I actually own and enjoy them both for what they are- plastic ukuleles that sound and play decently and can take a bit of a beating. Of the 8 ukuleles that i currently own, the outdoor tenor is my choice as a daily player and has been since I bought it two years ago. The two biggest reasons for this are probably its durability and the comfort of the neck on my big, chunky hands. I know there's a lot of hate out there for plastic ukes, but what I love about the two that I own is that just like each of my wooden ukuleles they have unique voices all their own. And really, what's the point of having a bunch of different ukes that all sound the same? Anyhow, much love and keep up the great work!
I have both - I got the Outdoor tenor a couple of years ago. And I just recently got the Enya Nova U Concert/per your review! I LOVE BOTH! The Outdoor sounds great and the Enya does, too - they're just different. I did put a Low G string on the Outdoor so it has a more "full sound"? (Not sure if that's a good description) BUT I like having the option and I bet your followers would, too. Also, I love and can always count on your reviews! I've bought 3 of your recommendations so far and are thrilled with them. Thanks so much for "keeping it real" for us all!
I have played both, and own an Outdoor tenor, which I love. It IS worth the purchase price! It's not a $1000+ Kamaka, Kanile'a, Martin, Kala Elite or Beansprout. However, I wouldn't leave one of those in my car trunk year around where I live - in Minnesota. I do leave my Outdoor ukulele in the trunk all the time, and it always works like a champion. And, it really sounds very good! Thanks for the review Baz!
Thanks - yes your experience on resilience of the Outdoor matches similar comments i've had from friends. It's the one I prefer - but still - do like both of these.
Listening through headphones the sounds are totally different. The Outdoor is louder (as expected with the full tenor body) and the notes are a little clearer, but I actually prefer the mellow tone of the Nova. From a looks perspective, the Enya wins hands down. The plastic on the Outdoor may be tough but looks cheap and those tuners are hideous (maybe they’re trying to keep on with the moose antler theme?).
I have only been playing for a year, and my opinion is only what I could hear through my phone. I enjoyed the sound of the Outdoor when being strummed. I love hearing the low tones mixed with the high. It was louder, and the notes blended beautifully together. I could not hear those low tones well on the Enya concert. When it was being strummed, the notes seemed more distant. However, I did hear them very well when the Enya concert was being finger picked. It was so clear and loud and came at me. It was like hearing bells, but so clear so crisp. When I heard the outdoor being picked, it was so blended, that the notes didn't really jump out at me. It was almost too smooth, too blended. This is just my opinion, of course. I don't see well enough to comment on how they look, and I don't own any of them, so I cannot comment on how they feel. I do like the way both sound for different reasons. Since I have seen and read your review, I am considering the Enya Nova Mini which has strap buttons now, and a strap to go with it. I figure it will be great for outings with the kids. 😊🎶
I’m biased because I have an Outdoor Tenor and I love it. But I did try out an Enya and it was much nicer than I thought it would be. I think both are great options, but I prefer the sound and style of the Outdoor.
Well, Baz, thank you for quelling my UAS a bit. I watched a lot of uke friends get Enya Novas over the holidays and wanted one myself. Changed my mind. I think I will stick to laminate for affordable travel ukes.
(Sorry my bad english) I like the sound of the Outdoor for strumming, but for fingerpicking I've fallen in love with the sound of Enya. It's awesome that a ukulele with a thin body has such a rich sound!
@@GotAUkulele The only thing I learned from the video was never to challenge you to a game of poker :-) but the comment "i prefer it myself" might have hit the naill on the head: to my ears, the Outdoor had greater separation of the individual strings but the Enya is not at all unpleasant. My immediate thought regarding the "muffuled" "muddy" "strangled" tone that seemed to be coming over with the Enya was: SIDE SOUND PORT- so, my guess is that, with the Enya the player gets a better sound than the listener. At this point can I chuck the cat among the pigeons and also mention, that, I'm pretty sure you can get an electric Enya for about the same, or less, than the Outdoor. I think that the real point is not whether plastic uke A is better than plastic uke B but, that, at this price (particularly the Enya price point), you'd be really lucky to get an off the peg mail order laminate instrument that is as playable and that sounds as nice as either of these two straight out of the box. Does the winner of this week's competition get to stay on for a match against the Flight travel uke, or, has the Flight been disqualified on the grounds of its laminate top? :-)
@@evanssm1 No - won't be the sound port - that's a common misconception about how they work. They are mainly just for air flow to allow the top to vibtrate. The lions share of the sound comes from the top, not the sound hole.
@@GotAUkulele In which case, I must consider myself to have been commonly misconceived - (I come from a small town and there were always rumors ). :-) :-) :-)
I own both. The Enya rarely comes out of its case. I leave it at our Fort Myers house for when I don’t want to schlep a ukulele down there for the weekend, so I guess you could say the Enya is my ukulele of last resort. My Outdoor is the carbon version, so very much an apples-to-apples comparison.
I think it's hard for me to separate the difference in concert vs tenor tones and what's quality. I like the Outdoor's sound better, but I'm not sure how much of that is simply because I like tend to like tenors more than concerts. The Outdoor sounded fuller and more rounded, but that's how tenors usually sound vs concerts.
In your skilful hands they both sound great though the outdoor sounded louder. The Enya is what I’ll get because at this time I don’t need it louder and the Enya is far more attractive. I always have three hanging up for easy access. Thanks.
Yeah - the Outdoor IS louder (that much is not subjective). People seem evenly split on the tone though. I side with the Outdoor myself, but it's close.
Personally, I prefer the Enya because of it’s more mellow and tuneful tones. I can’t wait until 2021, when they hopefully are bringing out their new Tenor. I hope you will then review it and do a comparison between the 2 tenor versions. Thanks for your excellent site.
It's been an interesting comment feed on this one - it's split fairly evenly between people liking one or the other. Fascinating. But that's personal choice for you. It's why I never give string recommendations! Ha ha! Thanks Adam
I like the sound of the Outdoor ukulele in your video. I have a soprano Outdoor Ukulele (carbon fibre) and an Enya Nova. I can't decide which one sounds better when I play them. Is it because mine is a soprano? Or I just play badly.
I own that Enya. However clearly the outdoor sounds wonderful. I bought the enya because i needed a travel budget uke. I want a travel tenor now but looking at laminate instead
I'd love to hear a comparison of the tenor Nova U to the Outdoor's now that it's out. I've searched high and low and no one has done a comparison between the two. Which is pretty sad, since they seem like they're in very similar classes now, both in size, and price.
