My new vs my old flute - can you hear the difference?

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[@joanfalldine1402]

I am so happy for you! About a year ago, I also got the platinum clad Muramatsu, and my “old” flute is a Muramatsu AD. The moment you played, I KNEW it was Aria. I experienced that same gorgeous and resonant tone quality. You sound stunning on both, but of course, I love Aria over Mr. Thornton. And again, I am so happy for you, Tatiana!

[@michaelbuchweitz1987]

I have a Miyazawa 325rh I had for years and last year I got the Miyazawa Elite with the MX2 headjoint. Yes...the tone holes seem to make it flow so much . Congratulations!!! New one really has pretty tone!

[@shipsahoy1793]

I thought you sounded more comfortable on the first flute so I assumed that was the old one but I guess you’re already comfortable with your new flute👍

[@Phoenixhunter157]

I like the low register of the old flute and the high register of the new flute. Overall I kinda like the tone of the old flute better and I’m surprised I feel that way. Intervals sounded better on new flute though

[@Simone-pq4np]

I agree that it is a big upgrade. The Aria has a much more singing tone with a wonderful vibrato.

[@TheFlutePractice]

I love it so much!

[@ecksdee2274]

Can you do an update on how you feel about your current flute vs old flute? I'm curious, now that you've had time to sit with it.

[@ofiterpunte]

Beginner here but I instantly realized the platinum was the first one, even before hearing the second. I think of them in terms of cars. Gold (my favorite) is the comfy touring car. Silver is the touring car GT edition, with sport seats, stiffened suspension and a louder engine. Platinum is a sports SUV with huge leather seats, selectable comfort/sport mode, but heavier and poor economy. I myself have a gold lip plate Yamaha so... a 2006 Corolla hatchback? No idea, but I love my car and my flute. I'm probably gonna go all gold body at one point.

[@owennovenski4794]

I’m pleased you’re giving Muramatsu a nod. My main instrument was a Muramatsu, platinum with four seperate wood headjoints made for me by the true genius flute make Alex Eppler (who is still making flutes I believe). I played on many others, Haines and most notably my coaches Powel. The Powell was effortless in its responsiveness. I also was astonished at a old Armstrong, not noted for professional quality, but this one was made with something akin to ruby jewelled bearings!? Which gave it, though subtle, a lovely appearance. It played marvellously well. I’ve never seen one like it since. Of the many issues professional take into consideration; overall FEEL supersedes many things. Hard to quantify, but weighs (no pun intended) heavily as an attribute.

[@petermillarduk]

I feel the Muramatsu SR has a better control of the notes slightly better more so in the higher register, but yes they are very close to each other

[@randallmauger5659]

You’re a really wonderful and very experienced player, so you have a “vision” of beautiful tone engrained in your mind that you will automatically endeavor to produce on every instrument you pick up. To the listener, the tonal differences are very slight and not necessarily good or bad. Just different. However, with that being said, the feel and potential of the new instrument, as you have described it, will surely make a huge difference over time as you grow into the instrument and are able to fully take advantage of the potential that you have recognized in it. From a practical standpoint, the platinum will surely be extremely durable. Congratulations on your new purchase! Thanks for your videos too. They’ve been very helpful to me. I’m a novice on the flute, coming to the instrument from alto saxophone, harmonica, and guitar.

[@libertyh3718]

I really couldn't tell. Both are lovely.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Muramatsu makes very high quality flutes across the board!

[@andrewquirey7364]

In my opinion the second flute sounds better but there's not a great deal in it apparently soldered toneholes are supposed to make the instrument sound more projecting.

[@bron-sconcess.10]

Very good lesson learned and I was wrong 😑, (but I guess I'm learning). I understand why I came to the conclusion I did, and why the Muramatzu Aria is considered superior after, listening to a couple of exercises. 🎼 💮

[@kevinchoy5961]

I’m thinking of upgrading at the moment. Either upgrade to a top model silver flute or get into the entry gold category😍 just wish I live in the states and able to some trials first.

[@narekavakianmusique]

They sounds similar for me :) But I guess flute 1 have clearer intonation maybe.

[@PhilipBuckmaster]

Flute 1 has a lovely silky tone. Flute 2 not quite so much but still lovely. That came across even on my iPhone.

[@TheFlutePractice]

That is good to know! I love the new flute, the old was good too, also a great instrument of course!

