Banjo Johnny, I think that was Neil and Pete. (I think his name is "Pete"). "Pete's" dulcimer is a teardrop shape which is a bit larger than usual, hence the full, strong tone. For the volume of sound produced I think the size of the soundbox is the zero-order term, with the wood being a smaller factor.

I agree with what I consider to be one of the implications of Spaw's "non-traditional" proverb: whatever works is fine. Loud sound can be good sounding (or not), and the quiet dulcimer sound can be just as good.

T.