Hylands In-Line Drone Valves Testimonials

Moose Bagpipe Products

Hylands In-Line Drone Valves Testimonials

When the new Hylands In-Line Drone Valves were ordered from Ian Lyons, I was still a little unsure if I would actually use them. With similar products, the consensus in piping circles was that you unfortunately had to tear apart your bagpipe to install them and once installed, it was very difficult to access them to make any neccessary adjustments so that they would function effectively.

Let me tell you. When the Hylands In-Line Drone Valves arrived, I was immediately taken by the creativity and ingenuity of the designers. These valves have been made so that they attach directly to the end of the three drone hoses (in a Ross set up) right at the canister-making accessibility simple. I was delighted over the fact that it only took a few minutes to install the valves and I did NOT need to take my pipes apart at all in the process. Additionally, the valves feature a set screw (located on the outside of each valve) and a small wrench, which makes any adjustments needed, a very simple task.

I have been playing in Grade 1 circles for more than 20 years and have always been proud of my ability to complete a cut-off without the assistance of any drone valves. I put the Hylands In-Line Drone Valves in just before the band (The 78th Fraser Highlanders Pipe Band) were scheduled to play a 2 and a half hour concert. What I experienced that night totally changed my perspective on drone valve forever. EVERY CUT-OFF that I was required to make was made with ease. In fact, since I was able to stop my pipes with more air still left in the bag, it was now a simple task to keep the airflow on the chanter at its peak-right up to the very end of each piece of music. As the night progressed, the usual concerns that creep in after a few hours of playing (and the fatigue associated with it) regarding my cut-offs were gone. I no longer had to worry about the potential of trailing drones or maintaining the pitch of my chanter.

These Hylands In-Line Drone Valves would be a wonderful addition to any bagpipe-regardless of the level of player. In fact, they will now be a permanent fixture in my bagpipe.

John Cairns - Double Gold Medalist at Inverness & Oban 1997 and Pipe Sergeant of The Scottish Lion 78th Fraser Highlanders Pipe Band.

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When I first considered using Hylands In-Line Drone Valves I was curious as to how much they could improve performance.

Since fitting them to my pipes, and to the entire pipe corps of the New Zealand Police, concerns about problematic starts and stops have become a thing of the past.

Equally, the traditional drop off in pressure that signals the end of piping performances as the pipers squeeze down their bag has dramatically improved. I find that you can stop with more air left in the bag.

What has surprised me more than anything has been the amazing increase in stability of the drones, once tuned they stay there for a much longer period of time.

The Hylands In-Line Drone Valves were easy to fit and are equally easy to access and adjust.

Over the years I have tried out many products on the market which make similar claims. I'vefound nothing better, or more reliable than the Hyland In-Line Drone Valves.

Iain Robertson - Pipe Major of the New Zealand Police Pipe Band.

More Testimonials to Come Soon!