Also: Is Emerson a good flute brand?

Ebay flutes are no good because they tend to be old and someone else once used them. Buy a new one.
Emerson flutes are o.k, but you might want to think about something else like gemeinhardt.

I don`t think that flutes or any other thing on Ebay is necessarily bad, just a little higher risk because in most cases you can`t see and try the instrument. If you`re willing to do your homework on a product and also the seller, ask lots of questions, your risk will likely be smaller. What retailer can you visit that will give you a list of all of his or her previous customers comments? I just bought 2 flutes from ebay, both lower end models, and I got a great deal. Bought a fantastic classical guitar, no problem.

Good luck !