G or D Seagull Merlin M4 comparison

[@angelalamb8759]

I thought getting a merlin dulcimer would help me with other instruments and at 1st I was hesitant but then I found you and everything came together. I went fiddle next which I thought would be a bit harder but im trying out banjo next. You make things simple but not too simple. You are one if the best teachers ive come across. Thank you!!

[@INDYOSKARS]

@2:38 Ah I thought you were going to do "When the saints go marching in" such a simple and nice little tune.

[@davidbrock4104]

Good video. I've had the D model Merlin for awhile, getting ready to buy the G. Thanks for the comparison

[@BanjoLemonade]

Hey David, that’s great! If you’ll use my amazon link in the description to go there they’ll give me a few cents. Won’t cost you anything. Have a great day!

[@danmilner5875]

i have a D merlin.. playing for a few months.. did the conversion to G model.. dont like it.. the D has a much brighter tone and I found easyer to play.. time to put it back..

[@manuelarichter586]

The G Modell is wonderful and bassy 🎶

[@faronmclurkin1103]

Thanks for posting this. Super helpful for me as I look to buy my first.

[@BanjoLemonade]

For TONS more lessons, tabs, practice tracks, ebooks, and more PLUS a FREE 7 DAY MEMBERSHIP, head on over to - www.banjolemonade.com

[@almartinez-Antilles]

Much appreciated! Enlightening !

[@BanjoLemonade]

Glad it was helpful!

[@barenyasahaofficial]

Hey, I am from India & i am an independent music artist. Your Merlin videos are really informative.. I have a question to you.. does both the G & the D ones have same strings sets if I want to purchase it separately from Amazon? I have got a new G model Merlin & one of the G string is broken. Can you please let me know or can you respond with the Amazon link for the string sets for G model which should i order? Thanks a lot in advance.. :)

[@BanjoLemonade]

You need a .47, .34, .23, and a .10 for the G model. The D model is much smaller gauge strings. You have to buy them separate, there is no set unfortunately. I don’t know if amazon has them.

[@williamlee6358]

Thank you

[@DrewKane]

Thanks for this video.

[@alankingwell]

Great video , very useful 👍👍

[@deanwolfechannel]

Both have nice tone, the D model is more appealing initially

[@BanjoLemonade]

Thanks for watching! I love them both.

[@deeman524]

I dumped the dulcimer for the ukulele, but I also miss that cross between a Mandolin and Banjo sound, and those old church tunes sound really great on dulcimers and merlins

[@BanjoLemonade]

Go get another dulcimer, lol. Yeah I agree those hymns sound great on both.

[@ellenreimer3915]

What’s the best case for these instruments I just got my first one this weekend dad and love it

[@BanjoLemonade]

Hmm good question. I don’t have a case for any of mine, but I bet there’s something on amazon. I have over 130 lessons on it and a beginner course at my website also. Have fun!

[@jrkreiser]

Hi there! I just bought a D Merlin, and am concerned when I hear that it can’t be played with other stringed instruments as easy! (Like guitar and mandolin!) I can still return it and get a G... wondering what to do!!

[@MerlinLane]

You wont believe me when I say that my name is Merlin?

[@jamesharper-wv7jh]

congratulations, you have just transformed a dulcimer into a small guitar

[@BanjoLemonade]

well I didn’t do it, but yeah it strums kinda like a guitar.

[@michaelweiss6163]

What is the proper tuning for a " Merlin Natural Mahogany SG" ( that is what it says on the label in the sound hole) with the low string wound and the other 3 strings steel. The Merlin is over 10 years old. D or G.

[@BanjoLemonade]

DADD

[@robertnat4642]

Can you string the spruce model with the G strings

[@joeydutra]

The spruce dulcimer, DAD tuning. The strings that are together or "in unisen" are both d? So its esentially 3 different octaves of d?

[@BanjoLemonade]

2 of d. Those 2 bottom strings are both tuned to the high d and the top string to the low d.

[@joeydutra]

@@BanjoLemonade thank you

[@BanjoLemonade]

Your welcome

[@Kiki-rc5ly]

I’m looking at a Merlin Seagull M4, mahogany shop. I don’t know which model it is though. Are the Merlin dulcimers only D or G? Can it be played with guitars in the Key of F? The one I’m looking at: The face is mahogany up to the feet board. The fret board is blonde and the entire back is blonde. It’s so easy to play but I want to be able to play with a guitar group or an accordion group. Both play frequently in the key of F. Please advise me . And God Bless. Kiki

[@BanjoLemonade]

They no longer sell the G model - but you can just put thicker strings on it and tune it to G (that’s all they did with it). With the thinner strings like on the D - you couldn’t tune up to F, but with the thicker strings on the G you can just easily tune down to F. So I’d just get it (doesn’t matter what model it is) and put the thicker guage strings on it, and tune it to F.

