versatile and a great entry point into the world of fretless instruments.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a surprisingly warm and resonant tone for a U-Bass.
- • Fretless design allows for expressive slides and vocal-like phrasing.
- • Kala humbucker provides a thick, punchy low-end with reduced noise.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers stability and a comfortable, familiar feel.
CONS
- • Okoume body, while nice sounding, can be prone to dents and scratches.
- • 597mm scale feels cramped for bassists accustomed to longer scales.
- • Fretless learning curve can be steep for players unfamiliar with the style.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 584888
$464
Kala U-Bass Solid Body 4-Str LH TBG
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
22 frets
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Bass Lines
Folk
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
This left-handed Kala U-Bass is a fun, affordable entry point into the world of bass ukulele. The solid body construction gives it a surprisingly robust tone, and the split coil pickup delivers a respectable low-end. It's a great option for ukulele players wanting to explore bass lines or for someone needing a compact, portable bass for practice or smaller gigs.
PROS
- • Okoume body offers a warm, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel for quick playing.
- • Split coil pickup delivers a focused, punchy low-end with less hum.
- • Enclosed tuners ensure stable tuning, crucial for bass ukulele stability.
CONS
- • Okoume can be prone to dents and scratches; finish needs care.
- • 597mm scale can feel cramped for bassists accustomed to longer scales.
- • Limited tonal versatility; excels in specific genres, less so others.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 584887
$348
Kala U-Bass Solid Body 4-String SG
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Strings
4-string
Body
Okoume body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Portable Bass
Unique Sound
World Music
Key Feature:
The Kala U-Bass SG is a seriously fun instrument for players wanting a portable, bass-like experience. It's surprisingly versatile, handling everything from mellow grooves to punchy funk. This is a great option for gigging musicians or apartment dwellers who need a bass that doesn’t take up too much space.
PROS
- • Okoume body delivers a surprisingly warm, resonant tone for a U-Bass.
- • Kala’s split-coil pickups provide a thick, focused low-end response.
- • Maple neck and laurel fingerboard offer smooth playability and comfortable feel.
- • Sealed machine heads ensure stable tuning, crucial for bass frequencies.
CONS
- • Okoume, while nice sounding, can be prone to dents and scratches.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to a full-size bass.
- • Surf Green finish might not appeal to all players – a bit visually loud.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 621100
$348
Kala U-Bass Teak Fretted
by
Kala
Scale
514.4 mm (20.25")
Frets
16 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Unique Sound
Folk
World Music
Key Feature:
This is a great option for players who want a bass ukulele that sounds full and warm right out of the box. The teak body gives it a rich, acoustic tone while the active pickups help it cut through any mix. It comes with a nice bag and plenty of frets for complex playing, but you might wonder how heavy it feels without a weight listed. It suits anyone looking for a portable, versatile instrument that bridges the gap between traditional bass and ukulele styles.
PROS
- • Solid teak top and sides provide a warm, resonant acoustic base.
- • Active EQ pickups let you shape tone without losing clarity.
- • Fretted neck offers precise intonation across all 16 frets.
- • Includes a custom gig bag for easy transport and protection.
CONS
- • Composite plastic saddle may lack the sustain of a metal alternative.
- • No weight is listed, so heaviness is uncertain for long plays.
- • Description omits string gauge, leaving tension choices unknown.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 647876
$348
Kala U-BASS Hutch Hutchinson Sign.
by
Kala
Scale
518 mm (20.39")
Frets
16 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
World Music
Portable Bass
Bass Lines
Key Feature:
This Hutch Hutchinson bass ukelet is built for players who want a solid spruce top that sings with warmth. The mahogany back and sides keep the tone rich while the TUSQ nut stays true to the scale. It comes with a Fishman pickup and a gig bag, but you can't tell the weight from the notes. It suits anyone needing a compact, mid-range instrument that sounds big without the bulk.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top drives strong, clear low-end response
- • Mahogany back and sides add warmth and depth
- • Graph Tech TUSQ nut ensures smooth fretboard action
- • Fishman U-BASS EQ pickup offers built-in tone control
CONS
- • No listed weight makes handling feel uncertain
- • Polyurethane strings may lack traditional string feel
- • Description omits bridge material and pickup type details
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 629238
$696
Kala U-Bass Solid Body Jet Black
by
Kala
Scale
597 mm (23.5")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
World Music
Ukulele Ensembles
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
This Kala U-Bass Solid Body is a surprisingly versatile instrument, offering a unique blend of ukulele portability and bass-like tone. The solid body construction and split coil pickup give it a robust sound perfect for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a compact, powerful bass alternative. It's a great entry point into the world of bass ukuleles, especially for those looking for something a little different.
