I'm curious about opinions as to how these two flutes compare. I'm looking to get a flute and start playing again just as a hobby (I played up through high school 20 years ago). I definitely want open hole and a low b foot...the offset g seems like a great feature. I am on a budget though (my teenage son's musical aspirations alone keep the funds flowing! ) and I just can't justify investing too much until I know whether it is something that is going to keep my attention long-term.
Well, the best way to decide between the two is to play both and choose the one you like best. I gather from your mention of "playing again" that you already have some experience on the flute, so you most likely will have a preference, whereas a true beginner would not be able to play well enough to note the differences. I personally dislike Gemeinhardts (I feel that they make solid entry level instruments, but there are flutes with better mechanisms and headjoints available for the money once you enter the intermediate and professional ranges), so I would recommend the Pearl. However, my opinion truly does not matter in the end, as you must choose the flute that will make you happy. There are several other brands that make flutes in your price range with similar features (such as Emerson and Jupiter, for example), that you might want to look into. All these brands can be found at fluteworld.com if you want to do some comparison, and fluteworld generally offers very low prices (sometimes they will even offer discounts just for calling in person and asking for the lowest possible quote), so once you decide, they might be a good resource.
Both of the flutes mentioned are plated flutes. I highly recommend having at least a silver headjoint. Even for a hobbyist, this will make a big difference in your sound. I also vote for the Pearl, but would recommend the 665 version. If money is an issue, the Gemeinhardt 3SHB (the same flute but with a silver head) can be found for under $600 at many places (wwbw comes to mind), though you are better off buying locally if possible.
If you are set on the plated models, go back and play both several times. Notice the weight difference as well (there is some) and the intonation. However, you will not notice much difference between the sound of either of these flutes and a student model, especially after playing a while. You may be better off buying a student flute to get back into playing, and save your money. Or look into buying a used flute. Try the local band program and music store. Be up front and tell them that you are only capable of paying so much to start, and that what you buy has to fit into your budget. They may have something used that is right for you. Good luck!
As I mentioned in another thread, some believe that silver content affects the sound, but many believe that it has little or no impact. Do not expect a better sound (or in some instances even any difference from a plate head) just because the headjoint is solid silver. You may hear a difference, but you may not. The studies conducted thus far have been inconclusive on how much material affects tone. With a well-constructed plated flute, you should be fine to start out (again), without any unnecessary draw on the money.
I haven't played the 3 level Gemeinhardts but have played the quantz series Pearl altho I did play the 700 series.- which had both silver headjoint and body. I think the headjoint on the 5 and 600 level maybe the same as the one I played. It had a great upper register, easy sound and lots of possiblilty for altering the intonation. I think you would be happy with the quantz but of course the important thing is to try both and give yourself a few days on each instrument. I now play the forza headjoint which is extremely easy to play. Headjoint make a big difference. The key is to play them yourself and have fun.
I have played a Gemeinhardt 3SB for the past 16 years. The only negative about this flute is its scale (and thus its intonation). The Pearl probably has a better scale.
Other than that, my 3SB has rock solid build quality, incredible durability - once adjusted it stays for years of daily practice and occasional gigs. It has great tone quality and the key action is smooth and fast.
I prefer to buy used because you get more flute for your money. A good flute is designed to last for many years so you might as well let the original owner take the price hit for you.
Even though my 3SB still plays like new, I will be replacing it sometime soon. Flute scales have improved and I want to get a flute with a better scale. It is possible to play in tune even with a bad scale by bending the pitch of individual notes - but there's no reason to make things harder than they need to be. A modern scale makes intonation easier (easier - not automatic!) which enables one to focus on other things.
The reason I mention this is that Gemeinhardt has not improved their scale like many other makers have over the years. So while the Gemeinhardt does make a good flute with strong value for the dollar, just consider whether the scale is important to you.
Thanks everyone for your input. I did decide to go with the Pearl 505RBE. Although I ordered it new from a instrument dealer online, I did make my way down to a music store in my area and tried them out first.
The Gemeinhardt 3B that I was considering was a used one which was being sold by an individual on the web. Even though from the description and photos, the Gemeinhardt seemed to be well maintained, in very good condition, and had a J1 silver head joint, after looking at the dozen or more used flutes that the local store had, I decided that new was the way I wanted to go. I could see how buying used from and individual online can have it's risks.
I think I will be pleased with the Pearl 505RBE simply for my interest in re-learning flute as a past time. Now I am excited and can't wait for it to arrive!!!
) and I just can't justify investing too much until I know whether it is something that is going to keep my attention long-term.
