I really enjoyed this review and bought one of these ukuleles at the pre-release sale price. It just arrived today. A extra set of strings, a gig bag and a capo was included. For what is more of a plastic ukulele than not, it has amazingly good tone and sustain. If I would have designed it I would have liked a wider neck, but that is a minor concern. I really thank you for the review and mentioning the deal that Enya had going on these!
I picket up 2 Enya instruments because of your reviews for traveling. Both sound great with some of the best intonation I've heard. Very interesting, innovative company. Thanks For the introduction
I really like your videos. You seem to give honest pros and cons. Everyone else I've found seems to be selling everything they review. I appreciate your honesty. This uke looks great. Thank you for making this.
Won this very Uke in a contest on Instagram. Its scheduled to be delivered today! I chose not to purchase this model because I had just purchased another model Enya. Im excited to see this little beauty in person.
I treasure your reviews(!), pre-ordered this one and it came in today. I got the black and it's slick lookin'! Better yet, and you're right...it sounds pretty darn amazing! I was so surprised about the sound and sustain (holy cow!) I have an Outdoor tenor and it had become my Go-To since I live in Louisiana (HIGH humidity), but this Enya sounds much clearer. Translation: Awesome! Thank you so much for your time and effort on these reviews. So helpful to us!
Just bought one previous week, in the orange. Enya says that frets are now enforced due to the complains from the buyers (but I still think that the wrong set of strings was the cause to the fret wear) and now we also have the side dots indicators! This thing will outlive me :D Big thanks for the review, Baz, and for everything you do on this channel. Keep it up, you're killing it!
I just ordered one of these in the concert size. I was wondering because I read about not being able to use strings that are wound or have metallic components in them (titanium). Do the newer ones have metal frets then? I am excited to get mine on Friday. After watching this review and others the factory strings sound nice to me, I've listened to other reviews with Aquila nylgut strings and those sound a bit muffled. UA-cam does kill sound quality a little though. Also, fishing line on a uke?
@@TianarTruegard Hi! Frets on mine are still plastic, but I can't see any need to use some metal kind of strings or something. Even the stock ones sounds beautiful! And I will stick to these flourocarbon (or whatever they're called) strings in the future :) They are the perfect match to the Nova
@@F0KS3Y I will get to hear mine soon! Friday! From the videos I've watched I tend to like a more bright/clear sound. I enjoy harp music, but can't afford a harp to play so Ukulele it is.
@@TianarTruegard No - only the tenor has metal frets. Fishing line is exactly the same material as something like Worth Clear strings. I know several of the highest end luthiers who use it and also several pro players
I never liked ukuleles, never owned or wanted to own one and don't know why I started watching your channel. It has to be said that I love your reviews. Your honesty, passion and enthusiasm are infectious and, on the strength of one of your reviews, I am presently awaiting delivery of a Flight TUS35. Perhaps I should have waited until you had reviewed me. Thanks, and hope I can get along with this new interest.
@@GotAUkulele I just bought a "previously owned" blue(!) one and really like it. I agree with you about the strings, though. They aren't very robust sounding for fluorocarbons. Easy enough to switch, though!
Great review Barry. I just pulled the trigger on a blue one. Been playing for a long time, and this is my second uke. Need one for the beach. I will just put some marker stickers on it. Sounds wonderful. Thanks again bud for all you do. By the way, I have never seen you play that long before. That tells me it is a great uke!
This was really informative, and I loved that you played it so much. I'm in the US, and when I heard that sound in the video for this ukulele on Amazon, I was enchanted. I'm glad you think so too.
Saw this months ago when they promoted it on Taobao. Wasnt dare to order one before you review 1(HAHA). thanks Barry for the review :) have a good day Mr Baz
I’m about to buy one. The electric version. Sounds bloody beautiful compared to many wooden ones in the same price range. Thanks for the awesome review and playing so much. ✌️
--- Howdy! I just acquired this same ukulele, receiving it Wed. I have not been able to put it down. I have small hands so the narrow nut/fretboard is fantastic, and my thumb pad moves softer & more freely along the neck. And the action is fabulous!. I've been playing most all day & callouses do not hurt. To play my other 2 ukes that long has created string ruts in the callouses & fingertips hurt the next day... Anyway, thanks for the great review. I totally love my new Enya uke & her name us Black Beauty. Happy trails, Ms. CharLee --- Ragamuffin Ukes
Thanks Baz. I thought I was going to hate this thing and had no plans to buy one. Now, well, you've got me. I sure would like to have a pickup in one, and the gold on black doesn't bother me. This might be my next uke. It sure sounds nice.
The Enya website in the US lists them as available with a pickup. Didn't see the price with pickup, but the shipped price in the US is listed at $69.99!!!
Yep - pickup is extra, but $70 for the acoustic. For me, i was offered the acoustic for review but declined - for a reason. I wanted to know what the core ukulele was like. Also, with a travel / beater uke, I (personally) could never see me wanting to plug one in
Great review, love your reviews! But I have to laugh, you said about the tuners, you don’t like the gold, you like the silver. Your shirt is black and gold hahaha. Just thought I would tease haha.
Baz, Great review as usual. Looking at the Enya site, I see that this ukulele also is available with a TransAcoustic pickup system installed. I never heard of that system, but I assumed it is just a piezoelectric pickup under the saddle with an output jack to plug into an external amplifier. It's much different than that. I found TransAcoustic on the Yamaha guitar site. The TransAcoustic system includes a pickup in the body, a transducer, the internal electronics for it, and an external control panel. The system, when activated with a push button, picks up the vibrations of the ukulele, electronically adds reverberation and/or chorus effects, and sends the modified signal to the transducer which vibrates the body to add the desired acoustic effect. In other words, without any external amplifier and pedals, you can get reverberation and/or chorus to make the instrument sound much more interesting and meaty. Watch the Yamaha guitar video here: ua-cam.com/video/NN_krtOCNyU/v-deo.html . With that system, this Enya will not be just another pretty little box with strings. It will be an order of magnitude much more interesting. I'm going to order the TransAcoustic one, in spite of the fact that I need yet another ukulele like I need an extra hole in my head. Here's the Enya demo video which has the TransAcoustic activated: ua-cam.com/video/wwFpp9tGZQw/v-deo.html . Another Enya demo: ua-cam.com/video/Eazn3te6RvI/v-deo.html . Enya's catalog page: www.enya-music.com/collections/ukulele?gclid=CjwKCAjw8NfrBRA7EiwAfiVJpTVpm0BLrWxqEqV1Kgt2fekHm22BU8GYBMMwh93ya1HTs3xikx63lhoCIbUQAvD_BwE .
It does, but I would still not order it. I can't bear ukuleles with control panels stuck in the side and and battery packs on board. Besides, I kind of view this as a 'throw in the car' uke rather than a performance or recording model. But each to their own. Am sure it's a lot of fun, but just not for me. I didn't actually know they made one with that option until I had written my review!
@@nickiemcnichols5397 According to the specifications on the Enya-Music website, this ukulele (without the electronic pickup) weighs 1.25 lbs. www.enya-music.com/collections/ukulele/products/nova-u-carbon-black
The Yamaha uses 2 AA-batteries but it seems this uke has an internal rechargable battery? There are two diffrent shaped slots above the guitar cord jack on the TransAtlantic pickup system pic on Enyas website. I wish they would make that clear and if you get cords for charging through USB or whatever, but I can't find any information about that. I find this technology interesting and I am tempted to get one of these with the Transatlantic setup.
UPDATE: I emailed Enya's customer service about the 2 problems: effects knobs cause a buzz when playing strings 2 or 3, and the actuator attached to the interior back of the body doesn't produce the vibrations necessary for reverb and/or chorus even though the effects do get sent out on a cable to the external amplifier when its plugged in. The representative said they'd ship me a replacement from their factory (in China) at no cost and include a prepaid return label so I can send back the defective one. She said the engineers discovered that the adhesive they were using to bond the actuator to the body material was coming detached in the long flight from China to USA. They are now using a better adhesive. I told the rep to delay the replacement if the engineers think they can solve the knob rattle and floppy-string buzz (by using thicker fluorocarbon strings perhaps). Thicker strings require higher tension to come up to the correct pitch, which would reduce their vibration range and hence might prevent the buzzing against the frets. I sent them the link to this review so they can read the dialog in our comments. I'll update again when I hear the engineering response.
