Regarding tin whistles, I play Clarkes, and Sweetones. But the ones I like best are made by the Cooperman Fife & Drum Co.. Yes they have a web site. They sell a cheap tapered bore tin with a wood plug. I think you can still get them for $4. I have several laying around. I think the tapered bore is what makes any of these whistles work well. That and I prefer the sound of the wood plug over the plastic mouthpiece, even the Sweetones.

Rex