Q:  What is the resonator (R) back and what does it do?

A:  The resonator back is the bottom of an instrument with two soundboards.  I refer to them as the top and bottom soundboards.  The airholes are in the top soundboard.  On these instruments the sound projects upward as well as outward.  This gives the dulcimer more sound but does not really make it louder.  The R-back is probably our most frequently requested feature.  Opinion varies widely on how effectively it improves the sound.  I hope each of you will try one when you get a chance as I would value your opinions.

Stay in tune,

David