It creates a bright tone unlike the Saw u which produces a mellow sound.

The variety of musical instruments expanded when the Thai kingdom in the Indo-China peninsula came into contact with India.

The name was given based on its shape which resembles a trap (duang dak yae or ด้วงดักแย้) used by the people of the Northern provinces to catch edible lizards.

[1] Saw duang has seven main components:[2][3] In a traditional string ensemble or Wong Khrueang Sai (วงเครื่องสาย), Saw duang acts as a leader due to its high and clear sound.

In recent times, the traditional string ensemble has developed with the addition of Western instruments such as violins and piano.