Dixon trad vs susato vs plastic Dixon(high d)

[Kame]

@onewheeldave

Whilst at Hobgoblin, i also tried a few flutes, focusing on the Dixon 3-pc conical-bored polymer. My initial impression was that it didn’t strike me as particularly better, in terms of tone and second octave tuning, than my current home made single piece polymer.

Most likely this is something that would change with a lot more time spent practicing/developing on it; but it was interesting to note that, from just the one blow, that superiority was not immediately evident- I guess I’d been thinking that the conical bore would immediately lead to better tuning in the second octave.

I play a dixon poly 3 piece now as my main flute. It does play in tune over the two octaves. Perfectly in tune, and IS capable of some astonishing sounds! I’ve recorded with it on a few ocasions. However, you’re exactly right. on the first blow, it doesn’t impress. you have to tilt the blow hole inward a bit so the the side opposite your lips is in line with the center of the fingerholes. (you probably already know this.) also you don’t need to mess with the tuning. I keep the mouthpiece all the way in. just chin down a bit for the lower notes. Yeah it takes some intimate time to get used to, but It’s worth it.

Take care
Lee