Types of Saz, Making and Selection: Differences from Oud -

The saz is a stringed instrument with a rich history and cultural heritage, widely used in Anatolia and Central Asia. Saz’s, which are used in different sizes, tunings and playing techniques, form the basis of Turkish music.

Types of Saz:

Cura: It is the smallest type of saz. It usually has 3-6 strings and produces a high-pitched sound.
Bağlama Cura: It is slightly larger than the cura and can have 7-8 strings.
Tambura Cura: Similar to the bağlama cura, it has 7-8 strings and produces a fuller sound.
Aşık Sazı: This saz, which has 8-9 strings, is widely used for folk songs and folk music.
Bozuk: The bozuk saz, which has 9-10 strings, produces deeper and bass sounds.
Tambura: Tamburas, which have 10-12 strings, are used in classical Turkish music.
Divan Sazı: The divan saz, which has 12-14 strings, is the largest type of saz and one of the most important instruments of classical Turkish music.
Meydan Sazı: The meydan saz, which has 14-16 strings, has the thickest and strongest sound.

Woods Used in Saz Making:

The type of wood used in saz making directly affects the sound and quality of the saz. The most commonly used woods are:

Yew: It is the most preferred wood type. It produces a bright and high-pitched sound.
Plane: The plane tree, which has a softer sound, is suitable for middle tones.
Mahogany: Mahogany, which produces a warm and full sound, is preferred for bass tones.
Maple: Maple, a hard and durable wood, is used for the neck and fretboard of the saz.

Saz Wire Features:

Saz strings also significantly affect the sound of the saz. Saz strings, usually made of steel, can be produced in different thicknesses and coatings. Thicker strings produce a bass sound, while thinner strings produce a higher sound. Nickel or chrome coated strings are brighter and longer lasting.

Things to Consider When Buying Saz and Bağlama:

Wood Type: The type and quality of the wood used in the construction of the saz will directly affect its sound.
String Thickness and Coating: It is important to choose the string thickness and coating that suits your playing style and sound preference.
Workmanship: It is important that the saz is made neatly and carefully, which will affect both its sound and durability.
Sound: It is important to listen to different sounds before buying a saz and find the sound that suits you best.
Budget: Saz prices can vary depending on the material used, workmanship and brand. It would be useful to determine your budget and do research accordingly.

Differences Between Saz and Oud:

Wood Type: The type and quality of the wood used in the construction of the saz will directly affect its sound.
String Thickness and Coating: It is important to choose the string thickness and coating that suits your playing style and sound preference.
Workmanship: It is important that the saz is made neatly and carefully, which will affect both its sound and durability.
Sound: It is important to listen to different sounds before buying a saz and find the sound that suits you best.
Budget: Saz prices can vary depending on the material used, workmanship and brand. It would be useful to determine your budget and do research accordingly.

Differences Between Saz and Oud:

Saz and oud are two instruments that look similar but have different characteristics.

Tuning: The saz is usually tuned to D-A-E-G-B-D, while the oud is tuned to C-F-A-D-G.
Strings: Saz has 6-14 strings, while oud has 5 strings.
Playing Technique: The saz is played with a plectrum, while the oud can be played with fingers or a plectrum.
Sound: The sound of the saz is brighter and higher, while the sound of the oud is more bass and soft.
Usage Area: Saz is widely used in Turkish music, while oud is often used in Arabic music and Mediterranean music.

Both saz and oud are deep-rooted instruments with a rich history and cultural heritage. Choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference and the type of music you want to play.