How to Buy a Dulcimer: Dulcimer Dealers in the US

By Joe S.
Last updated • 2 days ago

LAST UPDATED 27

Aug
2026

When choosing a dealer for a dulcimer, the dealer can be almost as important as the instrument itself. Because dulcimers are relatively specialized, you want someone who understands the instrument—not simply a general music retailer that happens to carry one.

Here are some important things to consider:

Specialized Knowledge

Does the dealer actually understand hammered dulcimers? Can they explain differences in size, wood, stringing, bridges, tuning systems, and sound? Can they help a beginner choose an instrument rather than simply sell what’s in stock?

Instrument Selection

Look for a dealer who carries several models or makers. Having multiple instruments to compare can make a huge difference because dulcimers can have very different tonal personalities. Ask whether they sell beginner, intermediate, and professional-level instruments.

Luthier Reputation

Find out who actually builds the instruments. Established dulcimer makers often have years of experience with construction, voicing, bridges, and structural design. A good dealer should be able to tell you why one maker or model might be appropriate for your needs.

Our list of dulcimer luthiers may be worth checking out. LINK

Ability to hear and compare instruments

Ideally, you should be able to hear the instrument being played before buying it. If buying online, look for dealers who provide sound samples or videos of the actual instruments, rather than generic recordings.

Setup and quality control

Ask whether the dealer inspects and sets up each instrument before shipping. Proper tuning, string installation, bridge positioning, and general setup are particularly important with a dulcimer.

Shipping experience

Dulcimers are large, delicate instruments. Ask how they are packaged and shipped. Find out what happens if the instrument arrives damaged. A dealer experienced in shipping dulcimers will generally have better packaging and insurance procedures.

Return policy

A good return policy is especially valuable when buying an unfamiliar instrument online. Check how many days you have to return it and who pays return shipping. Also look for any restocking fees.

Warranty and repairs

Ask what warranty comes with the instrument. More importantly, find out whether the dealer can help if you have a problem six months or two years later. A dealer with relationships with builders can often make repairs or arrange factory service.

Accessories and ongoing support

Does the dealer sell hammers, tuning tools, strings, cases, stands, and other dulcimer accessories? This can be a sign that they are committed to the instrument rather than simply treating it as another product.

Teaching and educational resources

Some of the best specialized dealers are connected to dulcimer teachers, festivals, clubs, and online communities. This can be extremely valuable for a beginner because buying the instrument is only the beginning.

Our list of active dulcimer clubs can get you started. LINK

Personal attention

Pay attention to how the dealer answers your questions. Someone who asks about your experience level, musical interests, budget, and where you intend to play is probably more interested in finding you the right instrument than making the quickest sale.

Price versus value

Don’t automatically choose the cheapest dulcimer. With a specialized instrument, paying somewhat more for better construction, a good setup, knowledgeable advice, and strong after-sale support can be money well spent.

For a hammered dulcimer specifically, I’d put expertise, instrument selection, setup, builder reputation, and after-sale support near the top of the list. A dealer who specializes in dulcimers can often save a beginner from buying an instrument that looks attractive but isn’t a good match for how they intend to play.

Dulcimer Dealers in the US

Alabama

Fretted Instruments

2906 Linden Ave, Birmingham, AL, 35209, United States

herbatfretted@aol.com

205-879-6489

How to Buy a Dulcimer: Dulcimer Dealers in the US

How to Buy a Dulcimer: Dulcimer Dealers in the US

Specialized Knowledge

Instrument Selection

Luthier Reputation

Ability to hear and compare instruments

Setup and quality control

Shipping experience

Return policy

Warranty and repairs

Accessories and ongoing support

Teaching and educational resources

Personal attention

Price versus value

Dulcimer Dealers in the US

Alabama

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Illinois

Indiana

Kentucky

Michigan

Mississippi

Missouri

New Jersey

New Hampshire

North Carolina

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Tennessee

Texas

Washington

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