Page "Charango" Paragraph 10

Traditionally a charango was made with a dried armadillo shell for the back and wood for the soundbox top, neck etc.

This is no longer the norm, rather they are typically made of wood, with the bowled back merely imitating the shape of the armadillo shell.

Unlike most wooden lutes, the body and neck are typically made of a single block of wood, carved into shape.

The charango's ten strings require quite a large headstock, often approaching or even exceeding the size of its diminutive sound box.

Aside from these visual distinctions, it resembles a small ukulele.