First Katana

I have a bo-hi katana I occasionally swing around. It can definitely cut even when there isn't a whistle, but the presence of a whistle definitely means a better edge alignment.
The whistle is very faint, I'll bet it just doesn't translate well into video. Additionally if you are striking a target, the sound of the strike will generally mask the whistle.
 
If you are looking for really good value ($200-300) along with fit and finish, look up KrisCutlery.
I have a few and they are nice to swing and do have a hamon although it is barley visible unless polished.

Hanwei also is good but I didn't like the feel of their lower end models though.

I also have 2 Cheness and just don't enjoy using them.
 
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