Buying a second-hand Yamaha flute can be a great saving on the new price, but it is important to be aware of what to look for and the potential pitfalls in buying a used Yamaha flute.
FAQ
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Has it been recently serviced?
– A basic service/adjustment can cost upwards of £100 and it is likely that most used flutes from private sellers may need this. Yamaha used beginner flutes especially often need adjustment.
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What is the condition of the silver plating?
– If a flute has been cleaned and wiped after use then the silver plating should be in excellent condition. If however it has not been regularly cleaned/polished, then moisture can lift the plating. Early signs of this are pinprick marks in the plating and these will get worse and could take the plating off.
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What is the condition of the pads?
– The most expensive parts of a flute to replace are the pads. A full repad of a flute can cost more than the flute itself if it is a beginner model, so it is best to check the condition. Pads should be nice and yellow and not frayed at the edges. Fraying pads is a sign of paper being used to soak up moisture and this can be harsh on pad skins.
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Any signs of damage?
– Look down the length of the flute against the light to see that it is not bent or that there are any ripples in the body. This would suggest a repair that may/may not have been serious.
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Are the joints fitting well?
– Check that the headjoint is not too tight or too loose and also the footjoint. The most common issue is a loose footjoint when incorrectly taken on and off.
Where should I be buying a second-hand Yamaha flute for sale in London?
