Reviewing the Makala Dolphin soprano ukulele

I’m in middle school and for life skills I have ukulele and I have one of these for the class

You are doing well to get a tune out of the Makala. Looks like a great uke for my 4 year old grandson.

I have the koala version (and shimmery red paint) which I think may be less common, maybe only available in Australia, haven't found much info. I paid less than 40aud (not new). I like it, better than I expected though my experience is limited.

A clip on back, and guitar strap & some string, & 5 minutes & works great.

It's good that there is a decent playing, affordable uke out there for anyone who wants to play, but can't afford to spend much 🙂 They seem smaller than the average soprano to me though, so keep that in mind if you're a bigger person or have big hands.

The body of the Dolphin and Shark models is composite plastic, most likely ABS. The Dolphin is more like a Flight Travel Ukulele then a Waterman. The Dolphin and Shark necks are Mahogany. For travel or use in real humid environments the ABS neck of the Flight will be more stable. I tried a Dolphin last year and liked the sound, but was concerned about the wood sound board and neck since I was looking for a leave in the car ukulele at the time.
I just got a red Flight Travel Ukulele for my two year old Granddaughter. I felt the non painted ABS body and neck would look better and take more abuse over time. It is also a little Tank of an Ukulele.
Do you still have yours?
That would be a neat comparison video.
As always, keep up the great work 😊

My 9 year old son has the shark version. Can't tell you how many time I have grabbed it heading out the door just to have a uku with me to play. I put Aquila Red strings on it. Sounds nice and loud. Plays well with the reds.

I had the shark model many years ago, and they really are a fun little uke for what they are! Thanks for the review!

Don't Makala's have Brass Frets? I prefer the KA-WTML

There are already videos on Youtube regarding installation of the strap buttons. It is easy. Hardest part is locating the best spot on the neck. Hold the strap against the neck where you want to mount it and mark the middle of the strap hole. Obviously, tape the tail and the neck where you intend to install the strap buttons.

My first uke was a Makala concert. Very similar price point to the dolphin and I would review it similar to your dolphin. My biggest gripe was those plastic ferrules under the tuning pegs. They constantly rattled and buzzed. I ended up cutting small pieces of felt to put under them. All in all, a good starter instrument.

I think they sound good !!!!!!!!)))

Hello Jodie, had to comment again. Love this short review of this Makala Dolphin UKE 😊 This pink one looks sweet! I am not a child anymore – and it could be a little crazy – but I have three of these Ukes. A redburst, a greenburst (which was the first one I I bought from these Dolphins) and a yellowburst. And what should I say – I love them all. I like the sound, the look and the fact that they are great for travel or as an outdoor UKE. I put Martin 600 strings on all of them. And the yellow one is my UKE which got a place at my Work. Sometimes when I am stressed from the Work I make a pause and play on it. Its a lot of fun – and I agree with you that it is a great choice for kids or perhaps adults as an beginner UKE! … or for travelling! Mahalo Nui and be blessed from Germany Bettina

Be great for that grade school , first and second graders . Nice , they would love all the different colors !