"Extra" frets and JI vs ET
Instruments- discuss specific features, luthiers, instrument problems & questions
Hi folks, I'm a relative beginner to the dulcimer. I am drawn to noter/drone playing and have a lovely Dan Cox dulcimore I generally keep in DAA and play solo. I also have a recent Warren May in poplar with (I think) a 6.5 fret but no other additional; I use this when playing with my group. I usually keep this in DAD and without a noter (although occasionally will use one).
First question: I don't really know what the "temperament" of the May is, and if that makes a difference if I tune it to DAA or other configurations. I don't really understand temperament I guess.
Second question: Ron Ewing is building me a dulcimer right now, and I'd like it to be as versatile as possible- good with various tunings, good for noter-drone, finger style and maybe simple chording. Besides a 6.5 fret, should I get a 13.5? A 1.5? I'm somewhat a traditionalist but would like to not limit my options too much early on. I am certain however that I'm never going to want to be playing tons of chords (having failed at guitar, banjo and ukulele!) but also it's prob easier to add frets in the future than take them away.
could be there's no "Goldilocks" but just wanting input from folks who know more than me! Ron, if you're reading this post, please be patient with my questions 😉