Just got back from the NAMM show. Conn-Selmer was showing off the new Avanti flutes with the new Straubinger Phoenix pads which are standard on Avanti for 2009. VERY impressive. There is a noticeable difference in the performance of the flute.

They were also showing off the new C# trill key for the Avantis.

Just thought I would let you all know. I have uploaded the basic information on the Phoenix pads to my site here: http://www.kesslermusic.com/html/flutes/straubingerphoenixpad.htm

Dave Kessler
Kessler & Sons Music

I am really curious about this flute ??? I havent much about it but my teacher says its a great flute has anyone play it????

No Suz, they are going to put some orange and red flame decals on them the last I heard. Weren't they also going to make the pads a different color?

They are a standard light yellow color.

They are different then typical Staubingers because they do use a cushion felt that wraps fully around the exterior edge with a skin layer rather then being put inside the edge of the synthetic material.

This should give a much more traditional pad life compared to standard Straubingers. I have a diagram of the new pads on that page.