I’ve decided to buy a Murray Eb keyless but I’m not sure which wood I should choose. Any comments on the different options would be appreciated.Tone, loudness, response all play a part in my final decision. I believe the boxwood is more temperemental but would it be worth the extra care?
Not sure it should be blackwood vs. boxwood – they’re hardly in competition… 
Most differences in sound will depend on the maker, the flute style, and the player, but, as a wood, blackwood tends toward a brighter, brasher sound, if that word works for a flute, than boxwood does. Boxwood sounds creamier to me, a bit mellower. Of the two, blackwood is the more rugged. It is a naturally oily wood, and if played regularly, does not need to be oiled too often, if at all (climates and personal playing habits vary, so..). Boxwood will soak up oil like a sponge, initially, but then holds it well. I’m told it has a tendency to bend if it gets dry, but I’ve not experience that – my blackwood flute has more of a bend in it than my boxwood. Some people absolutely love the sound and feel of boxwood. For others, it’s blackwood all the way. I like them both, for different reasons.
Murray is a good choice. As for what wood? I say buy two flutes, one in each wood. Choose the one you like best, and send me the other one. 
Gordon
I’m pretty much with Gordon. The extra care is minimal, oiling on probably a monthly basis, being a little concerned about humidity (which in Ireland you probably don’t need to be). But if you’re even thinking about “the extra care”, you might’s well go with blackwood.
Trying to get in another nebulous and somewhat meaningless description of the black vs. box sound, I might say that the sound of blackwood has more abrasive edges, while box has more rounded edges.
The Eb flute is famous for being especially alive and responsive.
Blackwood is likely to do that justice, IMO, boxwood (mellow,
creamy) less so. Love boxwood but prefer it in lower pitched flutes.
Entirely for what it’s worth!
Weight difference between a box and blackwwood flute might be a another consideration for you. I have an eight key Aebi D box (unlined head) that is lighter than my keyless blackwood Olwell (w/silver lined headjoint). I can play the box flute for hours without much fatigue, which to me is huge due to chronic tendonitis in my left shoulder. In terms of sound I agree with the Gordon, creamy is a good adjective. Boxwood has a certain closeness and earthyness that I find quite appealing. Its all very personal and subjective. I also have a keyless Murray D, and its a great flute. I was surprised by how slender and light it is compared to other blackwood flutes I have owned. My .02 cents - go for an eB in blackwood and have Sam make you a D in boxwood. You’ll be in flute Elysium with no regrets!
M
On the weight issue, a blackwood Murray in D, even with keys, is feather-light and well balanced compared to other flutes out there - I’d decide on sound or looks, personally.
Thanks for the replies,I think I’ll go with the blackwood and reserve the boxwood for when I buy a Bb.
How interesting. I’d take just the opposite tack, ie…get a boxwood to smooth out and warm up the brightness of Eb and blackwood to give a touch more punch to a low flute.
Ain’t people funny?
Doc