Looking for guidance

[csiaudio]

Hello!

Went into a music store today and played around with a dulcimer for the first time and loved it. I am a musician (I sing), own a recording studio and always wanted to learn an instrument so I am looking for some sage advice. I am the type to research something and buy the best value...however, when I ran the $350 - $400+ price tag of a decent dulcimer by the wife she gave me well, one of those looks. So, I am looking for the best value for around $200 or under and am looking for some help. As you can tell I am totally new but want to learn on something that sounds very good, stays in tune, is made well et cetera...for that kind of money.

Thanks in advance for your time to guide me...

[kwl]

To me, the best value for under two hundred dollars is a Sweet Woods student dulcimer. Don't let the "student" part fool you. It is a tear drop shaped dulcimer made from Baltic birch plywood with a walnut fret board. The sound is wonderful. The construction is excellent and the price is $125 plus shipping. If you can't spend a lot of money on a mountain dulcimer, this is the one to get. And no, I don't get a kickback from Dave fro recommending his instruments. I do get pleasure from helping people find the right dulcimer for their price range.

Ken
"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

PS - you probably won't get too many replies here in the Marketplace. You may want to post your request in the Mountain Dulcimer thread.

[JohnH]

Earlier this year I had the unlikely experience ( I live in the UK ) of seeing/hearing a number of Sweet Woods Student instruments at a festival, and I agree with Ken, they are indeed good value,
JohnH

[csiaudio]

Oops didn't realize I was in the Marketplace...sorry about that. Thanks for the advice from both of you. I have seen a few Mountains on ebay that were close to my price range that might fit me bill...I will definitely check out the Sweet Wood, thanks!

[strumelia]

Bill Berg is another respected builder who offers some nice dulcimers in the below-$200 range: http://www.mountainmademusic.com/

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Strumelia
http://dulcimer-noter-drone.blogspot.com/