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 (216 of 296) (Chuck "Frets" Fayne has answered the following 5919 questions.)

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Question asked by: Mark Lewis Subject: Is it something or is it nothing? Question: Hi Chuck! Ever heard of the brand Aloha Royal? It seems to be Mahogany and made pretty well. Don't know the age. Another one of the large pool of anon. makers and brands? I can scan and send if there is any curiosity... Answer: scan away...love to see it in person...chuck..i'm beginning to sound like a broken record....frets - Tuesday, September 24, 2002

Question asked by: Dennis Ecklund Subject: Regal / The Benson Tiple Question: Hi Frets, I really enjoy your column, so far I guess I've read through about 600 pages. By now I'm convinced you could write an entertaining column on any topic. Attached is a composite picture of a Regal Tiple I just bought at ebay, and I'm wondering if you can give me an idea of when it was made and the price range it originally sold. Also what it might be worth nowadays. It's a little different from others I've seen here and on the Web. Actually I'd love to learn more about the Regal company, but there doesn't seem to be much info available. It has a Regal decal on the headstock, and there a re-seller's label inside that read "The Benson." It seems like a well-made instrument, with what appears to be solid wood back and sides and a fully bound body. The triangular- shaped neck looks like maple with a little flaming (kinda like mine) Overall condition seems to be sound. There are a couple of minor cracks, the finish is kinda crazed and there's some minor strumming wear in the upper bout. I removed the old strings to do a better job of cleaning it up. Now I'm really itching to restring it and start playing. I got carried away in a last- minute bidding frenzy and ended up paying about $175 for it. Probably way too much, but if it plays well I'll get my money's worth. It came with a "Bulls head" brand cardboard case. I buy and sell things on ebay all the time, but I've got a feeling my kids will end up selling this in my estate after I've gone to that great lutherie in the sky. According to my spouse, this may be sooner than I think, if I don't seek treatment for my M.I.A.S. (Musical Instrument Acquisition Syndrome.) Thanks, Dennis Photos:      Answer: Dennis, you didn't overpay..its a nice instrument. Its interesting that you can't find out information on the most productive music manufacturing company of all time. They made most of the ukuleles made in the United States in the l930's and 40's. They made for everyone. I have records of the instrument selling for about 45 dollars in the 30's or one like it. Today, you probably paid a little less than what it is worth, however condition has alot to do with it and it seems solid. Tiples are notorious for drifting out of tune. I would have a good luthier take a look at it and string it up for you. That way, if it needs any minor adjustments to the frets it can be done there. I hate stringing them up and love playing them. So I have a professional stringer who is not allowed to drift further from my side than the length of his G string. But that is another story. I love the tiple and am always surprised when I find out how many were played in the 30's and 40's. There is a very good article about the tiple in a new Ukulele book titled, "The Ukulele Occasional.It is available on this site in the On-line store. Look to the left to the black menu and you will find the on-line store. I suggest you all order the book, it wonderfully produced. I love my copy. Thanks jim and liz. well dennis, best to you and your tiple. any more, please write in...frets - Thursday, September 19, 2002

Question asked by: Liz Subject: Slingerland Maybelle Banjo Uke Question: Hi! I was wondering if you knew anything about this Maybelle Banjo Ukelele made by the Slingerland Bros. It doesn't look like the other banjo uke's that they made... it's body seems to be made of some sort of synthetic material. I know it is missing it's bridge, and I am ordering a new piece as we speak. How do you think this will affect it's value? I have three more photos I would like to share with you... but I won't send them unless you ask. Thank you so much! Photos:      Answer: Liz...I can't tell much from the front photo. please send others. It looks like a standard, better than the most, banjo uke of the l930's. So far, I see nothing out of the ordinary. Have had dozens tht looked exactly like that one. Good instrument...as I said, better than most. frets - Wednesday, September 18, 2002

