Thomas Machell Dulcitone

Thomas Machell Oak Cased Dulcitone for sale with original stand - mostly working well, but with some issues.

UK van delivery only - it may withstand regular couriers, but we'd sooner not risk it.

While it works reasonably well, it's an antique instrument and some allowances need to be made for this (it's sold in original condition). The topmost key does not work - the fork is present, but has become detached from the case - not something we can repair. You can get interesting results micing it up or putting a piezo pickup inside and putting it through pedals/effects.

Dulcitones are portable keyboard instrument that date from the late 19th/early 20th century. Invented by Thomas Machell in Scotland and favoured by missionaries. They feature piano-style keys but with U-shaped tuning forks (idiophones) that stay in tune, allowing for easy transport and use, even in hot climates. It produces sounds by striking the forks with piano-style felt hammers, creating warm soft, bell-/celesta-like tones.

Think of it as a small/light early Fender Rhodes (without preamp).