I am interested in the keyless McGee Rudall and or Pratten Prefected in blackwood with the long D foot, eccentric bore head and rounded rectangle embrochure. My application is playing sessions and recording. Experience level is that of an enlightened novice; I know what I don’t know. I played flute (Armstrong in a rock and jazz context) years ago; played whistles for many years as well as pipes and have thirty odd years of guitar playing. Anyone have experience with either flute? I want a strong, professional quaity flute. Thank you in advance.
I’ve played a McGee pratten model once. It was a wonderful flute. Unfortunately, I didn’t ask the owner the headjoint design. Very nice playing flute though. I can’t recall now if it was 6 or 8 key…but I think it was an 8 key.
Eric
Might e mail Doc Jones. He’s had a lot
of experience with T Mc flutes of all
kinds.
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I’ve talked with Doc Jones often. A great source. Just trying to get some player insight. Thanks.
I’ve got a 6-key blackwood Pratten of Terry’s; it has the rounded rectangle embouchure. It’s a great, solid flute; never has a bad day. Amazingly light for its size, too. I affectionately call mine “Hoss” if that gives you any idea as to its personality. ![]()
I got to play one of Terry’s keyless prattens at Augusta last week. Nice player, although it had the improved elliptical embouchure, like my GLP has. Very enjoyable flute to play.
Thanks for the comments folks. BTW, it’s not a question of which maker; I am totally sold on Terry McGee; it’s a question of Rudall or Pratten. I am leaning towards Pratten.
I can see the bumper sticker: “Honk if you love ITM”.
Don’t be silly.
The obvious answer to get one of each.
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Both the McGee Rudall Perfected and the McGee Pratten have plenty of volume, especially with the rounded rectangle embouchure. The Pratten has a bit more of an edge, a bit more “Bark”. The Rudall is warmer and more complex with a sweeter top end. Both are fabulous.
Doc
different tools for different jobs.
if you want volume, the McGee Pratten has the biggest sound out of any flutes i have owned.
my personal take is, that with a very focused embouchure, even a smaller holed flute can carry great, but it takes a lot of practice, and goes fast once the Guinness come into play ![]()
True, the Pratten is louder. Also true that a guy with the chops can get plenty of volume out of any of Terry’s embouchures.
The Rudall perfected has plenty of punch for any session. If you want the biggest stick on the block get the Pratten.
Doc