K-1 Model Build to Order

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Made in Hawaiʻi
K-1 Series
The Kanileʻa K-1 ʻUkulele embodies the harmony of traditional Hawaiian craftsmanship and modern design. Made with solid Hawaiian Koa for the top, back, and sides, it delivers a vibrant tone and classic island aesthetic. Its solid mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard, bridge, and head plate offer durability and a smooth, comfortable feel. Accented with white Mother of Pearl inlays, the K-1 is available in all finishes, series, and sizes to suit any player. Kanileʻa’s exclusive features—including chrome geared tuners, a Radiused Back, TRU-R Bracing System, and Ebony Bridge Pins—ensure superior sound quality and performance.
Available in all series and sizes.
Pictured above is a K-1 Tenor Natural.
The Foundation
The K-1 model stands as the very foundation of all Kanileʻa builds, offering everything you need from a Hawaiian-made ʻukulele. It’s a perfect balance of craftsmanship, innovation, and sound. With its solid Hawaiian Koa construction and Kanileʻa-exclusive features, the K-1 delivers a rich, resonant tone that captures the true spirit of the islands. It combines timeless design with modern performance enhancements, like the TRU-R Bracing System and radiused back, ensuring clarity, sustain, and exceptional playability. The K-1 embodies Kanilea’s commitment to quality, offering players a reliable, high-performance instrument that is truly a reflection of Hawaiian artistry.
Marvelous Koa
Hawaiian Koa is an iconic, endemic wood deeply rooted in the culture and history of the islands, known for its vibrant tones and striking visual beauty—qualities that make it the wood of choice for crafting the finest ʻukuleles. At Kanileʻa, we honor this special resource by planting a Koa tree for every ʻukulele we build, ensuring that the future of this treasured wood is as sustainable as the sound it creates. Each instrument is not only a tribute to Hawaii’s legacy but also a step toward preserving its future, one tree at a time.
Player Focused
The K-1 model is designed with player comfort in mind, featuring a 1.5" nut width for easier fretting and smooth playability, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned musicians. Its elegant ebony head plate adds a touch of sophistication, while the white mother of pearl position markers and logo inlays provide a visually striking contrast that enhances the instrument's refined look. The K-1 combines timeless aesthetics with thoughtful design, ensuring a superior playing experience every time.