A different all cedar dulcimer

Ed Gaunt's discussion on an all cedar dulcimer inspired me. I am designing a 4 string fingerpicking dulcimer that will get tuned daD D1. The idea is to allow the dulcimer to play its own bass line. That design is not done. I prefer the bowed style dulcimer, even though I fingerpick.

This instrument is testing a few ideas along the way. The first picture shows the minimal bracing used. A single spar along the inside middle. I scalloped the spar similar to pre-war Martin guitars. They are known for their mellow sound. You can also see the small f-holes cut into the soundboard.

The second picture shows an adjustment I made after assembly. The original f-holes were just too small. The instrument sounded muffled. After increasing the size of the f-holes, the instrument got a more full voice.

The VSL is 22 inches, so I was almost assured some type of mellow sound. The instrument will come along to Stephen Seifert's workshop today, so I will be able to compare its sound against other instruments. I will try to post a sound file tomorrow.

Will post a full picture when done with finishing.