Uke Yak Fans, Chuck "Frets" Fayne has been the resident expert for "Uke Yak" since 1998. Since that time he has answered almost 6,000 questions related to vintage ukuleles. Over many years, Chuck assembled his own world-class collection of vintage Hawaiian and Mainland ukes, including some amazing one-of-a-kind pieces. It was Chuck’s collection that made up the majority of the ukes in my book, "The Ukulele-A Visual History." Although Chuck has retired from the Uke Yak, his extensive knowledge and unique sense of humor live on in this searchable archive. Enjoy! Search the Uke Yak. Jumpin’ Jim 2015
Flea Market Music Uke Yak (168 of 296) (Chuck "Frets" Fayne has answered the following 5919 questions.)

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Question asked by: Alex Halberstadt Subject: second uke Question: Hi-- About 4 months ago I bought a ukulele and it has drastically changed my life for the better-- Bob Wills songs sound great on a uke. Only problem is that now I'm yearning for a better instrument than my $50 Oscar Schmidt OU-2. I was planning to buy the Martin SO until I read your comments. Can you recommend a good intermediate player under about $300? I love the idea of a vintage instrument, but I can live with a new one too. Thanks, Alex. Answer: Alex...have you looked at the flea and the fluke on this site...great value for the money...In the affordable vintage world, I would look for a gretsch or if you are lucky..a favilla soprano. Either of these would be perfect for what you want. They are several cuts above an intermediate instrument and still within your price range. I think the gretsch is still one of the most underpriced ukes around., Very playable and solid. Hope this has helped ..if you need more info, don't hesitate...we get sad when our mail bag is not full...thanks for joining our party...frets and the rest of the mt idy noismakers... - Monday, January 12, 2004

Question asked by: Tess Dunaway Subject: Lanikai ukulele Question: Hi! I'm looking for a brand of ukulele with good price and sound, and do not want a ukulele made in China. Do you know where the Hohner is made? I'm looking at the Lanikai-LU21. What is your opinion of it. Thank you! Answer: Tess..In this market today, I think you should at least give the fluke a look see. Its available on this site at the on line store...( look at the black menu on the left)...I hear good things about the lanakai, however I have not played one myself. Check around your area and see if anyone has one you can play. When you have narrowed it down to a precious few...send me the list and I will go over it with you. No rush, take your time, they are not going anywhere. Keep in touch....and thanks for writing in...frets - Monday, January 12, 2004

Question asked by: Dean James Subject: Marwin Baritone Ukulele Question: Hi, I found a website with a Marwin Tenor Arch-Top Guitar on it, oddly enough right beneath 3 ukuleles. There could be a connection there. Anyhow, the web site I found was http://www.dwightmark.com/MoreInstr uments.htm Good Luck Answer: Dean..I would say there is a definite connection. Did you have a question? Thanks for writing in, always glad to have new info....frets - Monday, January 12, 2004

Question asked by: Brian Subject: Kamaka Ukes Question: Hi Chuck, I notice that on some Kamakas the frets were cut into the neck w/o a separate fret board. When were they made? Were they made the same time as the ones with "raised fret board? Thank you, Brian Answer: Brian...I have two almost identical Kamaka sopranos sitting each with different fret arrangements. Both made around the same time. I think there was an overlap and I don't know when. Kamaka has made so many different varieties of instruments, it has always been difficult to date them. Even the Kamaka factory is unsure of certain dates. I used to think the color of the label had something to do with the date, however time has proved me wrong. John King, if you are out there, perhaps you could shed some additional light on the subject. Thanks in advance...fretgs - Monday, January 12, 2004

Question asked by: Mitch Subject: Martin 2K Question: I found this ukulele in the garage and I believe it's a 2K. It has CF Martin & Co., Nazareth PA engraved on back of pegboard and inside and white banding and white pegs. It has a few blemishes and I know this is tough but what could it be worth (restored & unrestored) Photos:      Answer: If it doesn't have serious damage...cracks, seam separations etc...dont do any restoration. It looks beautiful as is. It could be worth upwards of 1000.00. They are a very beautiful instrument and a fine player. I'm not sure of your definition of restoration...If you mean refinish, don't do it. If it has minor damage that can be handled without much mucking about..do it. Serious collectors would rather have it in its original condition. You can lessen the value by restoring it. If you plan to keep it forever then by all means do what makes you happy. I would....Good to have you aboard....stick around and enjoy our ramblings..frets - Monday, January 12, 2004

