The brand name has popped up in conversation recently so I tried to do some research, but there's not a lot of information, which suggests that it's a newer brand (or a pot metal brand...).

Can someone give me the lowdown on Orpheus/Orpheo so I don't give a faulty recommendation to others?

I've seen people around here say the "student" models are good but the other models are bad. However, I haven't found any details concerning that opinion. What's the difference between, say, the 515 model and the 715 model that makes the higher model worse? And what's meant by "good" or "bad"?

I've heard about these long time ago, but from what I remember their strongest products are the wooden flutes.
Anyway, I also remember someone said that these flutes were manufactured in Asia and had to be completely revised by the importers in the states before sale.

Thanks suzie, but that's exactly the same as I've found already. Heavily opinionated "good" and "bad" adjectives but no real details. Can you be more specific? You seem to have first-hand experience.

Thanks.

were these the ones sold by the guy who claimed to work for Haynes?

No, those were the DC Pro flutes.