If someone wants a quality instrument, I suggest skipping the drop-shipped stuff offered by Lark, Mid East, Amazon, et al. The Oud Center guys will prbly at least provide you with a decent learner's instrument; as I said, you'll need to make sure that it has well functioning pegs and appropriate action - these mass imports vary widely in terms of these factors and, needless to say, much of what is offered is not good.
Sukar used to be the basic standard, but the last decade has seen decreasing availability due to geopolitical factors.
I suggest getting on Mike's Oud Forum and communicating with the private sellers there for a used instrument. This way you'll know what you're getting.
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