YAMAHAYFL-577HCT Professional Flute - C# Trill, Split E, and Gizmo Key

Actually bought a MIJ (Made in Japan, only available there) Yamaha model 517 flute at Yamaha’s flagship store in Ginza, Tokyo- 2019. Amazing place with eight floors for all their music instruments.Had seen the model 577 amongst hundreds of flute selections there. Prices in yen were great compared to the US, though the 577 was out of my price range. Compared four 517’s and brought my choice home. Regardless that the 517’s at the lower end of the Professional Series, you can’t go wrong with these flutes. Sterling silver head joints, French-style keys, beautifully made, great sound, and will serve you well in any setting. Plays like butter, handles three octaves effortlessly, and inspires an upper beginner like me. Also own a Yamaha classical guitar and a Stage Custom drum kit. Great products!!!

I compared this with many flutes of different levels (from an 1800.00 flute through a 5000.00 flute) and this was the easy winner. The mechanism is accurate and flawless and the tone is so bold and free-blowing, it's hard for me to put it down. The intonation was really good, dynamics are good, and it's both accurate yet forgiving at the same time. Why would someone want a "fussier" flute to play?