I`m deciding what kind of piccolo to get.

I`ve been looking at the Gemeinhardts and they look cost-effective and sound nice. I`ve narrowed the choices down to a few.

1. Gemeinhardt 4PSH(Plastic body/solid silver head,$450)
2. Gemeinhardt 4P/4PMH combo (Plastic body/silver plated head, with extra plastic headjoint, $550)
3. Gemeinhardt 4PSH, and buy the extra plastic headjoint separately. (about $520)

Would the solid silver headjoint improve the sound a lot, so much that it would be wise to spend the extra money on it? or would I be okay with the silver plated? Thanks in advance, and please answer.

also, what are the Gemeinhardt picc cases that carry two headjoints?

I have a Gemeinhardt 4S piccolo. When I was looking for a piccolo the Gemeinhardts seemed to be the best way to go. I really depends on what you are using it for. I use mine in marching band and it works great. Personally, I think that the solid silver head joint is the way to go. I heard that solid silver head joints produce a much more clear sound then those of a plated head joint. If I were you I would buy the 4S. You can buy it for $509.00 on music123.com
I hope this information helps. Good Luck.