Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $220

Standard/Professional

$100

$401+

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Description

Experience the rich tones and effortless playability of the Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele. Crafted by one of the most trusted names in folk and world instruments, this ukulele stands out with its genuine Hawaiian Koa top, back, and sides that not only look stunning but also produce a warm, resonant sound. The concert size strikes a perfect balance between the portability of a soprano and the deeper tones of a tenor, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned players seeking versatility.

The OU5's smooth rosewood fingerboard and bridge enhance its playability, while the abalone binding and rosette add an extra touch of elegance. Its mahogany neck ensures durability and a comfortable grip for all hand sizes. Tuning is a breeze with the precision Grover chrome tuners, keeping your instrument in perfect pitch whether you're strumming in your living room or performing at a beachside jam.

Oscar Schmidt has a century-long reputation for quality, and the OU5 embodies this heritage with a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design. Whether you're strumming chords or fingerpicking melodies, this ukulele delivers a sound that is both full and rich, allowing your music to shine.

Key Features:

  • Concert size for balanced tone and playability
  • Genuine Hawaiian Koa top, back, and sides
  • Smooth rosewood fingerboard and bridge
  • Abalone binding and rosette for an elegant look
  • Durable mahogany neck
  • Precision Grover chrome tuners for stable tuning
  • Designed by Oscar Schmidt, a trusted name in musical instruments
Ukulele Seamus

Ukulele Seamus

Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele Review-Demo

Video thumbnail for Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele Review-Demo by Ukulele Seamus

Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele Review-Demo

Ukulele Seamus

Ukulele Seamus

Video thumbnail for Search for better sound in a concert ukulele.  Oscar Schmidt OU5? by Rich Davis

Search for better sound in a concert ukulele. Oscar Schmidt OU5?

Rich Davis

Rich Davis

Video thumbnail for How the Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele Sounds by Ukulele Seamus

How the Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele Sounds

Ukulele Seamus

Ukulele Seamus

Video thumbnail for How Does Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele Sound? by Rich Davis

How Does Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele Sound?

Rich Davis

Rich Davis

Reviews

PROS

  • Stunning Koa wood finish with detailed inlay, visually impressive for its price

  • Grover chrome tuners offer a solid feel and quality performance

  • Comes with Aquila strings, favored by many ukulele players for quality sound

  • Mellow tone that's well-liked by beginners and casual players

  • Suitable for both beginners and semi-serious amateurs

  • Retains tuning well after initial string stretch period

  • Offers a beautiful, high gloss finish that garners compliments

  • Reasonable price for the quality and craftsmanship

CONS

  • Initial string stretching requires frequent tuning adjustments

  • High action may cause finger soreness, setup adjustment recommended

  • Some customers report disappointment with the open tuners, especially for travel use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele.

Build quality

  • The Oscar Schmidt OU5 is noted for being "over built," which can result in a less resonant sound compared to other ukuleles.

    Source
  • It's noted that the thick, heavy woods used in construction result in low volume and muted tones for both the OU5 and similar models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some owners suggest replacing the original strings with Aquila Nylgut or Oasis Warm strings to improve volume and tone.

    Source
  • The OU5 can feel less laid back with Oasis Warm strings compared to its original nylon strings, impacting playability.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The OU5's Koa laminate and closed Grover gears are often highlighted as attractive design elements, though may not impact sound quality significantly.

    Source

Comparisons

  • A solid top Kala, such as the KA-SCG, is suggested as a better-sounding alternative within a slightly higher budget.

    Source
  • The Oscar Schmidt OU2 is described as having a sweeter sound than the OU5, especially after upgrading the strings to Worth Browns.

    Source

User experience

  • The OU5 is considered easy to play, with a mellow sound ideal for quiet practice, though some feel it lacks resonance compared to similar models.

    Source
  • Owners describe the OU5 as frustrating due to its muted tones, leading some to sell it after only a few months of use.

    Source
  • Some users find the OU5 to have unexpectedly good volume and tone, preferring it over more expensive mid-range ukuleles.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • While the OU5 offers aesthetic appeal, some users feel you may be paying more for looks than acoustical performance.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the stock strings on the OU2 with Worth Browns significantly enhances its sound quality, making it more vibrant.

    Source
  • Aquila Red strings with a low G are praised for providing a bright tone on the OU5, addressing its common muted sound issue.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners appreciate the OU5 for daily strumming and finger-picking practice, valuing its playability despite sound criticisms.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele Review - Music Minds

musicminds.com

The Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele shines with its stunning Hawaiian Koa body and abalone binding, offering both aesthetic appeal and a smooth playing experience. Praised for its high-quality sound and easy playability, this ukulele is a solid choice for those willing to invest a bit more for quality craftsmanship. While slightly pricey for beginners, the included accessory bundle and lifetime warranty add to its value. If you're after a traditional style with modern reliability, the OU5 is a top contender.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
amosthumanhuman

Sounds great, looks better.

It even keeps in tune obscenely well. As far as acoustic ukes go, do it.

ava_sharp

Every level uke

Its a great ukulele for every level players

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Olivia Rodrigo uses Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele

Olivia Rodrigo

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

She uses this ukelele in the Disney show high school musical: the musical: the series and also in a few music videos.

See how Jose Madero uses Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele

Jose Madero

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

Se le puede ver a José tocar este ukulele en el Unplugged de PXNDX y a la fecha lo usa en sus conciertos de su carrera solista

Album Usage

The Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

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