I just got a new flute today! It's a used Open-hole Jupiter with an offset G and low B foot. My only problem is that the F,D,E on the first two octives are hard to get out. Mainly the F. I think there is something wrong with the F key, because I can get all the notes out if I play them alone with no other notes But if I'm playing a G and slur to F, it doesn't always come out. This happens on both octives and with the plug in, and when they're out. What do you think could be wrong?

It's most likely a leak in the area of the G#, F# or F key. Incidentally, how are the low B's, C's and C#'s? If it is a leak, these should be having some issues too. This can be solved easily by a visit to a repair tech. Most flutes, whether new or used need a little bit of work once you get them, so this isn't really out of the ordinary. It may also be that you just need to adjust to the flute and learn where you have to blow for the best results. Congrats on the new flute, though!

Just to state the obvious: have you tried playing the flute with bungs instead of relying on your fingers? You have to place the ball of your fingers very carefully to properly seal an open hole flute

If its a new flute its more likely to be an adjustment needed than a pad defect. Try using the wrong fingers - or a friend - to hold the F# key and/or second G key while playing F, E and D. Is this any better? I can't remember which Jupiters have adjusting screws but unless you're familiar with their use you would be better off getting an expert to sort it out.

>>Just to state the obvious: have you tried playing the flute with bungs instead of relying on your fingers? You have to place the ball of your fingers very carefully to properly seal an open hole flute<<

You know, that would be worth trying. Plugs are inexpensive and the silicon ones are available at any music store. I know that when I was getting back into playing after about the same amount of time, I had a lot of problems with those same notes. It only takes the finger being a little off the hole for it to leak. If I take the plug out of my G key (which is inline, and my 40yo hands obviously need offset at this point), then I still start having trouble with the right hand--it pulls everything wonky.

-Judy

If its a new flute its more likely to be an adjustment needed than a pad defect.

Actually it is quite possible because of the way jupiter does their final processing now. Wavy tone holes and shrink wrap packaging can create micro tear leaks in pads causing this problem.

The possibilities that come off the top of my head, other than that are the

1. The Bb clutch is over regulated (F key won't close all the way
2. The G# arm got pulled or pushed a little bit and is leaking
3. The RH is just out of regulation.

If there is a micro tear in one of the skins, you'll need a tech with a Mag machine (minimally) to find that problem pad(s). A tech with out that equipment will beat their head against the wall trying to find that problem without that piece of equipment...

Joe B

I'll try taking it to the repair tec.

I said before that I have this problem with the plugs in also, So I don't think it has anything to do with my fingers.

Please enlighten us Micron. I would be interested in how you find them.

Not necessarily true. Ve haf our vays!

I didn't say it couldn't be done...But it is a lot more effort IF any particular tech knows enough to even check for those things...Many won't..

Compared to using a Mag, I would rather beat my head against the wall then go through those tests you describe. Takes about 30 seconds with a leak isolater to find them on the Mag...You don't even have to take the flute apart or do anything to it for diagnosis...

Then again I have that equipment...I'm spoiled. I like technology! <G>

Joe B

I wouldn't suggest trying to fix leaks yourself. Flutes are complicated machines that you need the proper training to work on. Simply putting something under the adjustment screw and depressing it for a few seconds is not likely to get the results you need anyway. Take it to a repair tech if it needs work.

I do think that it is a good idea for any flutist to learn how to make minor adjustments. It can be something as easy as a turn of a screw. I carry a screw driver with me to all my gigs.

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Also, I agree with Flutist06, do please be careful about what advice you are giving to someone on how to fix a flute as it most likely will do more harm then good if it is incorrect advice.