Chromatic series: D300, D500, D550, D600, and D650

Our D500 (left), D300 (front), and D600/D650 (right) chromatic hammered dulcimer models. (Larger photo)

General information
Woods
Options
Models (separate pages):
- D300
- D500
- D550
- D600
- D650

Chromatic Series — General Information

Chromatic hammered dulcimers may be the best choice for those whose musical interests require lots of chromatic range. The tuning scheme for our chromatic series is a variation of the traditional fifth-interval tuning. The chromatic notes either replace duplicated notes or are added on via extra bridges. A player accustomed to the traditional tuning will find it easy to make the slight adaptation to this versatile tuning. With this capability, musical styles such as classical, ragtime, bluegrass, and rock can easily be explored on the hammered dulcimer.

These instruments were designed in collaboration with Sam Rizzetta, a highly respected designer, builder, and player of hammered dulcimers since the 1960s. They use Sam’s signature asymmetrical design, which places the treble bridge perpendicular to the frame rails for ease of playing.

We offer a selection of four models to fit most needs. All have a solid Honduras mahogany soundboard and back and sophisticated internal bracing system that together produce a deep, vibrant, clear, and professional sound.

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Hand-carved maple leaf insert

Chromatic Series — Woods

D300, D500, D550

Soundboard, back, and rails: Honduras mahogany. Bridges: eastern maple. Pinblocks: laminated multi-ply piano style for greater strength and smooth, accurate tuning, faced with mahogany. Binding: curly eastern maple (view photo). Sound hole: single sound hole with a hand-carved maple leaf insert, a signature feature of our chromatic line (see photo at right).

D600, D650

Soundboard and back: Honduras mahogany. Rails: wenge. Bridges: eastern maple. Pinblocks: laminated multi-ply piano-style pinblocks faced with wenge. Binding: curly eastern maple (view photo). Sound hole: single sound hole with a hand-carved maple leaf insert, a signature feature of our chromatic line (see photo at right).

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Optional black soundboard

Chromatic Series — Options

Black soundboard: The soundboard may be finished in a semi-gloss black lacquer, increasing the visibility of the strings under varying light conditions (see photo at right, or larger view). Price: $80.00

Curly maple trim: Highly figured maple rails, pinblock facing, and binding make a very special looking instrument (view photo). Price: $250.00

Abalone soundboard inlay (view photo). Price: $700.00

Abalone sound hole inlay (view photo). Price: $250.00

Dampers: This sustain control device creates a remarkable range of tonal effects, from the rich and complex natural voice of the undamped strings to a wonderful, wholly muted marimba-like tone with zero sustain (see our hammered dulcimer accessories page for photos and more information). Price: D300, D500, D550, D600, D650—$495.00

Damper Pedal: Available a la carte for use with our damper systems or as a second damper pedal. Price: $95.00

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Chromatic Series — Models

For larger photos and detailed information about each of our chromatic hammered dulcimer models, please follow the links below:

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