Intonation vs playability

I understand in principle that the reason that there is variance in placement and size of fingerholes is a compromise between corrent intonation and playability, I’m curious as to which particular notes and fingerings are most affected and which holes have had the most compromises made.

I particularly see the difference in Low-D whistles. Hole sizes vary enormously, hole spacings vary a good amount. All this definitely affects my hands but I don’t have enough of a sampling of whistles to figure out which notes are the biggest problem children.

(Note to self. Must get more whistles. :smiley:)

The 4th & 5th holes G & F# on a D Soprano are the most `compromised´ and would include the 6th E hole on a low whistle to help reduce the stretch.The top three holes are the least compromised but size and positioning of the 1st C# hole is critical for good Cnat cross fingering and playability.I feel larger holes generaly produce the best tone and a compromised E 6th hole thats reduced and positioned for easy playing can sound a bit weak to some ears. Cheers, Mike