13 Best Hammered Dulcimer Reviews 2022 (Best Santoors)

Best Hammered Dulcimer & Best Santoor

Best Hammered Dulcimer & Best Santoor

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, I receive a commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The national instrument of Iran, although it is also found in the traditional music of Kashmir and Jammu, the Santoor or Hammered Dulcimer is a very old and intriguing instrument. While some believe that the instrument dates back to the times of Mesopotamia, which was somewhere around 1600-911 BC, and Babylonia, others think that this instrument is so old that it is almost impossible to track down its real origins.

If you think that this instrument is rather fascinating, then there are some things you need to know about it. The wood that is mostly used for the making of this instrument is walnut, although maple is used as well. While the Persian Santoor has 72 strings, the Indian one can have more.

What are the Best Hammered Dulcimer or Santoors to Buy?

2) Musicmakers 17/16 Hammered Dulcimer

  • Handmade
  • Solid Mahogany
  • Professional
  • Large Range

1) Master Works  Hammered Dulcimer 

  • High Quality
  • Popular Choice
  • Ash Endrails
  • Sapelli Soundboard

3) Persian Professional Sadeghi Goldar Santoor

  • Affordable
  • High Quality
  • Great for All
  • Delicate Decorations
  • Beautiful

It is also worth knowing that there are many instruments that are similar to the Santoor, which is used all over the world, but they are not genuine Santoor. To know how to differentiate a Santoor from another instrument you need to know the instrument’s characteristics. To start with, the body of the Santoor has a trapezoidal form, although the India Santoor has a more rectangular shape. The boars at the top and bottom can be made out of veneer or plywood, according to the case.

Wooden bridges are placed on the soundboard, for positioning strings that are made out of metal and stretched across the surface of the bridge. The strings of the instrument are grouped, forming groups of strings, depending on the instrument. Then they are tied on the left side of the Santoor with the help of pins or nails. They are very well stretched and can be tuned with the help of tune pins, which can be found on the right side of the instrument.

So, if you really appreciate traditional instruments, then you will love the Santoor. Whether you are a Santoor player or you’re looking to become one, you may consider the following reviews more than welcome.

13 Best Hammered Dulcimer & Santoor Reviews

They present the latest instruments that can be found on the market, although we picked the best of them, which can address various types of players. Do read the reviews and see which of these instruments fits your needs best.

1) Master Works “Sapelli Pioneer Package” 15-14 Hammer Dulcimer – Natural

If you never had a hammered dulcimer before, but you’re looking to get your first instrument of this kind, then you need to consider this option. Why is this dulcimer so suitable for beginners? First of all, it is quite accessible, considering that this kind of instruments have rather high price tags. But, the price tag is not the only one that recommends this dulcimer to beginners.

It is made exceptionally well, so it is more than capable of producing high-quality sounds, giving you the chance to get use to the right kind of sounds a professional dulcimer is making, just in case you would like to invest more as your knowledge in playing this instrument improve and you want to reach a different level.

The bridges are made out of exotic hardwood, the inlay is made out of Harrison rose, and endrails out of ash. The company that manufactures the instrument has over three decades of experience in this field, so you will certainly get a great dulcimer if you opt for this one.

Besides the instrument, you will also receive a case, student hammers, a tuning wrench and electronic tuner, an x-brace stand, and a booklet that will help you understand how to fine-tune your instrument.

2) Musicmakers 17/16 Hammered Dulcimer

If you are looking to find an interesting and fascinating instrument to play, then this particular hammered dulcimer is exactly what you need. Made manually in the USA, when purchasing this instrument you can be sure that you will get a high-quality dulcimer that will deliver amazing sounds.

The top of this dulcimer is made out of solid mahogany, a wood known for its beautiful pattern and resistance in time. If you love playing folk songs and songs for the winter holidays, then this is the ideal instrument for you. It is extremely fun learning to play a hammered dulcimer, especially one that is made with a lot of consideration for every detail.

Because the note layout of the instrument was created to be intuitive and it is based on a specific pattern, it is extremely easy to learn how to perform songs on this hammered dulcimer. All you need is some practice to get familiar with the sounds it produces and with its notes, and you’ll get the hang of it in no time. Also, it is worth knowing that, in comparison with most of the dulcimers you can find on the market, this one has a slightly larger range of notes.

3) Persian Professional Sadeghi Goldar Santoor, Dulcimer with Hard Case

As you found out earlier, there are two types of Satoor, the Persian and Indian, each having several slight differences so you can tell them apart. This particular instrument, provided by SalaMuzik, is the Persian version. A detail like this indicates that the instrument, even though it is made in our days, it respects the way old traditional Santoors were made.

Thus, it has a beautiful trapeze-like form and 72 strings to play on. The wood of this instrument is finished in a gorgeous manner, with delicate decorations here and there, which will make you proud of playing such a Santoor. The Persians were, by nature, people that loved details, stunning decorations, and high quality, so it only appears normal for them to create an instrument that brings together all of these aspects.

