Gear article
Flight DUS320 Soprano Ukulele Zebrawood B&S
The Flight DUS320 is a soprano-sized ukulele featuring a combination of a spruce top and zebrawood back and sides. Designed as an entry-level instrument, it balances traditional Hawaiian tonal characteristics with a distinctive natural aesthetic.

Overview
The Flight DUS320 serves as a foundational instrument within the Flight Ukulele catalogue. It is a soprano-scale model, which is the smallest and most traditional size for the instrument. The model is specifically marketed toward aspiring players and beginners, arriving as a bundle that typically includes a gig bag and an instructional booklet to facilitate the learning process.
Construction and Design
The instrument is constructed using a laminated spruce top, a choice often preferred for its clarity and projection. This is paired with zebrawood for the back and sides, a tonewood notable for its striking, high-contrast grain patterns. To ensure stable intonation and better vibration transfer, the DUS320 is equipped with a nut and saddle made of bone rather than plastic. The tuning stability is managed by Flight's proprietary geared tuning machines, designed for reliability and minimal maintenance.

Tonal Profile
Due to its soprano body shape and spruce soundboard, the DUS320 produces a 'lively and bright' tone. It emphasizes the higher frequencies, resulting in the classic 'jangly' sound associated with traditional Hawaiian music. The use of spruce allows for a crisp attack, making it suitable for rhythmic strumming and melodic playing alike.
Target Audience
This model is primarily suited for new musicians and students who require a reliable first instrument. The inclusion of educational materials and a protective case makes it a comprehensive starter kit. Its small soprano scale also makes it highly portable for travel and comfortable for younger players or those with smaller hands.
Market Context
Within the Flight range, the DUS320 sits alongside other popular entry-level models such as the NUS350DC 'Dreamcatcher' and the TUS-65 Travel series. Compared to larger models like the DUC325 (the concert-sized version of this zebrawood design), the DUS320 offers a tighter, more focused sound. Other alternatives in a similar price tier include the Mahalo MZK1 accessory pack and the Kala Surfboard series.
Related gear
£52.50 ($67)Flight
Flight TUS-65 Travel Soprano Ukulele Copper
£19.99 ($25)Mahalo
Mahalo MZK1 Ukulele Essentials Accessory Pack
£68.00 ($86)Flight
Flight AUC33 Concert Ukulele Orchid
£104.99 ($133)Flight
Flight DUC325 Concert Ukulele Zebrawood B&S
£50.49 ($64)Flight
Flight NUS350DC Soprano Ukulele Dreamcatcher
£119.99 ($152)Kala
Kala Surfboard Concert Ukulele Dawn Patrol
£49.00 ($62)Flight
Flight TUC-40 Travel Concert Ukulele Kitty
Frequently asked questions
- What is the body size of the Flight DUS320?
- The Flight DUS320 is a soprano ukulele, which is the smallest standard size, measuring approximately 21 inches in length.
- What woods are used in the construction of this model?
- The instrument features a laminated spruce top combined with zebrawood for the back and sides, providing a unique visual grain.
- Does the DUS320 come with any accessories?
- Yes, the instrument is supplied as a package that includes a dedicated Flight gig bag and an instructional booklet for beginners.
- What material is used for the nut and saddle?
- This model uses bone for both the nut and the saddle, which helps improve intonation and the resonance of the strings.
- What kind of tone can I expect from the DUS320?
- It produces a bright and lively sound with traditional Hawaiian character, largely due to the spruce top and the small soprano body.
- Is this ukulele suitable for a complete beginner?
- Yes, it is designed specifically as a starting point for aspiring players, offering ease of use and the necessary tools to begin learning.
- How does zebrawood affect the look of the instrument?
- Zebrawood is known for its distinctive and gorgeous natural grain pattern, giving the back and sides a premium, striped appearance.
- What type of tuners are installed on the DUS320?
- The instrument is equipped with quality Flight-branded geared tuning machines, which are designed for reliability and staying in tune.
- How does the DUS320 compare to the DUC325?
- The DUS320 is a soprano model, whereas the DUC325 is a larger concert-sized ukulele. The DUS320 is smaller and has a brighter, more traditional tone.
- What is the typical price range for this model?
- The Flight DUS320 typically retails for approximately £75 in the UK market.
- Is the top of the DUS320 solid or laminated?
- The instrument features a laminated spruce top, which offers durability and consistent performance in varying climates.
- Does this model require a lot of maintenance?
- No, the combination of a laminated body and quality hardware like the bone nut and Flight tuners ensures it sounds great with minimal upkeep.