Question asked by: Jim Subject: banjo uke Question: Hi Chuck: Recently I was given a banjo ukulele that had been my uncles, and I'm trying to find information and parts for it. I believe that it is from the 1930's or 40's, but there are no markings on it. When it was given to me, it had no strings or bridge and the back was cracked. This instument is built with a round wooden pot, that has holes on the side, which had metal grommets in the holes, and on which a skin is tightly drawn, like a drum. The mechanism for holding the skin tight is inside the pot, and a wooden back covers the mechanism. I've found a few pictures of banjo ukuleles, but they appear more like a modern banjo, with a metal system for holding the skin tight. I'm looking for several things: 1. A bridge 2. The piece that separates the strings at the top of the neck. 3. Frets (I need one or two) 4. Metal Grommets for the holes 5. Info on strings to use and tuning I've started working on the instrument, to get it into a playable shape, but I'd really like to find out what it looked like originally, and where it was made. Any suggestions, advice, or direction would be helpful. Thanks Jim Answer: My advise, since I can't tell much withougt seeing the banjo uke, is to get in touch with John Bernunzio at Bernunzio Vintage Instruments in Rochester N.Y. YOu will find him all over the web. Tell him I told you to call and He will help you. He should have parts to help fix the banjo uke. If you don't live close enough to take the uke to him, you will have to have some pics...There were only about 5000 varieties of Banjo ukes made in the l930's. They were very popular and everyone made them. Hope you find what you are looking for. Frets - Wednesday, September 18, 2002

Question asked by: Bill Sweet Subject: Chipping finish Question: Chuck, I'm wondering if you can help me ease some worries. I want to know if there's anything I need to be doing extra to take care of my much beloved Martin. It's a style O, and I'm told it's older, because it doesn't have "made in USA" on the inside. It's a little dinged up, and the finish has a series of hairline crack all over it. The looks have never been much of a concern for me, because she sounds so sweet, better even than another Martin I own that's in mint shape. In the past couple years, with more intensive playing, the finish has chipped off part of the face (see picture) leaving naked wood exposed. Again not a big deal for me. I just want to know if this is foreboding of something that may effect the sound. I worry that the surface cracks could turn into something serious. Some friends keep something in their uke case part of the year for moisture, the thing you put in a clarinet (sorry I can't remember the name). I wondering if I should be doing something like this, if maybe it's been too dry? Should I get one of these humidifier things? Should I do something to protect the face, and what? Thanks, Bill Photos:      Answer: Bill , have the cracks closed just so they don't spread and don't worry about the chipping on the face. Unless its your face and then I would worry. YOu can do nothing about the strum wear and it will not affect the sound at all. . You don't need to do anything. I have no Idea about the what you put in a clairnet case. I thought it was a clairnet, however I may be wrong. If you mean something for chance of moisture or humidity, don't waste your time. Use that time for playing. That instsrument has already been broken in, so it sounds, It will out-last us all. Put something in side of you, like a good Red Wine and just enjoy the uke. Its going to make it fine. Mt Idy's resident Dermotologist, specializing in Cracked faces...Frets Fayne....By the way did you know the word Dermotologist is an interesting word. It comes from the Latin , Dermo meaning skin, and the Greek, tologist, meaning to overcharge. see ya - Wednesday, September 18, 2002

Question asked by: Ken McCaulou Subject: info on Kona Hawaiian Small Guitar Question: Dear Chuck, The widow of one of San Francisco's better Radio Staff Bass players has asked me for info (value) of a small violin shaped 6 string instrument with a label Kona Hawaiian Guitar. Her husband had it since he was a musician on a Cruise Ship trip to the Islands in the early 1930's. Another musician who referred her to me says it is in mint condition. He thought it might even be a tenor or baritone uke with 2 extra strings?? Have you any ideas on this? Thanks, Ken McCaulou Answer: Ken...is there any chance you can get me a pic of the instrument. You can send it to this site or my email address..cfayne@bigpond.net.au...I have a hunch it is not a ukulele at all. I will be able to help, but I need to see the instrument. Thanks..I tried to reach you on you email address supplied to this site, but they keep coming back..If you have an email address I can use...please send it. Thanks for using uke yak...frets - Monday, September 16, 2002

Question asked by: Brent Kobayashi Subject: Fixing Ukes Question: I just purchased a new Kamaka concert uke in June... A guitar AND suitcase fell on top if it, and managed to put about a 6 inch crack on the top board; truly a freak accident. Do you know of anywhere that may be able to fix this? I feel like an idiot; it's like smashing the bumper of a brand new corvette. Thanks in advance. Answer: I know many people who could fix it. However, I would like you to send it to someone near where you live. Please write back and let me know where you are...I will then advise..,.Dr Frets.... - Saturday, September 14, 2002

Question asked by: Kristi Kennison Subject: Fin-der Diamond head Hawaiian Uke Question: Wondering if a 1950's Fin-der Diamond Head Hawaiian Uke would have any value? I have the chance to purchase one, and wondering if their is any value? If so approximately what is it worth? Thanks Kristi Kennison Answer: Kristie...it is worth about 100 bucks in todays market. There are people who collect them, however if it is for playing, it does not sound like a wooden ukulele. Good Luck.....frets - Saturday, September 14, 2002

