thick wall/thin wall

[georgia]

What are your preferences between thick wall and thin wall flutes

does anyone here prefer the thick wall ? (i know most people will prefer the thin)

george

[MeLizzard]

Depends on the brand, as well as the individual flute. For example, for Yamaha, I definitely prefer the heavy wall. I guess in a lot of brands, I prefer more metal and density.

[fluttiegurl]

I prefer a heavier wall on most flutes, but as MeLizzard stated, it does change for different flutes. If you are considering a change, try both. Popular approval does not mean it will be what you want in the end. Otherwise, interesting poll. I am curious as well.

[flutepicc06]

I generally prefer the thin wall versions of almost every flute. Some brands I believe the heavy wall negatively impacts the way plays, others there's a change, but it's not a bad thing...Just a different feel. I played on a heavy wall Yamaha for a few years, now I play on a thin walled flute. It's not a huge deal to me what thickness the wall is, as long as I like how the flute plays.

[georgia]

thanks for that, mine is a heavy or thick wall and i'm really happy with it, and the only reason i prompted the question is because it's been met with some negativity from other flute players, now i don't feel so insecure

[MeLizzard]

They don't have to play your flute, you do...if they didn't "hear" that the flute was heavy-wall before asking, then maybe they just have some preconceived notions about what they think they like, so who cares about them?

[Phineas]

Georgia

You know, there is a lot of Science Fiction going on in flute sections around the world. Generally, there is so much jealousy and hate in flute sections, I really do not pay to much attention to any critique other than what is important to excute the music. People would complain about the sound of my Buffet, but I had the most crisp warm and projected sound in the whole section. Not to mention half the people in this group I am mentioning could not even play their part well, but they could tell me my flute sounded bad...go figure!

Another thing I might add is the headjoint factor. Give me a flute with 2 different headjoints, and you will think you are playing on 2 different instruments. When I in Japan picking out my Miyazawa, I tried different headjoints, recorded them, then played them back. You would be shocked how much of a difference the headjoint made! Everything from Dark and expressive, to bright an raspy, with the same flute body made out of the same material.

The point is, do believe the hype! You got the flute you like, so just play the d@@n thang!

Phineas

[fluteguy18]

like everyone said, it is different for everyone.

I prefer heavy wall personally, but that is mostly because I am a "power player", and often overpower my current thinwall headjoint with my really fast airstream. i use a LOT of air. So, heavy wall, and denser metal flutes compliment my playing style. Out of every flute I have tried, the ones with the heavy wall tubing were all at the top of my list.

[georgia]

Phineas i think its easier said than done to be honest, I would really love to tell them to shove it but i'm only that strong a person internally

The attitude towards flutes has put me off going to the BFS events sadly, and i know, i know, i shouldn't take any notice ........

[Masters7]

I always find the thick/thin controversey to be a funny one. People really do get upset if long held ideas are challenged. It has been my experience that headjoints and headjoint wall thickness are just as personal as shoe fit. The style might be outdated. But, if it fits, wear it!

In my 30 years of flute playing, I have played on a 1969 Haynes -creamy chocolate from a thickwall; a 1987 Eppler -thickwall wood, that carried to the back of the hall; a 1975 Heritage thinwall, cut by Jack Moore -big and solid with lots of control; a Sheridan from 1985 -this one kicked some serious be-hind!!; and finally my new wood instrument that is a VERY responsive woody and all that implies.

I think talk and theory about wall thickness is just that, talk and theory. Play a variety of headjoints by several makers, if possible, and go with what fits your style, sensibilities, and budget.

[Zevang]

Masters7, I'm just curious to know what wood flute do you have? Does the maker have a website?

thanks,

Zevang

[c_otter]

http://www.epplerflutes.com/

[Masters7]

Hi Zevang;
I just bought an Orpheus wood flute. I ordered the violetwood Artiste model. I'm VERY happy with the quality of the flute. Here's a link to the site. http://www.orpheusflutes.com/ I hope this is useful to you. There is a posting for Alex Eppler's site in a prior posting. Good luck!

[fluteguy18]

I've seen a few of these online, but was sort of afraid of them (hadnt ever heard of them before). I am glad you like them. It is glad to finally know that they arent garbage. You are the first person I have heard who owns one. Thanks for the update. I remember the thread when these flutes came up, and you were going to buy one.

[briolette]

Masters7, that's great to hear that you like your Orpheus! Another one for the "approve" bin. I put in an oder and it is in the works at the moment. I got the rosewood Artiste model with an extra grenadilla head. I figured there was enough positive feedback so far for me to feel comfortable investing in one.

How long did it take for you to get the instrument and what oil do you use on the wood?

Is the Orpheus headjoint considered thin wall or thick wall or does that term not apply to wood headjoints?