Looking for a new flute

[kmshesko]

Hey guys!!

So I've been playing flute for about 12 years now. I currently have a Bundy open hole flute that was purchased for me when I was in 8th grade (I'm a senior in college, so about 8 years or so ago).

I plan on keep playing after I graduate, so I am looking to get something slightly better.

There are a few things I am interested in, such as the off set G key (which I can get standard on most models) and the B foot extra key thing-a-ma-jig (not sure of the technical name).

I'd like to keep in under a couple grand if possible.

Does anyone have any good suggestions or starting point?

[de_Genova]

Does anyone have any good suggestions or starting point?

For the money ($3,000) and for the high quality of the flute the two BEST choices on the market today are -->

My experience on this topic says that a very good way to go is with Altus 907. It has a .958 Brittania sliver HJ and a well plated body. Offset G keys - Split E and B foot with gizmo facilitator key. The build is equal to their high end models and the sound is extremely fine and very good in all registers. I also have a top of the line 1607 soldered tone holes - seamed tubing - w/gold riser etc but I play the 907 just as often and equally well.

Another very good choice is the Muramatsu EX - similar set-up as the 907 - excellent flute - superb in every way. I also have a high end Muramatsu but I use a HJ from the GX (same as the EX HJ) and it plays extremely well ..........James Galway highly recommends the EX and, in point of fact, uses one all the time as his practice flute at home.

[kmshesko]

I am really excited about this. A dealer my flute teacher works with is sending me the Altus 907 and the Muramatsu EX (along with a sanyo and a Miyazawa). Since I was keen on the Muramatsu before I heard her suggestions, I'm am most excited about that one, but I am definitely keeping an open mind.

They will be coming in next week, so I hope to have something soon!

Thanks for the suggestions.

[Arianna]

I had always heard Muramatsu's raved about. However, keep an open mind. I loved the mechanism on them (so smooth and buttery) but I hated my tone. When I tried new flutes about 6 months ago, I had it down to a Miyazawa and a Powell. I ended up with the Powell, but the Miyazawa was a great flute. I had never played one and was very impressed. I played a Sankyo up to that point and loved it. I personally have never been a fan of Altus. Don't know why, just doesn't work for me. So, my main point, keep an open mind and try to be as unbiased as possible with the brands. Maybe even try covering up the logo when trying and just putting them in Flute A, B, C, and D labels. Oh, and have several different people listen to you...I like getting both musicians and flute players who have a trained ear AND non-musicians. Just to get a variety of opinions. Big investment=lots of help making the decision.
Good luck!

[kmshesko]

I'm definitely going to have my husband there because he plays trumpet so he knows music and has heard me play my flute in a variety of performances as well as practicing at home, and he is very honest about when I sound good and don't. I will obviously have my flute teacher there, and I'm sure she will also be very honest.

Is there any other suggestions as to what I should be looking for?

[m3the01]

Honestly, u need to demo a flute for at least a week to get any sort of feel out of it. The first days are hell, but after that u can get a better feel. Im picking up something new, i only get 7 days with it, but ive played the brand before. I wish i could have it for a month, explore each headjoint, and then decide.

Good luck!!!

[avins]

I see youve tried out the ex and gx 's , in your experience , is there any difference in sound between the Ex and the GX , I would like to believe there is as the GX is silver body and should have some more resistance
I have the ex , but woudl look to upgrade to eitherGX or DS
Thanks