Amplifiers are often associated with electric guitars, but acoustic instruments also benefit from amplification as well. And the dulcimer is no exception.
Dulcimers naturally produce their own amplification via the vibration of the strings and resonation throughout the body. But on their own, dulcimers produce relatively soft music. This is likely fine at home or in a small venue. But it may struggle to be heard onstage. Luckily there exists a sub-category of amplifiers dedicated entirely to acoustic instruments.
Below we review several top ranked acoustic amplifiers that work very well for mountain (and even hammered) dulcimers.
But first, let’s take a look at some common features of acoustic amplifiers.
Acoustic Amplifiers for Dulcimers: Things to Consider
There are a few things to consider before purchasing an acoustic amplifier.
Portability
This is an important factor, especially if you’ll be travelling frequently. Generally speaking, most acoustic amplifiers are not as bulky as electric ones, making it easier to transport. Lugging around a heavy amplifier can take its toll on your back, shoulders, and playing arm/hand. Be sure to check the amplifier weight as well as built-in handles before purchasing.
Power
The source of power is another factor. Will you be playing at home or on the streets? When playing or practicing at home, simply plug into a power outlet. But in areas without a source of power, an amplifier with a battery backup is critical. Amplifiers with built-in lithium batteries are rechargeable, and likely to last a while when playing at moderate volume.
Wattage
For dulcimer playing, we’re not looking for rock concert levels! So choose a wattage that is reasonable. Acoustic amplifiers with 60-watts are likely a good start, and work well in small to medium sized venues.
Effects
Most dulcimer players are not looking for effects from their acoustic amplifier. Some offer various effects such as chorus and echo. Compression or modulation effects can also help you find the perfect right tone. While added effects may be something to consider, our advice here is to generally keep it simple!
Channels
Having an extra channel on your acoustic amplifier is a must for solo performers. This allows for flexibility. For example, extra channels allow you to plug in a microphone for vocals, or a device to play along with a background. Many modern acoustic amplifiers now offer wireless Bluetooth connectivity as well.
Feedback Control
Finally, look for some sort of feedback control. Acoustic guitars are prone to high frequency oscillation feedback, particularly at high volumes. The ability to control feedback is something you and your audience will appreciate!
Let’s take a look at some excellent choices for amplifying your dulcimer.
BOSS Acoustic Singer Live Acoustic Amplifier
The BOSS Acoustic Singer Live is a great all-in-one acoustic amplifier for the dulcimer singer-songwriter. This amplifier is a 60-watt bi-amp design, and combines two separate channels – one for guitar and one for vocals. Its also equipped with a three-band equalizer for studio-quality sound, and additional features such as acoustic resonance, looping, automatic vocal harmonies, effects, and more. Independent anti-feedback controls are even offered on each channel.
In sum, there’s a lot to like with this amplifier. It does what it promises very well and has many awesome features. And the acoustic sound quality is as good as you would expect from Boss.
AER Compact 60 Acoustic Amplifier
AER is well-known in the industry for producing excellent, reliable amplifiers and the 60-watt Compact 60 does not disappoint. This particular model offers users two separate channels – one with XLR and one with jack. As such, it will nicely accommodate singer-songwriters. The dedicated equalizers for each section provide excellent versatility in sound customization.
The AER 60 Compact also comes with some useful onboard effects, such as delay, chorus, and reverbs. These features may not appeal to some traditional dulcimer players, but they can come in handy.
All in all, this is a high-end, portable acoustic amplifier that packs a serious punch for its size. The most expensive amp on our review list, the AER 60 Compact is dubbed “…the amp of choice” by experienced musicians.
Blackstar Sonnet 60 Acoustic Amplifier
The Blackstar Sonnet 60 is a professional quality acoustic amplifier that captures every nuance of the dulcimer and your performance.
Like other Blackstar models, the 60 comes with microphone and instrument channels, Bluetooth connectivity, and user-friendly controls to tune your sound. Perfect for solo performers or duos, the 60-watt Sonnet is sufficient for most small to medium sized venues. Features 2 reverb types, as well as the ability to independently record each channel and fully mix w/ XLR DI outputs.
Overall, a fantastic and reasonably priced acoustic amplifier for your dulcimer.
Fender Acoustasonic 40 Acoustic Amplifier for Dulcimers
With many solid reviews across the board, the Fender Acoustasonic 40 has come a long way from its early days. The Acoustasonic 40 amplifier is relatively small and offers great portability, but still punches above its weight class. It’s a simple “grab and go” solution for many applications – from musical performance to public address needs. And when combined with a PA system, it can also be used as an onstage monitor.
The Acoustasonic 40 features a pair of specially-designed full range speakers with “whizzer cones.” The instrument channel includes a chorus effect. Other features include dual front-panel inputs, a standard 1/4” jack for an instrument and an XLR input for a microphone. And of course, a vintage-style brown textured vinyl covering.
Fender is known for exceptional quality. Are you looking for a relatively inexpensive, portable acoustic amp for your dulcimer? If so, give this one a good look.
Fishman Loudbox Mini 60 Acoustic Amplifier
Known throughout the industry for its exceptional acoustic quality, Fishman makes top quality acoustic amplifiers. The Loudbox Mini 60 is no exception. It also enjoys near perfect product reviews.
The Mini packs 60-watts of clean acoustic power for your disposal, more than sufficient for small to medium sized dulcimer venues. It also offers two channels featuring Fishman’s legendary preamp and tone control designs. The Mini 60 also offers digital reverb and chorus for the instrument channel, as well as reverb for the microphone channel. To top it off, the Mini 60 features an MP3 input and nicely balanced XLR D.I. output.
With impeccable reviews, the Fishman Loudbox Mini 60 delivers great acoustic quality for your dulcimer at a reasonable price. Keep this one on your short list.
Final Thoughts
In this article, we reviewed what we feel are some of the best acoustic amplifiers for dulcimers and other acoustic instruments. Not all dulcimer players will need (or want) an acoustic amplifier. Appreciating the dulcimer’s soft and smooth sounds is a joy in itself. However, when playing with others instruments – either in a club setting or in a large venue – the dulcimer will likely struggle to be heard.
Acoustic amplifiers are specifically designed for acoustic instruments. Paired with either a microphone or pickup system, an acoustic amplifier can come in quite handy for both new and experienced dulcimer players alike.
Interested in specific recommendations for microphones and pickups? If so, check out our article on How to Amplify a Dulcimer.