My Outdoor has long since moved on so I can't do the comparison. I don't think they are that comparable though - very different body shapes, metal frets on the Nova For me I would take the Nova on looks, feel and the frets I would take the Outdoor if durability was important. Sound is different, but i wouldn't say one was 'better' than the other
I'd say that Enya has the kind of sound that is more associated to what ukulele should sound like. The Outdoor is good, don't get me wrong, but tenor ukuleles are going too deep into the bass department in my opinion. Sopranos, on the other hand, lacks this one, that's just my thoughts. So I find concert ukuleles to be my favorites in terms of the sound and size. And giving Enya it's thinline body I'm just blown away by how bright, correct and smooth it sounds. I own an orange Enya Nova U btw :D
Throw some aquila sugar strings on that enya! I really like the brightness they add while keeping that mellow tone. Personally I prefer the enya just because it doesn't have quite as much of that pluncky plastic noise. But that just my 2¢
You see this is where I don't ever get into string debates - we all perceive sound a bit different. I have never played Aquila stings and found them add a brightness to anything. Yet we are both right - just hear things differently.
@@GotAUkulele The sugar ones didn't really change much of anything for my cheap wooden uke, which already had aquila strings, but on my nova I felt like they had a noticeable difference. I just don't like Enyas stock strings.
@@orionishi6737 Oh when it comes to the original Enya stock - could not agree more - I think that's because the tension is all wrong. Nice to see on the Enya I reviewed this last weekend, they moved to D'Addario Titanium
As you said in the beginning, not a fair comparrison. As said below, with headphones both are so different it come down to what body size do you like. Anyway, enjoyed the video and hope to hear in the future your choice. I like the larger body sound of the outdoor but I would never take one home in that awful blue color :)
For some reason your vids haven’t been popping up in my feed, I missed you! Hearing you play the same familiar sample progressions put a big ol smile on my face. I think the Enya had much better clarity, but the Outdoor had a much warmer, richer tone.
I know it's been a year & change since you initially posted this, but to my ear the Enya sounds treble forward with muddy mid and bass. The Outdoor has a more well rounded, crisper sound than the Enya to me. To me, if I were going for an all (mostly) plastic uke, the Outdoor would be my choice for how practically bulletproof it is, and how well it sounds compared to the Enya. I do think if I had the disposable cash I'd be willing to get an Outdoor. I did buy a Flight TUSL concert scale with soprano body size plastic travel uke with the wood soundboard & front of the headstock; yes, it isn't as durable as the all plastic Outdoor, but it basically cost me $47 USD before taxes (near unbeatable in its niche), and sounds really nice to me.
Yep to my ears too. I love the Nova Concert, but this Outdoor is a much fuller sound. Just to throw the cat amongst the pigeons though - I've now tested the new Nova U Pro Tenor - I think it easily stands up to the Outdoor on tone. The Outdoor is still tougher though.
Adding my bit, fwiw. As a soprano man anyway, and allowing for the audio capability from YT, and accepting that the two are different price range; I like both. I think the Tone of the Outdoor is nice, but, as a go-to and take anywhere (especially busking) uke, the size saving by having the enya would be the winning point for me. I think (and it may just be because of the fact that I like sopranos) the enya is more like what I would want for true uke sound. The fact that the enya is cheaper would also affect my decision more than many because of my finances.
They're different but I don't think we can say one is better than the other. I happen to prefer the Enya for reasons of portability, cost, and the way it feels in my hands. That said. The outdoor seems fuller but it would being bigger and having a deeper body. The Enya sounds more like my ears want a uke to sound but that might be just because I play one of them several times a week.
The Enya is a little muddy in the middle, but it is well worth the half price markup, (compared to the outdoor price tag of course 🙏). Can you get an outdoor concert yet? Keep up the good work sensai. 🎅🏻
My first impression is that the Enya sounded better. The outdoor sounded more plasticky and even tinny in places. Despite its size the Enya sounds more musical and fuller than the tenor. Might just be the phone I’m listening to it over. Guess I’m in the minority :)
Baz. Any comment on the difference in the fingerboards? The Enya radiused vs. a flat fingerboard? I have another Enya and I find it easier to play than my Kala. Thoughts?
Really glad you did this. I read the 'Outdoor' review the other day and thought a comparison video with the Enya would be really useful but was surprised you did one for all the reasons you and others have mentioned in comments below. It has to come down to answering the question of why one would want to buy a plastic uke in the first place. I was interested in the Enya since I first saw it in your initial review. So for me , why would I buy a plastic uke?... I travel now and again to Europe to speak in music conferences. I also spend a lot of time in a hospital bed as a renal patient.In both of those situations it would be nice to have a cheap Uke that I can pick up, shove in a backpack, let other people play etc. It would need to sound OK otherwise I won't enjoy it .I don't expect to enjoy playing it as much as my Moonbird or my Pono tenor of course but I do need to enjoy it for what it is. I will probably get the Enya before my next trip abroad. because it ticks the portability and value for money boxes.I'd prefer it as a tenor size with the 2 inch depth but that's not an option. If I was in a position where I had to have only one Uke and it had to be a plastic one I would probably go with the Outdoor but fortunately that isn't the case and so the Enya wins out. Without trying too much to second guess you I find it interesting that in your original reviews on the two instruments you seem to be a lot more excited by the Enya than the Outdoor even though you had been waiting for a while to review the Outdoor.... mmmm Whatever, as always this has been a really useful video and thought provoking so thanks once more for all your work om our behalf. Maybe I'll just paint the Moonbird bright red! JOKING JOKING JOKING DT
I’ve been buying the nova u as gifts. I think they’re are a total steal for the price. Rich sound and easy to play. I just wish they made a tenor. Btw the reason I like plastic is I’m bouncing back and forth between the states and the Philippines and the carbon just stands up better to temp, humidity and elevation.
Listened with headphones and didn't watch you play. I am going with Outdoor for sound. The Enya sounded muffled in plastic, although it has some nice clear moments. Overall the Outdoor has better sound but the Enya is prettier.
They are both great ukuleles but I would have to chose the outdoor if I could only choose one. I had the Tenor Nova U Pro+ (Christmas present) and returned it and bought the Outdoor Guitar. The Enya Nova U concert that I have is enough!
Well I played this twice and I feel the outdoor tenor is the one to go to if you want that fuller sound the the larger body offers. I have a Nova U and I don't really like it. In all fairness when I reported my findings to Enya they first insisted I try a second Nova U . No improvement so they refunded my money but do want either back. Both displayed different faults. Although I have never even handled the outdoor tenor I think from this comparison that it sounds quite rich and full. The Enya on the other hand not so much. One wonders how either will stand up over time and prolonged use. It's a bit like comparing a Mazda MX5 with a mid sized SUV and asking " which is best ?".
You see, I think the Enya is brighter, but the Outdoor has tonnes more projection and character. This is why I NEVER recommend strings - sound is totally personal and subjective!
Overall I prefer the Enya, the Outdoor seemed a little louder, but the sustain didn’t seem as good. The Enya has a sweet subtle sound, maybe not 100% ukulele-ish (if there is such a word), but I like it. In my opinion where the Enya wins hands down is on looks and price. The Outdoor looks like a lump of plastic and I hate the translucent appearance. Then again I am biased I own an Enya.
Both sounded better than I expected but a Flight (with a wooden top) just knocks them both out of the park. If I could justify the cost, the Blackbird natural composite would be the one for outdoor use. I have played a couple and they are astoundingly good, but so they should be at over £1K.
