First impressions: very well crafted, good looking, better than average soft pouch, and I like the long beak. Plays very nicely - a hint of chiff, but really very pure and surprisingly good to play, with clarity and sweetness (it rather sounds like a metal Rose, which is really what I was looking for). The word I would put to it is inviting - it makes me want to pick it up and play.
Volume is average (the narrow bore must be very quiet), but one thing that surprises me is the quietness of the bell D - it’s a bit weak, yet the E above is strong and resonant (usually it’s the reverse). Anyone else experienced that?
Overall I’m very pleased. Now to get playing and putting it through its paces (as best I’m able that is)…
Sounds nice, Nick. My first two Burkes arrive soon (I hope.) Just one puzzle. I think I have a reasonable idea of what kind of sound you like in a high whistle. I thought brass might have been more to your liking. No?
Glad you like the AlPro. Even as consistently as Mike Burke produces his whistles, there can still be slight variations from one to another. I had an AlPro D I didn’t particularly like and was a bit difficult to play so returned it. I recently purchased another one that has to be the peak of Mike’s craftsmanship. It’s a special one. It’s literally perfectly balanced through both octaves, solid bell note and plays so easily it’s ridiculous. Love it.
If the only complaint you have is a weak bell note and the rest is positive, it’s possible that in time you’ll become used to compensating for it and won’t even notice it anymore. I’ve had that happen with several whistles and just have to adjust the air volume accordingly. Like anything else that you buy new, you just have to get used to it and work around whatever little quirks exist. If it remains a problem and is bothersome, contact Mike. I know he’ll work out a positive resolution for you.