If you opt for this Santoor, which is suitable both for professionals and beginners that want to invest in a great instrument, you will also get pairs of extra strings, two additional hammers, a tuning wrench, and a hard case, for safe storage and transportation. You’ll have everything you need to start playing and enjoying an exotic instrument like the Santoor in one single package.

4) Master Works “Pioneer Package” 15-14 Hammered Dulcimer

This is another great hammered dulcimer you can get at a very good price, considering the quality you will get for it. The top and back of the instrument is made out of Finland Birch, stained with black and brown color, while some elements are left in their natural color.

This creates a beautiful contrast between the elements of the dulcimer, providing a great-looking instrument to have and to play. It is true that this is not a professional hammered dulcimer, but it is the closest thing you can get, considering the price range.

So, even if you opt for this instrument, you will love the sounds it makes, being an exceptional choice if you want to get more familiar with this kind of instruments and learn to how to properly play one.

Master Works is an excellent company that manufacturers dulcimers for decades in a row, also being the company preferred by most dulcimer champions out there. Made for novices, this instrument comes together with a case and everything else needed for learning how to play a hammered dulcimer.

5) Roosebeck 16/15 Hammered Dulcimer

The hammered dulcimer provided by Roosebeck is a beautiful instrument that can be found in the middle-range, which makes it rather accessible. The body of the dulcimer is made out of Sheesham, with a practical opening at the back, made with the purpose of giving this instrument a handle, whenever it has to be carried around.

Besides having beautiful colors on its body, the sound holes of the dulcimer are decorated with gorgeous rosettes, made by respecting the traditional wine and leaf pattern. After all, such an instrument looks best in a traditional design, considering that it is one of the oldest instruments that can be found on the market.

Together with the instrument, you will also get a pair of hammers, which feature a pad made out of leather on one of their sides, just in case you want to create softer sounds. You will get a tuning tool as well, giving you the chance of having a well-tuned instrument at all times, and a drawstring bag.

Because the instrument was made to suit the needs of beginners, who are looking to learn how to play the instrument as soon as possible, the bridges of this instrument are color-coded, which makes everything easier.

6) Master Works “Student” 12-11 Hammer Dulcimer – Laminate Top Natural

For those of you who wish to play a hammered dulcimer, without investing too much into this hobby at first. Thus, Master Works decided to launch on the market an instrument that fits in the budget category, making it accessible to anyone that wishes to own one and learn how to play it.

The company cut down costs by creating an instrument with a simple design, but, you should not worry, as the quality of the instrument, including the sounds it produces, were not compromised at all.

You will definitely love how it plays and the quality of songs you will be able to reproduce with the help of this instrument. Thus, it can be a great gift for yourself or someone you love.

7) Economy Class Persian Santoor Dulcimer By Alizadeh

Are you looking to learn how to play a Santoor or you always wanted such an instrument, but your budget is rather tight? Then do take advantage of the existence of this particular instrument.

It comes at a rather accessible price and the provider offers additional accessories as well, such as a hard case for safe keeping, additional strings in case the ones on the instruments break, a tuning tool to make sure that your instrument sounds just right, and a pair of special hammers, essential for playing the instrument.

You will also love the way the instrument looks, as its body is made out of walnut, a resistant type of wood that is very resistant. So, don’t be fooled by the low price tag because the instrument you will get it great. Its quality is great and its sound is even better.

It is ideal if you are a beginner or amateur, as it will not put a strain on your budget, allowing you to play the instrument you love as often as you would like. The Santoor is a charming instrument, so it is a privilege to have one in your private collection, to enjoy each time you feel creative.

8) Persian Quality Santoor Dulcimer

This is another exceptional instrument you can purchase and enjoy the melodic sounds it makes. When it comes to a Santoor, the wood that composes its body and the strings used are two main characteristics that give the instrument its specific sounds.

Thus, buying a Santoor made out of walnut, just as it used to since the beginning of times, will give you the certainty that the sounds are the genuine ones produced by this kind of instrument.

The strings of this Santoor are made out of brass and steel, again for exceptional sounds and resilience in time, withstanding use after use. The instrument also comes with a beautiful hard case, with a velvety interior, so that your Santoor will not risk getting any scratches while being transported from one location to another.

You will also get extra strings because they are never too many when playing a string instrument, a tuning wrench that is so useful when wishing to get the ideal sounds from your Santoor, and, of course, the specific hammers, the items that will give you the chance to play the instrument as it supposed to. Overall, this is a great instrument to get and to have, as it respects the way traditional Persian Santoors were made.

9) Quality SantoorSantourSantur Dulcimer Golchin with a Hard Case and Accessories

As a beginner or amateur, you will love this Santoor. The price is accessible, in comparison with professional instruments, and you’ll get everything you need to get started right away. Besides the instrument, made out of walnut, you will also get a case, a pair of hammers, strings, and a tool for tuning your Santoor.

Thus, with one single order, you will get all the accessories needed to look after your instrument in an adequate manner for a while. Not to mention that you will love playing this instrument, as it is capable of producing beautiful sounds. Just make sure that the strings are tuned just right, by using the wrench you will get in your package.