Re the strings Stanley... surely your quicker and much easier option here is just to put a different set on. I’m sure something like Worth Clear would work well?
@@GotAUkulele Changing the strings is what I was intending to do. But since the actuator inside the uke which produces the special effects isn't working, I need to exchange it anyway. I sent an email explaining the problems and giving them a suggestion for the engineers to look at your choice of fluorocarbon fishing line test weights to consider when they re-evaluate their string choices. I sent the link to your gotaukulele.com page about the fishing line. If they can change to better string diameters, every future customer will benefit. Regarding the actuator failure: being an early adopter of a new type of instrument has its risks as the company goes through its learning curve. I'm not in a rush since this is my 6th ukulele, all different types.
The specifications say it is 30% carbon fiber in the polycarbonate. The generic name "polycarbonate" is the high-strength plastic brand named Lexan. It has been used to replace glass window panes in industrial buildings so that vandals couldn't break it by throwing rocks, as they had been doing to the glass window panes. It's strong stuff by itself, but adding 30% carbon fibers into the plastic probably makes it much stronger.
They have a preorder special in the USA for $69.99 w/ free shipping for delivery sometime in October. They also offer free strings for “LIFE”! They might be low tension, but they sounded clean & clear on your review...and they’ll send them whenever requested. Now, what color should I choose?
I just got one of these from Amazon in blue about a week ago. Great review. I'm just a beginner, and this is only the second ukulele I've ever played (the other one being a borrowed Islander), so it's nice to get a second opinion on it, and to hear it played by someone with experience. I'm now excited to learn fingerstyle! For those considering it, I would say go for it if you like the design, sparkling, chimey tone, and the fact that you can take it everywhere with less worry. Can't really beat it for the price. I can't wait to sit on a beach with my feet in the water and play this. I definitely plan to get a second ukulele in the future (probably a wooden tenor) so I can enjoy more mid range and a different tone (just to mix things up a bit), but this will suit my needs for now, and I like that my clumsy fingers don't seem to scratch it at all. Also, the one I got came with a matching case which is pretty nice. The zipper is a little fussy, but it's pretty sturdy and should protect the instrument well. I'm very pleased with it overall. :)
New uke player here and i love the style of this Enya, and a bonus that Barry likes it. Please can you recommend new strings for this one and a good tuner. Thanks love your channel x
These are great ukes full stop for the money - sorry - never give string recommendations and never have in 15 years - strings are to personal a choice - we all play and hear differently so what I like you may not like. Tuners - people think they are all the same - they are not - spend as much as you can not as little. The TC Electronic Unitune is my current recommendation
I purchased and received this Nova U with Transacoustic a little over a month ago and completely love it. I’m half tempted to buy an Enya composite guitar with the Transacoustic but the one thing holding me back is what the lifespan of the charging unit lasts. If the battery can be replaceable I would pull the trigger in a heartbeat.
GotAUkulele I do need to look into it. I think Enyas website has a section to ask questions so I should pursue it. Thanks for the reply and also thanks for the reviews, they are very well presented.
@@GotAUkulele i had one question. When you say that its not exactly carbon fibre, will it still not bend? How different is it from something like klos? Can you share the difference
@@SalilBahlthemanwithauke I've played a lot of all plastic ukes and each had issues with bending (necks or tops). This doesn't bend at all - very sturdy. But it bears no comparison to a Klos - Klos is full carbon fibre with a wooden neck - completely different things. But this Enya still feels sturdy
I was looking at one of these as my first uke (not just because they come in pink... but that doesn't hurt) and thanks to this great review, it'll be arriving on Monday! :)
Thank you, I was waiting to see what you thought and as always a fair and measured review, I'm glad you liked it but now have to find space for another uke. I hope that Enya will start to hold stock in the UK and like some of the HPL ukes is will be on prime as well. Thanks
Just ordered one of these to replace my wawa Korala for leaving in the car. It was fine for up the top of the neck stuff, but action way to high near bottom of fret board (it was only £15). I was not going to pay near £200 to get an outdoor in the UK. Baz's approval good enough for me. Also due to donate a kidney to my Dad in Jan, so hoping this will be thin/light enough to play in recovery. Appreciate all your work Baz!
i was just waiting on this review to pull the trigger. i went with the white one but the orange was tempting as its my favorite color. another great review! thanks for all you do! - do you think martin fluoros on this would be better than the stock strings? i have the enya euc-x1m and i don't mind the stock strings on that one. its the cheapest uke i own yet i find myself playing it more than the rest. can't wait to get my hands on this uke!
FYI- the base color of ALL of them is black. The blue, orange, pink, and white ones are paint on top of the black base. I just confirmed this with Enya. I pre-ordered the blue. I wish the color was molded, a la the Korola/Vorson plastic ukes. However, it's not quite a deal-breaker for me. Just wanted to give notice in case it is for the rest of you.
For anyone wanting one of these bad boys in the States, be aware that it's still in preorder. When I asked the good folks at Enya when mine would ship, I got this reply: "We are sorry for the misleading information at the checkout page. The Nove U ukulele is a brand new model and still in the pre-order phase. The estimated shipping time is early October." I'm not holding it against them, but just be aware of you're REEEEEEALLY looking forward to playing one (and I definitely am).
Must have sent their first batch to your side of pond. You lucky cusses 😂 I'd order from Amazon UK, but last I checked they won't ship the Nova to the States.
it really does resonate lovely! not sure if I could make it sound as pretty as you do.. :) have been looking for one to toss into the car,, this review is great,, i think I am sold, will get one of these . :)
@@delphinekirkland1757 Sorry - never give string recommendations - policy of mine because it is totally subjective to the ear of the player. For what it's worth - I use fishing line! (Seriously)
Another great review encouraging me to buy one of these ukes. Just as you said it sounds and plays great. Mine doesn’t show the fingerprints though. Well done.
My Outdoor Nickel Carbon Tenor has no side markers, either. I drilled dimples at 3, 5, 7,10, 12 (doubled), filled with White Plastic Wood, let that sink for 72 hours, and then topped with 3-5 coats of Testor’s “Ghost Gray” model paint.
Sorry Bill - have a policy of never recommending strings - not to be unhelpful, it's just a totally subjective thing. I've seen people argue about the same string set - one saying they are bright, one saying warm - yet they are both right! (we all hear and play differently). My advice is just to buy a few sets and trust your own ears as to what you like
I do not like plastic ukuleles - but just this week I got my Enya Nova U, orange one - bought it for to be my "bonfire ukulele"/outdoor ukulele. But I am surprised how nice little instrument it is! The sound is so clear and bright - cheerful. Not bad intonation or mensure problems either. :0 Feel happy with it, and have already had many nice moments playing it. Surprised, positively: Certainly this comes into use! One question though to you: I have seen also pictures of Casca Carbon ukuleles - and to my eyes they look just the same. Is it only the name changed - or either or is a copy of the other - or are they different instruments? If so, which way - which is better? (I live in Finland, got this Enya from USA - ULTP store - but because all the shipping difficulties and taxes and so on it maybe is easier to get those Caschas from Europe, at least from Thomann. If I recommend Enya as a beginner instrument for my new student, is it as good to recommend that Cascha?)
This has been on my Amazon wish list since I first saw the Enya ad. I’m trying not to buy any more ukes this year. Did you get spare strings with it? My last 2 Enyas came with decent nylon strings as spares, so I’m not sure if their cheap plastic ones are just for shipping.
Hi, thank you for great Ukraine reviews. Can you please do a top 5 Ukulele by category videos please?🙏 best Ukulele under £100 or top 5 tenor ukulele, with links where to buy? Thank you so much!
I’m afraid not - just all too subjective. I never have done a ‘best’ list and afraid I won’t plan to. It would just be my take, but bearing in mind my scores include things like ‘looks’ (totally personal) any such list would be flawed. The full reviews list shows all the scores so easy to find the ones I like best
I have to say personally I never liked the shape and was put off by it so long that I refused to get one xD but finally gave in when I spotted a used one for sale and now I really like it .. And even though I was so put off by the design, just me.. well now it doesnt bother me at all .. This enya is a lovely uke, I bought a second for my youngest daughter too..
