I've played dulcimers a whole lot ... this is the same stringing and tuning but with less frets (dulcimers have 20 frets - the Merlin has 7) and the same sound as a dulcimer. I've already ordered one and am excited to get it. Dulcimers are usually played on your lap and, as a guitar player, I always felt a bit odd playing that way. Now I can play a dulcimer in the same position as my guitars and get my left hand around the neck, too! Thanks, Seagull!
Strumstick is now making noises that it is their brand name. I would expect this Merlin to sound better than the rest, guess I'll have to wait and see.