The quality of this instrument is actually great and it is made in the traditional way, containing 9 bridges, each with its set of strings. Also, with the help of the case, which is more solid than a gig bag, you can take your instrument in safety no matter where you want to go and play some music.

An instrument like the Santoor will definitely change the atmosphere regardless where you’ll use it, so don’t be surprised if you’ll feel the need to hit its strings more often than expected.

10) Hammer Dulcimer, 10 Treble/9 Bass Strings w/ Hammers

If you always dreamt about getting a hammered dulcimer but your budget is not that generous, then you need to check this instrument out. With a price tag that is more than accessible, this dulcimer has what it takes to allow you to play beautiful songs and perfect your skills when it comes to playing such an instrument.

Made out of solid Sheesham, this instrument has a beautiful color and it is resistant enough to be used for years in a row. It will also feature an opening in the back, which can be used as a handle for carrying the instrument around. The soundboard is made out of lacewood and features two Sheesham rosettes.

You will love the rich sound the instrument it provides and, to make sure that it is tuned accordingly, you can check the Owners Guide that comes along with the instrument for recommendations.

11) Roosebeck Single Strung 10/9 Hammer Dulcimer w/ Hammers – Walnut

You will certainly fall in love with this dulcimer and you will appreciate its accessible price tag even more. Made out of multi-layered walnut, which means that the instrument will resist well to wear and tear, the instrument has both a gorgeous color and design.

The sides are also made out of walnut, while the soundboard is made out of hardwood, featuring a rosette with a beautiful wine and leaf design. You will also find a whole on the back of the instrument, which can be utilized as a handle when you need to move the hammered dulcimer around.

So, considering the amazing sounds this instrument can make, the stunning design, and great price, you should not allow anything to come between you and the desire to have your own hammered dulcimer. Thus, it may be the time to get a “sweet tune” instrument, as the name of the dulcimer can be translated, and erase this wish off your bucket list.

12) Roosebeck Double Strung 10/9 Hammered Dulcimer w/ Hammers

This is a gorgeous hammered dulcimer that is played by using two hammers at once, for a more complex performance. Made out of multi-layered Sheesham, the instrument has a gorgeous color that features the natural pattern of the wood.

The sides of the instrument are made out of the same type of wood, which will provide it with the resilience it needs to withstand years of playing and enjoying the sounds it produces. The soundboard is made out of hardwood and is decorated with a beautiful rosette, reminding us that this type of instrument has its origins in the Middle East, where decorations and sweet sounds were appreciated a lot.

This hammered dulcimer features 10 strings in the treble bridge, on the left side of the instrument, and 9 more strings in the bass bridge, which can be found in the right, which altogether help the instrument come up with amazing sounds that will make every song come out in an astonishing manner.

While a double strung dulcimer may seem a bit more complicated to play, it is not like that in reality because you can easily get the hang of it by practicing in a constant manner. In fact, you will love the fact that you will be able to use both of your hands and create gorgeous songs.

13) Persian Sadeghi Santoor, Dulcimer with Hard Case

If playing the Santoor is something you had on your bucket list for a while, maybe it is time to stop postponing the accomplishment of this wish and start doing something about it. You can find a Santoor at a rather accessible price, just like this way, which is great if you’re skills needed for playing this instrument are not that advanced.

This will give you the chance to start practicing as often as you’d like, without investing too much right from the start. So, do check out this particular Santoor, as it is of great quality and comes along with all the needed accessories, such as additional strings, a pair of hammers, and tuning tool.

It has a simple design and a well-made body, so you will be able to appreciate and enjoy your instrument for very many years to come. It will be shipped together with a hard case, which will give you the chance to store your instrument safely after each use and to take it along if this is your desire. Just make sure to clean the instrument properly after using it and before placing it in its case, as this will protect the wood and keep it in a pristine shape.

Choosing the Best Hammered Dulcimer from the Best Hammered Dulcimer Brands

So, as you can see, getting an instrument that is so exotic and has such a long tradition as the Hammered Dulcimer/Santoor is not a mission impossible and it does not have to challenge your budget either.

2) Musicmakers 17/16 Hammered Dulcimer

  • Handmade
  • Solid Mahogany
  • Professional
  • Large Range

1) Master Works  Hammered Dulcimer 

  • High Quality
  • Popular Choice
  • Ash Endrails
  • Sapelli Soundboard

3) Persian Professional Sadeghi Goldar Santoor

  • Affordable
  • High Quality
  • Great for All
  • Delicate Decorations
  • Beautiful

This guide was composed in order for you to get all the information you need concerning this instrument and where to find affordable Santoors/Hammered Dulcimers of great quality. Thus, all you have to do from now on is to check each instrument and see which one suits your needs and budget best.

You are steps away from playing your favorite instrument, so do take advantage of the information you just found out. Just do have in mind that it will take a while for the instrument to reach you, as they are mainly shipped from Turkey. But, don’t worry, as it will worth the waiting, the Santoor being a fascinating instrument that will transport you into another world each time you will play it.