If you are looking for a gloss finish or bling, look elsewhere. Alternatively, if you appreciate a perfect satin hand rubbed finish, and a subtle but eloquent look and feel, you might be in the right place. A Beansprout is different from your typical ukulele. Here I will be providing feedback on my tenor.
It arrived in a very nice and well fitting lockable case and upon opening, it has a distinct new smell which I assume is a combination of the fresh wood and finish.
When picking it up for the first time, I immediately noticed the feel of the neck. I just kept moving my hand up and down and marveled at the silky feeling.
Next, I noticed just how light it was. For reference, I weighed it along with my other ukuleles. Blackbird Farallon came in at 806 grams; Flight Voyager with pick-up 706 grams; Lanikai MAS-T (with 2 strap buttons 602 grams; KoAloha KTM-00 (no strap buttons) 628 grams, KoAloha KYM-10RPMG Royal Pikake (no strap buttons) 588 grams; the Beansprout with a K&K pick-up and heel strap button was 506 grams.
I took my time looking it over. Overall, the total finish is flawless. The upgraded woods speak for themselves as the grain in the curly Port Orford Cedar and curly and grafted walnut are both stunning and interesting, without any need of additional adornment. It has a simple yet complex look highlighting the craftsmanship and attention to detail that Aaron puts into his instruments. The hand rubbed satin finish is different from the spray finish on my satin KoAloha, more refined and obvious in a very good way.
It didn’t need much in the way of tuning. I guess he plays and stretches the strings sufficiently before shipping.
All ukuleles have a unique sound and this one is no exception. It came with Beansprout strings which I understand are sourced from GHS. They are a higher tension than I am used to and it was noticeable. They sound very nice and the low action makes them easier to play. I plan to leave them to see how my fingers adjust. My understanding is that they are favored by fingerpickers and claw hammer enthusiasts, plus I’m convinced Aaron put a lot of thought into this choice. At this point, I’m more of a strummer but actively working on my fingerpicking.
The body shape is unique compared to the more traditional KoAloha shape. The upper bout width is 6 5/16”; lower bout width is 8”; body depth at the neck is 2 1/2”; and bottom is 2 13/16”. Overall, the measurements are less than the KoAloha with the biggest difference in the lower bout, the KoAloha being a full inch wider. However, the smaller body does not reduce the volume or sustain when compared to the KoAloha, at least to my ears, and the bass response with the low G is more balanced.
As far as how it sounds, I’ll refer you to the Avery Hill review video posted here because the woods are similar and she is a much better player. Her description and thoughts closely reflect mine.
I haven't plugged it in yet but will report back when I do. Also, this is my first ukulele with a radiused fretboard. So far, I'm thinking it makes barre chords slightly easier.
I ordered the wood case tag with the serial number and my name burned in along with a natural tanned leather BeanSprout strap. The tag is classy and the strap is adjustable by easily cutting/removing any excess. At about an inch wide, the leather is very soft, pliable and unfinished on the underside which keeps it from slipping. The top is smooth with "Beansprout" somehow written on it in black. I’ll be installing one on other ukuleles that I have.
