Choices are Cheftain Low D, Kerry Songbird Low D, or Kerry Pro Low D. Which whistle do you prefer and why? I am going to buy one of these whistles, just can’t make up my mind. I know you all are always quick to give your opinions, so hit me.
Songbird Low D - very warm, haunting sound. Fipple design = minimal clogging. Great for slow airs.
Kerry Pro Low D - Superior whistle, pure sound. IMO, equal to an Overton w/o the breath requirements in the upper octave. Very responsive, great for reels.
Chieftain OS Low D - Slightly fuzzier than a Kerry Pro if overblown, great to play for non-trad. Much jazzier sounding which is the style I like.
Chieftain NR Low D - Same as OS with lower breath requirements in the upper octave
I own all 4 and play them depending on mood (at this moment I am playing a Chieftain NR tunable F).
When I went on vacation I took the Songbird (because I feel my throat resonating with it. It is the only whistle I own that does it) so that is my desert island whistle for this week. I also took 2 NR Chieftains in odd keys and the usual xxxx-load of high Ds.
StewySmoot could you please tell me what OS and NR mean? I’ve seen this on the Kerrywhistle.com site and could not find an explanation anywhere.
“Old Style” and “New Range,” I believe. Just a way to identify an older model from a new one. The design changed significantly, apparently.
Correct. The difference I feel is less wind is required in the upper octave above G. IMHO. Otherwise they sound very much alike to me.
I will add that the Songbird’s sound is more flute-like than most low whistles.
Well this thread has saved me asking a question!
I can’t speak for the others, but I have a Kerry Pro low D (tuneable) that I really like a lot. The low register especially is very solid and “creamy” sounding (can’t think of a better description).
Thanks for all the help. I think the KerryPro Low D tuneable has my money. I believe it is on sale until the 1st of September.