Ukeleles aren't just for nutty uncles anymore. The instrument has had a resurgence for several good reasons. They're easier to play than guitar -- there are only four nylon strings, instead of six steel strings -- they're small enough to take anywhere, and they're fun to strum. The Lanikai LU-21CEBK Concert Acoustic Electric Ukulele has those pluses and more.
The Lanikai LU-21CEBK's larger body is easier to cradle in your arm than standard soprano models. It has a richer, more resonant sound. And the built-in electronics mean you can plug the uke into an amp and it will hold its own solo in public or with other instruments.
I took up ukulele to overcome a problem I was having strumming, singing and changing chords on guitar. The tactic worked perfectly. With only four nylon strings to strum with my index finger, I didn't feel the same pressure I felt with guitar. I was able to work out my problems in a relaxed manner and then transfer what I learned to guitar. Admittedly, the chord shapes are different on uke and guitar, but that didn't impede my progress. I strongly recommend this approach if you don't have a guitar teacher and you hit a wall.
The Lanikai LU-21CEBK also excels because the tuners stay true. As I mention over and over, the tuners are critical. If they let the strings slip, like they do on many cheap models, the strings won't stay in tune, which means they won't sound good no matter how well you play them. This can lead beginners to trash their instruments.
Finally, the uke is a relatively inexpensive way to see if you have the dedication it takes to learn guitar. And did I mention: It's fun!
