Amadeus AF-700 or AF-900: opinions requested

[mx5guy]

I am an early intermediate flute student, learning for my own enjoyment (I'm an adult, love the flute). I looked at the Amadeus AF-700 and AF-900, and there is a $400 difference between the two, similar specs except the 900 has French style keys and gold springs. I like the feel, sound and responsiveness of both instruments. If I can afford both, is it worth going the extra mile for the 900 just for those improvements or would I be better off getting the 700? I always think about resale value too, sometimes the more the merrier. Thanks.

[fluteguy18]

I would probably save the money if you like them equally. At one point in time the French arms were a mark of quality, but that's not the case anymore. Gold springs... meh. Some people swear by them, but many of the top tier makers have switched to stainless steel springs. The only reason I would shell out the extra cash is based on cosmetic reasons alone. I personally like the appearance of French arms over the appearance of the Y-arms.

From a technical perspective the french arms are a bit more rigid and don't tip as easily from 12-6, but unless a key is bent your technician shouldn't be bending them anyway...