I’ve read Doug Tipple’s FAQ entry on the difference between his 6-hole and 8-hole flutes, but I’d like to ask the C&F community for their thoughts on the matter. Has anyone had the chance to play both? I’m curious about what the general preference is, and whether I should even consider choosing the 8-hole version.
I recieved one of Dougs great flutes almost three weeks ago.
3pc, 8hole, in-line, speckle bore and a wedge.
It played right off the bat.
I was very impressed with his workmanship.
It looks like porcelain!
Now, I haven’t played his 6 hole… but I have played many of my 6 hole PVC.
And on inspection of his hole placement, the ones built to his numbers are to a fraction near identical… even on the lower tone placement of my own made 8 hole. ( I looked real close at his photos and used flutecalc too)
I will say mine sound good enough I suppose… (good enough for what yet Im not too sure 
) but Doug’s sound great!
That wedge of his makes a marked difference in the second octave.
As to the difference to a six vs. eight?
Some. But not much.
I will for the most part agree with Doug’s write up on the differences.
The six it lighter and smaller in length of course. Feels a little more responsive because of that. Its also cheaper.
I think it may be a little louder… I think.
The eight… well, it looks like a full size flute. 
That may be to your advantage if you plan on moving up.
I will say there is a bit of a stretch and the smaller flute somehow makes it easier… but I was over it in about a week.
Im finding the low end E and D to be a little weak but I think that might be true of cylindrical flutes… or it may be just me for now.
Its heavier… I actually like the weight better. Feels more balanced.
I think is a bit woodier but that may be the denser speckle pvc… and the wedge. (I should take out that wedge and try them all again)
As a weapon… you have more stand off capability
As you can tell… all very scientific.
I’d go with the big one with all the bells and whistles.
Since I did. hehe.
The 8 hole allows one to swat the cat at greater range… The 6 hole is better when going down a hallway;.
I have both… though, admittedly, I dont’ play either much right now, as I’m busy with playing my whistles and case making, I like both equally… the sound is easy, clear and consistent, and with a little practice even I can make them sound pretty darned good… that’s saying a lot! The 6 hole fits in my case a lot easier, but that’s because I’ve too many whistles in there to allow the 8 holer to be taken apart. 
I thought he used imitation ivory.
I think that pretty much sums it up.
Thanks for all the opinions! Since the price difference is pretty small, and it’s always good to have a bit more reach when swatting, I think I’ll likely lean toward the 8-hole.
Mcurry, your link to Mr. Tipple’s sight seems to say what is important. The only real change to his flute seems to be appearance and balance; things that your own opinion is worth much more than my opinion.
I would wonder how it affects the third octave, but nobody else would.
the optional lip plate, affording more of a chimney, might help with the third octave.
I’d email/PM Doug on that one.
No, its real ivory that comes from a very rare PVC elephant.
Actually, it really comes from the tusk of a Nauga, an endangered species because of the hide hunters!
With best regards,
Steve Mack