Thanks for this review. I purchased one, and, as you've pointed out, I was surprised at how narrow the fingerboard is, which puts the strings much closer together than even the soprono uke I have. (The nut slot for the G string to the A string is 25mm compared to 30mm on my Donner soprano uke. That seems like a big difference.) Given how close the strings are to each other, do you consider this a good uke for a beginner to learn on? The challenge of learning how to create clean chords seems even greater by the closeness of the strings. Or is it just a matter of getting used to it?
There IS an element of gettng used to it. However - I have very big hands and yet still actually found this comfortable. I think it's something to do with the material used and the profile of the back of the neck. Maybe that will help begnners. The other things that should encourage beginners here are that it is cheap and it's a fun uke to look at. A fun uke is a uke that will be played a lot and that counts for something too.
@@cecicestmoi What's telling here is that I wrote the review before I knew about the shipping discounts - and still gave it a 9 out of 10. I don't think the discounts are permanent and it still got my recommendations. Tells you everything!
@@GotAUkulele i will still be getting one lol, but it is the usual with Canadian shopping online to have shipping rates from US/UK be high. one question: how is the action on this Enya compared to the Waterman concert scale uke?
This is great I’m still new, I learned a few songs but I didn’t even know about all the different types of Ukuleles let alone all the variables people look at when comparing. Not sure what a good 2nd ukulele would be but I got a Donner Concert.
Take a look at the full Got A Ukulele review list (you might need an afternoon!!) - go through all those scored 8 out of 10 or more, or the ones I have highlighted bold! www.gotaukulele.com/p/ukulele-reviews.html
I’d love to see a review on the Nova G guitar if you have the chance to! On the fence whether or not to get this or the guitar (probably the guitar since the pre order deal saves you $80 on the guitar as opposed to the $20 on the uke)
Will see what I can do. Trying to keep the reviews to ukes, but ENYA did send me the HPL guitar. Shoot them a message and say you want to see me review one! It often helps if I don’t do the asking!
@@GotAUkulele got the uke today. It's just as good as you said. Second uke I bought based on your reviews. 2 for 2! The orange doesn't show the finger prints. Thanks again.
Great review, Baz. Right now in the USA, if you order from Enya for October delivery, they are just $69.99 USD with free shipping. How can one beat that? I see one in my future. You got me again!!
I genuinely think Enya are watching the comments and adjusting pricing - I like responsive companies! Chap on another channel complained about price in Germany - 30 mins later Enya adjusted it!
Baz, I am beginning to have a change of heart about this Ukulele. Do you know anyone or have heard of anyone that has got this Ukulele with TransAcoustic Pickup? What do you think about the TransAcoustic Pickup? Not sure why this Uke with the Pickup is double the price. Perhaps you could enlighten me. Thank you!
I don’t and I’ve not played it so can’t really comment on the Enya. If they are like the Yamaha system (and I can’t confirm they are), it’s a clever system that actually alters the acoustic tone before amplification with effects like chorus and reverb.
Regarding the "gold" tuners: I doubt that they are really gold plated. Tools like drill bits are often coated with a gold-looking material called titanium nitride which reduces wear and friction between the drill bit and the metal it's cutting into. This makes the bit last 6 times longer than uncoated tool steel bits. It also reduces tendency for corrosion. So the gold color may actually be superior to the shiny nickel- or chrome- plated steel gears, working more smoothly and lasting longer.
Hi Barry thanks for the review I really do wish you could compare to outdoor uke. Do you know the action height? From ukestuff channel he stated the outdoor tenor were 0.5mm at 1st fret and 2mm at 12th fret.
@@GotAUkulele Thanks personally I like 38mm nut width better too. I will pass on this hopefully they will have a tenor version wider at nut and spacing between strings, some time later.
thank you for this review. Bought one few days ago to live in my campervan. Don't like the Enya strings. I like the worth browns on my Flight Sophia. Do you think thats could be a good match with the Enya?
Strings a totally subjective and personal - as long as you don't put reds or wound strings on it - anything will work - trust your own ears on the sound you like
Greetings! I am looking for a sturdy, well sounding and looking Ukulele. I want to hitchhike around the world with it. I got my sights on the Flight TUS 50 and the Enya Nova. Which one would you recommend when sound and durability are the priority?
They are very resilient for sure - more than a wooden uke - BUT... be aware they are not fully waterproof. The tuners are NOT waterproof and if you get one with a pickup system they are certainly not something to get wet!
@@GotAUkulele Oh, very good point! I'm still going through videos now. Are there any decent sounding ukes that are basically waterproof you would recommend?
@@GotAUkulele Alright sounds good. I'll likely get one of these without pickups if possible. Just looking to have something that'd be alright if I suddenly got rained on. Appreciate the help!
I'm a newbie and bought a concert Ohana and I'm not excited about it as I hoped. The red Nova has really caught my eye and am considering it. I'm indecisive as it is and throw a tenor option in the mix?! Ahhhhhh! Any thoughts? Also, what are the dimensions?Width, length and depth?
A warning: Outdoor Ukulele will void your warrantee for using wound strings, as the plastic material will erode, where a bone nut/saddle or metal fret won't. I can only imagine this Enya is subject to the same risk.
Very nice, too bad they don't offer a tenor. Would it be worthwhile to drop the extra money on the klos, if one would prefer the tenor? I am looking for a sturdy travel uke and play tenor normally...
@@GotAUkulele thanks so much for your fast response! I have not been so fortunate to be able to try both and since I am from EU it is difficult to get your hands on the Klos... I feel this will fit my purposes better, but to order it from the US and than being disappointed would not be too great, especially looking at price after customs. You confirming, they are both in a different league answer's my question, thanks a million!
@@GotAUkulele sorry, it's my first time playing a ukulele! I just saw a video where someone was explaining about the abbreviation of the strings (something about low G and high G) But anyways, glad to know I can use normal ukulele nylon strings instead of flurocarbon because they are expensive! But thank you! 😊
I'm really sorry but I have a policy of not making final buying choices for anyone - it's just too subjective. Besides the two ukuleles are not fairly comparable anyway. I like both brands and both ukes, but they serve different purposes.
Great! That’s going on the ‘want’ list as an upgrade from my trusty Korala Explore (fitted with aNueNue black strings from Matt at WOU) - frets are starting to wear a bit on it. Wonder how the Enya board will hold up...
I can never tell on plastic frets in long term, but tend to test them the same way. I spent time pushing a metal straight edge into these and found it hard to mark them. That suggests to me that they are pretty tough. This is night and day better than the Korala Explore. Different league!
Hey Barry, what strings would you recommend for Enya EUC-X1 Cutaway, I too find the stock ones a little dull, and I know that you have had reviewed similar models in the past.
Afraid I never give string recommendations - it's just too subjective and personal. What I like you may not like and vice versa. I'd suggest buying a few differing sets and trying them. Interchange them and go with what your ears tell you.
I've just ordered my Enya Nova,in white, and keep hearing poor reviews of the included strings. I plan to replace the strings on arrival,so I'm not disappointed with any aspect of my new uke, and was wondering which strings you would recommend as the best replacements for the Nova? Thanks!
Sorry Rick, I never give string recommendations. It's just too subjective and what one person like another person may not. I've seen lots of people change their Nova strings and they all name different brands! I'd suggest you get a few different sets and test them. The ones you reject can always be used again as spares. One thing you definitely need to avoid is using any wound strings!
Introductory price here in the USA is $69 shipped, which is little short of remarkable. Barry, might you know if the colored versions are molded in their respective colors? Or are they painted? Paint doesn’t strike me as durable.
The black ones are molded in that color. All the other colors are paint on top of the black base. I just confirmed this with an Enya rep. I pre-ordered a blue one and thought about cancelling when I got Enya's reply (the black one doesn't really suit me). But for $70 and the great sound, what's a little extra TLC to keep from chipping? I'll just avoid hitting rocks with it 😂
@@E_Biz_4 actually if you check on the review site at Enya reply on the paint issue, "1. The base color of Nova U is gloss black, which is actually NOT the same black as the black model. This means the black model still needs the painting job."
