Hi,

I would like some opinions. I have been playing flute for a long time I currently have a Sankyo Etude inline NEL flute which I bought in japan 10 years ago. I need to upgrade to a more advanced instrument as I am having trouble with the higher register on my current instrument (sadly i've outgrown it). I'm looking at spending between $4000.00 and $6000.00 dollars for a new flute. At the moment my preference would be to buy the sankyo CF-401 (Artist) CF-501 (semi-handmade). I am going to Japan in august to buy a new flute / holiday.

I was wondering if anyone could offer an opinion of maybe another suitable alternative like miyazawa or maybe yamahas i'm not a fan of muramatsu, pearl or altus.

I got a Brannen headjoint for my Sankyo etude, and it made a big difference. Since you seem to like your Sankyo, you could first try some new headjoints. If this doesn't help then start looking for a complete flute.

I've considered buying a new headjoint but I don't think that is going to solve my problem. I'm having trouble with the responsiveness of the keys for B3 Bb3 and C3. I have a slow leak as well on the F. Air flow does not seem to be a problem.

sounds like your flute just needs an adjustment, and as the person before me said, a better headjoint. I wouldnt go as far as spending that much more being as you already have a decent flute.

I got it serviced a month back and it didn't help. All the pads on the flute are still the originals when I got it in 99'

oh...well if you're going to spend that much, throw out yamaha, the other makers you mentioned will be much better at that price(i think). Micron could probably give advice on pads and such, and I would think Suzie/Kara could tell you more about the better flute makers.