Long time listener, first time caller (what an awful joke)
I wanted to debate the purchase of Bb, A & G whistles. I saw a Susato set (3 bodies, 1 head) on their web site which looked promising but then I read a lot of reviews on the board leaning towards Dixon instead.
Prices are similar (130$ Susato set, 40$ each Dixon) so I wonder what the difference might be. Is it quality, playability, sound ?
I listened to sound clips of the Susato whistles and found them to be much too cheery, too crisp, almost aggressive. Is it the same with Dixon because they are made of PVC plastic. Where can I find Dixon sound samples to compare ?
The Dixons sound sweeter, more balanced, and are easier to play (and we all generally prefer them). However, the Susatos are good - I find them a bit harsh in the top notes and I don’t like the stubby beak (I tend to dribble around the sides!)
I have found that, in general, the Dixon’s finger holes are spaced more closely together than the Susato. if you are going down into the lower keys, this can be an issue if you have small hands. I can’t play a Susato G, and have to really stretch on the Susato A, whereas the Dixon G & A are no problem.
And while both are plastic, Susatos have a shiny plastic-looking appearance, whereas the Dixons are more matte (which I prefer), and I think also have a slightly smaller bore.
I’ve tried both, and I hugely prefer Dixons, but it’s a personal choice.