Mountain Dulcimers?

[MikeBmusic]

I've been lookng at these on ebay and other places. Seems there are 3 and 4 string models, and some get quite pricey. Are any of the low-priced instruments (possibly handmade from kits) worth getting?

[Dru Edwards]

Hi Mike. You should send Wade Hampton Miller a PM with a link to this thread. He was the National Champion (mountain dulcimer) a few years back (1980 I think). He could probably point you in the right direction.

[stephen mills]

Originally Posted by Dru Edwards

Hi Mike. You should send Wade Hampton Miller a PM with a link to this thread. He was the National Champion (mountain dulcimer) a few years back (1980 I think). He could probably point you in the right direction.

Dru, excellent advise. They are great with a bottle neck too but don't tell anybody -- cheers

[JLT]

Originally Posted by MikeBmusic

I've been lookng at these on ebay and other places. Seems there are 3 and 4 string models, and some get quite pricey. Are any of the low-priced instruments (possibly handmade from kits) worth getting?

It's a pity you aren't in California. I've got a Black Mountain 4-string for sale for $50. Almost new. Got it in trade for something.

A lot of the same things apply to both guitars and dulcimers ... good machines, solid top are a must, bone nuts and saddles are good (but plastic ones can be replaced). Sides and back are less important. It really helps to be able to play the instrument in question, to be sure the intonation and action are correct ... a lot of low-price instruments fail in this respect, and there's not a lot you can do about it.

Kits from places like Musicmakers are pretty good. I'd stay away from Hughes (if they're even still in business).

A plus is a hollow fingerboard ... it really helps the instrument.

[dhalbert]

Here's a previous thread you might find interesting.

I built a Black Mountain dulcimer kit more than 20 years ago. The fretboard was premade, and I didn't need many more tools than a sandpaper block and masking tape for clamping. I finished it with water-based polyurethane. It was quite a satisfying project.

There are many fine American dulcimer makers - there's no reason to buy something imported.

Alan Carruth, our resident science-based luthier, lives quite close to you. His website says he builds dulcimers, too, at remarkably reasonable prices.

[MikeBmusic]

Thanks for info. Looks like good new models are out of my price range, will keep my eyes open for local used ones.

[MBE]

Originally Posted by Dru Edwards

Hi Mike. You should send Wade Hampton Miller a PM with a link to this thread. He was the National Champion (mountain dulcimer) a few years back (1980 I think). He could probably point you in the right direction.

In surprised he hasn't passed by this thread already! It's like he's got a dulcimer radar.

[MikeBmusic]

Originally Posted by MBE

In surprised he hasn't passed by this thread already! It's like he's got a dulcimer radar.

I PMed him and he messaged me back.

[darylcrisp]

we have two. wifes is all walnut with celtic cutouts and a "guitar" paddle headstock, mine is all hickory with F holes and scroll head. both are folkcraft.
ours is the FSH series.
http://www.folkcraft.com/index.html

these come with nuts/saddles cut for either 4 string variations and 3 string play(loosen the strings and move them around to get the string pattern you like best). I keep one of the octave strings off and have mine spread for a 3 string set-use it for fingerstyle play mostly. the Folkcraft have a couple features I really like compared to the competition.

very well made, USA products. action is very nice with no buzz and a beautiful sound.

I think they make precut kits as well, you put it together and finish it.

call'm up, they are very easy to talk with and will guide you to what will work best.


you might investigate the "everythingdulcimer" forum-they have some good deals at times in the classifieds. very nice folks and helpful also there.

be sure to check out Bing Futch on youtube if you haven't-he is sponsored by Folkcraft and is a great musician. Good teacher as well.

good luck
d

[Dru Edwards]

Originally Posted by MikeBmusic

Thanks for info. Looks like good new models are out of my price range, will keep my eyes open for local used ones.

Hopefully you find something you like.

[BBWW]

Building from kits is fun with dulcimers. I built and designed dulcimers in the 70's. If I could do it, most can. Nothing fancy mind you….You can get a cardboard kit for $40 bucks.

But really you can get them from about 30 bucks and up on eBay.

[donh]

Originally Posted by MikeBmusic

I've been lookng at these on ebay and other places. Seems there are 3 and 4 string models, and some get quite pricey. Are any of the low-priced instruments (possibly handmade from kits) worth getting?

define "low-priced", please

[Otterhound]

There is a 92 year old man nearby that builds dulcimers .
I have been keeping him in quality woods for his work .

[Dan Carey]

Originally Posted by donh

define "low-priced", please

http://www.stewmac.com/Materials_and...cimer_Kit.html

http://www.folkcraft.com/appalachian-dulcimer-kits.html

How are these? Both from Folkcraft...Stew Mac is a bit less cash.
I'm working on one now!

[MikeBmusic]

Originally Posted by donh

define "low-priced", please

Cheap - I'll know it when I see it!! Not interested in a cardboard kit for $60. I've seen some ebay (or goodwill.com) md's under $75, but could not be sure of quality/playability.