a) Begin with the thick wound string (.025” diameter). This is the bass string, and it goes to the far right-hand posi-
tion shown in the photo at right. Push the ball end into the tail end of the FRETBOARD from the right hand side.
b) Thread the other end of the string through the hole in the first geared tuner (closest to the “nut” on the right side)
and turn the button to wind the string until the slack is taken up. Note that we like to have all the strings pass to the
inside edge of the tuning posts, as shown.
c) When the first string is installed, slip the BRIDGE into place. The top of the bridge should be about 27-1/8” from
the NUT (you can make adjustments later).
d) All the other strings are the same size (.012” diameter) plain steel. Install them into the positions shown.
e) Tune them to the notes shown at the bottom of the photo.
Consult our free on-line tuner at www.harpkit.com/freetuner
for tuning assistance.
.025”
wound
string
.012”
plain
strings
“A” below
Middle C
“D” below
Middle C
NUT
_____32. Once the strings are installed, check their height above the frets to make sure they will be easy to play.
The ideal string height would be about 1/16” above the first fret (near the PEGHEAD), and about 1/8” above the 17th
fret (nearest the strum hollow). We recommend adjusting the height at the NUT first. Use a file to cut the notches
deeper in the NUT to lower the strings, being careful not to cut too deeply, as it is difficult to raise the strings higher
again.
The string height at the 17th fret is easier to adjust. You can raise it by adding a shim under the bridge, or
lower it by sanding the bridge a little shorter or filing the notches a little deeper. Be careful not to lower the strings
too much, or the strings will tend to buzz and rattle against the frets when you play.
_____33. (OPTIONAL) Adding a guitar strap to your
dulcimer makes it considerably easier to hold firmly on
our lap as you play. Install a mounting button to the tail
end of the body and use the shoe string provided with
the strap to tie the other end to the PEGHEAD.
Drill a 1/16” pilot hole for the screw that holds the
mounting button. Then screw the button to the
END BLOCK as shown.
mounting
button for
strap
.012”
plain
strings
.025”
wound
string
17
