Like acoustic guitars and other fine stringed instruments, dulcimers require strings in order to play.  We always recommend purchasing the highest quality strings you can afford, as this will directly impact the way the instrument sounds.  Here we review the best strings available for dulcimers. These strings are highly recommended for both beginner and advanced dulcimer players.  

Changing your dulcimer strings at home is also a snap. While you may prefer a professional to change your strings, it is quite easy to do yourself. When it comes to strings, we don’t skimp.  We like to ensure our dulcimers produce the sweet soothing sounds they’re known for!


What to Look for in Dulcimer Strings

  • String material: There are multiple types of strings that are offered in the market today.   Steel and nickel plated strings are the most popular and provide crystal-clear sounds.
  • String quality: The quality of the strings matters.  Depending on where they were made and the brand, they will be more or less durable than others on the market.
  • Gauge size: Some dulcimers require a specific string gauge or thickness.  Depending on what size you need, make sure the pack you choose has the right size for your instrument.
  • Ball or loop ends: Both ends can be used, but generally loops ends last longer and stay put without needing to be tuned again and again.  We find that loop end strings can be easier to install on dulcimers than ball end strings. But this is a matter of preference.



D’Addario J64 4-String Dulcimer Strings

best dulcimer strings

When you choose to use D’Addario J64 4-String Dulcimer Strings, you get a set of four high quality strings that are made in USA.  With a high backing, these strings provide the musician with exceptional quality when playing, and require minimal tuning once installed on your dulcimer.

Designed specifically for the four string dulcimer, you get three steel strings and one nickel plated to place within the handle and body of the instrument.

Providing the highest in quality and performance, these strings are easy to install.  They offer bright tone and excellent sound, and come fresh in corrosion resistant packaging. 

Enjoy having the best available sound from these high quality strings for many years to come. 

Customer Feedback

  • “Loop ends are easy to install with any loop end dulcimer”
  • “Great quality strings for a bargain price”
  • “Fit the dulcimer perfectly”
  • “Purchased several sets, all of great quality, as backup strings”

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Martin Set of 4 Dulcimer Strings

best strings for dulcimers

With these high-quality Martin Set of 4 Dulcimer Strings, you’ll enjoy playing your dulcimer knowing that it’s outfitted with some of the best strings on the market.

With many gauges, you’re able to add them to your instrument with ease and ensure that they fit properly each and every time.

Wound to specific specifications, they provide you with minimal tension when added to your dulcimer. The loop ends also provide a superior fit to your dulcimer. These allow you to easily install them onto any instrument that takes loophole strings on the end.

They can also be pulled tighter for shorter dulcimers, and come pre-pulled out for longer instruments.

These strings are made with the highest in quality standards and materials.  They are easy to play, but long-lasting. 

Customer Feedback

  • Easy to install on your dulcimer
  • “Great quality and construction
  • Wonderful sounds once installed onto the instrument
  • Great to use for a backup set

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Martin M640 Nickel Alloy Dulcimer Strings

best dulcimer string set

These Martin M640 Nickel Alloy Dulcimer Strings come in standard 0.012-0.022 gauge, and are built to last. They provide the dulcimer player with the ultimate in playing experience.

Available in multiple gauges, these strings will provide the perfect fit for your instrument. Each string is wound to a specific standard with nickel alloy, and will not rust or fall apart with repeated use.

As with all Martin string products, these standard strings are rated for daily use and are of exceptional quality. They are easy to play, but long-lasting. 

While other strings will work with your dulcimer, this standard set will likely become your go-to set as it is optimally designed for the best, most reliable experience. Given that strings are relatively inexpensive, it makes sense to keep an extra set in your gig bag.

Customer Feedback

  • “The strings are very forgiving if you’re new to re-stringing the dulcimer”
  • “High-quality product that produces a high-quality sound”
  • “Can be cut down to fit the size of the dulcimer, because they come longer”
  • “Dulcimer sounds much better using these strings than the factory ones provided with the instrument”
  • “Went on easily and sound great”

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Strings nice and tight? Check out more dulcimer accessories:



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