Looking for a flute for the total beginner...

Does anyone have an opinion on the Ashton FL10? I saw one for sale secondhand.

This model is described by the manufacturer as "perfect for the budding flautist and provides the best value for money available". Can I take that in a positive way or is that code for "only a total newbie would not hear how inadequate this flute is - good thing it's cheap"?

Also saw a secondhand (not as cheap) Yamaha YFL225. What do we think of that one?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

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The details I found on the Ashton FL10:

The Ashton FL10 flute is perfect for the budding flautist and provides the best value for money available. Feature list includes:
- Sterling silver plated headjoint – for warmer sound and richer tone
- Sterling silver plated body – for more expressive capabilities and enhanced projections
- Nickel plated keys – for durability
- Offset G – for enhanced ergonomics
- Split E Mechanism – enabling better tuning/intonation of High E

The one I found for sale secondhand is cheap - it would cost about as much to rent a flute for 3-4 months. Of course, if it's really quite poor there's just no point.

I have never heard of that brand, so best just to stay away from it. Now I would go for the Yamaha. I have one for sale if you would like to check it out. I sell used flutes, so if I can help you out at all, please let me know.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/flute_items/

The problem with buying a flute for a beginner is that they cant play it to check it is suitable or that it doesnt need a service (if its second hand). This means that a short term rental can make good sense.

When buying second hand you should assume that a service is required unless you know this isnt the case. Unfortunately, it is quite common in the UK, that the cost of a full service exceeds the cost of purchasing a new (chinese import) flute supplied by the same shop with a 12 month warranty!

For a beginer the most relevant difference between a cheap chinese flute and a second hand Yamaha, is that when you can play and are looking for a better flute, the Yamaha wont have lost much value whereas the the chinese flute will have a resell value less than half of the purchase price.

OMG Kara! That flute is georgous! It's like a beginner's dream flute. lol.

Thanks Kara. But I live in Australia and would prefer not to have something shipped from overseas.

Thanks Fluteboy



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CandyMann, that picture freaks me out. LOL!

Take a look at an armstrong flute.

Do you work for Armstrong? It sure sounds like it