Syn
[Emily's] (MP3, reel, on the new model
Syn). This is a wonderful, fun reel I learned from the playing of Seamus
Egan, played here on whistle.
[The Jig of Slurs] (MP3, the new
model Syn)
The Syn is an aluminum (or aluminium) whistle with a delrin fipple, or more
precisely a delrin beak. It is a fairly wide-bore whistle.
The Syn I have is an early version, with curved windway and blade and the
tightest voicing and most resistance of any whistle I have. It feels like you
really have to work at pushing air into the whistle.
The tone is full-bodied and clear, pure, and it actually has a little bit of a
ring to it that I love.
Volume is moderate; slightly softer than Susato, but louder than Generation-type
whistles.
This is a favorite whistle of mine and I think the Syn represents a lot of bang
for the buck. I have heard he has a later design which is supposed to be
slightly easier to play, and I have one ordered. Check back here for an
updated review.
Update: the new model Syn (heard above) is indeed
easier to play. Backpressure has been reduced, as has resistance, though
it still doesn't require much air. The tone is a bit purer and a lot less
shrill on the high A and B. There is still a bit of ring in the tone, and
it has a full, rich tone that really sings. This whistle is an extreme
value for the price.
