Introduction
When I picked up the Kala Unity Mahogany Tenor Ukulele, one thing stood out right away. This ukulele is all about meaning. At around $129, it sits in a really comfortable spot for players who want something better than a basic beginner uke, but don’t want to jump into the $200–$300 range. After spending time with it, I can say this one feels warm, grounded, and easy to enjoy.
This model is part of Kala’s 2024 Voyage Collection, and like the others in the series, it can go in and out of stock. So if you see it available, it’s worth grabbing while you can.
I also shared my full review on YouTube, where I play it and talk through what I like about it. If you want to hear the sound instead of just reading about it, the video will give you a much better feel for how this uke actually plays.
The Voyage Collection Story
Kala teamed up with Maōri cultural artist Sam Mangakahia, who has created over 450 pieces of story-driven artwork over the past decade. Together, they built the Voyage Collection around three human themes: Unity, Courage, and Guidance.
The ukulele I’m reviewing here is the Unity model, and honestly, the artwork is a big reason someone would choose this instrument in the first place.
The design blends hibiscus flowers with the koru, the spiral fern symbol often used in Maōri art.
The hibiscus represents grace and beauty.
The koru represents connection, growth, and new beginnings.
When you put those together, the message becomes clear. It’s about giving grace to yourself and to others, which helps build unity and trust in your relationships. That meaning comes through in a very calm and grounded way.
The artwork feels thoughtful without being heavy, and on a tenor body, it has more presence without feeling overdone. Kala also includes a Voyage Collection gig bag and a story card hang tag, which is a really nice touch and helps complete the experience.
Specs
Here’s what you’re getting:
- Size: Tenor
- Top, Back, Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Finish: Satin
- Nut & Saddle: GraphTech NuBone
- Tuners: Open-gear chrome
- Strings: Aquila Super Nylgut
- Strap Button: One installed (black)
- Electronics: None, acoustic only
In terms of size, it has a 16.97-inch scale length, about 26 inches overall, 18 frets, and a deeper 3.1-inch body. It feels like a proper tenor with that nice, bigger feel in your hands.
Looks & Design
Let’s break down the look, because the details really matter here.
In front, the satin mahogany top looks warm and natural, and the Unity artwork sits beautifully on the body. I really like that the design is laser-etched into the wood, not printed on top. It feels clean, intentional, and well done.
Kala also added the design to the headstock, which balances the whole look nicely. It’s a small detail, but it makes the instrument feel more complete.
The back and sides stay simple with smooth satin mahogany. No distractions here, which I think works perfectly. It lets the artwork stay the focus.
Overall, the design feels meaningful without being loud. Compared to the Gardenia concert model, this one feels more neutral and understated, which makes it appealing to a wider range of players.
Looks rating is 8.5/10.
Build Quality
For $129, the build quality is genuinely solid.
The satin neck feels smooth, the action is comfortable, and the fretwork looks clean. The tuners hold tuning well, and the body feels sturdy in your hands. I didn’t run into sharp frets or obvious finish issues, which is great to see at this price.
It’s not a high-end instrument, but nothing feels weak or cheap. It’s a well-built tenor that should hold up with regular playing.
Build rating is 8/10.
How It Sounds
Sound-wise, this ukulele delivers that classic warm mahogany tone.
Because it’s a tenor, you get more depth and resonance compared to a concert or soprano. The sound feels full, balanced, and pleasant. It’s not super bright and not super loud. Instead, it has a cozy, musical warmth that fits the Unity theme really well.
It’s not the most complex tenor I’ve ever played, but for the price, it definitely holds its own and feels enjoyable to play.
Sound rating is 8/10. You can hear the full sound demo in my YouTube review, which I’ve embedded above.
Is It Worth the Money?
This is where Kala really shines.
At $129, you get:
- Solid build quality
- Warm tenor sound
- Thoughtful, story-driven artwork
- A gig bag included
I also really like that this ukulele was designed by a Polynesian artist living on the North Shore of Oahu. That adds something special you don’t often see at this price point.
Value rating is 8.5/10
Final Verdict
Here’s my honest recap:
- Looks: 8.5/10
- Build: 8/10
- Sound: 8/10
- Value: 8.5/10
The Kala Unity Mahogany Tenor Ukulele is warm, well-built, and meaningful, all at a very approachable price. If the artwork and story speak to you and you want a reliable tenor you can enjoy right out of the box, this is a great pick. You really can’t go wrong with it. You can buy it here at Kala Unity Mahogany Tenor Ukulele link and get 10% off when you use the code RAYSUKULELE10OFF at checkout.
If you want me to compare this to other Voyage Collection models, just let me know in the comments. Mahalo!