To start, I have seen 3 samples from this oud model. I wish it was possible to add pictures. The quality of the wood joints and even surfaces are very poor (far from the product description pictures) . Random scratches, minor cracks, glue stains, air bubbles on some surfaces due to improper solidification of the matte lacquer. Countless visual defects... I can add more with pictures if requested.
Coming to sound, 2 of 3 samples I have played had buzzing E string. If you hit it hard enough, it is buzzing. I think the problem is the cable of the passive pickup inside. Probably it is resonating with that string and hitting to the body. I could not address the reason of the buzzing.
The height of the strings were different in all samples. Varying between very close, moderate, and far I would say. Both were playable and comfortable. Far one was sounding more Arabic, and close one sounding more Turkish with more vibration into it.
Coming back to sound again. The body reveals the difference of the nylon and the wool strings. When the oud is a masterpiece, it is almost impossible to recognize this difference. However in this price range it is pretty normal. Sounds "ok" for its price, not magnificent but also not too bad. Would be enough for a newbie, and would definitely allow amateurs to have fun. Would not be suitable for a professional or stage act.
In general I don't understand why these instruments are this expensive. Any guitar in this price range sold on Thomann, would have outstanding quality with very high quality control standards, the quality would be incomparable with these ouds. These instruments (all ouds) should definitely be less expensive in general. Neither labor, nor raw materials are more expensive than a guitar (also considering the instrument is having half of the mass of a full size guitar).
To summarize; the instrument is playable, it is definitely not something premium. The only acoustic option if you want to attach a strap. I will use it until I am feeling competent enough to deserve a premium oud.
