I’d say the two flutes are of similar value. Neither could be called definitively, objectively “better”. The FF has a darker, woodier tone, is lighter than the M&E, maybe slightly easier on the hands because the holes are closer together. Other than that, I’d say it’s subjective, a matter of different subtle qualities than anything quantitative. I’d say my above post also speaks to the differences of the two flutes in my view, though I have a Standard and not a FF.
Just posting back to say thank you all for the comments, and for the advice from several people sent by PM. I had a couple of flutes offered to me, and ended up buying an M & E rosewood 8-key from a board member (eventually realised I had to have a wood flute, as a career woodworker, and hadn’t planned on a keyed flute but couldn’t say no)…have had it for a week or two now I guess, and while this is NOT a review, I’m very happy with it.
I’m sure there are other flutes in my future, but right now I feel like I have a good instrument to work with. Also made me realise how hard my existing mystery keyless flute is to play.
Congrats on the new flute…stepping up to a flute from a real maker as opposed to an mystery flute is a startling change…in a postive way.
Eric