That chord you are playing in that middle section of that cool fast paced jingle ... just after the G... is that a D? If so are you barring it with your third finger but only strumming the top three strings ? Greetings from Canada. :)
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE "PICKUP OPTION": I received my Enya Nova U with TransAcoustic (TA) option yesterday. Here are my observations. The TA feature is a Japanese-patented electronics system used by Yamaha in certain guitars as well as optionally in certain guitars and the Nova U from Enya-Music. It includes a pickup, electronics, control panel, external jack, and an actuator which vibrates when it is electronically driven by the electronic signal processor circuit. It also acts as a normal pickup with pre-amp so it can be connected through a standard 1/4" guitar jack on the side of the Nova U and a cable (not provided by Enya) to an external guitar amplifier. Without hooking up to an external amp, when the TA system is turned on by a push-button on the side of the uke, the system can produce a reverb and/or chorus effect which it adds to the acoustic signal and sends to the actuator which is attached inside the body to the rear panel. It vibrates to create the effects which come out of the body just as the normal acoustic sounds do. That's how it's supposed to work. Unfortunately, mine doesn't vibrate the actuator so without an external amp I don't get any more than the normal uke sound as demonstrated in this video. But it does send the combined sound with effects out to my amplifier so I get reverb and/or chorus and volume control from the uke. The small control panel on the side has the on/off/volume knob, an LED indicating when the TA is ON, and separate volume knobs for reverb and chorus. It does not have a built-in tuner as some electro-acoustic ukes do. One small problem: the volume control knobs vibrate slightly while I play certain notes, creating a tiny but annoying buzz. The buzz isn't there if I lightly touch the knobs while I play those notes, so I know they're the source of the buzz. I think I can prevent this by adding small o-rings around the knobs, which I'll try and report here with an update. It does sound dreamy through the external amp with the effects turned on. I'll have to deal with Enya about the defective actuator. Even if I decide to accept it as-is, it's still worth the price I paid just as a nice uke with electronic pickup and built-in effects, but it would be nicer to have the TA effects even when not hooked up to an external amp. The uke came well packed in its own semi-rigid gig bag, plastic bag, display box, and outer shipping carton. It took 13 days shipping time by Chinese shipper SF Express from China, through Hong Kong to Los Angeles by air, and by truck to my door in Salinas, California. Included are the accessories: gig bag (no backpack straps), uke strap (1.5" wide), extra strings, capo (plastic, color matching the uke), cloth accessory bag, charging USB cable (no power source, just cable), and literature. The power for the TA system comes from a rechargeable battery inside the uke body, which is charged by a standard micro-USB charging cable. An LED next to the USB port lights up red while charging and green when fully charged. It took about 1 hour to recharge from its discharged condition using my phone charging module which provides up to 2.4 amps at 5 volts for fast charge. You should charge it before first use. The charging panel is attached with 4 screws, so apparently the electronics and battery can be removed for service and battery replacement in the future. I was hoping there would be specs in the literature telling what kind of battery is in there, but alas if it's in the literature it's not obvious. Unfortunately the literature is almost 100% in Chinese with only some minor captions in English. The warranty is also in Chinese, which won't help me, but Enya-Music has an English-language warranty page on its website. www.enya-music.com/pages/warranty-policy . The USA warranty requires that the uke be taken or shipped to a repair center in Texas at the customer's (not Enya's) expense, but there is no charge for parts or labor. I don't know if Enya pays return shipping at no cost to the customer. I'll inquire. I spoke with someone else in my ukulele club who bought the identical one as I did, and she said her literature also is in Chinese. I'll test her electronics this week at our next club meeting.
This guy's voice is a 12/10
Voice?
@@GotAUkulele I guess there is worse engagement :D
I really enjoyed this review and bought one of these ukuleles at the pre-release sale price. It just arrived today. A extra set of strings, a gig bag and a capo was included. For what is more of a plastic ukulele than not, it has amazingly good tone and sustain. If I would have designed it I would have liked a wider neck, but that is a minor concern. I really thank you for the review and mentioning the deal that Enya had going on these!
My pleasure, and thanks!
You know, I would have preferred a wider neck as well! I still love mine though. :)
I picket up 2 Enya instruments because of your reviews for traveling. Both sound great with some of the best intonation I've heard. Very interesting, innovative company. Thanks For the introduction
My pleasure Edward!
Thoroughly enjoyed the extended demo. Wonderful instrument. Added to my short list of future purchases.
Thanks Mark!
I really like your videos. You seem to give honest pros and cons. Everyone else I've found seems to be selling everything they review. I appreciate your honesty. This uke looks great. Thank you for making this.
Glad you like them!
Ha
Always tell when you are enjoying your self
Good review
Thanks
Ha ha, thanks Andy - yeah, it's fun to play!
Won this very Uke in a contest on Instagram. Its scheduled to be delivered today! I chose not to purchase this model because I had just purchased another model Enya.
Im excited to see this little beauty in person.
Can i get this one at some lower price or something
what do you think about this ukulele now ? Is it good ?
I treasure your reviews(!), pre-ordered this one and it came in today. I got the black and it's slick lookin'! Better yet, and you're right...it sounds pretty darn amazing! I was so surprised about the sound and sustain (holy cow!) I have an Outdoor tenor and it had become my Go-To since I live in Louisiana (HIGH humidity), but this Enya sounds much clearer. Translation: Awesome! Thank you so much for your time and effort on these reviews. So helpful to us!
Thank you!
Edited the written review to take into account some last minute deals Enya have offered on shipping. All details at end of the review on the website
Just bought one previous week, in the orange. Enya says that frets are now enforced due to the complains from the buyers (but I still think that the wrong set of strings was the cause to the fret wear) and now we also have the side dots indicators!
This thing will outlive me :D
Big thanks for the review, Baz, and for everything you do on this channel. Keep it up, you're killing it!
Thanks so much!
I just ordered one of these in the concert size. I was wondering because I read about not being able to use strings that are wound or have metallic components in them (titanium).
Do the newer ones have metal frets then? I am excited to get mine on Friday. After watching this review and others the factory strings sound nice to me, I've listened to other reviews with Aquila nylgut strings and those sound a bit muffled. UA-cam does kill sound quality a little though. Also, fishing line on a uke?
@@TianarTruegard Hi!
Frets on mine are still plastic, but I can't see any need to use some metal kind of strings or something. Even the stock ones sounds beautiful! And I will stick to these flourocarbon (or whatever they're called) strings in the future :) They are the perfect match to the Nova
@@F0KS3Y I will get to hear mine soon! Friday! From the videos I've watched I tend to like a more bright/clear sound.
I enjoy harp music, but can't afford a harp to play so Ukulele it is.
@@TianarTruegard No - only the tenor has metal frets.
Fishing line is exactly the same material as something like Worth Clear strings. I know several of the highest end luthiers who use it and also several pro players
I never liked ukuleles, never owned or wanted to own one and don't know why I started watching your channel. It has to be said that I love your reviews. Your honesty, passion and enthusiasm are infectious and, on the strength of one of your reviews, I am presently awaiting delivery of a Flight TUS35. Perhaps I should have waited until you had reviewed me.
Thanks, and hope I can get along with this new interest.
Ha ha - don't know whether to apologise or say congratulations!
I believe the fretboard has a slight radius, which is the thing you liked but couldn't quite tell what it was. It makes bars a lot easier.
That really does ring, chime, sing, whatever you want to call it, Barry. Wow. Another one for the list!
I think they've flown off shelves. And rightly so IMHO
@@GotAUkulele I just bought a "previously owned" blue(!) one and really like it. I agree with you about the strings, though. They aren't very robust sounding for fluorocarbons. Easy enough to switch, though!
I find myself playing my outdoor uke more than any other. I have been looking at this one and really enjoy your review of it.
Thanks. Certainly no contest on price compared with the Outdoor
Great review Barry. I just pulled the trigger on a blue one. Been playing for a long time, and this is my second uke. Need one for the beach. I will just put some marker stickers on it. Sounds wonderful. Thanks again bud for all you do. By the way, I have never seen you play that long before. That tells me it is a great uke!
My pleasure Bob!
I'm so happy I found your channel! You can really tell if you enjoy a uke and you just have a solid review system which is super helpful.
Thanks so much!
This was really informative, and I loved that you played it so much. I'm in the US, and when I heard that sound in the video for this ukulele on Amazon, I was enchanted. I'm glad you think so too.
I think, for the money, these are no brainer ukes. I own two. Best recommendation I can give you!
Saw this months ago when they promoted it on Taobao. Wasnt dare to order one before you review 1(HAHA). thanks Barry for the review :) have a good day Mr Baz
Thank you!
