Problem with Tin Whistle and Tinnitus

Whistle
1

Hello,

first of all, i’m from switzerland and startet playing the Whistle about 2 Months ago.

But when I play the Dixon High D, in the seconde Octave E, the tone stresses my Ear, makes my Tinnitus getting worse. I’m sensitive to high Tones, it’s okay if I play with earplugs.

With the Susato Bb, I don’t have this Problem, also not in the second Octave. But then again it is way too loud for me sometimes. I really like the sound of the Susato, probably because of the Plastic Body, the sound is softer.

Now my Question, which whistle could you recommend for me? I think about an Low F, G or A. It should be rather quiet (not because of the neighbours :wink: ) and shouldn’t need to much Airpressure, but this isn’t that important. Also the Tone shouldn’t be too breathy.

I like the sound of the Susato. I heard some Soundclips of the Burke Whistle, like them too, but are they loud?

Hope you understand my concern, sorry about the language :laughing: . It’s too bad that I can’t test them myself, because there are no Shops here. Only one, but they only sell Susato.

Thanks in advance for any response.

2

After reading your post, I’m a bit unclear as to what you’re actually asking. Do want to avoid using earplugs by going to a lower key; are you looking for a quiet whistle in the key of D; or are you willing to use earplugs but just want recommendations for a “good” whistle that has tonal qualities like the Susato?

Also, if you’re looking for earplugs that don’t distort too much, I use (when I remember) “HEAROS”; others may have different suggestions as well.

Philo

3

When in doubt, wear earplugs.

4

try a low whistle?

Stay hoopy,
Mike

5

My Burke low whistles, made of a composite, are easy on the ears.

I don’t know if Mike’s high composites are equally as “soft.”

I play a Burke Brass Viper Low D, which is wonderfully easy on the ears…but might be considered somewhat “breathy.” (I think of it’s tone as being strong-but-muted…but, of course, that’s just me…)

Incidentally, I’ve gone to playing Low Whistles, exclusively, because of sensitive ears. Even then, I occasionally use earplugs…

6

Hi Jorge,

Welome to C&F and the wild & wacky world of whistles…

I’d give it at least 6 months to see how much you are actually going to be bothered by the whistle. I had ear troubles as well - especially while playing in the car (duh) but it has subsided. Obviously - if you are in pain then you should not play, but I’ll bet it will get better over time - at least I hope so.

I play Hi D & Bb whistles. The Bb is a lot easier on the ears. A lot of people seem to like whistles in A also. Low D whistles can be tough to finger & may require pipers grip & lots of practice to get used to. I play D flute & D whistle is harder to play right-hand than my flute.

Wood whistles are mellow & people have mentioned Walton’s mellow D. I’m sure you will find something that will work for you - may need to experiment.

Best,

Deisman

7

Thank you all for the answers. I wrote maybe a bit confusing. :wink:

Yes, exactly. I could try better earplugs, but I want to play without them.

I have already an Low D Chieftain, but..

That’s why I want a Low A, or G (also because of WhOA :laughing: ). I think the pipers grip with them is easier. Is that true?


I heard soundclips of the Burke Low, I liked it alot. But can’t tell how loud it is. Do you think the Burke is quieter than an Susato?

Yeah, me too. My earproblem is more a stress thing, so it could get better over time.

edit*

Wood whistles are mellow

Hmmm, but I don’t like the sound of Wooden whistles that much, it reminds me of a Recorder.

8

I ordered a Dixon Low G Polymer. I thinks it’s the best choice right now. Then i will play more with earplugs and hope my ears will get used to it after some time.