Emerson ELD? Fill me in...

[turbotom]

Hi everyone, I'm new here.
I've been playing a student flute forever (Artley 18-0).

I've been continuously watching e-bay for that really cheap solid silver, french style flute. Yesterday, I found an Emerson ELD with a minute left. Having no idea what an Emerson ELD was, I franticly checked the internet to see what details I could find. I found this webpage.

I ended up bidding on this flute on ebay.

Of course, it doesn't have the b-foot. So, after doing more searching, I assume I made a mistake. Oh well, I may have overpaid for an old nickel flute, but it's probably better than my Artley (even though I love it).

Let me know if you know anything about the flute.

Thanks a bunch!
Tom

[ookwormbay7]

just remember that something completely solid silver isn't likely to be super cheap because of the actual price of silver (although it's way less expensive than gold/platinum of course). and then ebay is difficult because you can't just try out the flute first before you buy it. I found the emerson site but it didn't have it listed, and neither does fluteworld...I'd look more but I'm sure somebody else knows about it...limited as in no longer made? but that price doesn't look too bad. I'm not exactly sure if it's worth it, but who knows. usually when they say silver, you have to check to see if they specify, because it likely could come out as nickel silver unless it says sterling or gives a percentage like .95 brittania, .97, etc. if you think the flute is in good condition, what I would do is go find some person who can examine it, or get it overhauled, and then you'll be able to find why it was sold cheaply.

sorry I can't be more help. I've never tried any emersons.

*looks at post* avatar, avatar...I need a nice flutey avatar...*opens photoshop*
later...
*looks at time* I'll do it tomorrow.

[fluttiegurl]

From what I can tell, this is not a solid silver flute. You can often tell by the color of the tenons. The flute is not listed as such either. If it does not say "solid silver" do not assume it is. Remember that not all open hole flutes are solid silver. This one would probably be not much better than what you have, just with open holes.

Questions that I ask before bidding on ebay:
1. What is the flute made of?
2. Please specify the model number or brand of flute.
3. Can you verify the metal content? Does it actually say solid silver on all three pieces?
4. How old is the flute?
5. Has it been serviced? If so, when?
6. Has the flute ever had any major damage to it?
7. What is the condition of the Pads? Is it playable as is? Have you had someone play it?
8. Are there any dents, dings ir scratches (even if they seem not worth mentioning)?

These questions generally weed out the flutes that I don't want or would not want for my students. If the buyer can't or won't answer any of these questions, I don't buy. Depending on the answere he/she gives, I will only buy accordingly. In other words, if the flute needs an overhaul, I won't give over $75 for it (unless it is a handmade flute or a rare collectors item) and will onyl buy if it is in good cosmetic shape. If the buyer claims it to be "perfect", I will always ask for a return if I find it to not be as such. I bought one of my students a flute for marching band last year for under $100 that ended up being as good as her concert flute. It's just a matter of knowing what you are doing and knowing what you are looking for.

[FLflutist]

Be careful from buying a flute from Ebay, I've heard horror stories from people buying flutes from Ebay

[flutepicc06]

Be careful from buying a flute from Ebay, I've heard horror stories from people buying flutes from Ebay

I've had some excellent experiences buying from ebay. As long as you know what you're doing and take precautions to protect yourself and your money, there are some fantastic deals to be had. Just a few months ago I picked up a great Eb flute off eBay for about 200 less than the average cost of one there, plus this flute actually plays! There are lots of scams and places to waste your money, but also some good opportunities to make a good deal. It's a matter of experience and knowledge whether you can tell those two apart.

[fluteguy18]

Be careful from buying a flute from Ebay, I've heard horror stories from people buying flutes from Ebay

I've had some excellent experiences buying from ebay. As long as you know what you're doing and take precautions to protect yourself and your money, there are some fantastic deals to be had. Just a few months ago I picked up a great Eb flute off eBay for about 200 less than the average cost of one there, plus this flute actually plays! There are lots of scams and places to waste your money, but also some good opportunities to make a good deal. It's a matter of experience and knowledge whether you can tell those two apart.

Ditto. I ended up finding a great deal on ebay, and got my picc that way. I got it new about $1600 cheaper than the list price, and it is quite an exceptional instrument. [although, I knew exactly what I was doing, so I avoided the junkers].

[fluttiegurl]

I recently bought an alto for less than $800! I have also helped many students find flutes through ebay. Ebay does a pretty good job at keeping scammers away, but one does slip through from time to time. Just remember that if it looks/sounds too good to be true, and the seller won't answer your questions or refuses to give you a serial number, stay away! Also stick to name brands (ones mentioned here often). I try to avoid buying from a seller with a low or no feedback as well. There are great possibilites out there, but you just have to be careful.

[turbotom]

Thanks for the replies.

I have a strong suspicion that it will be junk, but I'll have fun trying to fix it.

[fluttiegurl]

Junk may not be the right word. Emerson flutes are usually pretty solid instruments. You may be surprised! It is probably not exactly what you were looking for, but this could possible be a good flute. Let us know the outcome!