Most durable/low-maintenance flute, all other things being equal?

[livic]

Hello, I am a new member here. I realize when it comes to getting a flute there are many variables, some of them highly subjective, so I hope to reduce the subjectivity to what I hope is a simple question:

If durability and low maintenance are the main considerations (rather than sound quality, which is often a personal thing), what is the best flute one can buy? I heard that solid silver flutes may not be as durable as silver plated ones, for example, and are not necessarily a whole lot better, except to the most discerning players, hence my question.

What started me thinking about this is reviews and youtube videos of the guo tocco plastic flute, seems one of the most decent durable flutes out there, but I don't like that it cost as must as a decent yamaha flute, yet looks like a toy, though sounds ok.

My lack of expert knowledge maybe showing, so go easy on me.

Yes, I read the FAQ, very helpful by the way.

[pied_piper]

The answer to your question is also going to have very subjective answers. Unlike Consumer Reports who tests new cars and appliances and surveys customers of various brands, there is no similar, unbiased testing of flutes to report durability. So, you will have to rely upon hearsay from sources such as this forum, friends, teachers, etc.

That said, almost any well-known brand flute is well constructed and durable. You said you read the FAQ. There are a number of well-known brand names listed there that you can consider.

Ignore statements about solid silver flutes being less durable than plated ones. That is pure hogwash... It is true that pure silver is a softer metal than some others, but it is still very durable. And solid silver flutes are not made of pure silver. They are made from alloys of silver and other metals that make it harder. Sterling silver is very common for flutes and that is 95% silver and 5% other metals added for hardness. Examples of durable solid silver flutes can be traced back to Boehm himself and Louis Lot flutes from the mid-1800s. Louis Lot flutes are still very much in demand and very pricey too.

Regarding the Guo flute, it is is reportedly a well made plastic flute and it has received a lot of good comments from buyers, but as far is durability is concerned, I'd say it's too soon to determine its durability. Frankly, it has not been in production long enough to prove long-term durability when compared with traditional silver or plated flutes.