No way would I pay those prices for a ukulele designed for outdoor use. I take my Makala Dolphin and it goes down a treat. Who cares when you are round the fire especially after a few beers and a couple of whiskies. I got my bright yellow dolphin for £19 on eBay with Aquila strings perfect for outdoor use. Thanks for the hard work you put in. Steven
The Outdoor sounds a lot louder to me, clear bright tones, the other seems a touch flat ....but I’m real new to Ukuleles .....I wanna try them all! 😃🤣 I would love to try a Outdoor Tenor but it seems tricky to get one here in England without ordering Direct and then probably have Import Tax on it. It obviously bumps up the price, a guy told me in a message yesterday he was charged £50 in fees a few months ago when he ordered online direct from the USA. I do really like the idea of it Made in America though, most of their stuff is Really good! And I lived in West Virginia for 8 years, my wife is American. Loveeeeeeeeee the look and sound of the Mainland Tenor also but that’s Mahogany and I would like to try some plastic ones as they work out a lot cheaper and still sound really good .....it will be really interesting to see what they Feel like to play.
@@GotAUkulele I’ll check it out! 👍 I have the blue Flight Travel on its way, will be really interesting to see what the ABS plastic are like, and at only £45 it’s a great place to start. I think I’ll like them, especially after seeing your reviews and others. I’m also looking forward to checking out HPL ukuleles, and guitars. Martin have a new HPL concert at £299 for 2021 .....caught my eye, as did their new Tenor for 2021. Really interested to get a Little Martin guitar, that is HPL .....I may order one in next few days if the store still has in it stock, soooooo many things out of stock in all stores!
I think the sound is very close...would be even closer if Enya was Tenor sized...but Enya comes with a case, strap buttons, strap, capo, extra strings, and is ALMOST HALF THE PRICE OF OUTDOOR. Very easy choice for me...
Well Mas, I drive a Mazda Miata and for me the smaller ukulele would fit better in my car both as I played it and as I stored it. Indeed space is at a premium in my case. That alone is worth much of my decision. Hard to tell the difference not being there in the room with you but because of the nature of the tenor, it would provide a stronger sound of course, Which it does. However my soprano is my sweetest sounding ukulele. I agree with you that this is an unfair comparison that shouldn’t have been done. Don’t let others pressure you.
I wonder if in Outdoor, for designing the ukes, aside from engineers, they asked any musician for advice. In other videos, comparing tenor vs tenor (Outdoor vs Enya) the difference in sound is even bigger favoring Enya. I'm a classic musician, we don't have good or bad sound depending on your taste, we just have good or bad sound.
Very interesting comparison, while finger picking i felt enya sounded more towards what ukulele should sound like. It had a ringing sound to it but a mellow feel around it as well while outdoor was not like that i felt. But on the whole both were good
Thank you for this video, it was very helpful. I have a blue, nickel soprano Outdoor uke, I've been thinking about the Enya and this made the decision for me. The Enya does sound quite a bit warmer, but I also have a Magic Fluke Flea and I want warmth, that's the one I'm picking up so, while I do really like the appearance of the Enya, I think I'm going to pass on it.
I think the Outdoor sounds better. It's fuller and even a bit brighter. Like you said, the Outdoor is a Tenor and should pack more punch. It sounds more like a wooden ukulele and the Enya sounds plastic.
Wow look how late I got here. The Outdoor did sound better could be clearly heard on the 3rd demo starting at 3:00. The Enya just not resonate? as much? Would that have anything to do between concert and tenor? Probably not, however price for Outdoor just way too much if I don't take it to travel to have it under harsh situation. Even so, someone on youtube tested the Enya, it held pretty well.
I honestly just think the Outdoor is more resonant. Sure - they are slightly different scales (I say slightly as the Enya is a bit longer than standard concerts - kind of half way between concert and tenor), but still..
You probably address this in another video, but where does the Waterman fall in comparison to...either, I guess, but mainly the Enya? Between these two, if I was playing for someone else to hear, I'd definitely go with the Outdoor. But the Enya sounds sweet enough for myself. It's a little like the Dolphin in a way; the lo-fi experience of uke, which isn't necessary bad.
The Waterman troubles me. I got an early (pre-release i think) model when i reviewed it and quite liked it - very plastic sounding, but was fun. Seen many of them since and the QC seems to have fallen off a cliff with dipping tops and ultra high actions which are next to impossible to fix. So compared to those, these are night and day better.!
Is the Outdoor tenor strung low-G? It sure sounds way lower to my ears. I think it also has more sustain. The Enya sounds more traditional. Sound-wise, I am split (deeper outdoor tenor vs sweeter Enya concert). Looks-wise, the Enya wins hands down -way cooler.
Both are high G. The Outdoor definitely has more sustain and to my ears, a richer more fuller sound. I actually found the Enya rather thin sounding in comparison.
Well, the difference in soundbox size makes it kinda apples and oranges. That said, the Outdoor's voice is brighter, richer, with more dynamic range and more complex overtones. The Enya's voice is darker and more compact, although still quite pleasing. It's hard to tell whether it's the difference in materials, or the difference in soundbox size, but I suspect it's mostly the former. It's kinda like spruce vs. mahogany, respectively. They're both nice, just different. All in all, I like the Outdoor better. I guess you're just going to have to review an Outdoor carbon now! :-)
I much, much prefer the looks of the Enya. It's a showy little dickens. But the Outdoor, homely as it is, blows it away in sound, tone, sustain, all the highs, lows, etc.
the outdoor has much fuller sound more sustain enya sound thin a little less volume quiet .plus the wider nut and a tenor i would go with the outdoor .everyone has different taste i guess
Baz, both sound pretty good through your mic. But neither make my mouth water like . . say . . . the KM Ukuleles Dreadnought Concert. Having said that though, the enya sounded a little bit more open.
They kind of are what they are. They will never sound like wooden ukes, certainly not 'good' wooden ukes. But that kind of misses the point. They are for inhospitable conditions you wouldn't take a wooden uke. So really they need to work on a basic level as a musical instrument, whilst not trying to win prizes on the tone front. I think they both do that well.
Yeah, I get that. If I ever procure a hot tub. I'll put aside a hundred for the Nova. Which whisky do you suggest for inhospitable conditions.as well? Does Dalwhinnie come in a plastic bottle?
@@GotAUkulele oh ok, in case you get hold on one please consider that in future 👍i saw your zct ziricote by kala review and got myslef a zcts soptano. Loves it.
Truth be told, after listening to both, I'd rather just go with a waterman. Doesn't sound great sure, but since the point of an outdoor uke (to me) is something you don't mind rough housing the waterman meets my needs and is only $40
@@GotAUkulele ah, that's unfortunate. I bought one of the clear ones a couple of years ago for my nephews and it played fine, sad to hear the quality has gone down.
