Yep, Doug’s flutes are certainly real flutes, and serious musical instruments-via Doug’s craftsmanship and tuning, and are an excellent choice for a first flute, especially if you want to save some money.
The Tipples have different dimensions (larger finger stretch, larger holes and no taper towards the end like a conical bore flute), but can sound very similar if you adjust your embouchure, as Doug suggested. That is easier especially, I understand with the newer lip plate to sound more like a wooden Irish flute, though I haven’t had the chance to try one with the lip plate as yet.
Doug’s optional wedge makes the second octave play in tune, which makes it play like conical bore flutes in the second octave, tuning-wise.
The Dixon will sound a little more like an Irish flute for a beginner, without trying too hard, but as said, it won’t have quite the strong tone of Doug’s either, though it’s not a bad way to start either.
One othe difference is the weight-Doug’s flutes being made from PVC tubing, are very lightweight. That can be good and bad; good that it feels very light, and there is no strain in holding it up for longer periods of time, but bad in that it might not be quite as steady in your first efforts until you learn to hold it properly-the extra weight of the Dixon might help with that a little.
I started on one of Doug’s flutes, and would highly recommend one, if you can handle the stretch (his website can guide you or Doug can too). You already know piper’s grip, so the bottom end should be fine for you using that grip. Top end depends on how you will play there-standard or piper’s. I play piper’s bottom, and standard on top, and had no problems with the Tipple flute. I have medium to large men’s hands (about 7-3/4" spread thumb to little finger).
Hope that helps some.
Barry
