Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$449.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$449.00
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$449.00 New
$348.98 Used
Thomann
4.0 (4)
$582.00 $573.00 $9.00
Gear4Music
£449.99

Average Price: $452

High-end/Boutique

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Kala U-Bass Fretless Acoustic-Electric Bass Ukulele - Striped Ebony". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

The Kala U-Bass Fretless Acoustic-Electric Bass Ukulele - Striped Ebony is an exquisitely crafted instrument that combines compact convenience with full-bodied sound. The standout feature of this U-Bass is the mesmerizing striped ebony top, back, and sides, accented by maple binding. This stunning visual appeal is matched by a rich, resonant tone that has been compared to that of an upright bass, making it an ideal choice for a variety of genres.

The fretless rosewood fingerboard offers excellent playability, response, and an additional layer of aesthetic appeal. The secret behind the U-Bass’s big sound is the unique combination of tonewoods and Kala's proprietary polyurethane strings. These lightweight, large-diameter strings deliver a deep, rich, and wooden quality sound reminiscent of an upright bass but uniquely colored by the U-Bass’s own musical quality.

The U-Bass also features custom Hipshot Ultralite tuning machines and a GraphTech nut and rosewood bridge, enhancing the overall tone quality and visual appeal. When plugged in, the Fishman U-Bass EQ electronics offer great amplified tone, and a built-in tuner with Volume and Tone control makes staying in tune simple and hassle-free.

Key Features:

  • Compact 21"-scale acoustic-electric bass
  • Striped ebony top, back, and sides
  • Fretless rosewood fingerboard
  • Lightweight polyurethane strings
  • GraphTech nut and rosewood bridge
  • Custom Hipshot Ultralite tuning machines
  • Fishman electronics
  • Built-in tuner with Volume and Tone control
  • Includes a Deluxe U-Bass gig bag

Product specs

Number of Strings 4
String Type Proprietary Polyurethane
Body Type Acoustic Bass
Body Shape U-Bass
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Finish Satin
Top Wood Striped Ebony
Back & Sides Wood Striped Ebony
Binding Maple
Neck Material Mahogany
Fingerboard Inlay Dots
Number of Frets Fretless (16)
Scale Length 20.375"
Nut Width 1.75"
Nut/Saddle Material GraphTech Tusq/Composite
Bridge Material Rosewood
Tuning Machines Custom Hipshot Ultralite
Electronics Fishman U-Bass EQ
Strings Road Toad Strings, Proprietary Polyurethane
Case/Gig Bag Gig Bag
Body Length 14"
Body Width 10.25" lower bout, 7.75" upper bout
Body Depth 3.25"
Overall Length 29.37"

FAQs

What is the primary sound characteristic of the Kala U-Bass Fretless Acoustic-Electric Bass Ukulele?

The Kala U-Bass Fretless offers a warm, deep, and resonant tone, thanks to its striped ebony construction and proprietary polyurethane strings, making it ideal for both acoustic and amplified settings.

Is the Kala U-Bass Fretless suitable for beginners?

While it offers unique tonal qualities, the fretless design may present a learning curve for beginners. However, it is a rewarding instrument for those interested in exploring new sounds and techniques.

Can the Kala U-Bass Fretless be used with standard bass amplifiers?

Yes, the Kala U-Bass Fretless is equipped with Fishman U-Bass EQ electronics, allowing it to be easily connected to standard bass amplifiers for amplified performances.

What type of strings come with the Kala U-Bass Fretless?

The Kala U-Bass Fretless comes with proprietary polyurethane strings, specifically designed to complement its acoustic-electric design and enhance its deep, rich tonal quality.

How does the Kala U-Bass Fretless differ from a traditional bass guitar?

The Kala U-Bass Fretless is a short-scale bass ukulele, offering a more compact size and unique tonal characteristics compared to a traditional bass guitar, making it highly portable and distinct in sound.