[@suzanneparker1799]

I think over all you have a lot more flexibility and variety of sound with the new flute. Technically you are pretty swift on that SR.

[@willistaylor4077]

There was an extra Richness and Substance to the SR. I'm playing on, and learning on, an Altus 807, with a Miguel Arista solid-silver head joint.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Ooo. Lovely. The altus flutes are really lovely too!

[@willistaylor4077]

@@TheFlutePractice ♥️♥️♥️🎼🎼🎵🙂❤️

[@FranklinChen]

Flute 1 provided more variety and strength, which sometimes came across as "hard" while flute 2 was "softer".

[@brimarie4196]

I can never tell the difference between flutes. I like the second better based on the smoothness of note connection and the more focused tone. They sound very similar to me though.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Interesting! I do think I am still more comfortable on my old flute than the new. Would be interesting to repeat the exercise in a few month....but...I also think some people genuinely just prefer the GX sound!

[@aspenx1304]

The platinum seems to have more body ti the sound. Congratulations ❤️

[@alexcarter8807]

One thing about Pt is it won't turn funny colors on you. I come across Pt wire from time to time and the standard test is to heat a bit of it red-hot and when it cools it'll be just as bright and shiny as before.

[@mquietsch6736]

I have a question. How does one prevent the lip plate of flute from slipping in hot weather? We've got a bad heatwave here right at the moment, and after a couple of bars my chin is so wet with sweat the flute starts slipping. How do you all cope?

[@rachelm79]

I love that wonderful twiddly piece/exercise you play as the last test piece. If you know which one I mean please could you tell me what it is?

[@TheFlutePractice]

I think that may be part of the Chaminade concertino! Will need to listen back but I believe that is it!

[@rachelm79]

@@TheFlutePractice thank you so much. It sounds hard but awesome!

[@SueKnits]

#2 but such a subtle difference.

[@panflute007]

I'm playing Cinema Paradiso and Fratelli Chase.

[@HA1W]

I mistook in the first test. Fuller sound of your well played and controlled old flute, and brightness of nickel silver mechanism and sharpness of platinum plate got confused. In step 8, I thought the difference was really clear that soldered tone holes have each tone really clearly separated in fast scales. That is a typical difference of soldered tone holes and to me (along with rock solid stable sound). I myself is not a fan of platinum plate (since it has a sharp edge, which could be like or dislike) and listening to your sound, I can't say which is better "at the moment". As you are saying, I felt you are not bringing out full potential of your SR PTP yet, so in years, I believe that SR PTP will sound way better.

[@Xingqiwu387]

To me, nothing compares to a Powell top-range flute. But in terms of the two you've demonstrated here, I definitely prefer the sound of your "old" flute.

[@untflutist]

It takes some time to adjust to a newer instrument. The new flute has a focused and warmer sound. Don't resist it trying to hear the sound you were accustomed to, you need more time. It's like a wand you both learn from each other.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Totally agree! I actually filmed this video when I first got it and have been playing on it for a few months. It already feels so much more comfortable. I was actually thinking it would be really cool to do a video on the differences between my playing when I first got it and now! So interesting how you grow into the instrument.

[@mixchief]

Flute 2. Sounded slightly better in the lower registers and had a rounder transient or timbre, whatever it may be called (meaning there's a bit more buttery character when switching notes, haha, still don't make sense but there you have it).

[@TheFlutePractice]

I am definitely more comfortable on it! But interesting how some do prefer the 2nd flute!

[@charliewhiskey8440]

I got to admit I don't hear much of a difference between the two. That could be your mic, youTube's lossy audio compression, my sound hardware (a Surface Pro tablet) or my headphones (a not-so-cheap set of Beyerdynamic studio monitor). Of course the other half of it is whether it plays nicer in your hands. Congrats on your new acquisition!

[@panflute007]

I hear just a little bit of difference between the two flutes as far as basic sound. The new flute does seem a bit smoother from note to note. I am wondering how these flutes would compare to a Haynes or Powell.

[@TheFlutePractice]

I would love to test it against them! Perhaps I will be able to get to the Flute Center soon!