[@kurtzembower9297]

Your awesomeness ❤

[@acterene1]

Hey again! I have a Dadd model. Is the Gdgg a better model to sing with especially uf you are playing with other 'G' instruments? I take it you may have to transpose your playing if you are using a Dadd model?

[@BanjoLemonade]

you can play your d model in g by tuning DGD instead of DAD if you like, chords are different, or if you like the lower tuning (thicker strings) go for the g model.

[@acterene1]

@@BanjoLemonade good to know. Thanks!

[@TheWhiskywolf]

Can a d model be turned the same as the g model or are the heavier strings need to tune to g

[@BanjoLemonade]

need heavier strings

[@jameswoodard4304]

I'm totally new to stringed instruments, especially dulcimer-types. Apparently the doubled strings of the G Merlin are an octave apart. Is this true for the D version as well? I couldn't tell. Before I realized this, I though the doubled strings were always tuned exactly the same.

[@BanjoLemonade]

Actually no, the D model is just a double melody string and not an octave string. So the G is definitely unique in that aspect and has a neat sound.

[@jameswoodard4304]

@@BanjoLemonade , Thanks

[@acterene1]

Are all Mahogany modrls G. I have ine I was told was a D. Having a bit of trouble tuning it.

[@BanjoLemonade]

No they aren’t. You can get either in the D model. Tuned to the same as a dulcimer - DADD.

[@c_farther5208]

I think this is a great video. So suffice to say, you can only play in the key of D on a D dulcimer, right? p.s. I love the G.

[@BanjoLemonade]

Hey, thanks. Ah no, you can play in other keys. Here is a page to help some. Sorry, tough to explain. ask.metafilter.com/6444/Music-Just-what-exactly-is-key

[@nicot9305]

@@BanjoLemonade Wow! That's some in-depth explanation! Thanks; I'm sure I'll get around to reading it all!

[@PracticaProphetica]

You can play in A, and E minor (but you can't do a C chord, as you only have the C# fret). If you need to play in C, just tune the D Merlin down a step to C. That will also give (somewhat) access to playing in G (although one note in the scale is "modal") due to the diatonically spaced frets.

[@binarymilton]

I've been wondering if there's any difference in construction between the two. Obviously they are made from different types of wood. But apart from that, as you say, the main difference is the string width, so presumably the notches in nut and bridge are wider on the G model. Is that it? They appear to be the same size, same neck width and neck radius etc.

[@BanjoLemonade]

yep you got it, only difference besides top wood is nut and bridge notches.

[@loriejo67]

Thank you for this video, it's extremely helpful... I do have a question. If I have a Merlin and it's tune GDG, am I able to play DAD tablature and is there anything I need to know about that?

[@BanjoLemonade]

Yes you can play that tablature. You are just now in the key of G instead of D. Have fun!

[@-jank-willson]

@@BanjoLemonade Is the 'G' version of the merlin the same thing as a baritone or bass version of the regular merlin?

[@terrenceoday9493]

So...is the DADD tuning only available in Spruce and the GDG only available in Mahogany? I love the look of Mahogany, but want the DADD tuning.

[@PracticaProphetica]

I have a D Merlin in Mahogany. I bought it used. I think you could just restring a G instrument with lighter strings to turn it into a D. It requires a new saddle for $10.

[@Phoenix_On_Fire]

I tune up and down on my cigarette box guitar all the time. You can just do the same on the spruce merlin? Just tune it down?

[@BanjoLemonade]

I’d put thicker strings on to be in G. Kinda far to tune. The D strings are really thin. Have fun.

[@omardominguez1534]

Which one Is Easier to learn to play from Zero, Dulcimer or ukulele, thanks

[@omardominguez1534]

@@BanjoLemonade i was talking about the seagull Merlin, or M4

[@BanjoLemonade]

Oh my, I’m sorry I thought this was a different video!! Ok well each are the same really. The only difference is the G has thicker strings. With the D being thinner strings it is easier to press down the strings, so I’d say the D because of that reason.

[@dennisjohnson2519]

Thank you nice one

[@reubendunn4463]

What type of pick are you using please?

[@zanvolcano]

Merçi 👏

[@claudiaaube864]

Hi, thank you for this video. Can you tell me where to buy the number stickers that are on the neck or your G Merlin?

[@BanjoLemonade]

Hey Claudia, I believe that outside the US and Canada the “G” model does not come with the fret numbers. It’s actually not a sticker, it’s painted on. You can try amazon, I have links in the description.

[@Struggle.Snuggles]

So can you just change the strings to go from DAD to GDG?

[@BanjoLemonade]

Not necessarily. If you tuned your D model down to GDG it would be too floppy. That’s why they make 2 models (saddle slots are larger on the G for the larger gauge strings).