I’m about to buy one. The electric version. Sounds bloody beautiful compared to many wooden ones in the same price range. Thanks for the awesome review and playing so much. ✌️
--- Howdy! I just acquired this same ukulele, receiving it Wed. I have not been able to put it down. I have small hands so the narrow nut/fretboard is fantastic, and my thumb pad moves softer & more freely along the neck. And the action is fabulous!. I've been playing most all day & callouses do not hurt. To play my other 2 ukes that long has created string ruts in the callouses & fingertips hurt the next day... Anyway, thanks for the great review. I totally love my new Enya uke & her name us Black Beauty. Happy trails, Ms. CharLee --- Ragamuffin Ukes
Enjoy!
I have one and I think it is wonderful. I'm glad you don't disagree 😊
It will be here tomorrow. I am so excited.
Enjoy!
@@GotAUkulele I love it. Thank you for your review.
@@GotAUkulele I forgot to tell you I also got it in black.
@@michelebaker6001 My favourite of the colours!
@@GotAUkulele Mine too.
Thanks Baz.
I thought I was going to hate this thing and had no plans to buy one.
Now, well, you've got me.
I sure would like to have a pickup in one, and the gold on black doesn't bother me.
This might be my next uke. It sure sounds nice.
The Enya website in the US lists them as available with a pickup. Didn't see the price with pickup, but the shipped price in the US is listed at $69.99!!!
Yep - pickup is extra, but $70 for the acoustic. For me, i was offered the acoustic for review but declined - for a reason. I wanted to know what the core ukulele was like. Also, with a travel / beater uke, I (personally) could never see me wanting to plug one in
Great review, love your reviews! But I have to laugh, you said about the tuners, you don’t like the gold, you like the silver. Your shirt is black and gold hahaha. Just thought I would tease haha.
Can't afford gold on my t shirts - it's just yellow i'm afraid!!
I've bought a pink one and I'm loving it! It keeps me motivated to play the ukulele. (I'm a beginner).
Have fun!
I got this Enya ukulele today and I'm sooo happy with it ❤️. It sounds pretty good and looks really cool.
They are no-Brainers for the price
Thank for the review Baz. This ukulele sounds really good.
Yeah, I was pleasantly surprised
Thanks for your review. Mine arrived today. Already swapped out the sling buttons for black. Ordered black tuners. Ordered black strings. Love it.
Enjoy!
thanks for the review - I just got one to take out with the kids to save my nice ones for home.
Perfect for that!
Baz, Great review as usual. Looking at the Enya site, I see that this ukulele also is available with a TransAcoustic pickup system installed. I never heard of that system, but I assumed it is just a piezoelectric pickup under the saddle with an output jack to plug into an external amplifier. It's much different than that. I found TransAcoustic on the Yamaha guitar site. The TransAcoustic system includes a pickup in the body, a transducer, the internal electronics for it, and an external control panel. The system, when activated with a push button, picks up the vibrations of the ukulele, electronically adds reverberation and/or chorus effects, and sends the modified signal to the transducer which vibrates the body to add the desired acoustic effect. In other words, without any external amplifier and pedals, you can get reverberation and/or chorus to make the instrument sound much more interesting and meaty. Watch the Yamaha guitar video here: ua-cam.com/video/NN_krtOCNyU/v-deo.html . With that system, this Enya will not be just another pretty little box with strings. It will be an order of magnitude much more interesting. I'm going to order the TransAcoustic one, in spite of the fact that I need yet another ukulele like I need an extra hole in my head. Here's the Enya demo video which has the TransAcoustic activated: ua-cam.com/video/wwFpp9tGZQw/v-deo.html . Another Enya demo: ua-cam.com/video/Eazn3te6RvI/v-deo.html .
Enya's catalog page: www.enya-music.com/collections/ukulele?gclid=CjwKCAjw8NfrBRA7EiwAfiVJpTVpm0BLrWxqEqV1Kgt2fekHm22BU8GYBMMwh93ya1HTs3xikx63lhoCIbUQAvD_BwE .
It does, but I would still not order it. I can't bear ukuleles with control panels stuck in the side and and battery packs on board. Besides, I kind of view this as a 'throw in the car' uke rather than a performance or recording model. But each to their own. Am sure it's a lot of fun, but just not for me. I didn't actually know they made one with that option until I had written my review!
GotAUkulele Baz do you have any idea how much it weighs?
@@nickiemcnichols5397 According to the specifications on the Enya-Music website, this ukulele (without the electronic pickup) weighs 1.25 lbs. www.enya-music.com/collections/ukulele/products/nova-u-carbon-black
The Yamaha uses 2 AA-batteries but it seems this uke has an internal rechargable battery? There are two diffrent shaped slots above the guitar cord jack on the TransAtlantic pickup system pic on Enyas website. I wish they would make that clear and if you get cords for charging through USB or whatever, but I can't find any information about that. I find this technology interesting and I am tempted to get one of these with the Transatlantic setup.
UPDATE: I emailed Enya's customer service about the 2 problems: effects knobs cause a buzz when playing strings 2 or 3, and the actuator attached to the interior back of the body doesn't produce the vibrations necessary for reverb and/or chorus even though the effects do get sent out on a cable to the external amplifier when its plugged in. The representative said they'd ship me a replacement from their factory (in China) at no cost and include a prepaid return label so I can send back the defective one. She said the engineers discovered that the adhesive they were using to bond the actuator to the body material was coming detached in the long flight from China to USA. They are now using a better adhesive. I told the rep to delay the replacement if the engineers think they can solve the knob rattle and floppy-string buzz (by using thicker fluorocarbon strings perhaps). Thicker strings require higher tension to come up to the correct pitch, which would reduce their vibration range and hence might prevent the buzzing against the frets. I sent them the link to this review so they can read the dialog in our comments. I'll update again when I hear the engineering response.
Re the strings Stanley... surely your quicker and much easier option here is just to put a different set on. I’m sure something like Worth Clear would work well?
@@GotAUkulele Changing the strings is what I was intending to do. But since the actuator inside the uke which produces the special effects isn't working, I need to exchange it anyway. I sent an email explaining the problems and giving them a suggestion for the engineers to look at your choice of fluorocarbon fishing line test weights to consider when they re-evaluate their string choices. I sent the link to your gotaukulele.com page about the fishing line. If they can change to better string diameters, every future customer will benefit. Regarding the actuator failure: being an early adopter of a new type of instrument has its risks as the company goes through its learning curve. I'm not in a rush since this is my 6th ukulele, all different types.
Got my one today as a present and it’s amazing 🤗
Enjoy it
Comments on this video restores my faith in internet, everyone is nice and appreciating a person's efforts in all the right ways.
The specifications say it is 30% carbon fiber in the polycarbonate. The generic name "polycarbonate" is the high-strength plastic brand named Lexan. It has been used to replace glass window panes in industrial buildings so that vandals couldn't break it by throwing rocks, as they had been doing to the glass window panes. It's strong stuff by itself, but adding 30% carbon fibers into the plastic probably makes it much stronger.
thanks for the info!
A surprisingly characterful voice on this one. Just ordered an orange one, can't wait!
I really like 'em!
Enjoy!
@@GotAUkulele It's arrived and I really like it! The colour's more salmon pink than orange, as it turns out, but never mind, it's so much fun to play!
Thank you for the review. It help me decided on purchase, planning to have in my vehicle at all times.
Nice choice - keep in the trunk though - not in the cabin!
They have a preorder special in the USA for $69.99 w/ free shipping for delivery sometime in October. They also offer free strings for “LIFE”! They might be low tension, but they sounded clean & clear on your review...and they’ll send them whenever requested. Now, what color should I choose?
They do indeed sound ok. Feel is my only gripe, but that’s just me
Another wonderful review 🙂 Thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
I just got one of these from Amazon in blue about a week ago. Great review. I'm just a beginner, and this is only the second ukulele I've ever played (the other one being a borrowed Islander), so it's nice to get a second opinion on it, and to hear it played by someone with experience. I'm now excited to learn fingerstyle! For those considering it, I would say go for it if you like the design, sparkling, chimey tone, and the fact that you can take it everywhere with less worry. Can't really beat it for the price. I can't wait to sit on a beach with my feet in the water and play this. I definitely plan to get a second ukulele in the future (probably a wooden tenor) so I can enjoy more mid range and a different tone (just to mix things up a bit), but this will suit my needs for now, and I like that my clumsy fingers don't seem to scratch it at all. Also, the one I got came with a matching case which is pretty nice. The zipper is a little fussy, but it's pretty sturdy and should protect the instrument well. I'm very pleased with it overall. :)
Enjoy!
what do you think of this ukulele after one year of practice ?
