User's Manual
4 Introduction
Bassam Ayoub
The Arabic oud, or al 'ud, is probably best known in the West as the
forerunner of the European lute; but it has an independent life in the
history of early music, based on the medieval cultural exchange
between East and West. Although the origins of this instrument are
uncertain, the popularity of the oud has spread across the
Mediterranean Sea, the Middle East and North and East Africa, where it
is still popular today.
In order to offer a wide sound spectrum,
three high quality instruments were
recorded for Arabic Oud, all between 35
and 40 years old, led by Oud 1,
Bassam Ayoub's personal main instrument.
Sustains of Oud 2 and Oud 3 were
recorded with great attention to detail
and complement each other perfectly
with the extended articulations of Oud 1,
which all three instruments share. This gives you a choice of 3 different
colors with a wide range of expressive possibilities, while keeping the
overall footprint as low as possible. Together with the included LITE
Versions of each instrument, Arabic Oud is also perfectly suited for
small setups and live-performances.
Born in Syria, Bassam Ayoub is a
musician and singer who has
travelled with various bands to
many Arab countries and Europe.
As head of his recording studio in
Wiesbaden, Germany, he has
worked with renowned
manufacturers of keyboards and
expanders such as Korg and Farsa.
Arabic Oud is the result of his many
years of experience in sampling oriental instruments and together with
Engine 2 brings playability and realism to the next level.
The Queen of Instruments
4 Introduction