Azumi flutes?

Rayne · Post by **Rayne** » Wed Jul 04, 2007 1:40 pm

I believe these are fairly new but our local music store has a couple and they look like good flutes.

Does anyone have experience with these? Would you recommend them?

(I played for 8 years in school and 10 years later I'm getting back into playing. So, I don't NEED anything spectacular, but would like something more than just a beginner flute.)

Thanks!!

fluttiegurl · Post by **fluttiegurl** » Wed Jul 04, 2007 4:36 pm

Azumi is a factory produced flute with a hand cut Altus headjoint. This is very similar to what other companies are doing to try to get into the high school and early college market. I have found these options to be good for my adult amature students, not so much for my high school students preparing for college as they often need to upgrade fairly quickly once entering college. They seem to be built sturdy and have a nice overall sound. The ones I have tried have been nice flutes, but I like Altus headjoints, so be sure to try several other options as well.

Rayne · Post by **Rayne** » Thu Jul 05, 2007 8:42 am

Thanks, fluttiegurl! I actually think I've decided on a Gemeinhardt 3BO. I'm getting it from FluteWorld, so I'll be able to test it out for their 10 day trial period. If that's not the one for me, I might go down and try out the Azumis and other ones they have at our local music store.

fluttiegurl · Post by **fluttiegurl** » Thu Jul 05, 2007 10:18 am

I would suggest trying both. You may find that one would do fine, but on the other hand, the other may be very different. I would also warn you that the Gemeinhardt 3B series is not much different from a student model flute, it just has open holes. Just keep others in mind before making a decission.

Rayne · Post by **Rayne** » Thu Jul 05, 2007 3:59 pm

Hey, thanks for the info on the 3B series. Do you know if the 3S series is a much better deal for an extra $250-300?

I need to keep it under $1,000 as much as possible, so I've been looking at the $500-550 price range but could bump up to the 3S series in the $800-850 range. I don't play in a band, but am looking for more than a beginner/student flute.

fluttiegurl · Post by **fluttiegurl** » Thu Jul 05, 2007 8:26 pm

The main difference is that the 3S is solid silver. Otherwise, it is still basically the same thing. I think you would be much better off trying several flutes out and go from there. If the Gemeinhardt offers you what you want in sound and function, go for it. However, you should keep your options open and try several. If I remember correctly, Pearl offers a nice flute starting at right under $1000. Also keep in mind that your local retailer may be able to offer you something used or take your old flute in trade. In your case, a used flute may be the way to go. Fluteworld has competitive prices, but they will not do these things. Just some suggestions.