Buying flute question

asamd74 · Post by **asamd74** » Tue Nov 03, 2009 3:42 am

Is it better to buy a flute online or at the music store? I'm want to get a Yamaha 471. In Anchorage we have a Yamaha Dealership but I saw some flutes on http://www.wwbw.com/ and it was a little cheaper than the one at the store.

Callidor · Post by **Callidor** » Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:36 am

If you have a store near you, use it. It's always better to play an instrument before you buy it. At a dealership, you'll be able to pick up lots of different models with the features that you're looking for and within your price range. Then you can play all of them and figure out which one you feel most comfortable with. You'll hear it all the time on this board - no two flutes, even two copies of the same model, are the same. With that in mind, there's simply no substitute for actually being able to play the flutes in a store, and figuring out which one you like best.

Good luck, and happy buying.

fluttiegurl · Post by **fluttiegurl** » Tue Nov 03, 2009 8:27 am

If you can't go to a store or even if you are just shopping around, places like Flute World will ship you flutes on trial. What I like about this process is that you have the flute in your own home, with your own music and your own "audience" for a time. in some cases, I think this is often a better solution, though I do like the attention you get at a store.

However, I never recommend buying from a company that will not allow some trial period, whether from a local dealer or online.

fluteguy18 · Post by **fluteguy18** » Tue Nov 03, 2009 9:55 am

Absolutely. AND, while we're on the topic, if you are wanting a Yamaha, I would look at the 500 level series. They ARE a bit more expensive, but the thing is, is that the 200,300, and 400 level Yamahas are almost identical. The only difference is the silver content which won't have that big of a difference. The sound of an instrument depends more on the design, and aside from open holes or not, the design of the 200-400 series instruments are all identical. If you go up to the 500 level, you get a handmade headjoint and a flute that is far superior in terms of sound, craftsmanship and design.

asamd74 · Post by **asamd74** » Tue Nov 03, 2009 3:58 pm

Thank you!

Zevang · Post by **Zevang** » Wed Nov 04, 2009 3:38 pm

Whenever it's possible, always prefer buying locally, where you can test play the instrument.
Also, try other brands available. You may be really surprised...
That's because there isn't the best flute, but there is the best flute for you.

c_otter · Post by **c_otter** » Sun Nov 08, 2009 1:34 pm

If you're in Anchorage, I would definitely use the Horn Dr. The owners will treat you well.