Which Noah Tenor Ukulele Is Right for You?
If you’ve been looking at Noah ukuleles, chances are you’ve come across my two most popular models: the Noah Super Tenor and the Noah Tenor X. I’m asked all the time which one people should go for – and the truth is, both are exceptional tenor ukuleles, but they suit slightly different players.
This guide breaks down the key differences, tonewoods, design features, and playing feel, so you can confidently choose the ukulele that fits your playing style.
At a Glance: Super Tenor vs Tenor X
Both instruments are professional-level tenor ukuleles, tuned GCEA, and designed for players who want more than a standard tenor. The differences come down to size, woods, tone, and ergonomics.
Tonewoods: Mahogany vs Indian Rosewood
Noah Super Tenor – Warm, Open & Punchy
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Top: Solid Spruce
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Back & Sides: Mahogany
The Super Tenor pairs a spruce top with mahogany back and sides, giving it a classic, balanced ukulele voice. Expect warm mids, excellent clarity, and a really responsive attack – perfect for strumming, fingerstyle, and players who love a traditional tenor sound with extra power.
Noah Tenor X – Deep, Rich & Sophisticated
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Top: Solid Spruce
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Back & Sides: Indian Rosewood
Indian rosewood brings a different flavour altogether. The Tenor X delivers greater depth, enhanced bass response, and a more complex harmonic profile. If you’re after a modern, piano-like tenor ukulele tone, this one shines.
Body Size & Projection
Super Tenor: Bigger Body, Bigger Sound
The clue is in the name.
The Noah Super Tenor is physically larger than a standard tenor – longer, wider, and deeper. While it’s still tuned GCEA, the increased air volume gives you:
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More projection
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Greater headroom
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Deeper, fuller tone
If you want a tenor ukulele that feels closer to a small acoustic guitar in presence and power, this is it.
Tenor X: Standard Tenor Size, Smarter Design
The Tenor X sticks closer to traditional tenor proportions, but makes up for it with thoughtful design features that dramatically improve playability and comfort (more on that below).
Playability & Design Features
Noah Super Tenor Features
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Open headstock
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39mm nut width (great for fingerstyle players)
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Pin bridge
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Gloss body with satin neck for smooth, fast playing
It feels solid, resonant, and confident – a serious instrument for players who want maximum sound and presence.
👉 Reviewed on Got A Ukulele:
https://www.gotaukulele.com/2021/10/noah-super-tenor-ukulele-review.html
Noah Tenor X Features
This is where the Tenor X really sets itself apart.
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Cutaway body for easy access to higher frets
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Asymmetric bridge (beautiful and functional)
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39mm nut width for comfortable string spacing
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Comfort edge (beveled armrest) – a game changer for long playing sessions
That comfort edge is honestly one of my favourite features. It makes the ukulele feel effortless to play and hugely improves the overall playing experience.
👉 Reviewed on Got A Ukulele:
https://www.gotaukulele.com/2023/05/noah-tenor-x-ukulele-review.html
Which Noah Tenor Ukulele Should You Choose?
Choose the Noah Super Tenor if you:
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Want maximum projection and volume
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Prefer a larger body ukulele
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Love a warm, traditional tenor tone
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Play live, strum hard, or want serious presence
Choose the Noah Tenor X if you:
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Value comfort and modern design
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Want cutaway access to higher frets
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Prefer rosewood depth and richness
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Play longer sessions or intricate fingerstyle pieces
Final Thoughts
Both the Noah Super Tenor and Noah Tenor X represent the very best of what a modern tenor ukulele can be. Neither is “better” – they’re simply designed for different players, hands, and musical goals.
If you’re still unsure, think about how you play, where you play, and what inspires you to pick the instrument up more often. That’s always the right answer.
Of course, if you’re still unsure which Noah tenor ukulele is right for you, or you’ve got any questions at all, feel free to drop me an email. I’m always happy to help you choose the instrument that’s going to inspire you the most.