@@Dr.Turkey Well can't speak for every single one - but put it this way - I see far more stories and photos of dipping tops and high action than I don't. I still have the original and it's fine. I won one in a competition last year and the action was terrible (and the top was dipping!)
Thank you so much for a review of durable playable ukes that you can leave in the damp and direct sunlight without concern. Are either of the two ukes reviewed “better” than the Korala puc about which you did express an opinion! They are about £30 online.....
Thank you for responding.Forgive me for being a little surprised at your unshaded and emphatic opinion. When you reviewed the Korala you said you didn’t enjoy playing the Outdoor but intended to put the Korala in the boot of your car. Did you have problems in your ownership of the Korala that caused you to lose faith in it ?
stephen harris I didn’t like the first gen outdoor. This is gen 3 or 4. The Korala came with me to a jam night and it just didn’t have volume to cut it. Plus the bendy neck stared to really annoy me!
Nice comparison Barry. To me personally this reminded me why I got the Tenor Carbon model of Outdoor Ukulele. The fiberglass fibers produce what to me personally is sort of a "Banjo Twang" and the carbon fibers produce a more "wood like" less twangy tone. I noticed the same thing when playing the two different Outdoor versions before buying the Carbon fiber reinforced model. I know people that choose the fiberglass reinforced model for the same reason I mentioned above and their preference for the more "Banjo Twang" or Banjo like sound.
That's interestng to hear - everything I read about the carbon though is that it is zingier and brighter. I actually found this quite rounded and rich, and not twangy
To my ears the Enya sounded muddier, but the Outdoor also sounded a little bit too bright. What a pity you don't have a Flight Travel to act as referee.....(insert smilie here)>
@@PeterSmith-is8cj Yes - probably this stuff -- www.gotaukulele.com/2015/05/something-fishy-fishing-line-as-ukulele.html But on review ukes I always review them with what they arrive with. It's because what people make of them and will change them to is likely personal to them. So I just go with what arrives.
I absolutely despise the Outdoor! I hate how cheap it looks! I hate how light leaks through the sides of the uke. I hate the blemishes around the sound hole and neck. And I'm not crazy about the Outdoor's sound. It sounds way too "jangly" for my tastes. I prefer the warmer tones of the Nova U. For the longest time I played a Dinner DUC-1 because I loved it's mellow sound. It was my "go to" uke. Then I received a white Nova U (White doesn't show finger prints) for Christmas. Its sound and playability are the reasons that IT is now my "go to" uke.
At the risk of sounding like an ass, I think they both sound empty. Not really a big fan of adding more plastic into the world, either. But I'm glad people have options, competition is good.
IMHO the Outdoor was brighter, louder and had more sustain than the Enya. That being said I preferred the softer tone of the Enya. The use of these is probably going to be in a rustic environment anyway and the Enya is about half the price and slightly more compact in size for travel. I hate to say it but I would probably vote for the Enya.
It's not trying to be wood. You can take these anywhere, unlike wood. I've left my outdoor and Enya inside a 120 degree car and not a thing happened to either one.
You know - when i reviewed the Enya I liked the tone. I still do (I think) - but playing it side by side with the Outdoor doesn't do t any favours and I agree with you. Have a read of the comments below though - many disagree!
I actually own and enjoy them both for what they are- plastic ukuleles that sound and play decently and can take a bit of a beating. Of the 8 ukuleles that i currently own, the outdoor tenor is my choice as a daily player and has been since I bought it two years ago. The two biggest reasons for this are probably its durability and the comfort of the neck on my big, chunky hands. I know there's a lot of hate out there for plastic ukes, but what I love about the two that I own is that just like each of my wooden ukuleles they have unique voices all their own. And really, what's the point of having a bunch of different ukes that all sound the same? Anyhow, much love and keep up the great work!
Thanks!
Two videos on a Wednesday???
You're spoiling us, Baz.
Love you, man!
Thanks Matty!
Enya more mellow / outdoor more stronger sound both great uke to have.
I have both - I got the Outdoor tenor a couple of years ago. And I just recently got the Enya Nova U Concert/per your review! I LOVE BOTH! The Outdoor sounds great and the Enya does, too - they're just different. I did put a Low G string on the Outdoor so it has a more "full sound"? (Not sure if that's a good description) BUT I like having the option and I bet your followers would, too. Also, I love and can always count on your reviews! I've bought 3 of your recommendations so far and are thrilled with them. Thanks so much for "keeping it real" for us all!
Thanks Terry!
I have played both, and own an Outdoor tenor, which I love. It IS worth the purchase price! It's not a $1000+ Kamaka, Kanile'a, Martin, Kala Elite or Beansprout. However, I wouldn't leave one of those in my car trunk year around where I live - in Minnesota. I do leave my Outdoor ukulele in the trunk all the time, and it always works like a champion. And, it really sounds very good! Thanks for the review Baz!
Thanks - yes your experience on resilience of the Outdoor matches similar comments i've had from friends. It's the one I prefer - but still - do like both of these.
Listening through headphones the sounds are totally different. The Outdoor is louder (as expected with the full tenor body) and the notes are a little clearer, but I actually prefer the mellow tone of the Nova. From a looks perspective, the Enya wins hands down. The plastic on the Outdoor may be tough but looks cheap and those tuners are hideous (maybe they’re trying to keep on with the moose antler theme?).
Fair comments!
I have only been playing for a year, and my opinion is only what I could hear through my phone.
I enjoyed the sound of the Outdoor when being strummed. I love hearing the low tones mixed with the high. It was louder, and the notes blended beautifully together. I could not hear those low tones well on the Enya concert. When it was being strummed, the notes seemed more distant. However, I did hear them very well when the Enya concert was being finger picked. It was so clear and loud and came at me. It was like hearing bells, but so clear so crisp. When I heard the outdoor being picked, it was so blended, that the notes didn't really jump out at me. It was almost too smooth, too blended. This is just my opinion, of course. I don't see well enough to comment on how they look, and I don't own any of them, so I cannot comment on how they feel. I do like the way both sound for different reasons.
Since I have seen and read your review, I am considering the Enya Nova Mini which has strap buttons now, and a strap to go with it. I figure it will be great for outings with the kids. 😊🎶
Enya over all, but both sound fantastic for plastic. I really like the Enya for finger picking. I just bought a black Enya Concert!
I’m biased because I have an Outdoor Tenor and I love it. But I did try out an Enya and it was much nicer than I thought it would be. I think both are great options, but I prefer the sound and style of the Outdoor.
Ditto!
Well, Baz, thank you for quelling my UAS a bit. I watched a lot of uke friends get Enya Novas over the holidays and wanted one myself. Changed my mind. I think I will stick to laminate for affordable travel ukes.
(Sorry my bad english)
I like the sound of the Outdoor for strumming, but for fingerpicking I've fallen in love with the sound of Enya.
It's awesome that a ukulele with a thin body has such a rich sound!
Glad you like it!
I didn't choose. I have both and love them both
Fair enough - both great ukes!
I thought the outdoor came across as nice and bright.
Enya came across a little muddy. I was pleasantly surprised with the outdoor brightness.