Question asked by: Dan Olmstead Subject: Maxitone Banjo/Uke Question: I have an old Maxitone 4-string, banjo (Banjo/Uke??) (see attachment) made in Bruno, NY. Can you tell me anything about it...age, value, etc.? Thanks. Dan Photos:      Answer: They, and we don't know who the they are, made millions of them. They have all been accounted for except for 4. Well, now I guess three. Bruno was most likely just the distributor. It was made in the 30's and would sell today for, in great condition, for about 200 bucks. Tune them with nylon strings and run don't walk to your nearest Mummers Parade. Frets... - Friday, September 13, 2002

Question asked by: Wally Swentko Subject: Please tell! Question: G'day Sir! Please tell what you know about the Gibson UB-3 vs the Wendell Hall banjo ukes. I'm hoping to find and get one! Waldo Answer: Wally, they are both fine instruments. I prefer the Wendall Hall for sound. They were made with the professional player in mind. The UB3 is also a fine instrument. A little heavier and not quite as loud. Its sort of like comparing shoes and lemons. They are quite different although they are in the same family. Contact John Bernunzio at Bernunzio vintage Instruments in Rochester N.Y. You will find his web site easily and tell him I told you to call. If anyone knows where you might get one, he is your man. Well, to be truthful, he's Julie's man. But he can help you find what you are looking for. Let us know our progress...Won't sleep till I hear from you. chuck - Friday, September 13, 2002

Question asked by: Tom B. Subject: Bass ukulele? Question: Hi Chuck: I spotted this item on ebay, and I was more curious than interested. Can you tell what it is? Is it a baritone uke? Thanks, oh wise one. Item # 905652330 Answer: I looked at this and have no idea what it is. It sort of looks like a Baritone and is about the right size. I have never heard of the maker, but that doesn't surprise me today. Everyone is a maker. Even me. It has the classic Hawaiian shape and looks to be well made. I will watch it with rapt attention...an old high school chum....best...chuck - Friday, September 13, 2002

Question asked by: Herb Danziger Subject: Regal Question: Hi Chuck.......I have a Regal Soprano uke that is marked "Rich Wood" on the headstock. I assume that Rich Wood was a ukulele player. Have you ever heard of him. I haven't been successful in my searching on the net. Hope all is well with you. Regards and thanks....Herb Answer: Nice to hear from you Herb. How are you? I think Rich Wood refers to the quality of the wood. I have no Idea who Rich wood is, but Regal made for everyone and anyone...If I were you, I'd stop searching. Let the yakkers out there write in if they know anyting about Rich. Come one yakkers. Write us...frets - Friday, September 13, 2002

Question asked by: GmikeC Uke Subject: Won't Stay in Tune Question: This Uke won't stay in tune? Chucko, Someone recently paid me serious money to take this model home with me at a local yardsale. I could tell by the few remaining tufts of hair on this persons head they were in dire straits, (which BTW, is one of my favorite groups from your neck of the woods) so I took pity on them & agreed. It took awhile for me to be able to make eye contact with the headstock, after which I finally figured out how to tune it, which is accomplished by opening the mouth & tying the strings to the teeth, then as you tweak each one of the (4) ears the mouth closes. Once tuned I was delighted with the tone,pitch & intonation on this one however my delight was punitively abated in only a few short minutes as while in the midst of my cajun jazz rendition of "Tiptoe through the Tulip's," suddenly the notes were all over the map as the headstock began to Yak! Please advise ASAP, as I don't look good in tufts of hair. GMikeC... PS Do you think Hypnotism might be a viable option? Photos:      Answer: MIke..its amazing the distance from the head to the hole are approximatly correct. That is the most disgusting uke I have ever seen. The headstock is attractive, but what common wood. You would think that anyone who went to the trouble to carve that exquisite headstock would have used only the best woods. Thanks for your trouble, your crazier than I am. I shall keep this and possibly make a Holiday Card from it. Thanks Pal..I appreciate the chuckles....chuckles fayne - Friday, September 13, 2002

Question asked by: Soybean Subject: Your name change Question: Greetings, Chuck. There seems to be something in the air that makes folks want to change your name. First it was "You Serene Chuckness", and now "Chucker". What's next? Answer: Phyllis.... - Friday, September 13, 2002