New uke player here and i love the style of this Enya, and a bonus that Barry likes it. Please can you recommend new strings for this one and a good tuner. Thanks love your channel x
These are great ukes full stop for the money - sorry - never give string recommendations and never have in 15 years - strings are to personal a choice - we all play and hear differently so what I like you may not like.
Tuners - people think they are all the same - they are not - spend as much as you can not as little. The TC Electronic Unitune is my current recommendation
@@GotAUkulele thank you so much for your advice, also for all your hard work on the channel x
Good review, just placed an order!
Good fun ukes for the money!
So they mostly took your recommendations to heart. Went to a satin finish and side maker starting at the 5th fret.
I'd heard that yes - One of the things I do like about Enya is that they listen
I purchased and received this Nova U with Transacoustic a little over a month ago and completely love it. I’m half tempted to buy an Enya composite guitar with the Transacoustic but the one thing holding me back is what the lifespan of the charging unit lasts. If the battery can be replaceable I would pull the trigger in a heartbeat.
Not tried the one with the pickup, but would seem odd to me if you CANT change the battery
GotAUkulele I do need to look into it. I think Enyas website has a section to ask questions so I should pursue it. Thanks for the reply and also thanks for the reviews, they are very well presented.
Thank you so much for the review. Was waiting for it 👍
My pleasure!
@@GotAUkulele i had one question. When you say that its not exactly carbon fibre, will it still not bend? How different is it from something like klos? Can you share the difference
@@SalilBahlthemanwithauke I've played a lot of all plastic ukes and each had issues with bending (necks or tops). This doesn't bend at all - very sturdy. But it bears no comparison to a Klos - Klos is full carbon fibre with a wooden neck - completely different things. But this Enya still feels sturdy
@@GotAUkulele thank you 👍 your reviews are really helpful. I bought my kala zcts ziricote soprano after watching your review
@@SalilBahlthemanwithauke Thanks - very good choice that Kala!
The gold doesn't go with black? Dude, that's one of the most classic combinations in design and fashion...
Great review. That is a good value for a decent sounding non-wood travel uke.
Thanks!
Once again .... Enya did well! thx Barry, i was waiting for this😏
Yeah I think they did
I was looking at one of these as my first uke (not just because they come in pink... but that doesn't hurt) and thanks to this great review, it'll be arriving on Monday! :)
Enjoy!
Thank you, I was waiting to see what you thought and as always a fair and measured review, I'm glad you liked it but now have to find space for another uke. I hope that Enya will start to hold stock in the UK and like some of the HPL ukes is will be on prime as well. Thanks
Thanks Pete. A couple went on Prime this afternoon!
Just ordered one of these to replace my wawa Korala for leaving in the car. It was fine for up the top of the neck stuff, but action way to high near bottom of fret board (it was only £15). I was not going to pay near £200 to get an outdoor in the UK.
Baz's approval good enough for me. Also due to donate a kidney to my Dad in Jan, so hoping this will be thin/light enough to play in recovery. Appreciate all your work Baz!
Trust me - these are leagues better than the Korala
i was just waiting on this review to pull the trigger. i went with the white one but the orange was tempting as its my favorite color. another great review! thanks for all you do! - do you think martin fluoros on this would be better than the stock strings? i have the enya euc-x1m and i don't mind the stock strings on that one. its the cheapest uke i own yet i find myself playing it more than the rest. can't wait to get my hands on this uke!
Would just take experimentation on strings. We all feel and hear things differently so what I like you may not. I just dont like the tension of these
@@GotAUkulele gotcha - thanks!
Im about to place my order on one of these in amazon and before I do that, I need reassurance from this video to see if its worth my money
You play beautifully. How long have you been playing? Of course years im sure. I've been playing for about two months and I love it.
Been playing guitar on and off for about 35 years - uke for about 15
FYI- the base color of ALL of them is black. The blue, orange, pink, and white ones are paint on top of the black base. I just confirmed this with Enya.
I pre-ordered the blue. I wish the color was molded, a la the Korola/Vorson plastic ukes. However, it's not quite a deal-breaker for me. Just wanted to give notice in case it is for the rest of you.
boatwric good to know, thanks. I’ve not seen the coloured ones in the flesh myself
I ordered black because I had read of the colored ones having issued with the paint coming off. I'm not sure how true that was.
For anyone wanting one of these bad boys in the States, be aware that it's still in preorder. When I asked the good folks at Enya when mine would ship, I got this reply:
"We are sorry for the misleading information at the checkout page. The Nove U ukulele is a brand new model and still in the pre-order phase. The estimated shipping time is early October."
I'm not holding it against them, but just be aware of you're REEEEEEALLY looking forward to playing one (and I definitely am).
Thanks for that - although oddly - they are in stock in the UK for next day delivery!
Must have sent their first batch to your side of pond. You lucky cusses 😂
I'd order from Amazon UK, but last I checked they won't ship the Nova to the States.
it really does resonate lovely! not sure if I could make it sound as pretty as you do.. :) have been looking for one to toss into the car,, this review is great,, i think I am sold, will get one of these . :)
It's tough for sure. Wouldn't leave it in heat, but should be fine in the trunk
Ordered the soprano after watching your review!
In many ways I prefer the soprano version!
@@delphinekirkland1757 Sorry - never give string recommendations - policy of mine because it is totally subjective to the ear of the player. For what it's worth - I use fishing line! (Seriously)
@@GotAUkulele Thanks! Sounds like a good policy. Enjoy your reviews; feels like I can count on them.
Another great review encouraging me to buy one of these ukes. Just as you said it sounds and plays great. Mine doesn’t show the fingerprints though. Well done.
Thanks Ian - enjoy it!
My Outdoor Nickel Carbon Tenor has no side markers, either. I drilled dimples at 3, 5, 7,10, 12 (doubled), filled with White Plastic Wood, let that sink for 72 hours, and then topped with 3-5 coats of Testor’s “Ghost Gray” model paint.
Good tip!
That's sounds very nice, especially for the price
Yeah, I thought so. Not wooden sounding, but not echoey plastic either. Kind of its own thing
Great review! What kind of strings do you recommend?
Sorry Bill - have a policy of never recommending strings - not to be unhelpful, it's just a totally subjective thing. I've seen people argue about the same string set - one saying they are bright, one saying warm - yet they are both right! (we all hear and play differently). My advice is just to buy a few sets and trust your own ears as to what you like
Just be sure with this ukes NOT to use metal wound strings or compound strings like Aquila Red - you will destroy the frets
@@GotAUkulele thanks for taking the time to answer my question. I appreciate your recommendation!
I do not like plastic ukuleles - but just this week I got my Enya Nova U, orange one - bought it for to be my "bonfire ukulele"/outdoor ukulele. But I am surprised how nice little instrument it is! The sound is so clear and bright - cheerful. Not bad intonation or mensure problems either. :0 Feel happy with it, and have already had many nice moments playing it. Surprised, positively: Certainly this comes into use! One question though to you: I have seen also pictures of Casca Carbon ukuleles - and to my eyes they look just the same. Is it only the name changed - or either or is a copy of the other - or are they different instruments? If so, which way - which is better? (I live in Finland, got this Enya from USA - ULTP store - but because all the shipping difficulties and taxes and so on it maybe is easier to get those Caschas from Europe, at least from Thomann. If I recommend Enya as a beginner instrument for my new student, is it as good to recommend that Cascha?)
I believe they are the same instruments made by Enya, but they use that name in certain territories.
@@GotAUkulele Thank you for the answer - helps a lot!
That sounds like it would be nice to record with!
Yes, I suspect so. It's a clean sound. A lot of plastics can add in echo and ghost notes - this is quite pure on that front. Very bright though
This has been on my Amazon wish list since I first saw the Enya ad. I’m trying not to buy any more ukes this year. Did you get spare strings with it? My last 2 Enyas came with decent nylon strings as spares, so I’m not sure if their cheap plastic ones are just for shipping.
