Mike's Oud Forums

Does a "reasonable" price exist for a beginner to buy an oud?

Marjan12 - 4-6-2011 at 09:44 AM

HI -

I'm interested in taking oud lessons and have looked at different ouds for sale. What I've heard from some oud/luthiers is that, give or take, no oud under XXX dollars (maybe $900?) is worthwhile to buy...not because it doesn't sound "as good" as a decent instrument but b/c it really is un-playable, and will require a hefty investment to make it playable.

I understand where they are coming from but now fear that learning to play the oud is an impossible thing for someone who does not want to spend that type of money on an instrument before they have ever even learned how to play the instrument, how to hold it, etc...

Is there ANY ~$500 instrument out there (used or new or whatever) that is good "'enough" for a beginner to use?

Or is the oud just something someone can learn if they have the money?

Thanks for any suggestions.

:bounce:

ameer - 4-6-2011 at 11:02 AM

Look into a Sukar Model 1. Alternatively you could get a used oud at that price which normally goes for something higher if someone on this board is selling. In short: it can be done but it may take time for something to become available.

Alan-TX - 4-6-2011 at 11:29 AM

What Ameer said.

oudistcamp - 4-6-2011 at 02:10 PM

Consider the cost of your oud as a small investment compared to the total cost of oud lessons along the way....
Unless you are fortunate enough to have really benevolent teachers :)

bibo10 - 4-7-2011 at 04:44 PM

hey Marjan,

check your u2u or email me at mb232@njit.edu