I prefer it myself
@@GotAUkulele The only thing I learned from the video was never to challenge you to a game of poker :-) but the comment "i prefer it myself" might have hit the naill on the head: to my ears, the Outdoor had greater separation of the individual strings but the Enya is not at all unpleasant.
My immediate thought regarding the "muffuled" "muddy" "strangled" tone that seemed to be coming over with the Enya was: SIDE SOUND PORT- so, my guess is that, with the Enya the player gets a better sound than the listener.
At this point can I chuck the cat among the pigeons and also mention, that, I'm pretty sure you can get an electric Enya for about the same, or less, than the Outdoor.
I think that the real point is not whether plastic uke A is better than plastic uke B but, that, at this price (particularly the Enya price point), you'd be really lucky to get an off the peg mail order laminate instrument that is as playable and that sounds as nice as either of these two straight out of the box.
Does the winner of this week's competition get to stay on for a match against the Flight travel uke, or, has the Flight been disqualified on the grounds of its laminate top? :-)
@@evanssm1 No - won't be the sound port - that's a common misconception about how they work. They are mainly just for air flow to allow the top to vibtrate. The lions share of the sound comes from the top, not the sound hole.
@@GotAUkulele In which case, I must consider myself to have been commonly misconceived - (I come from a small town and there were always rumors ). :-) :-) :-)
I own both. The Enya rarely comes out of its case. I leave it at our Fort Myers house for when I don’t want to schlep a ukulele down there for the weekend, so I guess you could say the Enya is my ukulele of last resort.
My Outdoor is the carbon version, so very much an apples-to-apples comparison.
Yes- different things of course and very different prices. I too like both for different reasons.
How is Tenor to concert apples to apples? It’s apples to melons.
I think it's hard for me to separate the difference in concert vs tenor tones and what's quality. I like the Outdoor's sound better, but I'm not sure how much of that is simply because I like tend to like tenors more than concerts. The Outdoor sounded fuller and more rounded, but that's how tenors usually sound vs concerts.
Fair point - and a big reason I was reluctant to do the comparison.
In your skilful hands they both sound great though the outdoor sounded louder. The Enya is what I’ll get because at this time I don’t need it louder and the Enya is far more attractive. I always have three hanging up for easy access. Thanks.
Yeah - the Outdoor IS louder (that much is not subjective). People seem evenly split on the tone though. I side with the Outdoor myself, but it's close.
Personally, I prefer the Enya because of it’s more mellow and tuneful tones. I can’t wait until 2021, when they hopefully are bringing out their new Tenor. I hope you will then review it and do a comparison between the 2 tenor versions. Thanks for your excellent site.
It's been an interesting comment feed on this one - it's split fairly evenly between people liking one or the other. Fascinating. But that's personal choice for you. It's why I never give string recommendations! Ha ha!
Thanks Adam
I like the sound of the Outdoor ukulele in your video. I have a soprano Outdoor Ukulele (carbon fibre) and an Enya Nova. I can't decide which one sounds better when I play them. Is it because mine is a soprano? Or I just play badly.
The soprano certainly sounds different!
Great comparison, Baz! So glad you did this!
My pleasure!
Nice comparison. I prefer the sound of the Enya for this type of uke. Also the look... just my take.
And that is all that matters of course!
I prefer the tone on the Enya.
Outdoor has volume but Enya has a beautiful tone...over all I like Enya Nova
Fair enough! Very subjective - both nice ukes
@@GotAUkulele agreed and the Enya Nova Saprano sounds great as well. I liked your review on that!
I own that Enya. However clearly the outdoor sounds wonderful. I bought the enya because i needed a travel budget uke. I want a travel tenor now but looking at laminate instead
Not dismissing the Enya at all and stand by my review of it!
GotAUkulele yes. I am happy with my enya “park” ukulele. So far so good on frets. Definitely sounds like a harmonica and that’s okay.
I'd love to hear a comparison of the tenor Nova U to the Outdoor's now that it's out. I've searched high and low and no one has done a comparison between the two. Which is pretty sad, since they seem like they're in very similar classes now, both in size, and price.
My Outdoor has long since moved on so I can't do the comparison. I don't think they are that comparable though - very different body shapes, metal frets on the Nova
For me I would take the Nova on looks, feel and the frets
I would take the Outdoor if durability was important.
Sound is different, but i wouldn't say one was 'better' than the other
I'd say that Enya has the kind of sound that is more associated to what ukulele should sound like. The Outdoor is good, don't get me wrong, but tenor ukuleles are going too deep into the bass department in my opinion. Sopranos, on the other hand, lacks this one, that's just my thoughts. So I find concert ukuleles to be my favorites in terms of the sound and size. And giving Enya it's thinline body I'm just blown away by how bright, correct and smooth it sounds.
I own an orange Enya Nova U btw :D
Yep - they are pretty remarkable
To me the Outdoor sounded brighter/livelier and the Enya sounded duller/slightly muted!!
That was my take too!
Wow what a difference. Which one is better? Outdoor clear and bright. Enya richer but muffled. I love blue so sound and looks I like the Outdoor.
I'm with the Outdoor too Tom. Think we are in a minority though!!
Throw some aquila sugar strings on that enya! I really like the brightness they add while keeping that mellow tone.
Personally I prefer the enya just because it doesn't have quite as much of that pluncky plastic noise. But that just my 2¢
You see this is where I don't ever get into string debates - we all perceive sound a bit different. I have never played Aquila stings and found them add a brightness to anything. Yet we are both right - just hear things differently.
@@GotAUkulele The sugar ones didn't really change much of anything for my cheap wooden uke, which already had aquila strings, but on my nova I felt like they had a noticeable difference. I just don't like Enyas stock strings.
@@orionishi6737 Oh when it comes to the original Enya stock - could not agree more - I think that's because the tension is all wrong. Nice to see on the Enya I reviewed this last weekend, they moved to D'Addario Titanium
As you said in the beginning, not a fair comparrison. As said below, with headphones both are so different it come down to what body size do you like. Anyway, enjoyed the video and hope to hear in the future your choice. I like the larger body sound of the outdoor but I would never take one home in that awful blue color :)
Fair enough!
For some reason your vids haven’t been popping up in my feed, I missed you! Hearing you play the same familiar sample progressions put a big ol smile on my face.
I think the Enya had much better clarity, but the Outdoor had a much warmer, richer tone.
CZcams is funny like that. No idea why. Thanks for coming back!
To me the biggest difference besides the price is you can NOT get an out door uke in a Concert buy you can with the Enya.
True - I personally didn't think the video was a valid comparison - but readers asked for it!
Outdoor sounds a little bit better but you will pay more 65pounds for that.And,Enya has full of features
Yep - (although this Enya is the straight acoustic - no extra features)
The outdoor has a brighter sound and overall I much like the mellow tones of the enya better.
