I need help making a flute decision

derekburrows · Post by **derekburrows** » Sun Jul 25, 2010 7:52 pm

Hi, I have a Gemeinhardt solid silver N3S, it has a low b foot and is open hole and I've had this flute for many years and want to upgrade to something that has a better sound now that I'm playing a lot more these days. I've not been in the flute world for awhile so I need some guidance. I have the option also of buying a Yahama 461H Sterling silver flute for around $1100 that is in very good shape and has just been just overhauled. I'm not sure if it makes sense to try a professional head joint on my flute, if that is possible or to buy the Yahama and get a better head joint on that one. I'm not sure what the quality of my flute is having not played a more professional flute and unfortunately I don't have access to many flutes where I live. It plays well but I feel it lacking.

Thanks for any help you can give or thoughts on this matter.

derek

fluteguy18 · Post by **fluteguy18** » Mon Jul 26, 2010 11:03 am

You could get a better flute for $1100, particularly since you are implying that they Yamaha is used.

derekburrows · Post by **derekburrows** » Mon Jul 26, 2010 11:19 am

Thanks for your input. I've been in touch with someone who is selling through a store and also has a Yahama 674 with EC headjoint for $2399. Any thoughts about this?

Derek

kiwiflute · Post by **kiwiflute** » Mon Jul 26, 2010 1:55 pm

Yamaha 574 HCT (B foot, C# trill, EC hj) new at Fluteworld for just over $2300 would be better value for money than a used 674 IMO.

derekburrows · Post by **derekburrows** » Mon Jul 26, 2010 2:18 pm

Well this is getting interesting. More choices and as I'm not in the position to go and play the various instruments I am relying on the knowledge of this forum.
Can someone tell me the difference between the 500 and 600 series please. Any info would be helpful. I've been reading as much as I can but haven't found anything yet that helps me.

Thanks

Derek

fluteguy18 · Post by **fluteguy18** » Mon Jul 26, 2010 2:24 pm

500 Series: sterling headjoint, plated body/foot
600 Series: sterling head, body, foot. Plated keys.

It is highly debated whether or not solid vs. plated is better. It honestly is more of a matter of construction, design, and overall quality. I plated Louis Lot will play better than a solid silver Ebay special for $99.

derekburrows · Post by **derekburrows** » Mon Jul 26, 2010 2:27 pm

Great, thanks, that information does help. another question is for this price which is just in my price range is the Yahama the better way to go or is there something else out there in this price range that I should be looking into?

Also will the 500 series have a radically different sound to warrant they price difference in both flutes? Retail the 600 series seems to be much higher.

Thanks again for the help

Derek