[@alexcarter8807]

I like no. 1 better. I'm switching to flute from trumpet, and I finally treated myself to a good (professional) level trumpet. Well, one model I was interested in didn't do a thing for me, and the other, a much more expensive one but the music store had one used, really "sang". Trumpets are a lot cheaper than flutes though, with only the very top of the line "horns" costing $20k or so, and many very good players don't play on those anyway - they'll play a horn like, well, like the one I got used that's about $3500 new. Or some "horn" they got for $1500. Now if you really want to get into expensive instruments, look at violins. Those get really expensive!

[@justanotherpiccplayer3511]

1st sounds clearer 2nd has much more warmth and depth of sound imo Interesting so I was wrong,, I feel like a mug lmao but it could be that you know the old instrument much better therefore have a better sound and control _right now_ Yea at that point in the video, I chose my flute for the potential also

[@TheFlutePractice]

I think you are so correct! I definitely feel the first flute has a richer quality of sound, but I still need some time to get used to it!

[@houtblazer]

I could tell you started on Aria. Though I prefer the more mellow sound of the GX. 😅

[@TheFlutePractice]

You are not alone in that sentiment. Others feel that way too. It’s interesting and I think really comes down to personal preference!

[@houtblazer]

@@TheFlutePractice oh yes it most definitely comes down to personal preference! It’s great that you found your dream flute 👌🏻

[@panflute007]

Is it true that Haynes and Powells sound better?

[@SufyMusic]

I think i heard more air sound with flute 1, I don't yet know which one that is

[@TheFlutePractice]

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@sendia4744]

Sorry, I could not hear a difference. I wasn't looking at the screen so didn't realize you were switching back and forth during the piece! Both sound lovely.

[@manim9295]

I don’t know anything about flutes. I am here just with my ears. I definitely like new flute(flute1)…

[@steveooutdoors9506]

I liked flute one

[@michaelbuchweitz1987]

Flute 2 is your new flute

[@nirprizant4228]

did you listen to the reasolt on u tube?----i couldent heer a deferent but there is a video compering the new plastic flute with silver flute and couldent heer the deferant ithere honestly did you ever chect in a store a bunch of flutes without knowing their brand and price and classed them in sincronicity with their prices? i am curies cus i am a maker and a player -i am working on a carbon fiber bass flute with grenadila wooden mouthpice and althow i had mised the opening of the blowing hole by 0,5mm i got a defernt veriation of cors -but better in some aspect -any way my expirians is that you just need to chang a bit your angel and compretion to get the same kinde of sound from deferant flutes and mouth pices

[@layladawson3180]

Flute 1 ??

[@jenniferrosener4668]

Flute 1 was more clear but flute 2 had better resonance, especially in the higher register.

[@SaturnRaycer]

The “old” flute has a darker smokier tone in the low register.

[@martitapere6938]

number two please.

[@terribright1773]

Heard no difference in the steps sequence. So, the issue is if the instrument feels like it responds easier.

[@robertp6859]

At first I preferred the tone of your old flute. It was more mellow while Aria was more nasal. But when you got into the high notes Aria really started to sing! Aria also sounded much more precise and responsive when you did the articulation tests. Really, you can never simply compare two flutes. You can only compare how *you* play each flute. It must have taken some time to get used to your new flute, and time to find its best tones? So how do you feel one year on?

[@michelcrowfeather3789]

I hear the difference, soldered tone holes add a bit of mass,and being platinum clad more weight and resistance. That being said...the flute chooses the player,the sound and vibrations that touches the flutist, having more resistance is not for this ancient flutist, so to me the GS is my preference. However... I love the sounds you are getting with your new flute, the discoveries will be amazing. Congratulations on a beautiful new companion.💖🎼

[@TheFlutePractice]

Thanks! I am so excited to explore its possibilities. The Gxs are GREAT instruments. Muramatsu have such consistent quality

[@saxcowboy]

#2 my favorite

[@miropopradi]

I like the sound of Flute 1 - much cleaner tone ( I gues its a GX )

[@LuckyQue]

Ha, guessed it right. Aria just had a fuller and richer sound...you could definitely tell the difference. It's not a huge for listeners but I bet it's a hard difference for person playing it.

[@Timeisirrelevant]

Flute 2 is the one I prefer. Flute 1 was a bit darker.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Interesting! It is interesting how different the sound is.

[@IcePrincessZeroK]

I like 1 better, heard more vibrato from 1, also the low notes sang more I think. Its pretty close though tbh.