[@jacobcoates3942]

Would you not be able to just tune the D Merlin into alternate tunings like g?

[@BanjoLemonade]

Sure you can do alternate tunings. But, if you want the “G” model deep warm sound, you’d need much fatter strings like those that come on the G.

[@jacobcoates3942]

BanjoLemonade thanks!

[@bgabriel6532]

I actually just emailed them about this (well it was about getting a G M4 without numbered frets) and this was their answer "you can convert a Merlin D to a Merlin G by switching the saddle. The Merlin G saddle is available at : godinguitars.com/product/tusq-dulcimer-g-saddle You'll also have to use a heavier string gauge : 0.047 wound 0.033 wound 0.010 plain 0.023 wound"

[@TegsPal]

Is a left handed Merlin available that could be played right handed so it would then be the same as a mountain dulcimer? Other than maybe cost is there any advantage of a Merlin over a dulcimer? Thanks ☺

[@BanjoLemonade]

Hey Andrew! Here’s a lefty Merlin - amzn.to/2TaZSkW. Exact same price. The advantage/disadvantage you look at it either way, is that a Merlin is played upright like a guitar or banjo. There is definitely a difference in strumming and chording on a lap dulcimer. I love them both though so for each of their uniqueness. I hope you get one! Let me know and I’ll be happy to help you get started with vids or helps. -Mandy

[@1121gypsy]

Where can I get more strings for the G model? Mine broke 😭

[@BanjoLemonade]

I custom order mine because Seagull doesn’t make a set. Just get a .10 .23 .34 and .47. I get mine through Strings and Beyond.

[@1121gypsy]

BanjoLemonade ok thank you. Which one is the Low G? That’s the only one I broke. Also is it close to a tenor guitar string? I could just use one?

[@ad22d2]

guys do you have the EQ model ?its electric , i dont see any video in anyway using it on amplifier

[@BanjoLemonade]

I don’t have those models.

[@WysteriaGuitar]

Huh? G model,? D model? - On their website they have these but they are just mahogany or spruce...Can I not buy either one and tune it to G or D? I'm confused...thanks for any clarification.

[@BanjoLemonade]

Old video - they used to offer 2 different models. One with thin strings tuned DAD (D model) and one with thicker strings tuned GDG (G model). You can just purchase one and put either set of strings on them to play in D or G.

[@WysteriaGuitar]

@@BanjoLemonade whew, ok, thanks that's perfect. Now I just need to decide mahogany or spruce. I am a singer songwriter so was thinking of going with mahogany...thoughts?

[@BanjoLemonade]

@@WysteriaGuitar - if you are a man and sing lower than D - go for the mahogany and put thicker strings on it - playing in G. I prefer the lower tones myself. But I can sing better with the higher (D) string setup.

[@WysteriaGuitar]

@@BanjoLemonade I am a male, tenor

[@AJHart-eg1ys]

I guess I'm just thinking that a sound comparison doesn't really mean much when the instruments use different woods and are tuned differently.

[@BanjoLemonade]

The sound comparison is meant for people who are wondering what the difference between the 2 models is. I get a lot of questions about why a person might want one over the other. Thanks!

[@AJHart-eg1ys]

@@BanjoLemonade To be honest, this was the first time I'd ever seen anyone tune them differently. I watched a lot of vids when these first came out (of course, you can't get one for really any cheaper than the new price, darn it), and it was just put forth that the only difference between the two was the wood used on the top. And if that's the case, it's likely just human tendency to want any comparisons to be done on the same model of instrument. Take care!

[@BanjoLemonade]

@@AJHart-eg1ys only difference is the wood. You can string them up either way without issue. You’d be surprised at the volume of those little things. The thicker strings on the G model don’t slide around as much on the frets and if you play anything else the G will feel more natural to you.

[@AJHart-eg1ys]

@@BanjoLemonade Oh, I played around with them quite a bit when they were released. I was drawn by how it's tough to play a bad chord, but unless I can get one for a steal I'll likely stick with ukulele and maybe guitar. Take care.

[@mcdradus]

sweet, where can I get your tabs?

[@BanjoLemonade]

Hey Mcdradus, I have them all on patreon for $5 a month. Right now I have 9 Merlin tabs but I add to it weekly. Link above in the description.

[@jamesbk9831]

Where does one buy strings for the g?

[@BanjoLemonade]

Seagull doesn’t make them unfortunately, you gotta single order them, just be sure to get ball end strings.

[@jamesbk9831]

@@BanjoLemonade Thank you for the info. I wasn't getting far with Google.

[@graemecoetzer397]

How do you play an Am chord on the G tuning Merlin

[@BanjoLemonade]

Try 212.

[@wemersoncruz4813]

What is the scale size of this instrument ???

[@BanjoLemonade]

Scale length is 20.75”

[@chasebutler2665]

Could you tune either to the key of C?

