I am buying a new flute and was wondering if I should get the Di Zhao 700 or the Powell Sonare 601. I need a flute that will last 5 - 6 years, and I definitely want to purchase one of these two models. Which one should I buy?

I recommend the dude model elf

Ummm... What do you mean?

Either of those should last & sound well. It's really down to which one you like better to play. As with all instruments careful handling & a regular check over about every year or two & they'll go on for many years.

Thanks! I did try both flutes, and I thought the Di Zhao had better articulation and the Powell Sonare had better high notes. Which is more important?

Out of the two listed, I would recommend the Di Zhao just because the mechanism is more stable than that of the Sonare. The real choice is how you play on both of the flutes, so it is imperative that you test play them both extensively and pick the one that feels best to you.

However, is there a reason these are the only two models you're considering? For the price of these, you could get a much better flute that will REALLY last you for 5 to 6 years.