I could not find any information on the difference between Healy’s normal fife and his deluxe other than finger hole size and placement. Is there anther differances? I could not find any additional information on his sight, and was unable to reach someone by email.
Those are the only differences. The deluxe has tone hole size and placement closer to the true Boehm schema, and is more challenging to play, but of course better in tune and more powerful. The standard has more comfortable fife finger hole spacing, and is fine for all but the most intricate and complex harmonies. The special is a compromise between the two.
Skip might be out of town. It’s a small operation. He’ll probably reply to your e-mail within a couple of days.
A quick word about Healy’s fifes, if you’ve been toying with the idea of buying one, you had better go ahead & place an order soon. I have a feeling the prices will be going up soon.