In celebration of the 15th anniversary of the U-Bass, Kala has announced the launch of a special edition model, the Solid Hawaiian Koa Top 15th Anniversary Edition U-Bass. This model is a tribute to the original U-Bass’s legacy, renowned for its combination of compact size and deep bass tones.
The anniversary edition is crafted from a hand-selected piece of Hawaiian Koa wood, known for its rich grain and exceptional tonal qualities, taken from Kala’s private stock. The instrument’s design features a mahogany neck and an ebony fingerboard and bridge. The U-Bass is further embellished with maple binding and a Paua Abalone shell rosette, adding subtle aesthetic details that highlight the craftsmanship of the instrument.
The special edition also features a unique headstock inlay, showcasing a Koa branch and leaf pattern with Abalone, alongside 15 white pearl flowers. Each flower denotes a year since the U-Bass was first introduced, reflecting the instrument’s history.
For amplification, the U-Bass is equipped with a piezo pickup and a Fishman EQ, offering players a range of tonal options. The inclusion of a Graph Tech nut and saddle, along with custom Hipshot Ultralite tuners, ensures that the instrument maintains its tuning stability and intonation.
Set to retail at $999, the Solid Hawaiian Koa Top 15th Anniversary Edition U-Bass, features a 20.375″ scale length, 16 frets, and is equipped with Kala Round Wound strings.