First, thanks to Sandy and Allison (Animaterra) for the kind words! I appreciate it.

To answer your questions Rosebrook-------

HD's are played both standing and sitting and you'd do well to do both. I prefer standing, but I often play sitting since it "feels" different. Doesn't really matter. A lot of builders, myself included, will provide "Sitting Leg(s)" for the front if you ask.

If you'd like some additional info on wood, find the "Brazilian Rosewood" thread. HD's can be made from all sorts of wood and they can sound OK even when made from cheap stuff. But just like any other wooden instrument, better woods make better Dulcimers. Spruces, Cedar, and Redwood all make excellent soundboards, but since the HD is more piano-like in design, a lot of other tonewoods are not only usable, but provide a different sound, sometimes preferred! Mahogany, Rosewoods, Maple, Walnut....all are used and some are quite "bright" while others lend a certain "fullness." Laminates (NOT plywood) are also used quite succesfully in lower priced instruments. Someone said that its a box with strings...and in its simplest form , that's true. Most builders though spend a lot of time with interior design and bracing because it DOES make a difference! Laminate backs are very popular because they are far more dimensionally stable.

There are quite a few of us, large and small, building HD's. There is also some real schlocky stuff out there too. As mentioned, Chris Foss is good and has a nice entry level instrument. I don't think anyone mentioned Maple Valley or Cloud Nine and both are really superb. As I recall, you live in the Northwest. Dusty Strings is in Seattle and have the closest thing to a factory that there is in Hammereds. Very fine instruments-excellent sound and resale. Small builders tend to go two ways. The "just build them, they're boxes" people and the ones who build 2-12 instruments a month and know each personally. The latter group tends to better woods, unique designs, and meticulous care in finishing. Most of the instruments they build are strictly for the love of the instrument and not to make a ton of money. They also generally limit themselves to two types...a better than most 12/11 and some top line piece, sometimes chromatic, sometimes not. Hammereds are much less "pricey" than guitars, so smaller builders are apt to be a bit higher in price. Living where you do especially, I'd take a good look at Dusty Strings.

As you look, also note things like Rock Maple or Rock Maple Laminate pin blocks, friction-free bridge caps, and wood used in the rails. The rail must transmit the sound clearly and, in general, harder woods are better. The 16/15 or 15/14 gives you another key to play in over the 31/12 or 12/11. Matter of what you prefer. A good player can get a lot out of a 12/11. I don't consider either to be a beginners model. They're the same, just an extra octave (or 2 with a 20/19). The real difference is with the chromatics. Unless you're going to get REAL fancy with a lot of music, I'd stick to the diatonic models.

The sound types of various makers do differ depending on the builders preference from a limited sustain, edgy sound to a more overtoned chime-like sound...and all points in between. And remember, part of that sound comes from the material in the hammer you're using. I'd personally stay away from 3 or 4 string course instruments. Most of what is being built today sounds just great with 2 strings per course. If its a good design with good materials, there is really no difference in volume. What you will need, unless you have a GREAT ear or are a glutton for punishment, is a good electronic tuner. You should always go back over the Dulcimer after using one to be sure its in tune with itself, but a tuner will save you a lot of time. And BTW, they are ALL affected with tuning problems with every change in temp or humidity. Not drastic problems, but enough to be annoying. Buy a tuner!

Well, I don't know whether I've answered or added to your questions..........If you want more specifics, just ask!

Spaw