lute, lauta, oud...

Hello! I'm a new member... recently have become obsessed with ouds, and looking to learn more about them, their evolution, relationship to other instruments. ...of course, with the intention of purchasing my own instrument in the near future...

My background is early European music, with a great interest in lutes. Does anyone else play lute AND oud, or lavta and lute... or some similar combination? If so, could you please provide any information on the similarities and differences between the instruments?

I do not think that taking a small-sized oud, restringing in gut, and tying on frets will have one merrily plucking polyphony... or will it??

please excuse my ignorance!!