I live in Australia, and I am noticing that the online prices for flutes (especially in America) are much cheaper than the flute prices in Australia. I am considering purchasing a flute online through Fluteworld.....any advice? I am interested in an Altus 1707....or custom Powell.

I bought my Yamaha YFL674 from them and through Internet. It was OK and the price was considerably lower than here in Spain. (I saved about 30%).

A couple of comments:

My first choice was an offer they had on their WEB page, but when I ordered it was not available (12 months of lead time!). So I had to adapt and order another model.

Another detail to mention is that I had my flute shipped to an address in USA and then a friend brought it here in his hand luggage. It was cheaper and safer, apart from customs issues.

I suggest you check the shipping costs to Australia and your local customs duties before ordering. Also, request a personal quotation directly from them, as you might get a lower price that the WEB announced price (it happened to me).

And good luck!...