Kanile'a HNS-T Natural - Select Hawaiian Koa Tenor w/Sand Inlays #28774

2025 is a big year for Kanile'a. They have taken a broad look at their existing models and systems and have made tweaks and streamlined the models to keep things incredibly simple. All models fit into the Natural, Core and Pro categories now with the Natural being the simplest, rawest and purest instruments of the lot. If your love for instruments is focused more on having a simple or more traditionally built instrument with a satin finish and straighter wood grain; the Natural series will definitely pique your interest. All Natural series Ukuleles feature select Hawaiian Koa wood, TRU-R Bracing, a natural finish and retain the core Hawaiian soul of early Kanile'a Ukuleles. If you love Kanile'a Ukuleles and Kamaka Ukuleles - this is a bit like what a collaboration between the two would look like.

The HNS-T Natural is a reimagining of one of Kanile'as more Hawaiian themed, blingy models. Previously the HNS model had an abalone turtle inlay under glossed Hawaiian Koa and it looked like something fit for royalty. The 2025 Natural version of the HNS-T is more understated; the Abalone trim has been replaced with Hawaiian sand taken from the beach a mile from Kanile'a in Kaneohe. The inlayed sand has long been a feature on Kanile'a Ukuleles and I would argue it looks better than the older version with that mixture of Earthy looking tonewoods and sand with the stripped back satin finish. 

Lastly, lets talk about the sound! Gloss vs Satin has always been a big debate with glossy finishes often being brighter sounding from new. The gloss tightens everything up which is more 'Ukulele Like' but the satin finish is darker and more filtered with less compression on the lower frequencies. Its untamed and open and I think for a lot of players - it's going to feel like an old friend when they get one of these ukes in their hands. 

Natural Series - HNS-T
Solid Select Hawaiian Koa Top, Back and Sides
Satin Finish
17'' Scale Length
38mm Nut Width (30mm String Spacing at Nut)
Sand Inlay on Top
Abalone fret dots and Headstock Inlay
Ebony Fingerboard and Bridge
Ebony Bridge Pins
Mahogany Neck
NuBone Nut and Saddle
TRU-R Bracing
Standard Kanile'a Padded Gigbag