[@IcePrincessZeroK]

(My ears could easily be playing tricks on me as well)

[@mrs.bloxx-li]

Was it my imagination, or does your old flute tend to crack notes more easily? Sorry to nit-pick because you sound great either way!😊

[@TheFlutePractice]

Definitely! The new one has SOOO much more control! It feels so easy

[@terribright1773]

They sounded exactly the same, on the chaminade.

[@TheFlutePractice]

I think the differences are very subtle and possibly more felt than heard! It definitely responds so so so much easier. It’s awesome!

[@dscheenaard]

Chaminade - Flute 2

[@davidkang6433]

First test: I thought flute 1 sounded really vibrant while flute 2 sounded more subdued. I like 2 a bit better.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Interesting! I think this is where personal preference for different types of sound start to play a really big role. I think the platinum add the rich vibrancy and power, but not everyone’s cup of tea!

[@zvonimirtosic6171]

I listened carefully. They do sound very different. To the point, that with the GX flute, a listener can't tell if it's really the instrument that makes the difference, or if the playing style is changed to be more uniform legato. In the Platinum sample, the playing styles in note-transitioning could be perceived as legato, syncopated-legato, semi-staccato, or anything in between. Dynamics in the Platinum are far more nuanced. The note transitioning in the GX did not allow that. Platinum reveals A LOT, even the tiniest of mistakes (🙂), while the GX is thus more forgiving. I don't think that either is necessarily "better". I'd say, suited for different purposes. For example, if pressed with time and circumstances, I wouldn't be giving a recital unprepared or semi-prepared on the Platinum - I would use the GX instead. Also, it seems the GX records better for compression streaming (KZbin, etc). I can sense at moments that Platinum has a way more complex tonal picture that is "clipping" for streaming and would benefit from a higher-end recording and listening device to be fully appreciated.

[@gitasong]

#1 has a much bigger, wider, richer tone. #2 is a little thinner and occasionally muddier. So I'd guess that #1 is the new Muramatsu.

[@TheFlutePractice]

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@ThomasMulliganFlute]

Flute 1 sounds better imo ! Not much in it though for me

[@bron-sconcess.10]

Stopped mid video in order to comment! I prefer (assume then), that flute 1 is your engraved 'bouche' flute. Well at least I would assume this is new. That said, flute two, curiously sounded sharper... back to the video..

[@heidifluteatl]

I don't really notice a huge difference. I think you sound equally wonderful on both of them I wonder if the lip plate cut is different on the tube. That is where I really notice a difference with my own playing. The metal content hasn't made a huge difference but boy does the lip plate. My two cents!

[@aprilowens9509]

Platinum all the way

[@cafe.cedarbeard]

Platinum is sharper, I mean in tone not intonation. More high mids that cut sharper than the silver flute. I can't say one is better, only different. Platinum must be a harder metal than silver.

[@RainyJazz]

Flute 2 has more clear sound. I prefer #2.

[@shipsahoy1793]

Oh, when you said old flute versus new flute, I thought you were talking about a flute from the 50s, 60’s or 70s, compared to a flute designed and made today.. Ok, well that’s a bit different..😆

[@kerrib1474]

My flute is from the 70s .., I need a new one

[@shipsahoy1793]

@@kerrib1474 🤔..maybe. Call Sherry Lee in Colorado. Depending on its condition and original quality, it may be a better economy to procure an overall. Sherry does good work. Good luck.👨🏻

[@kerrib1474]

@@shipsahoy1793 I will thx

[@shipsahoy1793]

@@kerrib1474 👍I just saw my post. 🤣That was supposed to be an overhaul, not overall, but I’m sure you got that. I know repair work is scary, and I’m not a fan of shipping, but sometimes a necessary evil, and it’s always great if you have a line on somebody competent.

[@1015SaturdayNight]

I can tell you're more used to your old instrument! But you're going to really run on that new one when it's broken in - and it breaks you in haha

[@TheFlutePractice]

Thanks! It certainly is breaking me in a bit…but I do love it!

[@Horibonda]

Second new one

[@percyvolnar8010]

Its an upgrade, but its platinum-clad meaning its plated with platinum. This wont do much for the sound. The soldered toneholes are a great upgrade. Your next upgrade should be a head-joint with a platinum or gold riser... You will hear a difference for sure.

[@wrzlbrmpft3334]

I very clearly like the sound of the flute 2. Rich, bright and very fluty. Flute 1 sounds too dull for me.