Interesting
I know it's been a year & change since you initially posted this, but to my ear the Enya sounds treble forward with muddy mid and bass. The Outdoor has a more well rounded, crisper sound than the Enya to me. To me, if I were going for an all (mostly) plastic uke, the Outdoor would be my choice for how practically bulletproof it is, and how well it sounds compared to the Enya. I do think if I had the disposable cash I'd be willing to get an Outdoor.
I did buy a Flight TUSL concert scale with soprano body size plastic travel uke with the wood soundboard & front of the headstock; yes, it isn't as durable as the all plastic Outdoor, but it basically cost me $47 USD before taxes (near unbeatable in its niche), and sounds really nice to me.
Yep to my ears too. I love the Nova Concert, but this Outdoor is a much fuller sound. Just to throw the cat amongst the pigeons though - I've now tested the new Nova U Pro Tenor - I think it easily stands up to the Outdoor on tone. The Outdoor is still tougher though.
I prefer Outdoor's jangle to the Enya's more mellow tone personally. But I'd like to eventually own both :x
I'd agree!
Adding my bit, fwiw. As a soprano man anyway, and allowing for the audio capability from YT, and accepting that the two are different price range; I like both. I think the Tone of the Outdoor is nice, but, as a go-to and take anywhere (especially busking) uke, the size saving by having the enya would be the winning point for me. I think (and it may just be because of the fact that I like sopranos) the enya is more like what I would want for true uke sound. The fact that the enya is cheaper would also affect my decision more than many because of my finances.
Very good points - though, of course, Outdoor also make a soprano that costs much less. Hoping to get one on review!
@@GotAUkulele I'll be watching for that. I just might be able to persuade the boss that I really NEED a water-resistant one for my busking.... ;)
They're different but I don't think we can say one is better than the other. I happen to prefer the Enya for reasons of portability, cost, and the way it feels in my hands.
That said. The outdoor seems fuller but it would being bigger and having a deeper body. The Enya sounds more like my ears want a uke to sound but that might be just because I play one of them several times a week.
Yep - fair points
The Enya is a little muddy in the middle, but it is well worth the half price markup, (compared to the outdoor price tag of course 🙏). Can you get an outdoor concert yet? Keep up the good work sensai. 🎅🏻
Never seen a concert myself
My first impression is that the Enya sounded better. The outdoor sounded more plasticky and even tinny in places. Despite its size the Enya sounds more musical and fuller than the tenor.
Might just be the phone I’m listening to it over.
Guess I’m in the minority :)
You are actually in the majority in the comments on here at least. What's weird is that I hear the exact opposite!
That IS funny. I will listen to this comparison over better speakers later. Cheers :)
I completely agree with you! Almost 30 years playing music professionally in different continents and all type of ensembles.
Baz. Any comment on the difference in the fingerboards? The Enya radiused vs. a flat fingerboard? I have another Enya and I find it easier to play than my Kala. Thoughts?
The Enya is indeed radiused, but much narrower. For my hand size at least, I found the Outdoor much more comfortable to fret.
Really glad you did this. I read the 'Outdoor' review the other day and thought a comparison video with the Enya would be really useful but was surprised you did one for all the reasons you and others have mentioned in comments below. It has to come down to answering the question of why one would want to buy a plastic uke in the first place. I was interested in the Enya since I first saw it in your initial review.
So for me , why would I buy a plastic uke?... I travel now and again to Europe to speak in music conferences. I also spend a lot of time in a hospital bed as a renal patient.In both of those situations it would be nice to have a cheap Uke that I can pick up, shove in a backpack, let other people play etc. It would need to sound OK otherwise I won't enjoy it .I don't expect to enjoy playing it as much as my Moonbird or my Pono tenor of course but I do need to enjoy it for what it is. I will probably get the Enya before my next trip abroad. because it ticks the portability and value for money boxes.I'd prefer it as a tenor size with the 2 inch depth but that's not an option.
If I was in a position where I had to have only one Uke and it had to be a plastic one I would probably go with the Outdoor but fortunately that isn't the case and so the Enya wins out.
Without trying too much to second guess you I find it interesting that in your original reviews on the two instruments you seem to be a lot more excited by the Enya than the Outdoor even though you had been waiting for a while to review the Outdoor.... mmmm
Whatever, as always this has been a really useful video and thought provoking so thanks once more for all your work om our behalf. Maybe I'll just paint the Moonbird bright red! JOKING JOKING JOKING
DT
Thanks! (Before pulling the trigger - do look in to fret wear allegations though!)
Based upon my phone's speaker, the Enya has a deeper, more mellow, and to my ears, a much more pleasing tone.
Interesting
I think the same, but I’m just a beginner 😊
I agree...it may be heresy, but I like the sound of the Enya better. Not sure why...it just does to me.
@@chuckvt5196 No right and wrong answers on this - not heresy at all. It's just that we all perceive sound differently.
I’ve been buying the nova u as gifts. I think they’re are a total steal for the price. Rich sound and easy to play. I just wish they made a tenor. Btw the reason I like plastic is I’m bouncing back and forth between the states and the Philippines and the carbon just stands up better to temp, humidity and elevation.
Yep - very tough!
Listened with headphones and didn't watch you play. I am going with Outdoor for sound. The Enya sounded muffled in plastic, although it has some nice clear moments. Overall the Outdoor has better sound but the Enya is prettier.
I would agree with you!
They are both great ukuleles but I would have to chose the outdoor if I could only choose one. I had the Tenor Nova U Pro+ (Christmas present) and returned it and bought the Outdoor Guitar. The Enya Nova U concert that I have is enough!
Well I played this twice and I feel the outdoor tenor is the one to go to if you want that fuller sound the the larger body offers. I have a Nova U and I don't really like it. In all fairness when I reported my findings to Enya they first insisted I try a second Nova U . No improvement so they refunded my money but do want either back. Both displayed different faults. Although I have never even handled the outdoor tenor I think from this comparison that it sounds quite rich and full. The Enya on the other hand not so much. One wonders how either will stand up over time and prolonged use. It's a bit like comparing a Mazda MX5 with a mid sized SUV and asking " which is best ?".
The Outdoor certainly sounds richer and fuller to my ears too. But yep, didn't really want to do the comparison...
@@GotAUkulele 6eah I kinda got that impression 😊
Enya sounds brighter; Outdoor seems to fall flat, not as much projection.
You see, I think the Enya is brighter, but the Outdoor has tonnes more projection and character. This is why I NEVER recommend strings - sound is totally personal and subjective!
Don’t really know why but I prefer the Enya.
Quite a few people seem to
Gee I thought the Outdoor hands down has the brighter fuller sound. The Enya sounded - to be really obvious - plasticy.
I know exactly what you mean. The Outdoor is much more rounded and fuller to my ears.
Overall I prefer the Enya, the Outdoor seemed a little louder, but the sustain didn’t seem as good. The Enya has a sweet subtle sound, maybe not 100% ukulele-ish (if there is such a word), but I like it. In my opinion where the Enya wins hands down is on looks and price. The Outdoor looks like a lump of plastic and I hate the translucent appearance. Then again I am biased I own an Enya.
