Want to try something new, $400-$700 range

[eedbjp]

Can anyone recommend a flute in the $400-$750 ? ranged . I've owned a lot of flutes, but I'm ready to try something new. I know I want a big sound so the Pratten set-up is the best choice for me. Looking for recommendations in the $400-$700 range, and trying to keep an open mind, so different materials would be ok, like Delrin, etc., and even if it didn't have a tuning slide that would be ok too. Since the last time I bought a flute, about 4 years ago, I know that more makers have been entering the flute market. Do you have any recommendations? Just for context, I have owned a Doug Tipple, Forbes, A Healy, and a Casey Burns blackwood regular flute, all in Pratten style. Thanks so much.

[bigsciota]

They're out of your budget new, but I got my Lehart well within your budget used and it's wonderful. Technically a sort of "Rudall," but it's really his own design by this point and it's got a fairly powerful tone. If you're looking for something different from a D I've played an F of his and it was incredible; again it's out of your budget new but you may be able to find a used one.

If you're specifically looking for newer flutemakers I have heard good things about Damian Thompson, but haven't played or even been in the same room as one so I really can't say much about them. His 2 piece delrin flutes would be within your budget.

[PB+J]

Try the Ellis "essential flute." Cylindrical flutes in various keys. Remarkable instruments, variable, versatile, in tune, powerful. I have a D flute and a Bb.

[Sedi]

Maybe a Walt Sweet "Shannon" or a flute from Damian Thompson?

[fatmac]

For a non wood, check out Damian Thompson & M&E flutes.

I have one from each, a two piece DT in 'D' & a three piece in 'F' from M&E.

You might also take a look at the Tony Dixon three piece in 'D' - I got one pre used.

I find all of the above nice to play.

P.S. I also got/have an aluminium three piece in 'D' pre used, made by Davy Angus, which I initially liked, but now find it a little too bright sounding for my personal taste.

[Gcobean]

Seery, Delrin. Pratten, delrin, in your budget.

[Hi4head]

If you are interested in one of Geoffrey’s “essential flutes”, there is a nice looking one over on ebay right now for under your budget. I’ve never played his “essential” model, but I’ve heard good things about them.

Chris

[jemtheflute]

Garry Somers.
http://www.somers-flutes.com

[cavefish]

millyard just made a few Mopane D flutes, awesome,