PROS
- • Okoume body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy response and comfortable playing feel.
- • Split coil pickup delivers a thick, punchy tone with unexpected clarity.
- • Enclosed machine heads ensure stable tuning, a welcome upgrade for a bass uke.
CONS
- • Okoume body, while warm, lacks the projection of denser woods like mahogany.
- • 597mm scale feels cramped for experienced bassists accustomed to longer scales.
- • Jet Black gloss finish shows fingerprints easily, requiring frequent cleaning.
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 575655
$348
Kala U-Bass Wanderer
by
Kala
Scale
530 mm (20.87")
Frets
16 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Portable Bass
Bass Lines
Ukulele Ensembles
Key Feature:
The Wanderer is a seriously cool, portable bass option. Its mahogany construction gives it a surprisingly full tone, and the built-in electronics make it gig-ready. It's fantastic for bassists wanting a unique, travel-friendly instrument or ukulele players looking to explore a new low-end territory.
PROS
- • Mahogany top delivers a warm, woody tone with surprising sustain.
- • Graph Tech TUSQ nut improves tuning stability and enhances clarity.
- • Kala UK-500B electronics offer a respectable amplified sound for stage or recording.
- • Solid mahogany construction provides a surprisingly robust and resonant feel.
CONS
- • The satin finish, while attractive, can feel a little plasticky to the touch.
- • Limited fretboard space restricts advanced playing techniques and higher-register runs.
- • The instrument's size and weight can be cumbersome for smaller players or travel.
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 532293
$429
Kala U-Bass Exotic Mahogany
by
Kala
Scale
517 mm (20.35")
Frets
16 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Ukulele Ensembles
Portable Bass
Bass Lines
Key Feature:
This Kala U-Bass Exotic Mahogany is a solid choice for players wanting a bass-like experience in a ukulele form factor. The mahogany gives it a rich, woody tone, and the Fishman electronics are a big step up in terms of clarity and control. It's perfect for singer-songwriters or anyone looking for a portable, versatile bass option.
PROS
- • Exotic mahogany construction delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising depth.
- • Hipshot Ultralite tuners offer exceptionally smooth and precise tuning stability.
- • Fishman U-Bass EQ provides flexible tonal shaping, addressing common U-Bass muddiness.
- • Rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of refinement and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • The all-mahogany build contributes to a relatively heavier feel compared to other U-basses.
- • The 517mm scale, while standard for U-Bass, requires some adaptation from traditional bass players.
- • The Road Toad Pahoehoe strings, while good, might be a point of upgrade for more discerning players.
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 528648
$696
Kala U-Bass Journeyman BLK
by
Kala
Scale
530 mm (20.87")
Frets
16 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Ukulele Ensembles
Unique Sound
Portable Bass
Key Feature:
The Kala Journeyman U-Bass is a seriously cool instrument, blending the portability of a uke with the low-end thump of a bass. It’s fantastic for gigging musicians who want a compact, amplified bass sound, or for songwriters looking for a unique tonal palette. Just be prepared to tweak your EQ to really dial in that sweet spot.
PROS
- • Mahogany top delivers warm, woody tones with surprising sustain.
- • UK-500B pickup system provides a clear, amplified signal with decent EQ control.
- • Rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and good note definition.
- • Solid construction with cream binding adds a touch of elegance and perceived quality.
CONS
- • All-mahogany construction can sound a bit 'boxy' without careful EQ adjustments.
- • The longer scale (530mm) can feel unwieldy for smaller hands or ukulele players.
- • Metal roundwound strings contribute to a less 'ukulele-like' feel; can be harsh.
