With the Waterfall series, Kala offers a "modern classic" designed for musicians seeking understated sophistication, both in touch and finish. Its identity is based on all-solid craftsmanship (depending on the version: solid mahogany or solid flamed maple) and especially on its "Waterfall" rounded edges, a design detail that truly changes the daily playing experience. Available in tenor and baritone formats, the Waterfall aims for a balance between refined aesthetics, comfortable handling, and mature tone, without excessive ornamentation.
This model is primarily intended for intermediate to advanced musicians who want a responsive, enjoyable instrument capable of withstanding hours of practice without fatigue. The tenor format generally offers more playing space than a soprano or concert, making it particularly appreciated for extended chords, fingerstyle, higher positions on the neck, and more articulated solo playing. In terms of styles, solid mahogany suits warm accompaniments (pop, folk, chanson), fingerpicking, rich arpeggios, as well as more pronounced dynamics when alternating softness and attack.
The all-solid mahogany construction is at the heart of this Waterfall Tenor's personality. Mahogany is known for its balance and warmth: it highlights a present midrange, with soft highs and a natural low-end foundation, which helps the instrument remain clear in an acoustic mix without becoming harsh. Compared to laminated wood construction, the all-solid build often provides a livelier response to attack, more nuances when playing softly, and a more singing sustain on held notes.
The tenor format, combined with this craftsmanship, favors a broader projection and a "mature" feel: full chords breathe, and melodic lines gain body. The "Waterfall" rounded edges do not only affect ergonomics: by reducing the sensation of a sharp angle under the arm, they encourage a more relaxed posture, which often translates into more consistent playing and better-controlled dynamics. Finally, the Graph Tech NuBone components (nut and saddle) contribute to good vibration transmission, stable intonation, and clean attack, while the fluorocarbon strings provide precision, clarity, and definition, especially appreciated in picking.