Purchasing a pre-owned flute

[derrick]

I have found two used flutes on craig's list, but don't know much about flutes. One is ARTLEY 18-0 Silver Plated Flute w Artley Hard Case & Rod - $125...good condition, stated they cost $600+ new.
Other is Armstrong silver flute at $110 (not further info.

This is for my daughter, first year in middle sch band. Would appreciate knowledgeable opinion on these brands.
Thanks, KRD

[fluteguy18]

If at all possible, ask the seller questions. Ask the age of the instruments, and further information on the condition (i.e. when they were last checked by a technition, the age of the instruments, any needed repair etc.) Also, if possible, find a advanced flutist in the area (advanced high school level will be fine) to try the flute, and they can tell you which one is better in their opinion.

If you cant have it test played..... then here is my next bit of advice.

From my expieriance with these brands, both are very suitable for beginners. However, I havent seen any Artley flutes around lately, so chances are, is that this flute is probably a decent bit older than the Armstrong. It could also be the other way around, because Armstrong has been around for a while as well. I would recommend having a look at the instruments, and seeing their condition in person before purchasing. Based off of my expieriance with these brands ( and I am sure others will probably have different opinions than everyone else) I have seen students have more success with Armstrong. However, if it is in poor condition, you might be better off with Artley. I currently play a Sterling silver Armstrong, and I am a flute major in college (but I am hoping to upgrade in the next month or two ).

If both are in equal condition, and have had similiar repair history, then I would try to pick the newest one because you are less likely to have issues with outdated scales that cause intonation problems. But, go with your gut instinct, and you will probably be okay. Also, dont be afraid to look around more. I know there are several music stores that do a rent to own program, that will do this sort of financing very cheaply (less that $20 a month), and will sell very quality student flutes.

just my .02

[flutepicc06]

I agree with most of what Fluteguy had to say, but if you can't have them play tested, I would suggest passing on the instruments. Flutes are available in abundance in virtually every price range possible, and unless you can ascertain to your satisfaction that the flutes are in good condition, it's always best to assume they need some work. This work could easily be more than what you'd pay for either flute if a full repad or something was in order, and most of the time, people selling flutes don't really know a whole lot about the instruments. If you can get a trial period, or have someone you trust try out the instruments, either would be a great beginner instrument for your daughter. If not, I would keep looking.

[Zevang]

I go with FlutePicc06.
Test play and check by an experienced flautist is essential, and can save you a lot of money.
Zevang

[squints]

I haven't bought a used flute. If you choose to buy a new one I can suggest you go online and look for name brands. I got a decent flute for 300$. That is actually a good price from my other optons of flute purchases but I don't know of yours.

[MeLizzard]

The Artley and Armstrong are both Conn (UMI) flutes. Artley hasn't been made since, I think, the '70s. If you can get more information (model #, serial #) for the Armstrong, plus a tryout/exam by a good tech, it's probably a good price. If it needs a repad, don't pay more than, say, $150. Even with a repad (about $180 dollars for a student flute here), this would still be a good deal. Gently-used student flutes, REAL brands--Emerson, Armstrong, Yamaha, Gemeinhardt--are almost always a better investment than buying a brand-new, off-brand flute for much less. Most are available for under $300, depending where you live and the flute's condition. With proper maintainence, these old flutes can chug on for a lot of years, in beginners' hands. Nobody would want to play an orchestra gig on 'em, but who cares? One of my students is currently playing, in marching band only, a 40-year-old example of this! Still plays.

[derrick]

Thanks for your feedback...great comments. I will be patient and not jumpt too quickly given your words. I plan to call for more info and get someone to test play for me. This was my first post--great website! KRD

[flutepicc06]

You're very welcome! If you have any more questions, we'll be here!

[milly]

Hi there!

I just joined this board. I know I'm new and should probably keep my mouth shut, but I just wanted to interject that Artley was still making flutes in the late 80s. My first flute was around 1987, and it was an Artley (brand new). I agree that it would be a good beginner instrument if it's in good condition. Mine is not. I used it as my "marching horn" once I got my Yamaha a few years later, so it's experienced a lot of humidity, heat and (yes) rain when our band director wouldn't let us put them away.

And, I totally agree with the comment about repair cost...you'll pay more to re-pad it than you will for the whole horn, so it's probably not worth the money unless it was done recently by a reputable shop.