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 527264
$533
Kala U-Bass Journeyman NT
by
Kala
Scale
530 mm (20.87")
Frets
16 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Bass Lines
World Music
Ukulele Ensembles
Key Feature:
The Journeyman NT is a seriously fun instrument. Its mahogany build gives it a warm, woody tone that's surprisingly bassy for its size, and the onboard electronics make it gig-ready. This is perfect for songwriters, studio players, or anyone wanting a unique, portable bass sound.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany top delivers warm, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- • The UK-500B pickup system provides a clean, usable amplified signal.
- • Rosewood fingerboard and Graph Tech nut enhance playability and intonation.
- • Venetian cutaway allows comfortable access to higher fret positions.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction makes it a bit heavier than some other u-basses.
- • The roundwound strings offer a modern tone, but some may prefer flats.
- • Scale length, while longer than a ukulele, limits low-end extension compared to a full-size bass.
⭐
4.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
2/10
Art. 527263
$499
Every bass ukuleles that matches
19 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Kala U-Bass 4 Fret Paisley Orange | Scale 597 mm (23.5") · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $394 |
| 17 | Kala U-Bass Nomad 4 NT | Scale 528 mm (20.79") · Frets 16 frets | $324 |
| 18 | Kala U-Bass Ebony Fretless | Scale 517 mm (20.35") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $696 |
| 19 | Kala U-Bass Scout Fretless 4 NT | Scale 539 mm (21.22") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $371 |
Bass Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 39 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $348
from $144 to $696
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 38.1 mm (1.5") to 45 mm (1.77") · 19 models
Scale
median 530 mm (20.87")
from 510 mm (20.08") to 597 mm (23.5") · 36 models
Frets
median 20
from 16 to 22 · 29 models
Body
okoume, mahogany, poplar
most common · 17 models
Fingerboard
laurel, rosewood, maple
most common · 22 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 4-string to 5-string · 6 models
Neck profile
C
most common · 6 models
How to Choose the Best Bass Ukuleles
1
Heritage & Design
Kala's early designs set the standard. They weren't the first to build a bass uke, but their focus on playability and a comfortable neck profile - often a 'C' shape - really resonated with players. You can feel that design DNA across their lineup.
2
Tone Characteristics
Expect a warmth that's more wood than ice. While some competitors go for a scooped, overly-bright sound, Kalas generally have a more balanced response, offering a usable low-end thump without getting muddy. The mahogany models are particularly known for that fat midrange honk that cuts through a mix.
3
Build Quality & Materials
Kala offers a wide range, from laminate to solid wood construction. Laminates are durable and gig-ready, but solid wood (like their Koa basses) breathes more and offers more complex overtones - a noticeable improvement in sustain and articulation. Pay attention to fretwork; even on higher-end models, it can sometimes need a little tweaking.
4
Pickup Voicing & Electronics
Kala's pickups are generally well-voiced for the instrument, aiming for a natural, acoustic tone. They don't always have a ton of headroom for distortion, but they're surprisingly versatile for a range of genres - from jazz to blues to indie rock. The onboard EQ is usually straightforward and effective for basic tone shaping.
5
Scale Length & Action
The shorter scale length (typically 19-21 inches) is what gives the bass uke its unique feel, but it also means you need to be mindful of string tension and action. Kala generally sets the action reasonably low, but it's something to check and adjust if needed to avoid fret buzz and ensure comfortable playing.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the flashiest wood; focus on the feel and the electronics. A laminate model with good fretwork will gig just as well as a pricier solid wood version with poorly dressed frets. Watch out for excessively low action - it can lead to fret buzz and a flabby low end. Spend a little more for a model with a solid top; the difference in resonance and sustain is significant.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 19 of 39 bass ukuleles from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Relatively! The shorter scale length makes them easier on the fingers than a bass guitar, but you still need to develop finger strength and coordination. It's a great entry point into the bass world.
Yes, but be careful with the EQ. Bass ukes often respond better to a cleaner amp setting. Too much gain or a scooped EQ can make them sound boxy and undefined.
Mahogany tends to be warmer and more mid-focused, while Koa offers a brighter, more articulate tone with a more complex harmonic profile. Koa also looks gorgeous, but it comes at a premium.
Typically, they're tuned E-A-D-G, like a bass guitar, an octave below a standard ukulele. However, string tension can vary, so check your tuning frequently, especially with new strings.
Absolutely. Their warm, balanced tone sits well in a mix, but a good condenser mic and a little bit of EQ can really bring out their character. DI recording is also very usable.
