Well, after having played the Killarney at last night's session, I'd have to agree that the Kilarney and Sindt are very different whistles. I'm surprised. I expected them to play and sound the same. Two local and veteran players, both Sindt owners, tried the Killarney and their first responses were that it plays nothing like their Sindts. Others have commented on the lovely sound....I've been playing sessions with my Sindt for 20+ years. Last night was the first time I've played without it. It was a "strange" experinece for me TBH. It was the first time that I was able to hear myself in 20 years
So much so that I was starting to feel a little "paranoid" because I'm realizing that others must be able to hear me more now as well. I used to "hide" behind the odd tune if I weren't comfortable with it or am learning something new. I actually never picked it up on those occasions last night. I even remarked to the banjo player next to me ( yes, I was able to hear myself next to a banjo
) that I would normally play the Sindt on such tunes but the Killarney was so easy to hear ( not "louder" as such but just easier to hear. If that makes any sense.) that I would just sit out. There were times that I was wishing that I never left my Sindt at home. Tonight I will take both for more comparision....What I found and heard is that the Killarney whistle played very nicely between both octaves. Incredibly so, I found. The volume remained consistent throughout both octaves. Even the sometimes troublesome high B was smooth. I found the repsonse to ornamentation to be smooth as well. Also, when dropping down to the low E's and D's, the volume and tone remained strong on those often "muddy" notes. I am quite impressed with the Killarney whistle! TBH I found it played more like my old Copeland high D than the Sindt. Not for volume mind you but for the overall playability and sound. I am starting to feel so guilty for loving the Killarney so much. I may just switch. I never, ever thought I would even think such a thing. I've played and owned some of the "best" makers out there and have never been tempted to switch before! To me, the Killarney is just that nice!! Of cousre other opinions will vary. These are just mine