Kala Ubass-Em-Fs Exotic Mahogany

An iconic model in the Kala U-BASS range since 2012

Introduced in 2012, the Kala U-BASS Exotic Mahogany acoustic-electric quickly became one of the best-selling models in the U-BASS range. It combines the two qualities that make this family of instruments so distinctive: a compact format and a low voice reminiscent of the double bass. Its exotic mahogany body gives it an immediately recognizable visual personality.

The orange and brown hues of the wood, crossed by tiger-striped grain, are a true defining feature here. The satin finishing and black binding frame this natural pattern without overwhelming it. This is a bass that embraces its wood aesthetic just as much as its musical concept: offering another way to approach bass lines, far removed from the usual conventions of the electric bass.

A compact bass for accompanists and curious musicians

This Kala acoustic-electric bass is equally suited to bassists looking to expand their palette, guitarists, and ukulele players drawn to the low register. Beginners may also find it an inspiring instrument, provided they take the time to discover the distinctive touch of polyurethane strings. Their feel under the fingers differs from that of conventional metal strings.

Its tone color is particularly well suited to acoustic accompaniment, folk, jazz, and songs where the bass needs to provide a solid foundation without overpowering the ensemble. It encourages work on consistency, placement, and note length. For an experienced musician, it is also an appealing alternative when an arrangement calls for a rounder presence and a character reminiscent of the double bass.

Full lows, a woody color, and Fishman amplification

The top, back, and sides are made of exotic mahogany. This tonewood reflects a pursuit of warmth and presence in the midrange, while giving the body its tiger-striped appearance. On this U-BASS, however, the sonic result should be considered as a whole: the acoustic construction, strings, and amplification all contribute to its identity, not just the choice of wood.

The Road Toad Pahoehoe polyurethane strings play a central role in this character. Combined with the U-BASS concept, they contribute to the rounded lows and double-bass-like quality that distinguish the instrument. Fingerstyle playing allows you to explore different attack nuances and note durations, whether supporting a chord progression or adding definition to a low melodic line.

The Fishman U-BASS EQ electronics let you make the most of this sonic signature when amplified and adjust its balance. They are particularly useful in rehearsals or on stage, when the bass needs to hold its place alongside other instruments. Custom Hipshot Ultralite tuners complete the setup, while the Graph Tech TUSQ nut and composite bridge saddle provide the strings' contact points.

Recommended compatible accessories

A custom-padded U-BASS gig bag is already included, so no additional purchase is required for basic transport protection. For a replacement, choose Road Toad Pahoehoe polyurethane strings designed for this U-BASS. For storage, the stated compatibility covers all Kala baritone ukulele gig bags, the UB-B model and Sonoma Coast baritone cases, as well as the specific U-BASS protections UB-UBASS, DUB-UBASS, HCGT-UB, HC-UB, and HCT-UB.

Technical specifications

Category	Ukulele	Fingerboard	Rosewood
Format	Bass	Electroacoustic	Yes
Left handed	No	Color	Natural
Strings	Composite	Finishing	Satin
Top	Mahogany	Hardware	Black
Back&Sides	Mahogany

Instrument type	U-BASS electro-acoustic bass	Bridge saddle	composite
Back and sides	exotic mahogany	Tuning machines	Custom Hipshot Ultralite
Binding	Black	Strap button	one, Black
Wood appearance	orange and brown hues, distinctive tiger-striped grain	System	Fishman U-BASS EQ
Neck	mahogany	Included accessory	custom-padded U-BASS gig bag
Key	rosewood	Compatible gig bags	all Kala gig bags for baritone ukulele and the UB-B model
Headstock	standard	Compatible cases	Sonoma Coast for baritone ukulele
Headstock nut	Graph Tech TUSQ	Compatible U-BASS-specific gig bags and cases	UB-UBASS, DUB-UBASS, HCGT-UB, HC-UB and HCT-UB
Neck truss rod	yes