When tuning her up, I find the C string seems too really require much more tensioning to get it tuned. When gently turning the C peg, it almost sounds like the string is ready to snap loose from the body. Unlike the G,E, and A strings which require minimal tensioning. That said, it sounds wonderful once she is ready to go, and I would recommend this beautiful instrument to any banjolele player.
Toronto, Canada
What a great present to have from your family for my 70th! Many thanks to "Four String Strummer" on Youtube who compiled a video showing and reviewing various Ukulele Banjo's. After hearing him play I'd made up my mind. Even though I'm in Swansea, UK there was no problem with order and shipping to UK. Only addition was £12.00 import duty. Beautiful design and quality, including the Smart Case it comes in. It's only a hobby for me, but it's put a smile on my face. Thank you Duke!
Swansea, United KingdomRoger, Happy Birthday! Thank you so much for the wonderful feedback and the 5 Stars. I will be sure to share it with Kelly (Four String Strummer). I am thrilled you love your DUKE10 so much. Thanks, too, for the lovely photo :-)
Exceptional experience with Jamie going above and beyond to get my banjolele to me, easy to setup but that was helped by having experience in setups but was great to have instructions to fall back on to make sure I was on track, only drawback is strings but that's to be expected on any stringed instrument is to have basic strings because everyone has their own preference
Auckland, New ZealandThanks for your feedback grant. Glad you finally got your new DUKE10! With regard to the strings, they are actually Aquila SuperNylgut strings from Italy, but obviously everyone has their own preference. You might like to try Worth Brown's (if you can find them!) You can hear Lester T Web playing them on his DUKE10 here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51BdPW8HXxA
I play my Duke10 all the time. I love the way it sounds...like the bubbles on the top of champagne. I play in five jams each week and perform in retirement homes. Picking the banjolele adds a ping and zing to the group strumming. It's taken me a bit to get used to it. It's a tenor and I am used to playing concert size ukes. I've had to work with stretching out the strings and retune after each song. I also tightened the pot to be brighter. Although the case is beautiful, it is very, very heavy. I feel as if we're moving to another city each time I haul it around. The case would be great for musicians who travel a lot. I made the final decision to purchase because you support Survivor Girl Ukulele group. I wanted to add my support and thanks.
Florin, United StatesI really appreciate your feedback and honesty Ellen. Glad you love (most) things about your DUKE10 and I'll be sure to let Laurie from Survivor Girl Ukulele Band know about your support. Thanks for the 5 Stars!
I've had a Kala, an Enya, and a no-name beater I got for $60 with all sorts of included goodies from Amazon/nameless company in China so I have something to throw in the car when I travel. I really like all of those. I've even built some. And then my friend and uke teacher let me try his new Duke10. Playing is incredibly pleasant - the action just feels "softer" than any other uke I've played. At the same time it's incredibly responsive. And the sound is fantastic - tighten the drum head, loosen the drum head, or roll up a towel to tamp down the sound, it all sounds increadibly good. This is a perfect execution of a really good idea, and I am really glad I bought it.
Jackson, United StatesWow Daniel, what can I say? Your 5-Star review is humbling, and very much appreciated! Thank you for taking the time to leave such detailed and helpful feedback, it will help others to make a decision about the DUKE10-V3 for sure.
I just love this banjo uke. I'm so excited to play.
Palo Alto, United StatesReally appreciate your feedback Forrest. Enjoy your new 'baby'!
I have played ukuleles for about 55 years. Many makers, all sizes and types of strings. I have looked for a good banjo uke for 10 years. Every one sounded brassy & tinny. No one wanted to sit near you and if you were at a jam you got the "look" to quiet down! Usually no one wanted to play your banjo uke BECAUSE of the sound! The Duke has a wonderful sound, ever where I go everyone wants to play it and comments on what a great sound! Nothing else sounds like a Duke!
Dallas, United StatesThank you Sam! Your love for the DUKE10 and your passion for sharing the love of making music is just wonderful. Thank you for your 5 Star rating and positive feedback. Happy strumming, and keep spreading the word.
The Duke10 is such a gorgeous instrument. It sounds fantastic. It's so comfortable and fun to play. It comes with a beautiful tweed hard case, an A+ upgrade. I also want to say that Jamie is the best. He is prompt at answering any questions and concerns. He wants to make sure your transaction goes smoothly. Thank you Jamie! I couldn't be happier! Love my Duke10
Two Harbors, United StatesWow, Karen - thank you so much for your kind words and 5-star review. Totally appreciated! Glad you love your DUKE10-V3 so much.
The quality exceeded my expectations. The sound reflects that as well. I usually judge an instrument by the amount of sustain. This one has great sustain!
Syracuse, United StatesAppreciate your 5 Star review Bill, and so glad you are happy with your new DUKE10 from 'Season 3'!
I love the sound, ease of play and the quality of workmanship. The amplified sound with bass up and treble up is rich and smooth. The only thing I can think of that might be nice is a built in tuner.
Auckland, New ZealandNice one Gary - I'm thrilled that another DUKE10 is with another Kiwi! Funny you should say about the built-in tuner, I was just wondering the other day if we could incorporate one in the next model...you never know! Thanks for the 5 Star review.
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Thanks for your 5 Star review Pierre, much appreciated (despite the issues you are having with your C string). My apologies for the inconvenience. I will send you an email and make sure we sort out what is going on for your instrument, along with sending you a new set of strings :-)