[@BanjoLemonade]

Tune the D model to CGC yes.

[@shanbentz649]

So, if I got a G, could I just install different strings and turn it into a D?

[@BanjoLemonade]

You could try, but I wouldn’t recommend it because of the nut and bridge spaces would be huge for the tiny D model strings.

[@bgabriel6532]

I actually just emailed them about this (well it was about getting a G M4 without numbered frets) and this was their answer "you can convert a Merlin D to a Merlin G by switching the saddle. The Merlin G saddle is available at : godinguitars.com/product/tusq-dulcimer-g-saddle You'll also have to use a heavier string gauge : 0.047 wound 0.033 wound 0.010 plain 0.023 wound"

[@17ScoRo]

So, are you unable to put the wound strings on the D model? Will the neck not support the tension?

[@BanjoLemonade]

You can put thick strings on either, just need a new saddle for the proper slot sizes.

[@17ScoRo]

@@BanjoLemonade Thank you!

[@albertoloaiza4070]

What would happen if I put G strings in a D model?

[@barryjonkers2706]

That works it are the same instruments only different strings. I have bronze wound E-A-D string with a high E string of a set guitarstrings on it and tuned: G-D-g-G. The unwound string is the one with no capital spelled above.

[@BanjoLemonade]

Well I bet you’d need to file the bridge and nut quite a bit to accommodate the thicker strings, but then after that you probably wouldn’t want to put the thinner strings on it and go back.

[@albertoloaiza4070]

Talking seriously, in your experience which one is the best.

[@barryjonkers2706]

@@BanjoLemonade Good point! Mine came with 3 nickel wound strings, it was a B-stock model I guess a last year model orso cause the new ones then for sale were stringed like the D-Dulcimers.

[@barryjonkers2706]

@@albertoloaiza4070 That is personal taste, a G-dulcimer sounds more like a guitar while a D-dulcimer is more banjo region soundwise imho. I think D-dulcimers are better with a slide if you wanna go cigarboxstyle on them. ;-) And for behind the nut bending (telecasterstyle) cause that is only possible with 1 string on a G-dulcimer.

[@kilawattkidd]

These videos inspire me!😊 I'm tempted to buy a 6 string acoustic guitar but tune it DADGDG🎼🎶🎵! Best of both worlds! Has anybody attempted/done this?

[@GarnettM]

Those are different , Hey Mandy I subbed you on my other channel it`s more for in the summer and my changes coming .

[@BanjoLemonade]

Hey Garnett, ok great!

[@GarnettM]

@@BanjoLemonade Thanks again I figured a different way to climb the fret board playing Amazing Grace just have to hone the high end some coming though.

[@BanjoLemonade]

Sounds cool. Let me know when you put it up.

[@GarnettM]

@@BanjoLemonade You bet

[@fernandoeduardobarrerascor883]

Como se afina un Merlin???

[@andyg.8971]

You don't have to buy 2 instruments? Referring to a standard 6 string guitar 1st E. High string 2nd B 3rd G 4th D 5th A 6th E low string the following set up applies. D tuning - DAD uses :- 2 x 1st string "e" down turned to "d" 1 x 2nd string "a" tuned to "a" 1 x 4th string "d" tuned to "d" A high G tuning DGD uses :- 2 x 1st string "e" down tuned to "d" 1 x 3rd string "g" tuned to "g" 1 x 4th string "d" tuned to "d" Therefore If you wish to change from D tuning to G tuning or vice versa just the middle string ( A or G) And for a lower D tuning :- 1 x 1st string "e" tuned down to "d" 1 x 4th string "d" tuned to "d" 1 x 5th string "a" tuned down to "g" 1x 6th string "e tuned down to" d" Which is all very similar to tunings used on 3 string cigar box guitars.

[@BanjoLemonade]

The D model uses - .12 .12 .14 .22 (like a dulcimer), the G model uses - .10 .23 .34 .47. If you’d like to do that you can but the bridge slots are not wide enough on a D model to use the heavier guage strings that the G model uses. Also the G model uses 2 different gauges for the double melody.

[@andyg.8971]

@@BanjoLemonade Well pointed out I've been adding more.... Took a brew break.... I have just purchased a merlin in d, I've been toying with cigar boxes a while and that's all I normally do but the merlin will probably just stay in d.

[@tedstabe295]

Can’t you just change the “D” Merlin to the “G” Merlin and vice versa . I bought a “D” Merlin not knowing there was a difference thinking I could just change the strings to match key of “G”

[@BanjoLemonade]

If you’d like it to be a G then yes just put thicker string gauges on it. But your slots might get wallowed out when doing so.

[@timothydryden2517]

can't you just tune them to whatever?

[@BanjoLemonade]

Can you tune any stringed instrument to whatever?