Comparable to Songbird Pheobe

[ruthus]

I'm thinking about buying a Songbird Phoebe--or the Woodthrush. I'm trying to figure out if there are other comparable options I should be considering. My criteria at the moment are: something that's available now, 16/15 or so in size, doesn't require specifying woods and set-up, is suited to the Celtic music I prefer playing and isn't too expensive. I currently have two custom-made autoharps--but I ordered those after I had been playing long enough to know what I wanted. I'd like to get started on hammered dulcimer with something I'll be happy with for a while, and then buy something more customized (and expensive) when I feel I know what I'm doing.

Unfortunately, I'm a long, long way from stores where I could try models out.

Any other choices I should be investigating?

[Don O.]

I am new to hammered dulcimer and was recently considering the Phoebe. It would probably be a good choice but I wanted something easily transportable. What I ended up getting, and I like it a lot, is the Jake's Cabin Traveler with solid Spanish Cedar top. These were originally designed by well-known dulcimer maker and player Rick Thum. The price is about the same as the Phoebe but it has a solid top instead of the plywood. The Traveler is also available in a plywood top version for even less. About 500 dollars gets you a solid top instrument, gig bag case, hammers, tuning wrench, and a sitting height scissor stand. Now, it does not meet your 16/15 criteria, but here is what I do like about it- It is about the same size as a 12/11 but it is a 14/13. It plays just like a 15/14 except it is missing the high C on the bass side and D#/G# on the treble side. Having the bass high C would be nice but can be worked around. The D#/G# I don't believe I'll miss at all. My theory on choosing this model is that even if I invest in a better, larger instrument later I will still want something to drag around to outdoor gigs, jam sessions, etc. So I don't plan on ever getting rid of it, it will always have a purpose to me. If you want more details about this model check out www.dulcimers.biz.

[enigma-ocean]

Hi ruthus,

I originally started out learning on a Rick Thum Traveler. I enjoyed it for at least a 3 - 5 years, before I felt I needed a bigger range. I then ended up buying a Songbird Warbler. I got it over a year ago and really enjoy the range and the price was in my ball park. My only trouble now is that I wish I had gotten dampers on it. Have to save up for those. I have worked on both and am still learning the Hammer Dulcimer. I am not an expert, I only know that Songbirds sound great and I enjoy playing on mine. The Traveler is great for size and going about with and its price is very reasonable. I would say that you can't go wrong with either one the sound is wonderful on both instruments, but I am partial to my Warbler more and play it all the time now. I would say that either way you are getting a great instrument to start with and you will enjoy learning and playing the Hammer Dulcimer.

Later,
Marc

[cboody]

The Phoebe and Warbler are fine instruments have a very good bang for the buck. Chris Foss, like most of the makers, is honest and helpful to deal with. In my opinion I don't think you can do better in the price range than either of these instruments. There are others, but you mentioned Celtic music (whatever that really means :-> ), and at least some of the other instruments in the price range you are talking about will, I think, sustain too long for the jigs and reels.

Just so we are clear here: I play a Rizetta Extended Range and a Nick Blanton compact. I have no association with Chris Foss, though we have met and he and his instruments have impressed me.

[Heidi]

Ditto what cboody said about Chris Foos/Song Bird. Good dulcimer. Good price.

[DennisC]

I own a Songbird Woodthrush. First and only dulcimer and I never regret my choice. It's cheap but sounds great.

[TRaines7]

I purchased a Rick Thum dulcimer about 5 years ago from Indianaguitarman.com. Absolutly love it !! I am now going to buy a Jake's cabin dulcimer from http://www.Indianaguitarman.com and wouldn't buy one anywhere else. Great folks to deal with. Small "Mom and Pop" shop but treated me like I was family. For the very best price and professional setup you can't beat them. Plus the owner is Retired Military !