Question asked by: Tom B. Subject: Old Kamaka Pineapple, Part 2 Question: Hello again, Chuck. Thanks for your reply regarding my old Pineapple Uke. Here is a photo of it, showing front, back, partial label and the crack. I would greatly appreciate any advice you can give me on getting this fixed and replacing the pegs. I'm in the San Francisco area. Also, can you tell me anything else about this uke, such as age? It says "patented 1928" inside, but I wasn't sure if that was actually the date of manufacture. Thanks again, Chuck! Photos:      Answer: Kamaka pineapple as you know. Label says l928 but could have been made later..up to about 35. I would have a professional repair the crack..The uke is worth it,..One of the most sought after ukes around. Great sound..The wood seems a little dry, perhaps a little gentle rubbing will bring back the color. If you need additional info, don't hesitate to write. It is not a bad crack and should go back together fairly easily and be almost invisible in the hands of as good luthier. let us know how it comes out...we care...frets - Monday, January 12, 2004

Question asked by: Will Subject: Maxwell Question: Hi Chuck, I've googled the Internet and am unable to find what I think is a baritone uke. It has a small, oval Maxwell label on the headstock. It's old, has a rosewood back (that deep-red, wide grain), spruce top (the patina gives it away), bone or Bakelite tuning pegs, and mother-of-pearl inlay around the soundhole. It's not the highest craftsmanship, but it's also not south-of-the-border workmanship. Gut strings, and from nut to saddle it’s just shy of 20 inches. Is a baritone ukulele? And why can't I find other Maxwell models? Answer: I think you can't find other maxwell models, because soon after they made this uke, they went into the coffee business. I wish I knew the answer to this one. A soprano is 20 inches long and most tenors are envious. I have seen the maxwell label but don't remember on what. One of the masses will write in with the info. Just wait...Thanks for writing in...always a pleasure,..,.frets - Monday, January 12, 2004

Question asked by: john downs Subject: need to make a choice Question: Dear Chuck, I play the uke, and would like to get a used banjo uke for a different sound but don’t know much about them. I’ve come across a couple of different types and was hoping you could shed some light on the subject. The ukes on the left are all similar, could they all be made by just a couple of different companies? They differ in style, some have the f type sound hole others have simply a hole in the middle of the resonator. Also, the resonator seems to be attached differently in some; some are attached by what looks like nails others not. The ukes numbered one and 2 are very similar, made with the f type sound holes and nailed in resonator, and an inlayed wood stripe down the middle of the neck and around the body, these have no manufacturer markings and I’ve seen many others very similar to these with out the inlayed wood stripe or with some kind of herring bone trim. The “la pacific” uke is similar with a different resonator hole. Then the beauty in the middle seems to not have any nails/serews attaching the resonator to the body. What is the difference between these ukes on the left? Any one “better” than the others? And now for those on the right, they all look more like banjos, and some have no resonator. Is a lack of resonator normal, or is the piece missing? will a larger resinator make a better sound? And the Dixie uke, Seems to me the sound would be too tinny, do they? hard to tell what any thing sounds like when your shopping on line. and between these two styles the the construction of the drum is the major differentiating factor, is one better than the other? And lastly, of these banjo ukes pictured, which one would you recommend for some one who plays daily and likes to take ‘em camping so both sound and durability is somewhat of a factor. Also, is there a standard for differentiating a tenor, concert, and soprano ukes? Length of neck/body, # of frets? Thanks!!!! Answer: Longest question of the year. I have no idea which is the best. I am not a fan of banjo ukes and it depends on the sound. Not the make. I don't know what your budget is, however I would be looking for a Gibson or a Ludwig if you are going to do serious playing. The pic of the ukes you sent me are all pretty much plain jane banjo ukes. They need to be strung with gut strings not banjo metal strings. The dixie is a no no. Unless your attacked by muggers. The difference between models of ukuleles...soprano about 20 inches..concert about 24 inches, tenor about 27 inches..These all vary with the maker but are pretty much in the ball park..thanks for asking and I hope you find the sound you are listening for. frets - Monday, January 12, 2004

Question asked by: Jim Nelson Subject: Harmony Question: Chuck: I just bought a Harmony soprano- sized uke that had been in a friend's grandfather's attic.It's missing two of the MOP dots, but otherwise looks new. The little "instruction book" appears to date from the 50's. Any comments on it as an instrument or as a collectible? Answer: As a collectible usually not much value. Hard to tell without a pic. As an instrument, I have played harmonys that were pretty good. Play it, if it sounds ok, play it some more. Harmony made about a million ukes give or take 2 and about as many different sizes and designs. Some are very collecible most are not. If you want to send as pic, I will do my best. thanks for thinking of us...frets - Saturday, January 10, 2004

