Seagull 039227 Merlin Spruce SG Dulcimer 4-String Diatonic Instrument

I recommend the Seagull Merlin for any and all skill levels. It's a diatonic instrument (everything is in the same key) so there literally are no wrong notes. I've been an intermediate hobby guitar player for almost twenty years, and I was looking for something with a different sound (e.g. banjo, mandolin, etc.) Most of what I found was several hundred dollars outside of my price range, and then I stumbled on this gem. I guess it's based on a dulcimer, which is not an instrument I'm familiar with. I have to say, I was really surprised at the quality, especially for $170. It's all one solid piece of spruce and is made in Canada. Don't just take my word for it. Do what I did and watch some videos to hear how it sounds. You'll want to buy one too.

This is a great little instrument to hand to someone around the campfire and say "here, just play along". And it isn't very loud, which may be a good thing if that person is tone deaf.It is not a work of finest artisanal craftsmanship, but for what it is, it's great.

I picked it up today and haven’t put it down. It’s a neat little instrument that’s fun to play around with. This would be a great instrument if someone is interested in getting into music. My girlfriend, who does not play any instruments was easily playing the songs included with the little tab book that is included. I have never seen or played another dulcimer to compare this to, but the build quality and playability seems fair for the price.

This Merlin, or stick dulcimer, is extremely well made and it is light. Its tonality is superb. These instruments are small enough and light enough that you can lay them close by and during a lull in your work or other activity you can simply reach over and grab one and play a few licks. Good for muscle memory and good for the soul!

But it just wasn't my "thing" so I returned it

Let me start by saying I've never played any other dulcimer than this one, and the identical one stocked in the local guitar stores, but wow this thing seems too notch for the low cost. Bought it for fiance , she loved it. My dad was playing it and he loved it so much he picked one up too

Unique and a lot of fun to play. I bought it form my daughter and she honestly loves it. She is a violinist, and loves stringed instruments. This is a great addition to her string family.

So easy to play and so fun. I can't out it down. My favorite instrument to play.