10 Best dulcimers 2026 in the United States

The Apple Creek Hour Glass Style Dulcimer is a full-size Appalachian dulcimer featuring a classic hourglass body shape made entirely of laminated spruce wood, which offers decent durability and a warm tone. It comes with 4 nylon strings and features 18 frets plus 6 half-frets, providing flexibility for playing traditional melodies and experimenting with different notes. The satin finish delivers a smooth, natural feel without the glare of a glossy surface. Weighing just under 7 pounds, it is light enough to comfortably hold during extended playing sessions.

While the laminated spruce is sturdy, it may not provide the same rich sound resonance as solid wood dulcimers, so tone quality might be more modest for advanced players seeking deeper acoustic performance. Nylon strings make it easier on the fingers compared to steel strings, which benefits new players.

This model is a good choice if you want a reliable, easy-to-play dulcimer with a traditional look, especially if you're beginning or prefer a lightweight instrument with a warm, soft sound. For those aiming for professional concert quality or more varied tone, exploring higher-end models with solid wood construction might be preferable.

The Roosebeck Single Strung 10/9 Hammer Dulcimer is a nicely crafted instrument made primarily from walnut and lacewood, giving it a warm, natural appearance and solid feel. It has 4 strings made from medium to heavy gauge alloy steel, which are good for producing a strong and clear sound. The size, about 32 inches long and 12 inches wide, makes it portable but still offers enough space for playing comfortably. Its manual operation means you play it using hammers, which is traditional for this type of dulcimer. The varnished finish helps protect the wood and enhances its look.

This model is well-suited for beginners or intermediate players who want a reliable, straightforward instrument with a mellow tone. With only 4 strings and a single strung setup, it has a more limited range compared to larger or double strung dulcimers, which could affect more advanced playing styles or complex music. Those looking for a dulcimer with broader tuning options or a richer, fuller sound might want to consider other models.

If you want a nicely built, easy-to-handle hammer dulcimer with a classic wooden look, this one from Roosebeck offers good value and playability.

The Seagull M4 Merlin Spruce Dulcimer w/EQ is a unique and appealing choice for both beginners and seasoned players interested in the dulcimer's distinctive sound. With its 4-string setup and spruce construction for both the top and back, this instrument offers a rich, resonant tone typical of quality woodcraft. The use of spruce wood, known for its durability and acoustic properties, suggests a promising sound quality, and the steel alloy strings are likely to contribute to a bright, clear tone.

The body shape is compact, with dimensions of 8 x 2 x 30 inches, making it quite portable and easy to handle. Weighing in at 5 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which is beneficial for musicians who need to transport the instrument frequently. This particular model includes EQ (equalization) features, which means it can be plugged in and the sound adjusted, offering versatility in performance settings.

However, it's worth noting that the instrument requires a 9V battery for the EQ feature, which could be seen as a minor inconvenience for some, especially if regular battery replacements are necessary. Additionally, the manual operation mode implies that players need to be hands-on, which is typical for dulcimers but could be a learning curve for those new to string instruments. Customer reviews are exceptionally positive, with a perfect 5-star rating, indicating satisfaction among users, which might reassure prospective buyers about its quality and performance. Despite its strengths, potential buyers should consider their comfort with battery-operated features and manual tuning before purchasing. The Seagull M4 Merlin Spruce Dulcimer w/EQ is indeed a thoughtfully crafted instrument that offers both traditional acoustic and modern amplified capabilities.