Question asked by: chuck s Subject: Kamaka uke Question: Chuck – I know these are crummy pictures, but have you ever seen a Kamaka that looks like this? This uke has binding on the top and back and a strange shaped headstock. The label is a very shinny gold label that just says “Kamaka ukulele”. I have several gold label Kamakas, but they all say ‘Kamaka ukulele, Honolulu Hawaii or “handmade, Honolulu”. The size and shape of the body matches my other Kamaka ukes. I was made with very curly Koa & has a shinny lacquer finish. Any help you can give me will be appreciated. Thanks – Chuck S. Answer: Chuck, chuck here. The pics are so crummy I can't find them..please send again and I will help...chuck frets fayne - Saturday, January 10, 2004

Question asked by: Pamela Reed Subject: very old uke Question: Royal Hawaiian all koa inside sticker 1927 soprano one crack near sound hole. Great sound - full and bright for its small size! Liquidating uncles estate want to offer for sale but have no idea what to ask? money to be placed in scholarship fund & used for San Francisco high school seniors to attend local college automotive college. Answer: Ask 350 if it is in good shape and good luck..If you list on the marketplace on this site, you will find people who are looking for only one thing...... Ukuleles. Good place to start. let us know how it works...frets - Saturday, January 10, 2004

Question asked by: Blair Subject: 8 or 4 string Question: Which one of these electric is better? A 8 string or a 4 string? Answer: A question only you can answer. Play them both and decide what you like. I don't play electric ukulele so my opinion wouldn't help you at all. Does a brand name come to mind. That might change my suggestion. Thanks for writing in..frets - Saturday, January 10, 2004

Question asked by: David Goldsby Subject: Crack in my Favilla - Should I Worry? Question: Mr. Fayne, I have a Favilla saprano uke (I think it is a U2, and believe it to be about 60-70 years old). It has developed a crack on the front on the bottom bass side that runs right under the edge of the bridge. I don't play this one daily, prefering to hack on my indestructable Fluke. However, I do enjoy playing the Favilla now and then. Should I retire this little guy or have it reparied? Appreciate your opinion. Answer: have it repaired. Catch it while it is still small. You might want to sell that uke someday and you don't want that crack to go under the bridge. It weak there. Its a good uke....happy new year...frets - Wednesday, December 31, 2003

Question asked by: Craig Fischer Subject: Arthur Godfrey Uke Question: Hi Fritz--What was the make of the baritone uke Arthur Godfrey played-do you recommend trying to find one or are there better ones to be had?-- Thanks, Craig Answer: He played the Vega solo lute a long scale version of the baritone Vega also made the shorster length baritone. There are better ones to be had, however if you find a good Vega, they are fine. It depends on your budget and your ear. If you like the sound, go for it.....The Martin Bari is a fine instrument and if you are looking for a new maker Ken Potts at KP ukuleles makes a fantastic baritone. Hope this has helped...health 04 frets - Wednesday, December 31, 2003

Question asked by: robert wheeler - founder Subject: Uke-Yak Question: Chuck, Why does it always seem that taking an occasional peek at your Uke-Yak is worth more than a tickle and a hug? Lookin' for more in '04. Warm regards, robert - founder Photos:      Answer: I'll take the tickle and hug also. Always nice to hear from you...From all of us at the yak and FFM we wish you and yours a healthy 04. Thanks for the card...frets and the elfs - Monday, December 29, 2003

Question asked by: Pat LaFleur Subject: Favilla repair Question: Chuck, do you know of a luthier in the radius of 150 miles of the Albany NY area who could fix the bridge properly of a Favilla bari? I had it done once locally but it popped off again. My original Favilla bari has never had a problem but this one was given to me and the bridge was raised on one corner when I got it. The repair looks nasty, with lots of dried glue all over it. I didn't bother taking it back because I figured it was a poor job and probably wouldn't get any better. Hope there is someone on your list who can help. Thanks, Pat Answer: Pat...look up Bernunzio Vintage Instruments in Rochester NY and give him a call. Ask him about a luthier in the area and tell him hello from me. He's a peachy guy and always helpful. thanks for writing in...frets - Monday, December 29, 2003

