On a less serious note, WAV, yes I have played an C17th cittern, not one of the Stefan Sobell type-ones. To be honest, I can see why they're not played that much any more. They have a sweet sound but you're very limited in what you can play and they're very quiet. They certainly wouldn't replace a guitar, bouzouki or even mandolin for song accompaniment.

Instruments evolve to meet the needs of players. As music has become more diverse and complicated, so instruments have changed. It's called progress.