In 2005, Blackbird Guitars set out to produce instruments durable enough to handle the rigors of travel, but with sound worth bringing along for the ride. After experimenting with alternative materials, Blackbird settled on Carbon Fiber for both guitars and ukuleles.
Carbon Fiber is a tough material. Unlike solid wood—which warps and cracks in response to environmental changes—Carbon Fiber is resilient and can move from various environments and conditions without issue. When constructed properly, Carbon Fiber instruments still produce the full sound, acoustic qualities, and natural response, even though they're wood free (and therefore worry free).
This 2016 Blackbird BTUE is a Tenor Ukulele constructed entirely of Carbon Fiber. Not only is it a durable, travel-ready uke, but the BTUE produces a rich, warm sound. It is currently set up with a low G, which gives it a little extra bass and low end. Thanks to Blackbird's design and the hollow-neck construction, it's lightweight and resonant. Unlike other composite instruments, it sounds natural.
This BTUE has a pickup under the hood, so it's ready to go on stage. While the Carbon Fiber construction is intended for durability, it also gives the BTUE a sleek, futuristic look unlike other Tenor uke. It is set up with Gotoh UPT 4:1 gear ratio tuners, which hold tune nicely.
This 2016 Blackbird BTUE is in nice shape all around. It shows some signs of play and use (see photos), but thanks to the durable construction, it has no history of repairs, breaks, or issues. There is one inconsistency in the pattern on the back, right by the waist. Could be a scratch/scuff, but it may also be a manufacturing defect in the Carbon Fiber. It has a nice setup with room to come down for lower action. One note—the wire from the pickup is not secured inside the body, so as you handle the instrument, you can hear it knocking around.
This 2016 Blackbird BTUE includes its original gig bag. No humidification required!