Used Muramatsu Gx vs. New Muramatsu Ex? Thoughts?!

[maddietortellini]

I currently play on a very old Yamaha 481. I am a music major and therefore am in need an upgrade. Right now, I'm looking at Muramatsu flutes, as I have heard only wonderful things about them. I, of course, will play test my new flute, but I am wondering which is better-a used Muramatsu Gx or a new Muramatsu Ex? Are the silver plated keys really not as good? Also, what are your thoughts on the Tsubasa headjoint? Worth the extra money or not? Thanks so much!

[fluteguy18]

Tsubasa headjoint: all a matter of opinion and preferences. I personally don't have a definitive opinion either way. Sometimes I like them, sometimes I don't.

EX vs. GX. Really, the only benefit you're getting here is the silver body. Assuming that both flutes are equal in playing condition and in personal preference, I would go with the GX simply from a repair standpoint. The only reason that plated keys (or anything for that matter) are somewhat inferior is that the plating eventually wears off, and when things get bent, the plating can be damaged beyond repair in the process of correcting damage.

In the end, you just need to like what you're getting.

[Zevang]

fluteguy is right

Just to clarify a little bit more, both models have all silver headjoints. The difference, indeed, is only the tube of the body, that's what I think fluteguy meant.

I have an EX-III with the Tsubasa lipplate. This is my second flute (the first is a Nagahara), and I really like it! The headjoint gives me a sweet and warm tone, but not the volume I can get from the Nagahara (all gold with platinum raiser). However, the low register on the Muramatsu can be so much more vibrating! However, as I never had one without the Tsubasa (just bought it blindly!) I could never tell if there is much of a difference.

I also completely agree that this is very much a personal preference. You should try for as much time as it is available to you so you can make a decision, with or wityout tsubasa.

If the EX is new, I'd go for it! If you really want an all silver flute, then you should spare money and try the DS model.

Just like it happens to other fine brands available out there, Muramatsu flutes are very reliable and durable.

[Phineas]

They play an sound virtually identical. At least from my player's perspective.

[maddietortellini]

Thanks, everyone! I am leaning more towards the EX, but who knows? I may even end up with a Miyazawa!

[Phineas]

Thanks, everyone! I am leaning more towards the EX, but who knows? I may even end up with a Miyazawa!

I tried out the Muramatsu against the Miyazawa when I was in Japan years ago. The Miyazawa was easier to adapt to out of the box. However, later, I wish I would have gotten the Muramatsu. After playing on my Miyazawa for many years, I tried a Muramatsu at a flute show. The If I were to choose now, that is what I would have went with the Muramatsu. I can do more with the Muramatsu headjoint than the Miyazawa. Of course, you can always change the headjoint.

Just thought I would give my experience with the 2. I love my Miyazawa, and it is a great flute. Just keep what I said in mind.

Phineas

[maddietortellini]

Update: I just purchased a Sankyo CF201 with an FT cut headjoint. Beautiful flute, I am truly in love! Just goes to show, you don't know what works for YOU until you play test them!Thank you for all of your help, everyone!

[Phineas]

Just goes to show, you don't know what works for YOU until you play test them!

Yep