What is the difference between an ekanda and an ottu veena?

An ekanda Saraswati veena has its resonator, neck and head carved from one block of wood; an ottu veena, also called sada or khanda, joins parts made separately. Retail and museum sources treat the ekanda as the higher grade. Makers hollow the main resonator from jackfruit wood, favouring trees of about 40 to 50 years.