Good Quality Intermediate Flute on a Budget

[Natalie.b]

Hello,

I am looking to upgrade to an intermediate/advanced flute and I need some help. I am currently in college, but am not majoring in music, although I play in the band. So, I don't have any restrictions or any reason to get a really fancy flute. I am looking for a good quality flute that can last me through my adult years. (so one that lasts long rather than a fancy dancy concert quality flute).
I currently have an Armstrong that has lasted me about 5 years, but I am looking to get a higher quality brand. However, they all seem to be very expensive and over my budget. Since I am not the one paying for it, my budget is pretty tight, and not really flexible. I'm trying to stay under $1,000, but all the flutes under $1,000 seem to be either a beginner/student flute, or just not good quality or not a reputable brand. Does anyone know of any good quality flutes, from good reputable brands under or around $1,000? And where to get them? I've looked at Fluteworld.com, Guitarcenter.com, Musicandarts.com, but they are all very expensive. I am also going to try it out before I purchase it, so preferably a website that allows me to do that.
I really like the looks of the pearl flutes, and I am leaning towards that brand, but since my budget is $1,000 I would mostly likely get the 525 and MIGHT be able to squeeze in the 665, but most likely, I would probably get the 525. Is the 525 good, or should I get a lower quality brand, but a higher quality flute from that brand?
Also, does anyone have any suggestions about buying flutes off of Amazon?

Thanks,
Natalie

[pied_piper]

I think you pointed out your dilemma yourself. Flutes around or under $1000 are generally student models. If you truly want an intermediate/step-up flute you'll have to wait and save more money or buy a good quality used intermediate flute from a reputable dealer.

You have stated that you are not majoring in music so why do you want to upgrade? If you are having problems with your current flute, take it to a good repair shop and get it back in tip-top playing condition. I doubt that you have worn out a 5 year old flute.

[@Danix]

An intermediate / advanced flute is difficult to find new for $ 1,000 I recommend that you also look at second hand flutes, sometimes there are some very interesting ones.

If you want a new flute this one has good specs. $ 100 of your budget is spent. But on the page the manufacturer says that you can get a discount of up to 40% if you buy it by contacting the manufacturer, although it already has a first discount, previously it cost $ 1,700

https://www.briccialdi.it/en/Flute-1849 ... ooden-case

[Natalie.b]

Thank you for the advice!

I ended up getting the Pearl 665. I spent a little more money than I wanted to, but I think it was worth it.
I wanted an upgrade mostly because I have a beginner student flute now, and I want to get a higher quality, intermediate flute with open holes. You're right, I could probably take it to a repair shop and it would be a perfectly good flute. I wanted an upgrade not because of the quality of the flute I have now, but rather, to fit my skill level.

Thanks again,
Natalie

[RaineyFox]

Do you still like your Pearl?