I just took the boxwood to a session last night (about 20 people, two pipers, and I sat next to a banjo) and I didn’t have a problem with volume or tuning. Sure, my McGee Rudall Perfected in blackwood barked better, as did the Murray sitting next to me, but all-in-all the boxwood Norman held it’s own.
I reluctantly sent both flutes back to Chris today, as I don’t have the funds available. So keep an eye out for a few posts on the UIE from me in the coming days as I attempt to rotate my stock 
A few years ago I inquired about making a headjoint for my Monzani. Didn’t go down that road in the end but I remember his price list included two instruments I’d love to try.
A flute in G below D based (it may have been a low A flute?) on a Monzani original and a piccolo based on New Hampshire maker Graves
if I recall correctly.
Really wanted to order the big one which I think was available with one or four keys.
Not in the cards right now but one day.
Did CN know went he sent out the flutes that you were just tire-kicking, or did you let him think you were a potential customer?
He knew I was just expressing interest, and he was the one who offered to send them for a trial. 
Furthermore, we both agreed on the date I would return them to him. I agree with you that it’s best to make your intentions clear so that you’re not getting anyone’s hopes up.
Hopefully my little science experiment added something to this community. I know I will definitely be purchasing one from Chris as soon as I have the funds available.
Just looking over the old price list the low flute was a Stanesby ( not Monzani) based flute in A or G
One or four keys.
It definitely piqued my interest. But I’m in a similar boat: Too many possible flutes, too little money.
Thanks for the report, John.
The #742 that he models after is his own original boxwood from the Man With the Wooden Flute recording, and copied by Cameron.
BTW…there’s a great photo of a young Linda Hickman floating around of late with Celtic Thunder (w/ Tony Demarco) holding and playing that very flute, c.1970s.
She eventually sold it to Chris.
She’d gotten if from ex-b/f David Shorey.
fwiw
Thanks for the history lesson! Knowing that he models it after his own flute makes me love it even more.