Interesting how we perceive things. I found the Outdoor has masses more sustain to my ears.
Both sounded better than I expected but a Flight (with a wooden top) just knocks them both out of the park. If I could justify the cost, the Blackbird natural composite would be the one for outdoor use. I have played a couple and they are astoundingly good, but so they should be at over £1K.
TheRobshiels yep - fair point
No way would I pay those prices for a ukulele designed for outdoor use. I take my Makala Dolphin and it goes down a treat. Who cares when you are round the fire especially after a few beers and a couple of whiskies. I got my bright yellow dolphin for £19 on eBay with Aquila strings perfect for outdoor use.
Thanks for the hard work you put in. Steven
Each to their own of course, but a Makala Dolphin would fall apart if you left in, say, a hot car.
The Outdoor sounds a lot louder to me, clear bright tones, the other seems a touch flat ....but I’m real new to Ukuleles .....I wanna try them all! 😃🤣
I would love to try a Outdoor Tenor but it seems tricky to get one here in England without ordering Direct and then probably have Import Tax on it.
It obviously bumps up the price, a guy told me in a message yesterday he was charged £50 in fees a few months ago when he ordered online direct from the USA.
I do really like the idea of it Made in America though, most of their stuff is Really good!
And I lived in West Virginia for 8 years, my wife is American.
Loveeeeeeeeee the look and sound of the Mainland Tenor also but that’s Mahogany and I would like to try some plastic ones as they work out a lot cheaper and still sound really good .....it will be really interesting to see what they Feel like to play.
Try a shop in the UK called 'Uke Shop' - he has Outdoor ukes in UK stock (usually)
@@GotAUkulele
I’ll check it out! 👍
I have the blue Flight Travel on its way, will be really interesting to see what the ABS plastic are like, and at only £45 it’s a great place to start.
I think I’ll like them, especially after seeing your reviews and others.
I’m also looking forward to checking out HPL ukuleles, and guitars.
Martin have a new HPL concert at £299 for 2021 .....caught my eye, as did their new Tenor for 2021.
Really interested to get a Little Martin guitar, that is HPL .....I may order one in next few days if the store still has in it stock, soooooo many things out of stock in all stores!
I think the sound is very close...would be even closer if Enya was Tenor sized...but Enya comes with a case, strap buttons, strap, capo, extra strings, and is ALMOST HALF THE PRICE OF OUTDOOR. Very easy choice for me...
That's all that matters! Choice!
Well Mas, I drive a Mazda Miata and for me the smaller ukulele would fit better in my car both as I played it and as I stored it. Indeed space is at a premium in my case. That alone is worth much of my decision. Hard to tell the difference not being there in the room with you but because of the nature of the tenor, it would provide a stronger sound of course, Which it does. However my soprano is my sweetest sounding ukulele. I agree with you that this is an unfair comparison that shouldn’t have been done. Don’t let others pressure you.
Was going to buy the Outdoor, but it sounds like a plastic instrument!! 🤯🤯(duh...). The sound of the Enya is much nicer to me.
I wonder if in Outdoor, for designing the ukes, aside from engineers, they asked any musician for advice. In other videos, comparing tenor vs tenor (Outdoor vs Enya) the difference in sound is even bigger favoring Enya. I'm a classic musician, we don't have good or bad sound depending on your taste, we just have good or bad sound.
Very interesting comparison, while finger picking i felt enya sounded more towards what ukulele should sound like. It had a ringing sound to it but a mellow feel around it as well while outdoor was not like that i felt. But on the whole both were good
Yeah - it's all very subjective I think. All round tone - it's the Outdoor for me, but... it's a LOT more expensive!
@@GotAUkulele true enya makes a great buy for the money
Thank you for this video, it was very helpful. I have a blue, nickel soprano Outdoor uke, I've been thinking about the Enya and this made the decision for me. The Enya does sound quite a bit warmer, but I also have a Magic Fluke Flea and I want warmth, that's the one I'm picking up so, while I do really like the appearance of the Enya, I think I'm going to pass on it.
You know - sound is so subjective - compared to the Outdoor - the Enya sounds anything but warmer to me - sounds much thinner and harsher.
I think the Outdoor sounds better. It's fuller and even a bit brighter. Like you said, the Outdoor is a Tenor and should pack more punch. It sounds more like a wooden ukulele and the Enya sounds plastic.
I agree Fred. I liked the Enya (still do) but side by side with the Outdoor it sounds very thin.
Wow look how late I got here. The Outdoor did sound better could be clearly heard on the 3rd demo starting at 3:00. The Enya just not resonate? as much? Would that have anything to do between concert and tenor? Probably not, however price for Outdoor just way too much if I don't take it to travel to have it under harsh situation. Even so, someone on youtube tested the Enya, it held pretty well.
I honestly just think the Outdoor is more resonant. Sure - they are slightly different scales (I say slightly as the Enya is a bit longer than standard concerts - kind of half way between concert and tenor), but still..
I pick the Outdoor - but I want a tenor. It fills the Bill nicely. Placed an order on #worldUkeDay
And I picked up an enya concert too. :)
Interesting that Enya is going to release a tenor Enya Nova, mid-2020. I wonder how that will compare to the Outdoor?
Hopefully I will get to find out!
Really any news or press release where we can read?
You probably address this in another video, but where does the Waterman fall in comparison to...either, I guess, but mainly the Enya?
Between these two, if I was playing for someone else to hear, I'd definitely go with the Outdoor. But the Enya sounds sweet enough for myself. It's a little like the Dolphin in a way; the lo-fi experience of uke, which isn't necessary bad.
The Waterman troubles me. I got an early (pre-release i think) model when i reviewed it and quite liked it - very plastic sounding, but was fun. Seen many of them since and the QC seems to have fallen off a cliff with dipping tops and ultra high actions which are next to impossible to fix. So compared to those, these are night and day better.!
Is the Outdoor tenor strung low-G? It sure sounds way lower to my ears. I think it also has more sustain.
The Enya sounds more traditional.
Sound-wise, I am split (deeper outdoor tenor vs sweeter Enya concert).
Looks-wise, the Enya wins hands down -way cooler.
Both are high G. The Outdoor definitely has more sustain and to my ears, a richer more fuller sound. I actually found the Enya rather thin sounding in comparison.
@@GotAUkulele I'm in complete agreement. And only slightly more chimeeeeee. ;-)
Would love to hear a comparison between the Nova Pro and the Outdoor.
Sorry - don't have the Outdoor in my possession any more - from memory they are much closer in sound than this pairing.
Well, the difference in soundbox size makes it kinda apples and oranges. That said, the Outdoor's voice is brighter, richer, with more dynamic range and more complex overtones. The Enya's voice is darker and more compact, although still quite pleasing. It's hard to tell whether it's the difference in materials, or the difference in soundbox size, but I suspect it's mostly the former. It's kinda like spruce vs. mahogany, respectively. They're both nice, just different. All in all, I like the Outdoor better. I guess you're just going to have to review an Outdoor carbon now! :-)
Yep - agreed
I much, much prefer the looks of the Enya. It's a showy little dickens.
