10 Best dulcimers 2025 in the United States

The Roosebeck Grace Mountain Dulcimer is a delightful choice for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a quality instrument. With its 4-string setup, it offers a straightforward playing experience, making it accessible for those new to music. The scale length of 25.5 inches gives it a comfortable reach for most players, and the neck width of 1.25 inches ensures ease of playability. Additionally, the use of spruce for the top and basswood for the back contributes to a warm, resonant sound that many musicians appreciate.

A notable strength of this dulcimer is its beautiful design, featuring a spruce knotwork finish that enhances its visual appeal. It's also relatively lightweight, which makes it easy to handle during practice or performances. The powder-coated finish adds durability, protecting it from daily wear and tear.

There are some areas where it might fall short for certain users. While the 4-string configuration is great for simplicity, more advanced players might find it limiting compared to 6-string versions, which offer greater versatility in playing styles. Additionally, the manual operation mode means that tuning requires a bit more attention, as users will have to tune it manually rather than relying on built-in features.

The Applecreek ACD100 Dulcimer is a solid choice for those looking to explore the world of Appalachian music with a well-crafted instrument. Its laminated spruce top offers a bright, resonant sound, while the solid maple neck and fingerboard add durability and a smooth playing experience. Weighing in at just about 1.7 kilograms, it’s relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport, especially with the included gig bag.

The 4-string setup with geared guitar-style tuning machines is user-friendly, ideal for beginners and experienced players alike. The scale length of 24 inches and the choice of 6/12 frets provide versatility in playing styles, accommodating different musical preferences. Additionally, the bundle includes a Hal Leonard Dulcimer Method book, which is a fantastic resource for those just starting to learn the instrument.

While the wood materials used are generally good, the laminated construction may not resonate as warmly as solid wood options, which could be a drawback for advanced players seeking richer tones. The instrument’s body shape—teardrop—may not appeal to everyone, as some players might prefer a more traditional design. The Applecreek ACD100 is a great entry-level dulcimer, particularly for those who appreciate its portability and the inclusion of accessories. Musicians seeking advanced sound quality or particular aesthetics may want to explore other options.

The Applecreek Dulcimer is a folk instrument designed to appeal to both beginners and enthusiasts of folk music. It features a traditional design with four strings, which is a standard setup for many dulcimers, making it easier for newcomers to learn and play. The sound is described as having a tone similar to a folk guitar, especially when a capo is used, which can attract guitarists looking to try a new stringed instrument.

One of the standout features is its durable construction, with the wood type contributing to a resonant sound quality typical of well-crafted dulcimers. The instrument includes a body shape that enhances its acoustic properties, which might be a consideration for more discerning players.

The package also includes a gig bag, which is a practical addition for transporting the instrument safely and protecting it from physical damage. This is a notable advantage for musicians who frequently travel to performances or lessons. Ideal for anyone aged 5 and up, this instrument is accessible to a wide range of users, including younger players. The Applecreek Dulcimer is a solid choice for those interested in exploring traditional folk music, offering a good blend of sound quality, build, and convenience.