Question: Hello, I'm ready for a B foot flute and I am going to buy one soon. Does it matter what kind of B foot flute I get? (EX.: gold lip plate vs. all silver flute)
Answer: In general, you can let your wallet be your guide as far as the metal and extra features you get on your flute.
I recommend purchasing one of the top brands, such as Muramatsu, Pearl, Yamaha, and if you can afford it, Brannen-Cooper. There are so many wonderful flute makers building flutes today, that you really can't go wrong with one of them.
I also love the Lunn flute. They are absolutely breathtaking.
An all-silver flute is a great choice, of course, but if you can't afford that, go for a solid silver head joint.
There are many other features you can choose from...
* G key - offset or inline * Key type - open or closed * Head joint material - silver plate, silver, gold * Body and foot joints - silver, plated, gold * Gizmo key - with B-foot only * Decorative engraving
I got a head joint with an engraved lip plate and it has made a huge difference for me. My flute doesn't slip on my face and I love the beauty of it.
I really recommend trying as many flutes as you can before you make a decision. Then make a list of the features you want and rank them in order of preference.
Good luck with your flute hunt! Stop back again and let me know what you bought.