An Azeri woodwind instrument. In western parts of Azerbaijan, it is sometimes referred to as balaman, mey or düdük.

The balaban consists of a stem, a reed, a regulator, and a cap. The stem is a 12 inch cylindrical tube made primarily of apricot wood (sometimes also hazel, pear, mulberry, boxwood, etc.). The upper end of the stem is given a round shape, whereas the lower end is sharpened. Eight holes are made on the obverse and another one is made on the bottom side. Sometimes an additional hole is made on the lower end of the bottom side to ensure good timbre.

On solemn occasions such as weddings and holiday ceremonies, a balaban player is accompanied by a percussionist. In the past, the balaban was an essential musical element in the performance of mugham. It was also used in pastoral songs and funeral music. Certain types of the balaban are also used in ashik music.