Gear article
Flight TUS-65 Travel Soprano Ukulele Copper
The Flight TUS-65 is a travel-focused soprano ukulele featuring a robust ABS plastic back and a laminate linden top with a striking copper finish. Designed for durability and projection, it is a compact instrument intended for musicians who require a reliable performance tool for outdoor or portable use.
See live pricesOverview and Construction
The Flight TUS-65 is part of the brand's Travel Series, designed specifically to address the vulnerabilities of traditional wooden instruments. The body utilizes high-quality ABS plastic for the back and sides, which is moulded to be arched. This design choice serves two purposes: it provides exceptional resistance to environmental changes such as humidity and temperature, and the arched shape helps to project sound more efficiently.
The soundboard is made from laminate linden wood, finished in a distinctive metallic copper colour. This combination of a wooden top with a plastic body is intended to balance the warmth of traditional timber with the structural integrity of modern synthetic materials.
Sound Character and Performance
Despite its soprano dimensions, the TUS-65 is noted for a 'punchy' and bright sound profile. The ABS plastic body is less absorbent than solid wood, resulting in a lively resonance and significant volume for a small-bodied instrument. Chords are rendered with clarity, making it suitable for both rhythmic strumming and melodic fingerpicking. The laminate linden top contributes a consistent tonal response across the fretboard.
Suitability and Use Cases
The primary appeal of the TUS-65 is its durability. It is specifically suited for:
- Travelers: Its resistance to warping makes it safe for transport across different climates.
- Outdoor Performance: The plastic back is less susceptible to damage from moisture or direct sunlight compared to all-wood instruments.
- Beginners: The robust build and reasonable price point of approximately £53 make it an accessible entry-point instrument.
- Educational Settings: The toughness of the ABS plastic construction is ideal for environments where instruments may be handled frequently by multiple users.
Market Comparison
Within the Flight catalogue, the TUS-65 occupies a middle ground between the simpler Soprano models like the NUS350DC Dreamcatcher and the larger TUC-40 Travel Concert models. When compared to traditional wooden ukuleles like the Ferndale UC-W Walnut or the Flight DUS320 Zebrawood, the TUS-65 trades some of the organic complexity of solid wood for enhanced durability and projection.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary material of the Flight TUS-65 back?
- The back of the Flight TUS-65 is made from ABS plastic, which is designed to be robust and resistant to environmental warping.
- What size is the TUS-65 ukulele?
- The TUS-65 is a soprano-sized ukulele, which is the traditional smallest standard size for the instrument.
- Does the TUS-65 include a case?
- Yes, the Flight TUS-65 comes with a bespoke gig bag included in the purchase price.
- What is the finish on the top of this model?
- This specific model features a laminate linden top with a unique metallic copper finish.
- Is this ukulele suitable for humid climates?
- Yes, because the back and sides are made of ABS plastic, it is highly resistant to the warping and cracking that typically affects wooden instruments in high humidity.
- How does the sound of the TUS-65 compare to a wood ukulele?
- The TUS-65 has a punchy and bright sound due to its arched plastic back, which projects sound more aggressively than some flat-backed wooden alternatives.
- What is the typical price for the Flight TUS-65?
- The typical price range for this model is approximately £53, making it an affordable option for travel or beginners.
- Can children use the TUS-65?
- Yes, its soprano size and durable plastic construction make it an excellent choice for younger players who may be less careful with their instruments.
- How does it differ from the Flight TUC-40?
- The TUS-65 is a soprano ukulele, whereas the TUC-40 is a concert-sized travel ukulele, which has a slightly larger body and longer neck.
- Is the TUS-65 top made of solid wood?
- No, the top is made of laminate linden wood, which offers a balance of tonal resonance and structural stability.
- What strings are best for this ukulele?
- Standard soprano ukulele strings work well, though Flight often equips their travel series with high-quality strings to complement the punchy ABS body.
- Can the TUS-65 be used for professional performance?
- While it is a travel-grade instrument, its punchy sound and eye-catching copper finish make it suitable for stage use where a reliable, bright sound is required.
