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Permalink Reply by Taffy Evans on January 24, 2023 at 11:27am

Hi, a number of things spring to mind.

If you do not want "not so quiet" do not hamper the vibrations of the top, or at least as little as possible. The bridge sitting on the top would transmit sound to the top more efficiently.

If using a "rod" style reinforcement in the neck, keep in mind that, that rod or bar [and bar is preferable] should not be flexible, eg it can not bend between your thumbs.

Dulcimer necks are often hollow inside and only contact the top minimally.

You say, maybe, no fingerboard. Well, there goes some neck stability, and the usual way neck reinforcement is covered, if one is used. Unless it is inserted from the back of the neck Fender style.

It's a shame you have time constraints, remember - you get out what you put in - so get up early. Ha ha. Enjoy your project. It will make music.
Cheers Taff

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Permalink Reply by Luke H on January 25, 2023 at 4:16am

I did not know that about dulcimers!  I think I probably will be going with a fingerboard after all - I found some nice slices of curly maple and osage orange.

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Permalink Reply by Korrigan on January 24, 2023 at 2:27pm

Here are my recommended gauges for steel string ukes. My goal was emulating the soft feel of nylon strings by choosing low tension. With a separate fretboard your neck will definitely have the strength for this selection of strings... provided you aren't using balsa wood. :-)

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Permalink Reply by Luke H on January 25, 2023 at 4:13am

Thanks!  SUPER helpful.

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Permalink Reply by Timothy Hunter on January 25, 2023 at 8:27pm

Thanks Korrigan , this is indeed super helpful.

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