What size is the Flight TUS-65?

The TUS-65 is a soprano-sized ukulele, which is the traditional and smallest standard size for the instrument. This makes it highly portable and ideal for players with smaller hands or those seeking a bright, classic sound.

Is the Flight TUS-65 waterproof?

While the ABS plastic back and neck are highly resistant to water, the linden wood top is not waterproof. Users should avoid submerging the instrument, though it is far more resistant to humidity than a standard wooden ukulele.

What is the benefit of the ABS plastic back?

The ABS plastic back is resistant to warping and cracking caused by temperature or humidity changes. Additionally, the rounded shape of the back helps project the sound more effectively than a flat wooden back.

Does this ukulele come with a case?

Yes, the Flight TUS-65 comes with a bespoke gig bag included in the purchase price. This provides protection against scratches and makes it easier to transport during travel.

How does the silver finish affect the sound?

The silver finish is primarily an aesthetic feature on the laminate linden top. While finishes can technically affect vibration, the silver coating is designed to maintain the punchy and bright character of the linden wood.

Is this ukulele suitable for professional use?

The TUS-65 is marketed as a travel instrument rather than a professional studio ukulele. However, its reliable tuning and punchy projection make it a viable choice for live performance in casual or outdoor settings.

What strings are recommended for the TUS-65?

While it comes pre-strung, it is compatible with any standard soprano ukulele strings. Many players prefer fluorocarbon strings to enhance the brightness of the plastic body construction.

How does the TUS-65 compare to the TUS-65 Copper?

The two models are functionally identical in terms of construction and sound. The only difference is the aesthetic finish of the top, with one featuring a silver metallic look and the other a copper tone.

Can the TUS-65 withstand high heat?

Because it is made largely of ABS plastic, it is much less likely to suffer from the glue failures or wood cracking that heat causes in traditional ukuleles. However, extreme heat should still be avoided to protect the laminate top.

Linden, also known as basswood, is a lightweight tonewood often used for laminate tops. It provides a balanced, clear tone that complements the reflective properties of the plastic body.

Is the neck also made of plastic?

Yes, the neck and fretboard are made from ABS plastic. This ensures the neck stays perfectly straight regardless of the environment, which is a major advantage for a travel instrument.

How much does the TUS-65 typically cost?

The typical price for the Flight TUS-65 Travel Soprano in Silver is approximately £53. This places it in the affordable category for both beginners and experienced players looking for a second instrument.

Gear article

Flight TUS-65 Travel Soprano Ukulele Silver

The Flight TUS-65 Travel Soprano is a durable, silver-finished ukulele designed for portability and resilience against environmental changes. Featuring a hybrid construction of a laminate linden top and an ABS plastic body, it is engineered for musicians who require a robust instrument for travel.

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Overview

The Flight TUS-65 Travel Soprano Ukulele is part of Flight's acclaimed Travel Series, specifically designed to bridge the gap between traditional aesthetics and modern durability. The instrument is distinguished by its striking silver finish and its hybrid material composition. It is aimed at players who need an instrument that can withstand varying climates and physical handling while maintaining a clear, musical tone.

Design and Construction

The core of the TUS-65's design is its use of ABS plastic for the back, sides, and neck. This material choice makes the ukulele almost entirely resistant to warping, a common issue with all-wood instruments exposed to humidity or temperature fluctuations. The top is crafted from laminate linden wood, which provides a traditional wood grain response and is finished in a reflective silver coating. This combination ensures the instrument is both lightweight and structurally sound.

Sound and Performance

Despite its plastic construction, the TUS-65 is described as having a punchy and bright sound. The rounded ABS back acts as a parabolic reflector, projecting the sound forward and enhancing the volume of the soprano body size. Chords are noted for their clarity and 'shine', making it suitable for both strumming and fingerstyle playing in various settings, from outdoor travel to home practice.

Suitability and Applications

This ukulele is specifically suited for:

Travellers: Its resistance to weather makes it ideal for camping, hiking, or international trips.
Beginners: The price point and durability make it a low-risk entry point into the instrument.
Performers: The unique silver finish provides a distinct visual stage presence.
Educators: Its robustness is advantageous in classroom settings where instruments may be handled roughly.

Market Comparison

When compared to traditional wooden models like the Flight DUS320 Zebrawood or the NUS350DC Dreamcatcher, the TUS-65 offers significantly higher durability at the cost of the complex overtones found in solid or premium laminate woods. Within the travel category, it competes with the Kala Ukadelic series. While the Kala Ukadelic often focuses on graphic patterns like the 'Dragon Fruit' design, the TUS-65 TUS series offers a more streamlined, professional aesthetic with its metallic 'Copper' and 'Silver' finishes.

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Frequently asked questions

What size is the Flight TUS-65?: The TUS-65 is a soprano-sized ukulele, which is the traditional and smallest standard size for the instrument. This makes it highly portable and ideal for players with smaller hands or those seeking a bright, classic sound.
Is the Flight TUS-65 waterproof?: While the ABS plastic back and neck are highly resistant to water, the linden wood top is not waterproof. Users should avoid submerging the instrument, though it is far more resistant to humidity than a standard wooden ukulele.
What is the benefit of the ABS plastic back?: The ABS plastic back is resistant to warping and cracking caused by temperature or humidity changes. Additionally, the rounded shape of the back helps project the sound more effectively than a flat wooden back.
Does this ukulele come with a case?: Yes, the Flight TUS-65 comes with a bespoke gig bag included in the purchase price. This provides protection against scratches and makes it easier to transport during travel.
How does the silver finish affect the sound?: The silver finish is primarily an aesthetic feature on the laminate linden top. While finishes can technically affect vibration, the silver coating is designed to maintain the punchy and bright character of the linden wood.
Is this ukulele suitable for professional use?: The TUS-65 is marketed as a travel instrument rather than a professional studio ukulele. However, its reliable tuning and punchy projection make it a viable choice for live performance in casual or outdoor settings.
What strings are recommended for the TUS-65?: While it comes pre-strung, it is compatible with any standard soprano ukulele strings. Many players prefer fluorocarbon strings to enhance the brightness of the plastic body construction.
How does the TUS-65 compare to the TUS-65 Copper?: The two models are functionally identical in terms of construction and sound. The only difference is the aesthetic finish of the top, with one featuring a silver metallic look and the other a copper tone.
Can the TUS-65 withstand high heat?: Because it is made largely of ABS plastic, it is much less likely to suffer from the glue failures or wood cracking that heat causes in traditional ukuleles. However, extreme heat should still be avoided to protect the laminate top.
What is linden wood?: Linden, also known as basswood, is a lightweight tonewood often used for laminate tops. It provides a balanced, clear tone that complements the reflective properties of the plastic body.
Is the neck also made of plastic?: Yes, the neck and fretboard are made from ABS plastic. This ensures the neck stays perfectly straight regardless of the environment, which is a major advantage for a travel instrument.
How much does the TUS-65 typically cost?: The typical price for the Flight TUS-65 Travel Soprano in Silver is approximately £53. This places it in the affordable category for both beginners and experienced players looking for a second instrument.

Sources

Last updated: 2026-10-09