Yes, came with a spare set of Enya Fluorocarbons. Not a fan of the strings to be honest. But easily changed
Hi, thank you for great Ukraine reviews. Can you please do a top 5 Ukulele by category videos please?🙏 best Ukulele under £100 or top 5 tenor ukulele, with links where to buy? Thank you so much!
I’m afraid not - just all too subjective. I never have done a ‘best’ list and afraid I won’t plan to. It would just be my take, but bearing in mind my scores include things like ‘looks’ (totally personal) any such list would be flawed.
The full reviews list shows all the scores so easy to find the ones I like best
In US, I paid about $75 for this from Amazon.
I have to say personally I never liked the shape and was put off by it so long that I refused to get one xD but finally gave in when I spotted a used one for sale and now I really like it .. And even though I was so put off by the design, just me.. well now it doesnt bother me at all .. This enya is a lovely uke, I bought a second for my youngest daughter too..
It seems to be a very thin ukulele, does that make it feel odd when playing it? Idk if I wanna order mine
Thanks for this review. I purchased one, and, as you've pointed out, I was surprised at how narrow the fingerboard is, which puts the strings much closer together than even the soprono uke I have. (The nut slot for the G string to the A string is 25mm compared to 30mm on my Donner soprano uke. That seems like a big difference.)
Given how close the strings are to each other, do you consider this a good uke for a beginner to learn on? The challenge of learning how to create clean chords seems even greater by the closeness of the strings. Or is it just a matter of getting used to it?
There IS an element of gettng used to it. However - I have very big hands and yet still actually found this comfortable. I think it's something to do with the material used and the profile of the back of the neck. Maybe that will help begnners. The other things that should encourage beginners here are that it is cheap and it's a fun uke to look at. A fun uke is a uke that will be played a lot and that counts for something too.
These are $89.99 in the USA and shipping is free. They are $69.99 right now if you pre order them!
Blimey - that IS a good deal - better than the UK too!
sadly shipping is $50US to Canada but the 69.99 pre-launch price is excellent.
@@cecicestmoi What's telling here is that I wrote the review before I knew about the shipping discounts - and still gave it a 9 out of 10. I don't think the discounts are permanent and it still got my recommendations. Tells you everything!
@@GotAUkulele i will still be getting one lol, but it is the usual with Canadian shopping online to have shipping rates from US/UK be high.
one question: how is the action on this Enya compared to the Waterman concert scale uke?
C'est Moi action on this is just fine. But more importantly - it’s hard to adjust action on Waterman’s as saddle is not removable. They are on these!
Thanks for your review. What do you think how they sound with a Low G String? I'm looking for a unexpensive UKE to stay in car.
Can’t see it not working, but you will likely need to adjust saddle and nut. And certainly not use a wound string with plastic frets!
This is great I’m still new, I learned a few songs but I didn’t even know about all the different types of Ukuleles let alone all the variables people look at when comparing. Not sure what a good 2nd ukulele would be but I got a Donner Concert.
Take a look at the full Got A Ukulele review list (you might need an afternoon!!) - go through all those scored 8 out of 10 or more, or the ones I have highlighted bold! www.gotaukulele.com/p/ukulele-reviews.html
I’d love to see a review on the Nova G guitar if you have the chance to! On the fence whether or not to get this or the guitar (probably the guitar since the pre order deal saves you $80 on the guitar as opposed to the $20 on the uke)
Will see what I can do. Trying to keep the reviews to ukes, but ENYA did send me the HPL guitar. Shoot them a message and say you want to see me review one! It often helps if I don’t do the asking!
I just got my Enya Nova and loving it. Same black as yours. Have you tried low g on it by now?
I don’t ever tend to tune low G to be honest
Great review. I think I need to buy myself one.
Thanks David!
@@GotAUkulele got the uke today. It's just as good as you said. Second uke I bought based on your reviews. 2 for 2! The orange doesn't show the finger prints. Thanks again.
Bought 2 and waiting for it to come soon.
Starting to see them arrive now. Hope people are happy with them. I was playing the review model again today and it’s still impressing me.
Love your channel, for a beginner would you recommend this uke or enya euc-25d or aklot concert? I'm confused 'cause I love the sound of all three
Comparing this plastic uke to two wooden models is a bit difficult / unfair - but I would never recommend the Aklot brand myself
@@GotAUkulele thank you so much! Well... Time to order :D
Great review, Baz. Right now in the USA, if you order from Enya for October delivery, they are just $69.99 USD with free shipping. How can one beat that? I see one in my future. You got me again!!
I genuinely think Enya are watching the comments and adjusting pricing - I like responsive companies! Chap on another channel complained about price in Germany - 30 mins later Enya adjusted it!
Baz, I am beginning to have a change of heart about this Ukulele. Do you know anyone or have heard of anyone that has got this Ukulele with TransAcoustic Pickup? What do you think about the TransAcoustic Pickup? Not sure why this Uke with the Pickup is double the price. Perhaps you could enlighten me. Thank you!
I don’t and I’ve not played it so can’t really comment on the Enya. If they are like the Yamaha system (and I can’t confirm they are), it’s a clever system that actually alters the acoustic tone before amplification with effects like chorus and reverb.
@@GotAUkulele Thanks for getting back to me. Appreciated.
Regarding the "gold" tuners: I doubt that they are really gold plated. Tools like drill bits are often coated with a gold-looking material called titanium nitride which reduces wear and friction between the drill bit and the metal it's cutting into. This makes the bit last 6 times longer than uncoated tool steel bits. It also reduces tendency for corrosion. So the gold color may actually be superior to the shiny nickel- or chrome- plated steel gears, working more smoothly and lasting longer.
No of course it’s not real gold plate! I just don’t like the colour
(Incidentally, gilding like this is a plating of an alloy of copper and zinc)
@@GotAUkulele Thanks for that info.
Hi Barry thanks for the review I really do wish you could compare to outdoor uke. Do you know the action height? From ukestuff channel he stated the outdoor tenor were 0.5mm at 1st fret and 2mm at 12th fret.
I never The the point of reporting action height as its adjustable. Even if it was high it can be changed
@@GotAUkulele Barry I thought all the plastic/carbon fiber were all in one piece, can their action also be adjusted?
@@markh8901 The saddle comes out on this I believe
@@GotAUkulele Thanks personally I like 38mm nut width better too. I will pass on this hopefully they will have a tenor version wider at nut and spacing between strings, some time later.
The orange one would go nicely with my Flight TUS35.
I really like the look of the orange one!
i would grab an orange to match my orange flight.
thank you for this review. Bought one few days ago to live in my campervan.
Don't like the Enya strings. I like the worth browns on my Flight Sophia. Do you think thats could be a good match with the Enya?
Strings a totally subjective and personal - as long as you don't put reds or wound strings on it - anything will work - trust your own ears on the sound you like
@@GotAUkulele thx. Maybe you can make a string review. Different strings, Same uke
Greetings!
I am looking for a sturdy, well sounding and looking Ukulele. I want to hitchhike around the world with it.
I got my sights on the Flight TUS 50 and the Enya Nova. Which one would you recommend when sound and durability are the priority?
Sorry - very very different things. Different sizes and prices. I think the Flight is more durable myself, but it's close
I need an outdoor ukulele that won't get messed up by rain. I think I'll look to get one of these.
They are very resilient for sure - more than a wooden uke - BUT... be aware they are not fully waterproof. The tuners are NOT waterproof and if you get one with a pickup system they are certainly not something to get wet!
@@GotAUkulele Oh, very good point! I'm still going through videos now. Are there any decent sounding ukes that are basically waterproof you would recommend?
@@Srcsqwrn None of them are fully waterproof really for the same reason. But it's this or the Outdoor
@@GotAUkulele Alright sounds good. I'll likely get one of these without pickups if possible. Just looking to have something that'd be alright if I suddenly got rained on.
Appreciate the help!
I'm a newbie and bought a concert Ohana and I'm not excited about it as I hoped. The red Nova has really caught my eye and am considering it. I'm indecisive as it is and throw a tenor option in the mix?! Ahhhhhh! Any thoughts?
Also, what are the dimensions?Width, length and depth?
The tenor has a better, fuller sound in my opinion
@@GotAUkulele do you mind posting actual dimensions? I want to know if it will fit in my case.
@@rossydv Tip to tail it's 64cm, widest point on lower bout is 21cm, body depth 5cm
Good test!
