Greetings! I'm in the market to purchase a great new flute for my daughter soon, and I've narrowed the search down to two models: Pearl Elegante PF 795 RB, and the Sonare SF 7BGF (705~Made in US/Germany). I'm having trouble making the final decision. Anyone played both models? I'd love to hear your feedback. Thanks!
I realize that not play-testing in advance isn't the greatest way to go about this, but I feel strongly about SURPRISING her with this new flute... so no, she hasn't played either flute.
I am not too fond of either models, so I wouldn't be much help. Have you thought about Jupiter, Yamaha or Azumi? In that price range I much prefer the Azumi.
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When I mentioned Jupiter, I mean the Demedici model.
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Also, I fully understand that you would like to surprise your daughter, but I know that I am very uncomfortable playing on Pearl flutes because of the key set up. Your daughter might have the same problem with either one of these flutes and that is why she should try them out first. Have you thought about getting both out on trial and telling her that she can choose one as a surprise?
NOTE: DO NOT TELL HER WHICH ONES ARE SOLID SILVER OR SILVER PLATED!!!!!!!!
many people (especially middle school and high school students) will select the all silver flute that is fairly mediocre over the professional plated model.
Thanks for all the comments. Yesyes,I know she should play test first, but...
Would like to stick very close to the 2 G's range. Have considered Azumi, Brio, and the likes along the way...bottom of the line Muramatsus, Sankyos, Miyazawas too...
Had heard great things about Pearls' construction (pinless mechanism, etc.), and of course, the Powell headjoint on the Sonare is attractive as well as the fact they're made in US/Germany now.
I think you're doing a great job in researching these flutes! Bravo to you and I wish you luck! I would, however, knock Brio! off the list as I have not heard one good thing about them and a VERY close friend of mine tried one of them on trial and noted that the spring tension and overall feel of the Brio! was horrible compared to her Gemeinhardt 3OSB. That is one of the huge downfalls with instruments being manufactured in China. Lack of entire quality control (or not high enough expectations) leads to downfalls and I think Brio has become victim to that. With the other options you've come up with, I'd agree with the others and say to have your daughter try them. At least now you have a handful to let her try and get opinions on, etc. and maybe if she likes a headjoint from one company and a body from another company that's selling both flutes, they'll let you do some sort of switcheroo and mix and match. I think it's worth a try. Take mental note of which she prefers and see if you can secretly tell the people at the store that you'll take that one. My last flute (Pearl Handmade, THANK YOU *cough* KATE! *cough*) I received as an upgrade was an eBay purchase but having my father's email password didn't make the flute much of a surprise though! =) Good luck!
Would like to stick very close to the 2 G's range. Have considered Azumi, Brio, and the likes along the way...bottom of the line Muramatsus, Sankyos, Miyazawas too...
You are an awesome dad! Kudos for being responsible and informed. Good choices of brands, but I would definately knock out the sonares and brios, but your other brands listed above are excellent choices! A middle of the road yamaha might be a good choice to add, but they tend to be a bit expensive new for what you get compared to other flutes. Sometimes you can find that perfect timing deal though
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Oh, what does she play on now? Sometimes that can influence what she may like.
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