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Description

Discover the perfect fusion of portability and deep, resonant bass tones with the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS 4-String Fretted Ukulele. This innovative instrument redefines what it means to be a bass player on the go, offering the compact convenience of a 21-inch scale without compromising on sound quality. Designed with Kala's proprietary polyurethane strings, this U-BASS delivers a rich, full-bodied bass sound that rivals full-sized bass guitars, tuned to the standard EADG.

Whether you're jetting off to a gig or jamming in the studio, the U-BASS is engineered for seamless performance. The Shadow active pickup system ensures your sound is always top-notch, while the Custom Hipshot Tuners provide reliable tuning stability. Encased in a deluxe logo gig bag, complete with plush padding, this ukulele bass is ready to travel wherever your music takes you.

Ideal for both live performances and recording sessions, the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS is a favorite among professional bassists seeking a portable option without sacrificing tonal integrity. Its superb playability and fat-sweet sound make it a versatile choice for any ensemble setting, from intimate acoustic sessions to full-band concerts. Dive into a new musical experience with this groundbreaking short-scale bass and let your creativity soar.

Key Features:

  • 21-inch scale for easy portability
  • Standard bass tuning (EADG)
  • Proprietary polyurethane strings for rich bass tone
  • Shadow active pickup system
  • Custom Hipshot Tuners for precise tuning
  • Deluxe logo gig bag with plush padding included

Product specs

Brand Kala
Model SUB4FS-BRST U-Bass SUB Solid Body Electric Bass with Bag
Finish 3-Tone Sunburst
Year 2010s
Categories 4-String Basses
Active / Passive Pickups Active Pickups
Active Preamp Active Preamp
Body Shape Mini
Color Family Orange
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Walnut
Number of Frets 22
Number of Strings 4-String
Right / Left Handed Right Handed

FAQs

What makes the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS unique compared to other ukuleles?

The Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS features a compact size with a giant sound, thanks to its proprietary Polyurethane strings and SHADOW pickup system. This combination delivers a deep bass tone similar to a double bass when amplified.

Is the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS suitable for travel?

Yes, the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS meets all airline carry-on requirements, making it an excellent choice for traveling musicians. It also includes a U-Bass logo gig bag for added convenience and protection.

What type of pickups does the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS use?

The Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS is equipped with active pickups and an active preamp, featuring a SHADOW pickup system with a volume knob and 2-band EQ for versatile sound shaping.

How many frets does the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS have?

The Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS features a walnut fretboard with 22 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and playing styles.

Are the strings on the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS different from regular ukulele strings?

Yes, the Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS uses proprietary Polyurethane strings designed to produce a rich, deep bass tone that sets it apart from traditional ukulele strings.

Travis Dykes

Travis Dykes

Kala Solid Body U-Bass Review + Giveaway

Video thumbnail for Kala Solid Body U-Bass Review + Giveaway by Travis Dykes

Kala Solid Body U-Bass Review + Giveaway

Travis Dykes

Travis Dykes

Video thumbnail for Bass Musician Magazine Reviews - Solid Body 4 String Fretted U•BASS® by Bass Musician Magazine

Bass Musician Magazine Reviews - Solid Body 4 String Fretted U•BASS®

Bass Musician Magazine

Bass Musician Magazine

Video thumbnail for Kala Solid Body UBass Demo/Review at Aloha City Ukes - Solidbody U-Bass by Aloha City Ukes

Kala Solid Body UBass Demo/Review at Aloha City Ukes - Solidbody U-Bass

Aloha City Ukes

Aloha City Ukes

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kala Solid Body SUB U-BASS 4-String Fretted Ukulele.

Mods and upgrades

  • Switching to flatwound strings can significantly improve comfort and tone, eliminating metallic tinniness and making the bass sound more like a P-Bass.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Squier short scale Jaguar bass is recommended as a lighter and similarly priced alternative to the Gretsch, with good sound quality.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Some suggest the Gretsch G2220 as a viable option for young players, highlighting its ability to allow skill transfer to full-scale basses.

    Source
  • After significant setup, some users prefer the solid body U-Bass over full-scale basses for casual play due to its improved playability and portability.

    Source
  • The solid body model is praised for its portability, making it suitable for travel and convenient practice settings, even in confined spaces like cars or small rooms.

    Source

User experience

  • An owner who tried various short-scale basses found the Gretsch to be the best fit, citing its comfort and tone, further enhanced by LaBella white tapes.

    Source
  • Newer models with magnetic pickups are reported to be heavier despite their small size, with some users noting the neck can feel crowded due to string size.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The solid-body U-Bass with its electric pickup and design akin to a P bass offers a more conventional bass experience, making it less divergent from traditional bass guitars.

    Source
  • The Kala Solid Body U-BASS uses heavy gauge La Bella strings, with the E string at .110, offering a balance between tension and playability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass is noted to have a wide fingerboard, which might not be ideal for smaller hands, compared to the Kala U-Bass.

    Source
  • Some players find the Ibanez Mikro a viable alternative, being closer in size to a guitar and offering a similar playing experience.

    Source
  • Compared to the acoustic Kala U-Bass, the solid body version is noted to be more portable and easier to play due to its smaller size and similar bridge design.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Professional setups may involve reshaping the nut and adjusting string length at the bridge to ensure harmonics align with frets, enhancing playability and intonation.

    Source
  • Pickup adjustment is crucial; lowering the treble pickup and adjusting the E string side can even out string volume and reduce feedback.

    Source
  • Owners often need to adjust neck relief using the truss rod and saddle height for playable action, especially on new Kala solid body U-Bass models.

    Source
  • Some owners report intonation issues, particularly on the higher frets of the E and A strings, suggesting a professional setup may be beneficial.

    Source

Build quality

  • One owner mentioned a "bell-like" sound starting at the 12th fret on the E and A strings, which wasn't noted in fretless or 5-string models.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Kala Brand Music Solid Body 4-String Fretted U•BASS® - Bass Musician Magazine, The Face of Bass

bassmusicianmagazine.com

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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