So far as I can tell, this is the same exact model as the Kiwaya FS-1. The difference is here you get the geared tuners, which I like. And you save a bit of money. I have this Famous FS-1G, as well as the Famous FS-5G, that I bought on Amazon. Both of these ukuleles are great. This FS-1G is heavier in weight and looks much more plain/ boring than the koa-laminate FS-5G.Kiwaya/Famous are built lightly. The neck profile is slim, which I really like. It's not thick and chunky like a Flea/Fluke.The action is perfect on these Famous ukuleles. This makes them very easy on the fingers when playing.These are all-laminate instruments. Yes, they are pricey for a laminate but I love them. It also means they don't require as much care and humidification as a solid-wood uke, which as a lazy person I love.I bought both of mine from amazon and I believe these ukes shipped straight from Japan, or at least from an importer.Normally I would never recommend buying a uke without a full setup from a respected uke dealer, but these Famous/Kiwaya's appear to be perfectly set up at their Japanese factory. I am 3-for-3 (I have the thinline version of the FS-1 too). All perfect action/ intonation.I highly recommend this ukulele or its better-looking brother the FS-5G.