But the Outdoor, homely as it is, blows it away in sound, tone, sustain, all the highs, lows, etc.
I agree Nickie!
No contest for me. The Outdoors sounds better, has a deeper sonority. The Enya is way too sweet, too clear for my taste.
That's my take too!
the outdoor has much fuller sound more sustain enya sound thin a little less volume quiet .plus the wider nut and a tenor i would go with the outdoor .everyone has different taste i guess
Actually -accordng to my sound interface, the Outdoor was peaking overall significantly more than the Enya!
Baz, both sound pretty good through your mic. But neither make my mouth water like . . say . . . the KM Ukuleles Dreadnought Concert. Having said that though, the enya sounded a little bit more open.
They kind of are what they are. They will never sound like wooden ukes, certainly not 'good' wooden ukes. But that kind of misses the point. They are for inhospitable conditions you wouldn't take a wooden uke. So really they need to work on a basic level as a musical instrument, whilst not trying to win prizes on the tone front. I think they both do that well.
Yeah, I get that. If I ever procure a hot tub. I'll put aside a hundred for the Nova. Which whisky do you suggest for inhospitable conditions.as well? Does Dalwhinnie come in a plastic bottle?
Hey can you do a comparison between enya nova and the waterman?? That will be a very interesting comparison i feel.
I can't because the Nova is not mine and no longer with me
@@GotAUkulele oh ok, in case you get hold on one please consider that in future 👍i saw your zct ziricote by kala review and got myslef a zcts soptano. Loves it.
I like Enya better
Truth be told, after listening to both, I'd rather just go with a waterman. Doesn't sound great sure, but since the point of an outdoor uke (to me) is something you don't mind rough housing the waterman meets my needs and is only $40
Apart from the fact that with the current run of those, significanly more than not are uplayable due to impossibly high action
(I also know someone who left a Waterman in a hot car and when they came back to it, the neck was bent like a banana!!)
@@GotAUkulele ah, that's unfortunate. I bought one of the clear ones a couple of years ago for my nephews and it played fine, sad to hear the quality has gone down.
@@Dr.Turkey Well can't speak for every single one - but put it this way - I see far more stories and photos of dipping tops and high action than I don't. I still have the original and it's fine. I won one in a competition last year and the action was terrible (and the top was dipping!)
Outdoor has more volume. For outdoors that's a plus.
Thank you so much for a review of durable playable ukes that you can leave in the damp and direct sunlight without concern. Are either of the two ukes reviewed “better” than the Korala puc about which you did express an opinion! They are about £30 online.....
Considerably better in pretty much every way!
Thank you for responding.Forgive me for being a little surprised at your unshaded and emphatic opinion. When you reviewed the Korala you said you didn’t enjoy playing the Outdoor but intended to put the Korala in the boot of your car. Did you have problems in your ownership of the Korala that caused you to lose faith in it ?
stephen harris I didn’t like the first gen outdoor. This is gen 3 or 4. The Korala came with me to a jam night and it just didn’t have volume to cut it. Plus the bendy neck stared to really annoy me!
Thank you, that’s really helpful.
Outdoor 👍
Ummmmm🤔. The Outdoor is very bright 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 I love my Tiki king Flea 😍
You think - my ears are telling me it's the other way around!
Nice comparison Barry.
To me personally this reminded me why I got the Tenor Carbon model of Outdoor Ukulele. The fiberglass fibers produce what to me personally is sort of a "Banjo Twang" and the carbon fibers produce a more "wood like" less twangy tone.
I noticed the same thing when playing the two different Outdoor versions before buying the Carbon fiber reinforced model. I know people that choose the fiberglass reinforced model for the same reason I mentioned above and their preference for the more "Banjo Twang" or
Banjo like sound.
That's interestng to hear - everything I read about the carbon though is that it is zingier and brighter. I actually found this quite rounded and rich, and not twangy
To my ears the Enya sounded muddier, but the Outdoor also sounded a little bit too bright. What a pity you don't have a Flight Travel to act as referee.....(insert smilie here)>
I do! But that certainly isn't a fair fight. The Flight has a wooden top!
It was clear which one you were playing without looking.
The outdoor sounds like a "real" uke...and the Enya sounds plinky and plastic...
Ha!
I like the sound of the Outdoor better, it probably has to do with the size of the body.
Certainly has something to do with it!
The Enya sounds best to me. By a large margin.
I'm the opposite - but that's cool - we all perceive sound differently!
Thanks for your reviews and comparison! What strings are on the two ukes?
Think the Outdoor uses their own brand fishing line. The Enya uses their own brand Fluorocarbon
@@GotAUkulele Fishing line, LOL! Nylon something, I get it. Anyway, it seems that you just left the factory strings on for both.
@@PeterSmith-is8cj Yes - probably this stuff -- www.gotaukulele.com/2015/05/something-fishy-fishing-line-as-ukulele.html
But on review ukes I always review them with what they arrive with. It's because what people make of them and will change them to is likely personal to them. So I just go with what arrives.
I think over all the Enya has a nicer tone to me.
Hmmmmm
I absolutely despise the Outdoor! I hate how cheap it looks! I hate how light leaks through the sides of the uke. I hate the blemishes around the sound hole and neck. And I'm not crazy about the Outdoor's sound. It sounds way too "jangly" for my tastes. I prefer the warmer tones of the Nova U. For the longest time I played a Dinner DUC-1 because I loved it's mellow sound. It was my "go to" uke. Then I received a white Nova U (White doesn't show finger prints) for Christmas. Its sound and playability are the reasons that IT is now my "go to" uke.
Each to their own!
At the risk of sounding like an ass, I think they both sound empty. Not really a big fan of adding more plastic into the world, either. But I'm glad people have options, competition is good.
All opinons are good opinions!
Why not both? Just kidding. They both have good characteristics for plastic ukes.
I bet many people do have both! That's uke players for ya!
I think the Outdoor tenor had a much nicer sound
Ditto!
Oh contraire sensei, its a very fare review.
IMHO the Outdoor was brighter, louder and had more sustain than the Enya. That being said I preferred the softer tone of the Enya. The use of these is probably going to be in a rustic environment anyway and the Enya is about half the price and slightly more compact in size for travel. I hate to say it but I would probably vote for the Enya.
That's cool - no right or wrong answers on this one!
The Outdoor sounded way better than the Enya. 🎶
I thought so too!
Unfortunately, neither.
Which is absolutely your choice!
It's not trying to be wood. You can take these anywhere, unlike wood. I've left my outdoor and Enya inside a 120 degree car and not a thing happened to either one.
Barry mate, that enya sounds like a child's toy .. Gimme the outside one! slim
You know - when i reviewed the Enya I liked the tone. I still do (I think) - but playing it side by side with the Outdoor doesn't do t any favours and I agree with you. Have a read of the comments below though - many disagree!