What body size is the Cordoba 15CM-E?

The Cordoba 15CM-E is a concert-sized ukulele. This size is larger than a soprano but smaller than a tenor, offering a balance of comfort and increased fretboard space.

Can this ukulele be plugged into an amplifier?

Yes, it features a built-in undersaddle pickup system. This allows you to connect the instrument to an acoustic amplifier or a soundboard using a standard instrument cable.

What materials are used in the construction of the 15CM-E?

The top, back, and sides of the instrument are made from mahogany. It also features cream binding and an abalone rosette for decorative purposes.

Does the Cordoba 15CM-E have onboard EQ controls?

No, it features a simple volume control located inside the soundhole. Tonal adjustments would typically be made on the amplifier or an external preamp pedal.

What kind of finish does this model have?

The 15CM-E features a smooth satin finish with an Edge Burst aesthetic. The burst effect darkens towards the edges of the body for a refined look.

What strings come standard on this ukulele?

The instrument is factory-fitted with Aquila strings. These are professional-standard strings known for their dependability, tuning stability, and clear tone.

How does mahogany affect the sound of this ukulele?

Mahogany provides a warm and balanced tone. It emphasizes the mid-range frequencies, resulting in a sound that is less 'bright' than spruce but more 'mellow' and traditional.

Is the 15CM-E suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is highly suitable for beginners due to its comfortable concert scale and easy-to-play satin neck. The inclusion of a pickup also makes it a 'future-proof' choice for those who eventually want to perform live.

What is the difference between the 15CM and the 15CM-E?

The 'E' in 15CM-E stands for 'Electric.' While the standard 15CM is a purely acoustic instrument, the 15CM-E includes a pickup and volume control for amplification.

How does the concert size compare to a soprano ukulele?

A concert ukulele like the 15CM-E has a longer neck and a larger body than a soprano. This provides more room for the fingers on the fretboard and a louder, deeper acoustic volume.

Does this ukulele require a battery for the pickup?

The description indicates a simple undersaddle pickup and volume control; most passive systems do not require a battery, though some active versions of this model may use a button cell. Always check the specific jack compartment.

What visual details distinguish the Edge Burst model?

Aside from the gradient burst finish, it features a real abalone rosette and cream binding. These details provide a premium appearance compared to basic matte-finish ukuleles.

Gear article

Cordoba 15CM-E Edge Burst Concert Ukulele

The Cordoba 15CM-E Edge Burst is a concert-sized ukulele featuring an all-mahogany construction and integrated electronics for amplified performance. Designed for both practice and live use, it combines traditional acoustic warmth with a modern Edge Burst finish and cream binding.

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Overview

The Cordoba 15CM-E Edge Burst is an entry-to-mid-level concert ukulele designed to bridge the gap between purely acoustic practice instruments and stage-ready gear. It belongs to Cordoba's 15 series, which is widely regarded for offering traditional build techniques and materials at an accessible price point. The 'E' designation in the model name signifies the inclusion of an onboard pickup system, allowing players to connect the instrument directly to an amplifier or PA system.

Construction and Design

The instrument is constructed with mahogany for the top, back, and sides. This choice of tonewood is a staple in ukulele manufacturing, favoured for its structural stability and sonic properties. The concert-scale body is slightly larger than a standard soprano, providing a longer fretboard and increased volume while remaining portable. Aesthetic appointments include a hand-applied Edge Burst satin finish, cream-coloured body binding, and an authentic abalone rosette around the soundhole.

Electronics and Hardware

For live performance, the 15CM-E is equipped with a passive undersaddle piezo pickup. This system is controlled by a discreet volume knob located inside the soundhole, maintaining the instrument's traditional appearance by avoiding large plastic control panels on the side of the body. The ukulele is factory-fitted with Aquila strings, known for their tuning stability and gut-like tone, and features silver tuners with pearl buttons.

Sound Profile

Due to its all-mahogany build, the 15CM-E produces a warm, balanced, and mellow sound. The concert body size provides more resonance and sustain than a soprano model, resulting in a fuller frequency response. When amplified, the undersaddle pickup captures the percussive nature of the strings, though the tone remains grounded in the natural woody character of the mahogany body.

Suitability and Comparisons

This model is particularly suited for players who require a reliable instrument for open mic nights or ensemble playing where amplification is necessary. Compared to alternatives like the Flight DUC325 Zebrawood or the Ferndale UC-W Walnut, the Cordoba 15CM-E offers a more traditional, 'darker' mahogany tone. While travel-focused models like the Flight TUS-65 offer durability for outdoor use, the 15CM-E is geared towards players prioritizing classic aesthetics and plug-and-play functionality.

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Frequently asked questions

What body size is the Cordoba 15CM-E?: The Cordoba 15CM-E is a concert-sized ukulele. This size is larger than a soprano but smaller than a tenor, offering a balance of comfort and increased fretboard space.
Can this ukulele be plugged into an amplifier?: Yes, it features a built-in undersaddle pickup system. This allows you to connect the instrument to an acoustic amplifier or a soundboard using a standard instrument cable.
What materials are used in the construction of the 15CM-E?: The top, back, and sides of the instrument are made from mahogany. It also features cream binding and an abalone rosette for decorative purposes.
Does the Cordoba 15CM-E have onboard EQ controls?: No, it features a simple volume control located inside the soundhole. Tonal adjustments would typically be made on the amplifier or an external preamp pedal.
What kind of finish does this model have?: The 15CM-E features a smooth satin finish with an Edge Burst aesthetic. The burst effect darkens towards the edges of the body for a refined look.
What strings come standard on this ukulele?: The instrument is factory-fitted with Aquila strings. These are professional-standard strings known for their dependability, tuning stability, and clear tone.
How does mahogany affect the sound of this ukulele?: Mahogany provides a warm and balanced tone. It emphasizes the mid-range frequencies, resulting in a sound that is less 'bright' than spruce but more 'mellow' and traditional.
Is the 15CM-E suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is highly suitable for beginners due to its comfortable concert scale and easy-to-play satin neck. The inclusion of a pickup also makes it a 'future-proof' choice for those who eventually want to perform live.
What is the difference between the 15CM and the 15CM-E?: The 'E' in 15CM-E stands for 'Electric.' While the standard 15CM is a purely acoustic instrument, the 15CM-E includes a pickup and volume control for amplification.
How does the concert size compare to a soprano ukulele?: A concert ukulele like the 15CM-E has a longer neck and a larger body than a soprano. This provides more room for the fingers on the fretboard and a louder, deeper acoustic volume.
Does this ukulele require a battery for the pickup?: The description indicates a simple undersaddle pickup and volume control; most passive systems do not require a battery, though some active versions of this model may use a button cell. Always check the specific jack compartment.
What visual details distinguish the Edge Burst model?: Aside from the gradient burst finish, it features a real abalone rosette and cream binding. These details provide a premium appearance compared to basic matte-finish ukuleles.