Whatever you do, don’t get the Dixon Duo. A freind of mine has one, and he says is it not worth the money.
And don’t go for a cheap flute if it’s not the one you want. You’d be much better off saving longer for a good one.
Max
FWIW, I get your point, but there is NOTHING about the Olwell bamboo flute in D (or any other key, for that matter) that is “cheap” ~ in fact, it is often my preferred flute in the evening when I am tired and not in the mood to swab a flute when I’m done playing it. The flute is beautiful, and beautifully made. I have two. And, in fact, I’m ordering an Eb as soon as I get in another overtime day.
Avery, if that’s all you can afford, you’ll be in good company with an Olwell bamboo flute. Certain artists have recorded with them, too!
Mary
oops, sorry, I’ve been away too long! I see you bought a Hall ~ happy fluting! 
I wasn’t trying to say that the Olwell is a “cheap” flute, I was just saying not to settle for something just because it’s inexpensive. If it’s not the flute you want, there’s no point in buying it.
Max
That’s right, Max.
I think implicit in these discussions (though rarely explicit) is that beginners often have no idea how frustrating it is to learn to play on a bad instrument. I don’t know that we stress that enough.
I know that’s why I always come back to suggesting Olwell bamboos or Steve Cox/Tallgrass stuff as inexpensive ways to get started in flute playing. I think they’re better than the available other entry-level stuff. Just my opinion, though. 
Stuart
Yeah, I learned that lesson the hard way, at least with my mandolin. I got really discouraged with it, which wasn’t good. I have a new (better) one now, and playing is just so much more fun.
Max