Kala U-Bass Spruce Top

^# 27

Equipboard's ranking is determined by analyzing factors such as professional artist usage, popularity, user ratings, reviews, and more.

4.0 (2)

Find out who is using Kala U-Bass

2 wishlisted

5 saved

Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

Pricing and availability

Store

Reviews

Price

^* 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

Edit description

Discover the unique blend of portability and rich sound with the Kala U-Bass Spruce Top. This acoustic-electric bass takes inspiration from the distinct timbre of an upright bass while packing it into a compact, travel-friendly instrument. The 21-inch scale length offers a familiar yet distinct experience, making it accessible for both seasoned bassists and adventurous newcomers.

Crafted with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the Kala U-Bass delivers a resonant bass response, ensuring your lows are as deep and impactful as they are warm and inviting. Whether you're jamming in an intimate setting or plugged into an amp, the active EQ and onboard tuner provide you with versatile tonal control and precision.

This is not just another bass guitar; this is a game-changer for musicians seeking to expand their sonic palette without sacrificing convenience. Lightweight yet robust, the Kala U-Bass Spruce Top invites you to explore new musical horizons with every pluck and thump.

Key Features:

Compact 21-inch scale length for enhanced playability
Spruce top with mahogany back and sides for rich, resonant tones
Active EQ for versatile sound shaping
Onboard tuner for quick and easy tuning adjustments
Acoustic-electric design suitable for both unplugged and amplified playing

Product specs

Brand	Kala
Model	U-Bass
Finish	Natural
Year	2010
Categories	Acoustic Bass Guitars, Short Scale Basses
Active / Passive Pickups	Active Pickups
Active Preamp	Active Preamp
Body Shape	Mini
Color Family	Natural
Fretboard Material	Walnut
Number of Frets	16
Number of Strings	4-String
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed

FAQs

What kind of wood is used for the top of the Kala U-Bass Spruce Top?: The Kala U-Bass Spruce Top features a spruce top, which is known for its bright and clear tonal qualities, making it ideal for acoustic instruments.
Is the Kala U-Bass Spruce Top suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Kala U-Bass Spruce Top is equipped with active pickups and an active preamp, making it well-suited for live performances where amplification is necessary.
How does the Kala U-Bass Spruce Top compare to a standard bass guitar in terms of tuning?: The Kala U-Bass Spruce Top is tuned to EADG, the same as a standard bass guitar, allowing bass players to transition easily between instruments.
What is the scale length of the Kala U-Bass Spruce Top?: The Kala U-Bass Spruce Top is a short-scale bass, which provides a more compact and portable option while still delivering full bass tones.
How many frets does the Kala U-Bass Spruce Top have?: The Kala U-Bass Spruce Top has 16 frets, offering a range suitable for various playing styles and musical genres.

Videos

Add video

jsumbi

Kala U-Bass Solid Spruce Top

jsumbi

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Highly portable; perfect for traveling musicians
Impressive deep tone, reminiscent of acoustic or upright bass
Well-made and lightweight, ensuring durability and easy handling
Offers a unique gigging experience with its cool upright tone
Strings feel unique and satisfying, enhancing playability
Surprising sound projection when amplified
Adds a fun, novel element to bass playing
Easy maintenance for long-term use
Great for both solo practice and ensemble settings with amplification
Highly recommended for players seeking a distinct sound in their collection

CONS

Finger placement can be demanding to avoid buzzing
Intonation issues, particularly on higher frets
Strings may detune over long sessions
Limited use in group settings without amplification

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Kala U-Bass Spruce Top.

Setup and maintenance

0 0

The piezo pickup slot often requires attention due to uneven cuts, causing string volume discrepancies; replacements may be necessary.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The fretless version offers an almost upright bass tone, distinct from the fretted model which sounds closer to a traditional electric bass.
Source
0 0

The Kala U-Bass Spruce Top is praised for its surprising versatility, offering a wide range of tones when used with virtual amp and pedal settings.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

Despite its size, the U-Bass can deliver an impressive low end, especially when amplified, making it suitable for acoustic duos and chordal play.
Source
0 0

Owners report the U-Bass as an excellent travel companion due to its compact size, making it ideal for musicians on the go.
Source

User experience

0 0

Initial string settling requires frequent retuning for the first month, particularly with rubber strings which are challenging to keep in tune.
Source
0 0

Some users experience strap and balance issues, indicating it's more suited for casual play rather than professional gigs.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

Users find the fretless U-Bass easier to maintain intonation than the fretted model, especially past the 10th fret on the latter.
Source
0 0

The U-Bass is noted for creating a rich, upright bass-like sound, rivaling other travel basses like those from Overhead.
Source