Question asked by: Roger Subject: Washburn Question: Hi Chuck, My grandfather's uke has been been around the family for years and not used. On the back it says "Washburn" Lyon & Healy, Chicago. The front is a dark wood with a gold leaf pattern at the bottom. I have had several inquiries to purchase the uke and was uncertain about what to do with it. Recently, a collector has been very keen on buying it and my grandmother (who is 101) could use the money. My question is, what is this uke worth? I know he purchased it around 1928 because it appears in photos of him at that time. Your help would be greatly appreaciated! Thanks, Roger Answer: Roger, ...it depends on condition and size. Not the uke, your grandfather...sorry, just a little holiday humor. I need to see a pic of the uke. If it is a soprano, it is worth less than their tenor. They made both..Please measure it and let me know how long it is. Dont sell just yet. A music store is not the place to try to sell this uke. It is collectable, quite collectable, so let me help first. send me more information...It also depends on condition and does it have a case? Happy holidays...frets - Friday, December 26, 2003

Question asked by: Terry Dennis Subject: gut strings Question: Chuck, Do you have any idea where one could find bulk gut strings for ukuleles or other instruments? I've recently played some ukes with gut strings and found them superior in tone and feel. I've searched the web for gut string: tennis supplies (too thick), medical supplies (unavailable), musical supplies ( very expensive). I would like to restring several instruments and would prefer some bulk supplier. Answer: Terry, I do not know of a bulk supplier. You just have to keep hunting. I have a feeling they are still made...seems to me I have seen a reference to them...Go to the bulletin board on this site and ask the questions of the masses of uke nutz over there. They will know more than I about strings. Good luck..I will try a couple of my sources and see what I get. If anything good, I'll forward to you...chuck - Friday, December 26, 2003

Question asked by: Angela Dougherty Subject: How do I identify T frets? Question: Dear Mr. Frets, There is a recent posting on the bulletin board about bar frets and T frets. From the discussion I gather that T frets have been the standard since the 1950's. After reading about them I went & checked two of my ukes. One is a mid-70's inexpensive Japanese uke (as it was a gift from mom & dad I hesitate to use the word "cheap") and the other is a Martin soprano I bought on eBay earlier this year. When I bought the Martin the seller (pawnshop) had no info about it. He said it looked like it was 50's vintage and based on the case & tuning pegs I thought that sounded right. The frets on my 70's uke are obviously T- shaped, but the Martin frets are not so obvious. I can't tell if they are bar frets with a lot of wear or T frets that have been beautifully shaped. As there is very little wear on the rest of the instrument I'm guessing it is the latter. Any insight you can give me on figuring this out will be greatly appreciated. I don't need to know the exact year my Martin was made, but I would like to pin down the decade! Thank you, Angela Answer: I can't help you with the frets without seeing the uke..However, the Martin can be sort of dated by the headstock. There are other ways, but this is the easiest. If it has a decal on the front that says CF Martin it was probably made around the 50's....if it has an impressed stamp on the back of the peghead, earlier. Thats a start. If you need more, please let me know. It is impossible to pin down exactly when it was made. If you look inside and look at the impression...and see the words Made in USA it is very recent. Hope Santa was good to you...frets - Friday, December 26, 2003

Question asked by: Kenneth G. Bailey Subject: Oliver Ditson Question: Sir, do you have any historical information about the Oliver Ditson Co. and their business relationship with The C.F. Martin Co. in regards to Ukuleles? There is a brief mention in " Ukulele A Visual History", but nothing of any substance. Mike Longworth's book details the Ditson/Martin Guitar and Mandolin era of the early 1900's, but no mention of the Ukulele. I am particularly interested in the Ditson Ukulele production time line. I've attached a pic of a pre 1933 Style 3 on the left and an Oliver Ditson Style 3 on the right. Mahalo Nui Loa. Photos:      Answer: Ken.. on page 222 of the Longworth book you will find the reference to martin making ukes for Ditson. They made two styles...the dreadnought shape and the standard shape. I know that Martin made the dreadnought shape for ditson as early as 1916. I know because I owned a Martin dreadnought that could only have been made then. the fingerboard decoration was much different and all the trim was genuine ...no plastic. Earliest Martin I have ever seen Ditson or Martin. My understanding was that Ditson wanted Martin to make instruments for them and they wanted to be in on the design. It's not clear who came up with the dreadnought...a collaberation between Hunt , of the Ditson, and F.H. Martin. The instruments had a variety of markings. I have seen them marked Oliver Ditson New York.. only, Oliver Ditson on the back of the peghead and Martin inside, and Martin on the back of the peeghead and Ditson on the inside...and Ditson in both places. The Dreadnought was considered Ditson's design. They are referred to this day as the Martin Ditson Dreadnought. I believe Martin condinuied to make for Ditson into the 30's but not exactly sure of the year. Hope this helps....Thanks for the pics and keep em comin...frets P.S. the markings also apply to the standard Martin Ditson shape. - Friday, December 26, 2003

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