I am in possession of two Burke Vipers. For the second time in a few months, I find I cannot justify keeping two of the same model of Mike’s instruments… I find that his instruments are completely reliable, and having a back-up is not needed.
This very recent model Low D Viper is in mint condition, and is looking for a new owner. The bell tone booms, and the whistle plays superbly over 2+ octaves. This particular instrument has an even-ness of volume over the entire playing range, and contains no glitches or surprises in its playability.
New price on the Viper is $220, including shipping. The price on my instrument is $180, including shipping within the continental USA.
If you are interested, please PM or e-mail me. PMs are received at home and work. They are checked, hourly…E-mails will be received at home, and are checked in the evening, EDST.
Hi, Carol: The Viper is the improved design. It allows the whistle to have a very solid low octave. The overall volume of the whistle has increased over the old standard model, the even-ness of the volume between octaves is improved, and playability has been stabilized. I like instruments that are reliable and don’t cause trouble in front of audiences. The Viper meets these criteria…
The cosmetics of the whistle are much improved, in that the Viper’s upper connector is beveled and thinner. In the older model, all three of the bottom tone holes rotated. On the Viper, only the bottom hole rotates to help with the reach, which is at it should be.
I find the Viper a very different whistle from the original instrument. Basically, Mike really got it right, this time…As a bonus, the Viper head is really cool looking. It is not called the Viper for no reason…
Best to you, Carol. It is good to hear from you…
Byll
One other issue: The latest Vipers have slightly increased back pressure. For those used to Copeland and Shaw, this is a non-issue. For others, the slight decrease in need for air is a nice bonus.
Best.
Byll