The kanun, also spelled qanun, is a plucked zither used in several Middle Eastern and neighboring musical traditions. Instruments can differ in dimensions, tuning, string and course count, mandal layout, materials and electronics. Confirm the setup required for your repertoire with a teacher or the maker before ordering.
Before choosing: Compare regional setup, tuning range, dimensions, scale, string and course count, mandal layout, soundboard and body materials, pegs, electronics, included case and tools, and the availability of suitable replacement strings. Product details vary by model.
Model examples
MK-404Check the current product pageMK-123Check the current product pageMKA-4Check the current product pageMKE-5Check the current product pageMSK-4Check the current product page
The linked listings provide the current maker attribution, materials, tuning, mandal configuration, electronics, dimensions, included items, price and availability for each model.
Regional setups
Kanuns used in Turkish, Arabic, Armenian and other traditions may be configured differently. The labels do not establish one universal tuning or mandal count, and setup practices can vary by maker, teacher and repertoire.
| Compare | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Tradition and repertoire | The regional setup recommended by your teacher or ensemble |
| Tuning | Lowest and highest notes, reference pitch and written versus sounding notation |
| Strings | Course count, strings per course, materials, gauges and replacement sets |
| Mandals | Number, spacing and pitch changes available on each course |
| Dimensions | Overall dimensions, scale, weight and case size |
| Electronics | Pickup, output and controls if the instrument is amplified |
| Included items | Case, tuning wrench, picks and any spare strings |
The mandal system
Many modern kanuns use mandals, small levers that alter the pitch of a string course during playing. The number and interval of the available changes depend on the instrument's design. Ask for a clear mandal chart or close-up photographs if the listing does not provide this information.
What to inspect
Check the current listing or instrument for clear dimensions, stable tuning pegs, functioning mandals, an intact soundboard and bridges, even string spacing and a case that fits the instrument. Maker names and wood species alone do not establish quality; construction, setup, condition and the needs of the player also matter.
Prices, stock, specifications, shipping and store policies can change. Refer to the current product page, checkout and policy pages for the terms that apply to an order.