Hi

I have found a used yamaha 451, which, I've been told, is in perfect condition and is about 3-5 years old. It is selling for £750, which is well below the RRP and my budget.

I'm going to see it this weekend and I was wondering what, if any, experiences you have had with this model. I know it is what I think of the instrument that counts but I would appreciate your opinions.

I've never heard of that model. Perhaps you mean Yamaha 514? Or 481?

It's the 400 series - but the ones they sell in the Japanese market.

The price seems a bit high to me.

The owner told me that yamaha have stopped making this model. It is now called the 514, or so I'm told. I thought the price was very reasonable considering my local music shop is selling the 411 for £1,185,

I did try the yamaha 451 and I left it where it was. The instrument needed a good overhaul (perfect condition pfft!) and it wasn't worth the money. The owner obviously didn't really know much about flutes

Using a professional head joint with a student body is a great suggestion, however the mechanism, pads and plating of my yamaha 211, which I've had for 10+ years, would need a great deal of money to overhaul and wouldn't do a professional hj much justice.

I went to my local music shop and after testing flutes for hours I'm decided to trial a used Miyazawa PA-101, which I am more than happy with. I love the tone and the general feel of it. I'm probably going to purchase it for £850.

Thanks for your suggestions and advice