Question asked by: mark Subject: ukelele buying-oscar schmidt, others Question: hey!! name's mark--i'm a sinnger/somngwriter from wash dc area---i have a question about buying an inexpensive but decent uke. been tolk oscar schmidt is the best for around 120 dollar range---avoid the johnsons (too many are bad) ----appreciate yer suggestions. looking for a saprano, something my 2 yearold can sit on my lap and strum. he tries now but csnt get round the dreadnought. thought of a mini guit, but figured i could use a uke and i could strt him off slo just by msking him familiar w/ the inst--jump him up to a kids guitar wehn's 5 or so..... beleieve it or not, he csn stand in fromt of me and strum in nearly perfect time while i finger the chords. gifted little bastard. anyway and advice much appreciated. sll best, mark www.markhelm.net Answer: Shop around..not crazy about the Oscar Schmidt either. You might want to look into the Hohner or try the Fkluke on this website. Its on the menu to your left. Good luke to you and the Little one....frets... - Friday, September 13, 2002

Question asked by: Jeff Subject: Les Rietfors Ukelele's Question: Curious about this brand of Ukelele. Saw one on e-bay that sparks my interst. Item number 905148691. Description: Select Curly Koa Concert Pineapple ukulele. I own a Kamaka standard and love it's sound. Thanks for any input. Jeff Answer: I do not know much about this makers ukes. I do know, however, that if you are in love with the sound of a Kamaka, I don't think you will duplicate it. I do not know this first hand, however, second , third and fourth hands all seem to agree. I need some of you to step forward with testimonials either way on the les reitfors ukes. I have many mixed messages. I am not where I can play one, so I can not give a first hand evaluation,. Wheb I go to America or Hawaii, I will play one and report....frets - Friday, September 13, 2002

Question asked by: Wally Swentko Subject: Banjo-Ukes compared Question: Hey Chucker! Would you know enough about the Ludwig Wendell Hall and the Gibson UB-3 banjo ukes to compare/contrast them? Thanks! Waldo Answer: Yes..... - Tuesday, September 10, 2002

Question asked by: bert Subject: hlep id this ike Question: do you know what kind of uke this is? inside it is stamped made in west germany (i think... it's a bit faded)i bought this uke at flea market shop. plays better than newer cheap ukes like hilo, johnson, lauren. appears to be all solid wood. wood bridge and nut. black tuning pegs. Photos:      Answer: My guess is Bruko...i950's....Not a bad uke...Not great, but not bad...chuck frets fayne - Tuesday, September 10, 2002

Question asked by: Erin Subject: Martin Tenor Question: Chuck, been reading your column and really enjoy it. Need your advice. There is a Martin Tenor on Ebay now item Item # 905601515. Can you tell it's fair market value? I would like to make a bid on it but I certainly do not want to make one way out of line. Auction ends in 5 days. Thanks, Erin Answer: First of all, as you know it is not a six string uke. It is not a 30's tenor. It is a 50's+ tenor. I think its getting up there....I Wouldn't pay more than 750 for it. It has no hard case and Is not in pristine condition. Hope I have helped. If you wait, you will find a better version. The market is soft right now and its a good time to be patient. chuck - Tuesday, September 10, 2002

Question asked by: Rufus Yells Subject: Gibson Tenor Question: Greetings, You Serene Chuckness. If the weather you're experienceing in Oz is anything like the monsoon raging in South London, you'll be out there with a plastic uke singing 'the rain, it's plain, falls mainly on the Fayne'. Or perhaps not. I have, sir, in my possession a beautiful Gibson Tenor, mahogany, ivoroid bound top & bottom (rather like me),black headstock with 'Gibson' in white (?late 30s - early 40s), white buttons unlike those on sopranos or tenors of the time (as far as I know), AND... X-bracing, rather than the more usual stright- across bracing. It sings like a good 'un with pure Gibsonian majesty - my question is (at last!) do you think this might be a special from the custom mob? Or were early style 2s (as it appears) X-braced? I would send you a photograph (and may still in future if requested), but digital technology has yet to reach our mountain village. I remain, Sir etc etc. Rufus Answer: Good to year from you....Hows things. It is not uncommon to find Gibsons that are x braced. Mu guess is it is not a custom job. Just an x braced tenor. I wish I had a longer answer, the question deserves one. Keep in touch and keep your powder dry...were not wet just freezing our lower bouts off....best and good to hear from you...chuck frets fayne - Monday, September 9, 2002

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