I got my Lochlan Low D from Greg Russell a few weeks ago and thought I would let everyone know what I think about it.
First-- It’s huge. I don’t think I could ever misplace it. And with that much aluminum tubing I might be accused of refining uranium. The fingers are a bit of a stretch, even with piper’s grip, and the holes are quite large to cover. But after a few weeks practice I’m not having problems covering any holes.
Second and most important— The sound is sort of a reedy, murky texture, at least for me. I don’t think it is much louder than my Burke Viper. But you have to really punch the air speed up to hit the higher register. And this allows a little more dynamic range on the lower notes. The bell note booms.
I have taken the Lochlan to a couple of sessions. There were three fiddles, another whistler, piano accordian, two mandolins, a guitar and a bodhran. And the Lochlan could be heard quite well. I think it is a combination of fairly high volume with the reedy tone quality, but it cut through the mix like a windy banjo.
Anyway, I got a few compliments on the sound and some encouragement to keep bringing it.
I waited quite a while to get this whistle because Greg had to take some whistle-making time off. If he keeps producing these I would recommend them for their performance at sessions alone.
Ed