Beware of mechanical and adjustment problems
People often try to sell ill-adapted instruments. If the pillows look good, but there is a bit of stiffness when playing the flute, it will probably need to be adjusted. Test the function of the flute by checking the spring tension and the condition of the rods and the screw. When playing the instrument, the buttons should not angle or make a sound. If it does, it is an indication that the spring tension may need to be adjusted or that the rods and screws need to be replaced.
Also, do not buy a flute with confiscated keys. This is an indication that the flute has suffered water damage.
Check the craft of the flute
There are three different types of flutes: student, intermediate and professional. If the flute is bought for a child who is just learning how to play, a student model would be the right type to buy. To get the right type of flute for your needs, check the model number. On most used flutes, this can be found on the outside of the tin socket where you put the main joint. Run an Internet search for the model number to find out information about the quality and characteristics of the instrument in question.
If the flute does not have a model number on it, it is either a vintage flute or has been manufactured by a lesser known manufacturer. In this case, you should take the instrument to an experienced flute to get their opinion.
Check the flute for damage
First of all, check that the flute body is straight. If the body is not straight, it can cause mechanical problems and make the flute unplayable. Correcting a flute can be done, even if it is very expensive.
Next, check the flute for dents. Do not buy a flute with large dents as they can cause airflow restrictions. A nozzle in the main joint affects the setting of the flute. The head band is the part of the flute that touches the mouth and has no keys. Furthermore, you do not buy a flute with dents under the pole because they lead to countless problems such as loose cushions and bent keys. Keys are the button-like pieces that slide when you play the flute.
Do not buy a flute with damage to the mouthpiece or lip plate as it is harmful to the instrument. The lip plate is on the main joint and where the music rests on its lip when you play the flute.
If you are thinking of a wooden flute, make sure that there are no cracks, as they will spread over time, which will destroy the instrument.
The flute must be mounted smoothly. If it does not have it, it probably has limescale deposits in the plinths. The plugs are where the flute pieces are put together, for example the main joint and the foot joint. Limescale deposits can be removed, but this should be done by a professional.
Inspect the delicate parts of the velvet
Contaminated parts of a flute are: felt, cushions and key caps. These parts are located on and around the keys used to play the instrument. As with all things, user flows will inevitably show signs of wear over time and the perishable parts will start to deteriorate. This is completely normal and can be repaired. However, this should be taken into account by the purchase price if the flute shows the need for such repair. Buying a used flute can be a great way to save money, as new flutes are often marked up between 30 and 40 percent and lose their value when they leave the store. To find a used flute, check with your local music stores and headlines in your local newspaper. Make sure you buy the flute from someone with experience as an experienced flute player or teacher. If you buy a flute from a private seller instead of in a store, inspect it by a professional.
Source:danspela.com