Hello,
Just stumbled across this site today while at work…
I’m looking to buy both a pennywhistle and an Irish flute soon, and I was wondering if someone could tell me what the best way to go would be for the flute… I know absolutely nothing about them except I’d probably like to go for a low-D (want something dark and “tragic” sounding, for lack of a better word.) =) I’m looking for something under the $200 mark (if that’s reasonable…)
Thanks for any help you could give,
-Chad
Hello, Khaustic,
my suggestion is to start with the whistle. With flute, you’re in for a world of work, frustration and, eventually even a little pleasure. 
Cheap flutes: stay away from cheap wood flutes, but some of the plastic ones are actually very good. I recommend the new “Rudall” model by Michael Cronnolly http://www.irishflutes.net. Other good choices are Seery and 3-piece Dixon.
(edit)As mentioned below, the Sweetheart wooden flutes are OK. Just stay away from the cheap wooden flute-like-objects that appear often on eBay, often of Pakistani origin.
Or, get a good bamboo flute. There are many options; Olwell is the Ferrari of bamboo flutes.
Have fun!
g
The Sweetheart maple D is good at 250. The Dixon three piece
polymer at The Whistle Shop is good for under 200.
The idea of starting on a whistle does make sense. Best
For flute matters, try reading this thread. http://chiffboard.mati.ca/viewtopic.php?t=14423
Try the following article as well. http://www.woodenflute.com/playing/paul_mulvaney_essay
For low whistles or other whistles try the Chiff and Fipple main website where Dale gives great reviews on just about all the whistle on the market.
Welcome!
Aaron