And another newbie question:
What chords do you play from 9:25?
See link below video for tutorial!
A warning: Outdoor Ukulele will void your warrantee for using wound strings, as the plastic material will erode, where a bone nut/saddle or metal fret won't. I can only imagine this Enya is subject to the same risk.
True. Yes, wound strings, not a good idea on plastic frets
Very nice, too bad they don't offer a tenor. Would it be worthwhile to drop the extra money on the klos, if one would prefer the tenor? I am looking for a sturdy travel uke and play tenor normally...
The Klos and this are leagues apart - totally different construction. I like the Nova a lot, but it's not on the same page as the Klos
@@GotAUkulele thanks so much for your fast response! I have not been so fortunate to be able to try both and since I am from EU it is difficult to get your hands on the Klos... I feel this will fit my purposes better, but to order it from the US and than being disappointed would not be too great, especially looking at price after customs. You confirming, they are both in a different league answer's my question, thanks a million!
Nice video! Just a question: What alternative strings can I use? Aquila Nylgut? And are the strings BB or CB? Thanks!
I don't know what you mean by BB or CB. You can use any concert strings on this so long as they are not metal wound
@@GotAUkulele sorry, it's my first time playing a ukulele! I just saw a video where someone was explaining about the abbreviation of the strings (something about low G and high G) But anyways, glad to know I can use normal ukulele nylon strings instead of flurocarbon because they are expensive! But thank you! 😊
Hey Baz, quick question. I can either buy this or a Kala Travel Concert Exoctic Mahogany for another $50. Which do you think?
I'm really sorry but I have a policy of not making final buying choices for anyone - it's just too subjective. Besides the two ukuleles are not fairly comparable anyway. I like both brands and both ukes, but they serve different purposes.
@@GotAUkulele No worries mate. I've decided on the Kala in the end.
Great! That’s going on the ‘want’ list as an upgrade from my trusty Korala Explore (fitted with aNueNue black strings from Matt at WOU) - frets are starting to wear a bit on it. Wonder how the Enya board will hold up...
I can never tell on plastic frets in long term, but tend to test them the same way. I spent time pushing a metal straight edge into these and found it hard to mark them. That suggests to me that they are pretty tough. This is night and day better than the Korala Explore. Different league!
How do you care for a Carbon Uke? Just wipe it down? Any stuff to spray on it? Please advise. I want to take care of mine, but I don't wanna ruin it.
Yeah - just a cloth. It’s just plastic really.
I use those electronic wipes on mine works. Very well..Enjoy...
Just ordered one!
Enjoy!
Hey Barry, what strings would you recommend for Enya EUC-X1 Cutaway, I too find the stock ones a little dull, and I know that you have had reviewed similar models in the past.
Afraid I never give string recommendations - it's just too subjective and personal. What I like you may not like and vice versa. I'd suggest buying a few differing sets and trying them. Interchange them and go with what your ears tell you.
I've just ordered my Enya Nova,in white, and keep hearing poor reviews of the included strings. I plan to replace the strings on arrival,so I'm not disappointed with any aspect of my new uke, and was wondering which strings you would recommend as the best replacements for the Nova? Thanks!
Sorry Rick, I never give string recommendations. It's just too subjective and what one person like another person may not. I've seen lots of people change their Nova strings and they all name different brands! I'd suggest you get a few different sets and test them. The ones you reject can always be used again as spares. One thing you definitely need to avoid is using any wound strings!
Introductory price here in the USA is $69 shipped, which is little short of remarkable.
Barry, might you know if the colored versions are molded in their respective colors? Or are they painted? Paint doesn’t strike me as durable.
The black ones are molded in that color. All the other colors are paint on top of the black base. I just confirmed this with an Enya rep.
I pre-ordered a blue one and thought about cancelling when I got Enya's reply (the black one doesn't really suit me). But for $70 and the great sound, what's a little extra TLC to keep from chipping? I'll just avoid hitting rocks with it 😂
@@E_Biz_4 actually if you check on the review site at Enya reply on the paint issue,
"1. The base color of Nova U is gloss black, which is actually NOT the same black as the black model. This means the black model still needs the painting job."
Yes, I believe they are painted over a black base
Have you noticed a slightly radiused fretboard? Maybe that’s one of the reasons why you don’t mind the 35mm width. :)
Very slightly
I have this ukulele and it’s fun. :)
@@spaztekwarrior A lot of fun!
That chord you are playing in that middle section of that cool fast paced jingle ... just after the G... is that a D? If so are you barring it with your third finger but only strumming the top three strings ?
Greetings from Canada. :)
@@spaztekwarrior not sure which one you mean - but chords for the tunes are in a link in the video description
I'd be curious to hear how this enya sounds with fishing line strings.
If I get the time to do a video I will swap em
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE "PICKUP OPTION": I received my Enya Nova U with TransAcoustic (TA) option yesterday. Here are my observations. The TA feature is a Japanese-patented electronics system used by Yamaha in certain guitars as well as optionally in certain guitars and the Nova U from Enya-Music. It includes a pickup, electronics, control panel, external jack, and an actuator which vibrates when it is electronically driven by the electronic signal processor circuit. It also acts as a normal pickup with pre-amp so it can be connected through a standard 1/4" guitar jack on the side of the Nova U and a cable (not provided by Enya) to an external guitar amplifier. Without hooking up to an external amp, when the TA system is turned on by a push-button on the side of the uke, the system can produce a reverb and/or chorus effect which it adds to the acoustic signal and sends to the actuator which is attached inside the body to the rear panel. It vibrates to create the effects which come out of the body just as the normal acoustic sounds do. That's how it's supposed to work. Unfortunately, mine doesn't vibrate the actuator so without an external amp I don't get any more than the normal uke sound as demonstrated in this video. But it does send the combined sound with effects out to my amplifier so I get reverb and/or chorus and volume control from the uke. The small control panel on the side has the on/off/volume knob, an LED indicating when the TA is ON, and separate volume knobs for reverb and chorus. It does not have a built-in tuner as some electro-acoustic ukes do. One small problem: the volume control knobs vibrate slightly while I play certain notes, creating a tiny but annoying buzz. The buzz isn't there if I lightly touch the knobs while I play those notes, so I know they're the source of the buzz. I think I can prevent this by adding small o-rings around the knobs, which I'll try and report here with an update.
It does sound dreamy through the external amp with the effects turned on. I'll have to deal with Enya about the defective actuator. Even if I decide to accept it as-is, it's still worth the price I paid just as a nice uke with electronic pickup and built-in effects, but it would be nicer to have the TA effects even when not hooked up to an external amp.
The uke came well packed in its own semi-rigid gig bag, plastic bag, display box, and outer shipping carton. It took 13 days shipping time by Chinese shipper SF Express from China, through Hong Kong to Los Angeles by air, and by truck to my door in Salinas, California. Included are the accessories: gig bag (no backpack straps), uke strap (1.5" wide), extra strings, capo (plastic, color matching the uke), cloth accessory bag, charging USB cable (no power source, just cable), and literature. The power for the TA system comes from a rechargeable battery inside the uke body, which is charged by a standard micro-USB charging cable. An LED next to the USB port lights up red while charging and green when fully charged. It took about 1 hour to recharge from its discharged condition using my phone charging module which provides up to 2.4 amps at 5 volts for fast charge. You should charge it before first use. The charging panel is attached with 4 screws, so apparently the electronics and battery can be removed for service and battery replacement in the future. I was hoping there would be specs in the literature telling what kind of battery is in there, but alas if it's in the literature it's not obvious.
Unfortunately the literature is almost 100% in Chinese with only some minor captions in English. The warranty is also in Chinese, which won't help me, but Enya-Music has an English-language warranty page on its website. www.enya-music.com/pages/warranty-policy . The USA warranty requires that the uke be taken or shipped to a repair center in Texas at the customer's (not Enya's) expense, but there is no charge for parts or labor. I don't know if Enya pays return shipping at no cost to the customer. I'll inquire. I spoke with someone else in my ukulele club who bought the identical one as I did, and she said her literature also is in Chinese. I'll test her electronics this week at our next club meeting.
All interesting and appreciated. Got A Ukulele can’t comment, naturally, as I’ve never played the pickup version.
Which do you prefer, the Enya Nova U or the Flight travel series?
dirkgent001 completely different things. - impossible to compare.