How to Buy a Hammered Dulcimer

When you've decided that you'd like to purchase a hammered dulcimer, you have a bit of research and shopping to do. Taking into consideration all that goes into making a hammered dulcimer and what can go wrong with them, you'll want to know what to watch for before you shop. Here is how to get a hammered dulcimer you can enjoy for years to come.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Do your research. A hammered dulcimer is made individually be craftsmen dedicated to the art. Know where yours is made and who's work you are supporting when you buy a hammered dulcimer.
2. Decide if you want a 2 1/2 octave or a 3 octave range. This translates into 12/11 or 15/14 in dulcimer nomenclature. If you are just learning how to play the instrument, you may opt for the smaller 12/11.
3. Set a price range. For a beginners instrument expect to pay around $300 to $600 dollars. If you are not sure you are going to stay with it, consider renting the instrument instead.
4. Consider buying used. As with most instruments, hammered dulcimers tend to sound better as they age, and you may be able to get a deal on a used one that you cannot get on a new one.
5. Check your hammered dulcimer carefully. Check for warping or ripples in the soundboard, rough or badly finished edges, weak tones, rusty or loose strings and make sure the instrument has the ability to be tuned. If any of these things seem wrong, don't spend your cash on it.