Knowing which flaws are difficult and expensive to repair is the best tip for buying a used flute. Secondhand flutes can have a variety of issues, but many of these issues are cosmetic in nature or can be easily fixed by a novice. Occasionally, the flute is not worth purchasing due to the extent of the damage. It’s also useful to understand what terms and tricks are used to entice buyers into online scams. While even the most inexperienced flutist can find a good used flute, when in doubt, he or she should consult a professional.
Some issues with used flutes have a significant impact on performance and are costly to resolve. For example, any damage to the mouth hole, regardless of the material, can be prohibitively expensive to repair. It’s also critical that the keys on a used flute function properly. If the instrument is in good working order, the springs will quickly return the keys to their original position and move freely without making any strange noises. Another thing to consider is whether the flute’s joints and head are too loose, though some movement is normal.
When buying a used flute, keep in mind that many minor flaws are unimportant, or can be fixed for a reasonable price. A flute’s imperfect finish, for example, should have no bearing on its usability. Furthermore, minor dents in a metal flute’s body should not affect performance, and cracks in a wooden flute’s body can be repaired. A slight curve in aged wooden flutes is another defect that can usually be overlooked, though more extensive warping can be a problem.
When buying a used flute, one of the worst things you can do is choose one that is being sold by a con artist. It’s almost as bad as squandering a large sum of money on a poor-quality instrument. When buying a flute online, for example, terms like “70% off” or “bankruptcy sale” are frequently used by people trying to pass off a low-quality item. Furthermore, buying a colored flute is usually a bad idea because it can indicate that it is made of a low-quality material. It’s also a good idea to avoid buying flutes from untrustworthy sellers because flutes made of certain materials can be poisonous.