Help!! I need advice about flute purchase

[Confuzzled?]

I recently sold my Muramatsu GX Flute with a custom Williams Headjoint (Solid Silver with a Rose Gold Lip Plate) due to financial reasons. I know I will not be able to come close to replacing it but I need something. I have about $1500 to $1800 to spend. After trying many different models I know that I prefer Solid Silver. I can hear a distinct difference between flutes that have been made in Japan and flutes that have been made in other countries. I had my last flute for 18 years and have not stayed up on newer models. I did come across a 10 yr. old PF-785 Pearl but unfortunately I cannot try it before I purchase it. What would be my best option? Is there a better option out there or would the PF-785 be better?

Thanks!
Confused

[flutego12]

I recently sold my Muramatsu GX Flute with a custom Williams Headjoint (Solid Silver with a Rose Gold Lip Plate) due to financial reasons. I know I will not be able to come close to replacing it but I need something. I have about $1500 to $1800 to spend. After trying many different models I know that I prefer Solid Silver. I can hear a distinct difference between flutes that have been made in Japan and flutes that have been made in other countries. I had my last flute for 18 years and have not stayed up on newer models. I did come across a 10 yr. old PF-785 Pearl but unfortunately I cannot try it before I purchase it. What would be my best option? Is there a better option out there or would the PF-785 be better?

Thanks!
Confused

Wow. So sorry to hear that you had to part with trusted friends. I'll let the others speak. Been away from fluteland for a while and just got back in.

[pied_piper]

I play a Muramatsu AD with a Williams 14K headjoint. I also have an older Pearl PF-501 student line flute and a few other brands too. I have to say that I have not found anything that plays like my "Williamatsu" but I also find the Pearl to be a great low end flute. I use the 501 as a backup when I am doing maintenance on my main flute. I've played a number of the upper end Pearls and they are really good (IMO). I still prefer my Williamatsu, but I don't hesitate to recommend Pearls. It really boils down to personal preferences. You do assume some risk though if you buy the PF-785 without trying it first. YMMV.

[fluteguy18]

There are some really great Azumi flutes in that price range. I also believe Trevor James and Di Zhao might have a few as well. But I'd definitely give the Azumi flutes a try if you can manage it.

[Confuzzled?]

I appreciate your insight. After doing some research yesterday I arranged with the owner of the Pf-785 to let my try it first and I also arranged to try some Azumi models. Your comments made me feel confident about my decision. Thanks!