I’m looking to buy a good practice set for under $1000. Right now I’m thinking I’ll get either Pat Sky or Nick Whitmer sets. Are these good quality sets? Do you recommend any other makers? Thanks.
Can’t go wrong with the products of Pat Sky! His “budget” chanter, reed set up for a beginner, and manual of instruction and understanding are right on target. You won’t be disappointed!
Anasazi Piper
In addition to Pat Sky (very nice guy)
CJ Dixon and Uilleann pipes of Boston are in your price range.
I recommend Nick Whitmer. He does first rate work and his prices are very reasonable. He also makes drones and regs so you can upgrade your set as you progress.
Another thing you may want to take into consideration is your geographical location, and that of your prospective pipemaker. The reason being reed set up and behavior. The closer to your climate conditions the pipemaker lives, the better your chances of getting a reed that will take little or no time in getting used to its new home.
The closer you are to your pipemaker the more often you can go and visit for advice, reed adjustment, and most importantly, commiseration.
djm