Mike's Oud Forums

Voices

Elie Riachi - 10-24-2005 at 06:16 PM

Not sure if this has been asked before, but I 'll ask away anyway...

Do all the Na7at or Nahat ouds sound the same? and if not how do they differ and what makes them so desirable?

If they sound the same, then what are the voice characteristics of a Na7at?

Are the Na7ats the best ouds ever made? If so then why?

Dr. Oud - 10-24-2005 at 11:37 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Elie Riachi
Not sure if this has been asked before, but I 'll ask away anyway...

Do all the Na7at or Nahat ouds sound the same? and if not how do they differ and what makes them so desirable?

If they sound the same, then what are the voice characteristics of a Na7at?

Are the Na7ats the best ouds ever made? If so then why?

I was just having a converationabout this with a well known oudist (no name dropping). There is an inspirational value that is hard to define, but that special oud will just make you play better that ever before, and in an instant. Try to explain that to your wife, but it's a fact. The Nahat makers produced the most consistantly precise instruments in both workmanship and apparently that inspirational sound. I have had this experience with a 1946 Dicran Najarian and recently with the restored Hamza Usta. It's more than tone, or action, but includes the look and feel in your hands. If you haven't experienced it it's hard to describe. If you have, you'll understand. I heard a story once that if an oudist didn't like the oud a Nahat made for him it was destroyed rather sold to someone else. Now that's quality control, Shazam!

Elie Riachi - 10-25-2005 at 06:59 PM

Thanks Doc. Your input is highly regarded. Your extensive work experience on Na7ats and other ouds is an asset. You mention an "inspirational sound." How would you characterize the sound? And do all the Na7at ouds have relatively the same sound signature?