IT NEVER SEEMS TO GET OLD!, That thrill you get when after months of work you finally string up your instrument. I started this uke in mid March and last night I put the strings on the koa/cedar with the stripe on the back. Wow!, it is really good. Already rich and bright and clear with great sustain, the intonation is spot on. Someone is going to love this ukulele. So forgive my hubris if post the three photos below.
I havent trimmed the strings yet. Like to be sure I have the proper amount wound and that the strings feel right for the instrument. These Aurora/Aquila orange strings look and sound perfect. My choice of this piece of cedar for the top despite a slight sap line you can see just left of the sound hole was justified. The piece tap toned better than any wood I had. It sounds great.
This is a pretty nice piece of book matched koa. It will only get richer with age.
I really like the simplicity and classic look of the Peghed tuners and they function perfectly for a uke. I will be fussing around with the string slots on the nut to lower the action a tad, and then this uke is ready to find its new home. I am going to be sad to let it go. But then I feel that way about all my babies. Next I string up the "Blonde" Hold your breath.