Mike's Oud Forums

single bass string vs. double bass strings

Laith - 3-3-2004 at 11:23 PM

I played my oud recently and someone asked why there was only one low bass string. I mentioned that I have seen an arabic oud with the last bass string doubled and the guy asked what the difference is. I didn't know how to answer him--anyone out there have any suggestions as to the pros and cons of single vs. double strings? Thanks!

spyrosc - 3-3-2004 at 11:33 PM

One of the reasons you might not want the second bass string, is because, due to their thickness, the two strings would be close to each other, touching when they vibrate, and causing "buzzing".

Spyros C.

Zulkarnain - 3-5-2004 at 07:48 AM

Hi

I highly agree with Spyros C! He said it all!



Salam

Dr. Oud - 3-5-2004 at 08:44 AM

Whether to use a single or double bass is really a matter of the strength of the face. If your oud has a thin face, a double bass might over stress the top and cause more warpage than usual. If your oud has a thick face you might consider using a double bass to enhance the low register tones.

single string vs. double

Laith - 3-8-2004 at 09:46 PM

Thanks to everyone who answered my question. I figured that the double string might cause buzzing--I figured there were many others out there who would know better than myself ;)
Again thank you!