Today, three, four, or five-string instruments are used, with a range of more than three octaves. Another modern innovation has been the introduction of electric pickups and amplifiers. Although the late Tusau Padan (master sape musician) primarily played only an electric instrument, he made acoustic versions for friends if requested. The difference between the two instruments is that the amplified version has a thicker top, for attaching the pickups. Sape is almost always ornamented with rich traditional designs; some are carved, some painted. Many "Tusau originals; are worth more as pieces of art than they are as musical instruments. Traditionally, the sape ornamentation had to be appropriate to the owner's social status. Designs meant for the upper classes were considered harmful if used by the lower classes. Musically, the sape is a simple instrument. One string carries the melody and the accompanying strings are struck rhythmically to produce a drone. In practice, the music is quite complex, with many ornamentations, and thematic variations. Often two instruments are played together; one carries the melody, the second alternates between accompaniment, counter melody and harmony. Yet as complex as the music has become, it still retains a repetitive, trancelike quality that makes the instrument attractive. Sape music is usually inspired by dreams; there are over thirty-five traditional pieces with many variations. The overall repertoire is slowly increasing.