Hi guys! I was just after a bit of help with a dilema I am having.

I own a Buescher flute (Not sure which model)which I have owned for 13 years and it was a friends Moms before that. Basically I'm guessing it's about 30 years old or something. I last had it serviced in 2002. I know this is a long time ago but I have only picked it up a handful of times in the past 5 years.

I am wanting to start playing more reguarly again, maybe even join a band, but I feel like there is something not right when I'm playing. It's hard to describe but I think the flute needs new pads and a good service/clean. After a bit of research it is probably going to cost me about £120-£150.

Whilst researching I have come across many comments where people have said that newer models of flute are now better made and are almost as good professional flutes. I would like to upgrade to a more serious flute but can only spare approx £200.

I am really confused. Should I spend my money doing up my Buescher (Which I am very fond of but don't know how good it is in terms of make etc) or do I by a new flute (Can only spend upto £200 and don't know anything about current makes for sale)?

Hope all of this makes sense
Jodie

go to a good music dealer, try some flutes in your price range, and you will probably find something you like

Quite a choice you have to make. If your current flute is really solid and good as you tell, I would have it serviced and try to see if it really works, assuming that its mechanism would last for, say, another 10 years. A good technician could tell.
But why would you do that? Because in my opinion, with only 200 pounds (it stays at the range of US$ 500.00 I think) it gets difficult for you to acquire a new flute that could be really good, you probably would find only student models. You may find a used item, just like Patrick said, you may go to a store and try used flutes to see if one can fit. A good instrument store normally offers warranty.
You may also find a store like Fluteworld at the USA, that sends a couple of flutes for you to try, during, say, a week, so if you like one, just return the others (and pay for that one, of course... :-)
I feel more like you must give a try to your old flute, but send it to a really good technician to a complete revision, or most likely to an overhaul. If it's well done, you will have almost a brand new flute for many years to come.