Every flute we sell goes through a detailed set-up before it is offered to our clients. The set-up process involves attending to all the details that enable your instrument to perform up to its highest potential. When flutes come from the manufacturer, they are not in top “performance ready” shape. Such detailed work adds hours to every flute. Most makers cannot afford the time to adjust the pads to a light touch and many lack the skilled labor to pad and set-up to this level. This is true of student and artist-level instruments. Once a flute is “set-up” to our standards, it feels better, performs more evenly, plays better in tune and responds easier.
Flute World set-up process includes the following:
- Pads are shimmed to seal effortlessly in order for the flute to respond down to a low B with a light touch.
- Pad skins are sealed as needed.
- Precise key-to-key adjustments are made and the adjustment screws are sealed so that they won’t work themselves out of regulation.
- Key heights are set for optimal venting and intonation.
- Keys and screws are precision fit as needed for effortless movement. This enhances the feel of the instrument, makes adjustments last longer, and increases pad life.
- C rod is fit to ensure proper operation of line B key, while eliminating the possibility of major leaks caused by the screw backing out.
- Headjoint and footjoint are precision fit to allow for proper assembly.
- Springs are tension balanced for optimum feel, reducing stress in your hands.
- The head cork is removed, set to the plates, sealed, reinstalled and set for optimal performance.
- The mechanism is oiled with premium lubricants, enhancing feel while reducing noise and wear.
Pads are shimmed to seal effortlessly. While time consuming, it is the most important aspect of the set-up.
Our unique ability and willingness to perform this work separates us from other flute vendors. Others might “shop test” their flutes, play testing to see that each note sounds, but we go far beyond that. Each flute is treated as a custom job as each requires different work. Other than the team at Flute World, there are very few who are capable of performing such highly skilled work.