Apples and oranges, though. Whistles and whistle quality simply don't work that way, in a world where the very best players often choose and prefer the $10 instrument. But you probably know that.sgriob wrote:FWIW, I had a perfectly serviceable bouzouki from Lark in the Morning but it wasn't until I got a Sobell mandola that my musicality, and enjoyment, improved by leaps and bounds.
By all means, pick a whistle that pleases you, regardless of price. But "best" will depend on your tastes, and how you intend to play it (better than basic for ... what?).
Since it hasn't been mentioned yet, my default recommendation is often the Dixon Trad D. And I've been playing the Freeman Mellow Dog D quite a bit lately.