On a previous thread, I got negative feedback on the Susato Low G and A. I got some good suggestions for other whistles. However, I should have been more specific; due to budget constraints and the fact that I can buy Shaw or Susato whistles wholesale, my choice is basically between these two whistles. So, how about Shaw whistles in Low G and/or A? I’ve heard about the air requirements needed for playing a Shaw, how about volume? Can they hold their own in a session? Thanks in advance.
I have both the A and G Shaws, and they have very good volume. They take a little more air than most whistles, but not as much as some say. The A actually has a really nice, almost sweet sound. The G a little less so, but still nice. But, also possibly in your budget might be a Hoover whistle. Check into them, you might find what you want there.
If you dont mind that seam on the underside the Shaws are good whistles,the A being particularly good with a lovely breathy flute-like tone.I like the Susato G very much but the Sus A doesnt have a low whistle sound at all and is recorder-like in tone and rather loud.The bottom hole is the most gigantic I,ve ever seen on a whistle this size.
Peace, Mike
I have a Shaw A and I used to have a Susato Dublin low G.
The thing I really don’t like about the Shaw A is lack of back pressure. I have tried various tweaks, but the resulting alterations of sound were unsatisfactory. Also, the increased breath requirements prevent me from sustaining notes at the end of phrases as much as I like to (I played concert boehm flute in the past with no breath requirement trouble). I like the Shaw A for some airs, but I never play it with my fiddler and guitarist friends because the lower register hasn’t enough volume.
The Susato Dublin low G sounded very nice and was easy to play, but it was too quiet for group play, so I sold it and got a Reyburn that I’m very happy with.
Talk to Mack Hoover about your needs. I told him I needed a Bb (metal) that had a strong bottom end for session playing, and quick response for reels. He sold me one in aluminum that has all the qualities in tone and playability I want–just enough chiff to sound like a whistle, pure sweet tone, great volume, no shriek in the higher registers, etc. And I could return it if I didn’t like it.
Lisa
A Hoover PVC may still meet your dollar parameters. It may be worth your while to check it out! Good luck.
I’ve said it before and I’l say it again: I like Shaw whistles! Own a Shaw A and love it!