[@jorgwiebrechtdr.6228]

First test I like flute2 a little bit better 🤔

[@TheFlutePractice]

Super interesting. It is a brighter sound which I know some like…but it is also the flute I have been playing for longer and am so much more comfortable with!

[@marcmurison]

Night and day: SR in every comparison. The GX is beautiful, no question, but the SR sound is, er, beautifuler.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Absolutely agree!

[@malcolmwood48]

Flute 2 is new flute

[@claude2243]

After you played more, No 2 seems easier to play and more singing

[@TheFlutePractice]

Yip, the newer flute is easier for the most part, but I definitely am more comfortable on the old flute and I think it comes through too

[@michaelbuchweitz1987]

Wow.. I got it wrong

[@johnalamariz2491]

Flute 2:)

[@walterw9829]

I can tell a difference. Flute 2 is a little brighter to me.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Absolutely agree! Well done for hearing.

[@nico2000ad]

I think is number 2 . More clearer sound . Ciao from down under 🦘🇦🇺🎷🍀💫

[@meriharary]

Unfortunately there is too much distortion. You should get a better mike. I can’t hear a difference, just distortion.

[@robertkropilak4464]

1

[@ianclarke8821]

Both very nice, and my first thought is you wasted a lot of money upgrading but not only is that a bit rude it’s not factual. Putting your money into a quality instrument will hold it’s value against current crazy inflation as well as provide pleasure. Smart Lady!

[@TheFlutePractice]

Thanks! It was definitely a concern but I was not disappointed. I really can feel it. It just responds so much better and can do so much more. But, I do still need to grow into it more!

[@MartinDoyler]

To my ear flute no 1 is sweeter

[@debbiew7496]

#1 has a richer, fuller sound to my ear...

[@jeanhoover3406]

I thought the new flute was number 2. Whoops.

[@TheFlutePractice]

Hehe! I do think Muramatsu make REALLY reliable flutes all round! The differences are really nuanced.

[@The2727ash]

How are you able to afford such pricey instruments?

[@TheFlutePractice]

Loans 🙈, hard work and a little help from a friend!

[@1015SaturdayNight]

Musicians often have to make decisions like "replace instrument or buy car?" LOL and ugh

[@The2727ash]

@@1015SaturdayNight I didn’t ask you nor was I looking for a response. I asked the host of this channel and she answered my question!

[@claude2243]

Can’t hear too significant of a difference. no 2 seems better

[@douglashedrick8856]

I cant tell the difference but im not a musician it just a hobby to make sure im always teying to learn i believe you could blow into a toilet paper toll and make it sound beautiful

[@dangillberg1386]

Liked flute 2 better

[@stavrosk.2868]

There is no difference really from a certain level onwards. I have a solid silver Muramatsu for 25 years, a real work horse, never any technical issues. And a Mateki M00-06, soldered holes etc which also sounds great (of course), not 'better', just different. BUT the Mateki is much more delicate and has more issues technically. Mechanisms in silver or plated with any other metal are irrelevant to the sound. A few years ago, I bought a very early Mateki in terrible disrepair but with a mouthpiece still made by Takeuchi. It was a student flute (Silver head, rest plated in silver) but this mouthpiece can rival with most top level flutes, just brilliant. I guess the best upgrade may be having a mouthpiece made especially for the player by a real craftsman.

[@MrBassflute]

Oh, your old one is total crap! I’ll take it off your hands for 50 bucks so you don’t have to be embarrassed by it anymore. I can’t do it all at once, so it’ll have to be in installments; I’ll give you $5.00 down, and five dollars every couple of months or so. I hope that’s all right. But seriously, from the audience standpoint, and from the way you’ve recorded it, there’s not a whole lot of difference. James Galway has proven that in his videos, where he plays a $200 flute, and still sounds like God! But if the new instrument makes you feel better and more secure and helps with your artistry, that’s what it’s really all about. You’re lucky to have two such beautiful instruments. I have an ancient Muramatsu from the 70s that I bought off my former teacher, Kazuo Tokito; it’s a coin silver model, so it never tarnishes and is hard as a rock, number 18049, and I recently had it overhauled with Straubinger pads and man does it ever play good now. Plays better than me, that’s for sure. Congratulations on your gorgeous new instrument. I hope it makes you very happy!