Only have anectdotal words............if you play the piano, you will have a fine time with this instrument. If you play the hammered dulcimer, and look at it as a totally NEW instrument to learn, you will have a fine time. Otherwise, it is like being given Postum when you expect coffee..........not good. The setup in tuning is WAY different between the two beasties. But, the piano dulcimer (as i have been told) is a fine instrument, and sounds terrific. Wouldn't wanna try to switch betwixt the two on a regular basis,tho!