The dulcimer, with its rich history and distinctive sound, offers a unique musical experience. Whether you're a beginner drawn to its folk roots or an experienced musician seeking a new voice, selecting the right instrument is crucial for your musical journey. This guide will help you navigate the options to find a dulcimer that resonates with your aspirations.
- Solid spruce top Rock maple, string-through body Rock maple neck, drive-through neck design Nut Width : 1.280"Tusq nut by Graph Tech Compensated bridge Tusq by Graph Tech Satin oil finish
- Solid Cherry Construction, including Top, Back, Sides, Fingerboard and Neck
- 27″ Scale Length with 18, 6 Half-Frets
- Hourglass Body
- Genuine Grover Gold-Plated Tuning Machines
- Ebony Nut and Saddle
- Instrument Alley Package includes, ACD200 Dulcimer, Featherweight Case, True Tune Chromatic Tuner, D'Adarrio Dulciomer String Set, Hal Leonard Dulcimer Method Book, Dunlop Polish and Wipe
- 6 1/2 Frets
- All Wood
- Laminated spruce top, back, and sides
- Maple neck and fingerboard
- Length: 31"
- Neck at Nut: 1.25 inches in width
- Neck at Body Joint: 1.25 inches in width
- Nut: 1.25 inches in width, made from sheesham
- Scale Length: 25.5 inches
- 4 tuning pegs/ levers
- Neck at Nut: 1.25 inches in width
- Neck at Body Joint: 1.25 inches in width
- Nut: 1.25 inches in width, made from sheesham
- Scale Length: 25.5 inches
- 4 tuning pegs/ levers
- Neck at Nut: 1.25 inches in width
- Neck at Body Joint: 1.25 inches in width
- Nut: 1.25 inches in width, made from sheesham
- Scale Length: 25.5 inches
- 4 tuning pegs/ levers
- Mahogany body and neck with Mahogany top
- 8 frets including 6-1/2 fret
- Pearloid tuning knobs with vintage style open gears
- Katalox bridge with adjustable Corian saddle for low action and easy playability
- Strap button
- Solid cherry wood back, sides & neck
- Case Included
- Total Length: 37"
- Body Depth: 2"
- Scale Length: 27"
- Laminated spruce top, back and sides with solid maple neck and fingerboard
- 4-strings with geared guitar-style tuning machines
- 31" length, 1 7/8" body depth, 24" scale with 6/12 frets
- Made in Romania
- Comes with bundle featuring an Applecreek AC50 gig bag, Hal Leonard Dulcimer Method – 2nd Edition, D'Addario J64 dulcimer Strings and a standard pick
- Body Type: Hourglass Style
- Top Wood: Laminated Spruce with Satin Finish
- Back & Sides: Laminated Spruce with Satin Finish
- Fingerboard: Maple
- Neck: Maple
- Scale Length: 27"
- Number Of Frets: 18, 6 Half-Frets
- Tuning Machines: Genuine Grover Nickel Plated Gears
- Saddle & Nut: Ebony
- Instrument Alley Package includes, ACD150 Dulcimer, Featherweight Case, True Tune Chromatic Tuner, D'Adarrio Dulcimer String Set, Hal Leonard Dulcimer Method Book, Dunlop Polish and Wipe
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Last update on 2026-07-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Choose the Best Dulcimers
Types of Dulcimers
The most common types are the mountain dulcimer and the hammered dulcimer, each offering a different playing style and sound. The mountain dulcimer, typically fretted and played with a pick or fingers, is known for its Appalachian folk sound. The hammered dulcimer, a larger, trapezoidal instrument, is played by striking strings with small hammers and produces a shimmering, complex tone.
Materials and Construction
The wood used in a dulcimer significantly impacts its tone and resonance. Common woods include spruce for the soundboard (top), which provides brightness, and maple, mahogany, or walnut for the back and sides, contributing warmth and depth. Look for solid wood construction, as opposed to laminate, for better sound quality and longevity. Pay attention to the fretwork on mountain dulcimers for comfortable playability.
Size and Portability
Dulcimers come in various sizes. For mountain dulcimers, consider the scale length (the vibrating length of the strings), which affects tuning stability and string tension. Smaller instruments might be more portable, but can sometimes compromise on volume and tonal richness. Hammered dulcimers are generally larger and less portable, often requiring a dedicated stand.
Accessories and Learning Resources
Beyond the instrument itself, consider necessary accessories such as picks, tuners, and a case for protection and transport. For beginners, learning resources like instructional books, online courses, or local workshops can be invaluable. Many instruments come with basic setup guides, but investing in quality learning materials will accelerate your progress.
