H&R Dulcimer #83

   This instrument is a 16/15 instrument (Click for sizing/lingo page).  Its soundboard is made of sitka spruce, which is a very sweet, calm sounding wood.  Sitka spruce is what is used on most guitars, and is considered by many the best sounding of all woods.  Its pinblocks and exterior are made of cherry, which is a darker colored, hard wood.  The cherry provides not only good looks, but good stability.  The inlay, which is unique to H&R Dulcimers, is maple.  Basically, the inlay is to provide better looks, and in this particular instrument, adds flow to the instrument, since it is the same color as the soundboard.  Also, you can see the H&R logo inlayed in the center.  This has three purposes.  Firstly, it provides a nicer look to the instrument.  Secondly, it is an identification mark of H&R Dulcimers.   Lastly, and most importantly, it provides an excellent way for the sound to escape the instrument.  This will not only make the instrument louder, but less muffled sounding.