Forum Activity for @ld

McSpadden Possum Board Volume

Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions

Silverstrings...yes, no regrets.  I use it from time to time.  I was pleasantly surprised at the very balanced tone of the McSpadden dulcimer.  I love the 26 scale (have an athritic joint in my left wrist so the full size is a problem), and the spalted sycamore with the walnut back and sides sounds very rich.  My other dulcimers are largely all walnut, or walnut with butternut, and they are on the mellow, rich side.  Very nice, but I wanted something that would be warm with some sparkle.  The spalted sycamore did the trick.  Of all the dulcimers i have, this one is fast becoming my favorite all purpose one.  If you call McSpadden, I believe they would let you buy, and return if you don't like the possum board.  Just call.  They are really great to work with.  

 

LD

McSpadden Possum Board Volume

Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions

I just purchased a new McSpadden Spalted Sycamore top short scale dulcimer.  I also ordered the possum board.  I have never worked with one, and it clearly makes it louder.  I have not put a lot of time into it yet as the dulcimer really sounds true sitting flat on my lap, but my initial reaction is that it does bring out volume but some of the deeper tones got brighter.  Just an unscientific observation.  I have another brand dulcimer that completely loses the lower sound on my lap, and the maker will not make a possum board for me.  I think he sees it as an insult!  I may tackle that project myself.  Anyway, it certainly has a use, and in an ensemble setup, volume will be increased.