Ukulele

Ukulele

Uke Review: Kala Wanderer and Striped Ebony U-Basses

Video thumbnail for Uke Review: Kala Wanderer and Striped Ebony U-Basses by Ukulele

Uke Review: Kala Wanderer and Striped Ebony U-Basses

Ukulele

Ukulele

Reviews

PROS

  • Delivers a punchy Upright bass sound without the bulk

  • Lightweight and compact, ideal for gigs

  • Equipped with renowned Fishman electronics and pickup

  • Loud enough for solo practice without an amp

  • Offers a unique tone distinct from typical basses

  • Onboard tuner is convenient for quick adjustments

  • High-quality craftsmanship and visually appealing striped ebony finish

  • Strings hold tune well after initial adjustment

  • Easy transition from larger basses, enhancing playability

CONS

  • Unamplified E string may lack resonance

  • Onboard tuner accuracy could be improved

  • Hipshot heads may require additional tightening

  • Limited setup adjustments without professional intervention

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kala U-Bass Fretless Acoustic-Electric Bass Ukulele - Striped Ebony.

Setup and maintenance

  • Expect frequent retuning for the first month as the strings settle in, which is typical for this model.

    Source

Build quality

  • A common issue is uneven string volume due to poorly cut piezo pickup slots under the bridge.

    Source
  • Owners criticize the Shadow pickup for poor alignment of the pot knobs with their markings, affecting usability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Fretless version offers an upright bass-like tone, which is distinct from the fretted version that some feel sounds too much like a standard bass.

    Source
  • The Fishman U-Bass EQ pickup is favored for its better sound quality and ease of use compared to the unbuffered Shadow pickup, which can be finicky.

    Source

User experience

  • Playing on the short scale isn't challenging with practice; similar techniques as used on a 35-inch scale fretless can be applied.

    Source
  • Some users have experienced significant variability in performance with Shadow pickups, prompting them to switch to Fishman for reliability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Acoustically, the U-Bass sounds weak and requires amplification for adequate bass presence.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Round wound strings offer a loud, bright, and clear sound, while rubber strings need electric amplification due to tuning challenges.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Fishman pickup is preferred over the Shadow for its superior performance in most applications and amplifiers, according to multiple owners.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Uke Review: Kala Wanderer and Striped Ebony U-Basses | Ukulele Magazine

ukulelemagazine.com

Kala’s U-Basses are undeniably charming, with the Striped Ebony shining particularly bright with its bold, guitar-like tone and sophisticated aesthetics. While both models deliver impressive sound and versatility, the Wanderer impresses with its gigantic upright-style tone, perfect for jam sessions. However, the thick strings can be a challenge for some, and the Striped Ebony's high nut slot could deter players looking for ease. Despite minor quirks, these instruments are a delightful blend of playability and sound quality, making them excellent choices for ukulele enthusiasts and bass players alike.

positive

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Genre Usage

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

More Kala Ukuleles

Kala Makala Ukulele

$59.99 - $77.00

# 4

Rank

Jon Anderson Fathia Izzati Andrea Corr
3 artists using
Kala KA-15S Ukulele

$65.00 - $94.00

# 6

Rank

Rob Scallon Kody Havoc
2 artists using
Kala Rumbler U-BASS FS

$338.00 - $502.32

# 9

Rank

Jacob Collier Nicole Row Scott Devine
5 artists using
Kala KA-TE-C

$199.00

# 15

Rank

Vance Joy
1 artist using
Kala Makala MK-S

$55.00 - $65.00

# 22

Rank

 
Kala EBY-TE

$219.00 - $276.00

# 25

Rank

Etienne Fournier
1 artist using
Kala Makala MK-TE

$95.00 - $139.00

# 27

Rank

alpha to omega
1 artist using
Kala Makala Ukulele.

$59.99 - $65.00

# 36

Rank

Pete Cottrell
1 artist using
Kala KA-SLNG

$99.99 - $119.00

# 69

Rank

 

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides