Difference between Muramatsu American and Japan

[o7nesss]

Hey again everyone!

I was just wondering if anyone knows the difference between the Muramatsu's
Do they sound different?

thanks!

[JButky]

Hey again everyone!

I was just wondering if anyone knows the difference between the Muramatsu's
Do they sound different?

thanks!

Same flutes. Muramatsu America is simply the distributor.

Same as Pearl Corporation where I work, The pro flutes are made in Japan and the rest in Taiwan. We receive them for distribution here. Most of the companies working like this will do the setups here before distributing to make sure they are OK.

[pied_piper]

Joe is correct that they are the same flutes, but there is one small difference. Muramatsu America flutes have "MA" stamped on the ribs to indicate they are imported and supported by Muramatsu America. Muramatsu America does not warranty non "MA" flutes. If you buy a non "MA" Muramatsu flute, the warranty is with Muramatsu Japan. In that case, if you had problems with the flute, your options would be to return it to Japan, send it to Muramatsu America (they will charge a surcharge for warranty repairs on non MA flutes), or pay for local repairs.

That is explained on the FAQ page at http://www.muramatsu-america.com/

[cflutist]

pp, good to know. Thanks for the info.

[Zevang]

Joe is correct that they are the same flutes, but there is one small difference. Muramatsu America flutes have "MA" stamped on the ribs to indicate they are imported and supported by Muramatsu America.

Also, that, as far as I know, Muramatsu flutes are produced exclusively in Japan.

[fluteguy18]

From what I have gathered is that there are other small differences as well. Most notably the differences seem to be the spring type, spring tension, and headjoint cuts. From what I have heard is that stainless steel springs are preferred in Asia and that the headjoints are generally cut to suit individuals with more of an over bite (not meaning to offend, but rather to acknowledge what I have heard is a stereotypical characteristic). This may be rumor of course, but it is what I have heard. Most American made flutes have gold springs. My Miyazawa certainly has stainless steel springs and my Yamaha piccolo does as well.

On the Muramatsu website they say: "North American specifications refer to pitch, spring tension, headjoint, cut, etc. Also, if you are purchasing a DS, Platinum Clad, Gold or Solid Platinum flute, the D# roller is a standard feature on these flutes. Over the years our staff has worked closely with the engineers at Muramatsu Inc. to ensure that the flutes we import have the features desired by the American flutist."

So it seems to me that they do alter designs ever so slightly to cater to the North American player.

[o7nesss]

Oh wow,

Thanks for all the info!!

I was planning to get either a Powell or Muramatsu from the US (because they're both $3000 cheaper than Australia, which is where I reside).

But now that I see they have small mechanical difference I'll make sure I look for a non-american Muramatsu. Just another question, if i was to get the 'MA' flute does the warranty still valid if I get it from Australia? (Like, if anything happens, Do I have to send it to the American Muramatsu - or is it still valid for the Japan Muramatsu?)

Thanks so much!