Folkcraft® Black Coated Steel String, Ball End, .011

I usually use strings that are a little heavier than these, but I am so impressed with the sound and use of playing. I think I will always use them on my 4-string (equidistant DAdd) dulcimer. They just ring! Plus they look really classy with my black walnut fretboard and black tuning gears - if only my frets were black too. I had no problem installing them and no problem with stretching excessively (I always keep a good bit of tension on my strings while winding them on).

Sorry , Richard - not a fan! 2 strings broke trying to install.

I just installed this set on one of my Folkcraft dulcimers, so the strings are still stretching and having to be retuned. Here are my first impressions, and bear in mind I've only been playing for about three years. I play with double melody strings, and while tuning the second .011 string it broke where the string twists about the ball. I know, I know, the first thought is, well, the dummy was tightening it too much...been there done that, but not in this case. It appears to me that the string had a weakness at that point. Now you won't believe this, but for some reason a third .011 was included in the pack. I bought two sets, and the second set didn't have an extra...the dulcimer gods were smiling on me! Now, first impression on performance: It may be imagination, but they sound sweet and smooth to my inexperienced ear, and if they still do after playing a while they will be my go-to strings.

Since discovering these strings, I haven't used anything else. Like them a lot.

I’m enjoying the black strings, which sound great. They’re bright and loud! (As always, shipping was fast and excellent.)