Hi, new here

[Xscape]

Hello, new here. Been playing guitar for a while now, and had this obsesion with wind instruments, so finaly i saved up a little to buy something, and decided to get a flute. I've read the FAQ, and there was a list of recommended flutes for a begginer. But I'm not sure which one should I get. How do they differ? Currently I've searched localy and could only find a few yamahas ( an YFL 221 for 300$ and a 261 for 270$) and a Gemeinhardt 2PS for 480$

I want a flute that would sound very "soft and calm" would these work? And are those models good anyway? Sadly all of them are used and I have no way of knowing if there are any inperfections, they are listed as working ok ( but you never know right?)

What do you think ?

[fluteguy18]

The sound of a flute is almost completely up to the player, so I can't give you any comments whatsoever about tone quality. As for buying used... buy at your own peril. There are many wonderful used instruments on the market. I would however budget in at least $150-200 for repair work on the instruments if you buy used. That way in case you buy a lemon you've got the budget to get it put in playing condition (maybe not great playing condition, but playing condition).

[Phineas]

What fluteguy18 said +1

If you are just beginning to play, it really will not matter much what flute you buy. Any flute in a good playable condition will work. As you progress, you will develop preferences toward different features. I have seen students progress just fine even on the cheapest instruments. Playability is the key!!!

You can get good deals on used instruments. However, I have rarely purchased a used instrument that did not need some kind of adjustment. Even if the instrument was playable upon arrival. The best place to purchase used instruments are dealers, or from instrument repair shops. The instruments may still require adjustment. However, most of these places will give you some type of return/guarantee that may cover those type of issues.

Now, the

very "soft and calm"

part. That is all up to you. A good flute player/flautist can sound good on the worse instrument. A player that sucks will sound bad on any instrument. What ever instrument you buy, make sure you get the most out of it. If you do not like how you sound, work on adjusting your playing. Practice time will always take you farther than flute dollars. Any day of the week!!!!

Welcome to the flute board!!!

Phineas

[Xscape]

Any word on the flute models I have listed? Which one should I get?

[Phineas]

Yamaha YFL221 = Closed Hole
Yamaha YFL261 = Open Hole

Both have the same headjoint, and play very similar, other than the obvious. If they are playable, either model would be fine for a beginner.

Gemeinhardt 2SP = Closed hole

These are fine for a beginner as well.

Most people on this board will favor the Yamahas over the Gemeinhardt. I have owned both and think either one would be a good choice. If the Yamahas are in good playable condition, just go with them since they are at the lower price. For the Gemeinhardt 2SP, you can defintiely get a new one for that price. Even less depending on where you look.

I hope this answers your question.

Phineas

[Bo]

For beginners a flute with closed holes is usually easier to play.

[jseligmann]

The Yamaha 221 will be just fine for you. It has a sweet tone and is very well made. What everyone else said is true, but this is a great flute to start and to grow with.