Armstrong 90 / Gemeinhardt 72sp?

[inabendis]

Around a decade ago my daughter borrowed "our" (read: my) flute, then she moved 3 times, now she has no idea where it was and I want to play again; found a used Gemeinhardt 72sp in good condition online for under $125 (hopefully y'all think that was a reasonably good deal). Now an opportunity has come up to get a used Armstrong 90 (i.e., silver) in fine condition for under $400, which is tempting because I've never played a silver flute so the idea of having one seems pretty enticing, but only if someone who knows more than I do think that's a really good deal too. I can afford to have both -- can even give one to my daughter for her birthday coming up -- but I only want good quality instruments and I like a bargain. *However*, there's a thread on this forum discussing the Armstrong 90 where folks are saying it plays flat (ugh!), and so I am wondering if I really want it at all -- as opposed to waiting until "something silver" shows up at an equally good price.

Any advice?

Thanks,
Ina

[pied_piper]

Both brands are respectable instruments. There are many others too such as Yamaha, Pearl, Jupiter, and others. See the Fluteland FAQ for information about reliable brands you can consider:

http://www.fluteland.com/board/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=5859

Buying used instruments online can be risky. Many sellers are honest but there's always a few that are less than honest (or ignorant) about the condition of a musical instrument. You are essentially playing the lottery. You might get a deal with a flute in great condition or you might get a worn-out piece of junk. If you do buy a used flute on eBay or similar, be prepared that it is likely to need at least some minor repairs and adjustments. That might be as little as $25-50 or if it needs all new pads, expect to pay several hundred. The question of solid sterling silver or silver plated is far less important than an instrument in good working order. There is nothing more frustrating than trying to play a flute that need some work...