Innovative new Handmade precious metal flute
After 20 years of continuous development, Yamaha has succeeded in creating a new, innovative lineup of Handmade flutes.
Designed in consultation with András Adorján, professor of flute at the Munich University of Music and Performing Arts, the new Yamaha Handmade flute lineup allows performers to play with a wider range of expression and with the freedom to create their own unique tonal colors.
The Yamaha 800-series flutes, which are handmade of high grade precious metal, offer a strong broad sound with warm tonal colours.
Features
Product Image
New “Type A” headjoint
The new Yamaha “Type A” headjoint enables the flautist to produce an easy yet colourful sound and still play using a wide dynamic range. Indeed, the “Type A” headjoint has been praised by many players for its “clear sound, which is distinctive even at pianissimo.” Among the improvements to the new “Type A” headjoint is a slightly increased wall thickness that greatly improves the resonance of the headjoint and maximizes the tonal colours available for the performer.
Straubinger pads
Straubinger pads, which are made using a stable plastic base and durable synthetic leather, have been widely adopted as essential components of a high quality Handmade flute. Compared to traditional felt and paper pads that require frequent adjustments, Straubinger pads are more tolerant of environmental change and remain in top playing condition for a longer period of time. A Yamaha Handmade flute with Straubinger pads enables the player to achieve a clear response with a more mature, nuanced sound.
Flat pad cups
Flattened pad cups provide better stability than more traditional-style pad cups. Pad positions can be adjusted more easily and stabilized for a longer length of time when the pad is seated in a flat pad cup. Because the pad is more stable, it is also able to respond more freely, creating a rich and desirable resonance.
Pinless left-hand key system (In-line, ring key models only)
The high F-F# key movement is improved and much smoother due to a newly developed and innovative pinless left-hand key system.
Consistent lever position for C# and D# keys between C and B foot joints.
For players who require the use of both a C and B foot joint, Yamaha has unified the design of the C# and D# keys so that pinky finger movements are consistent with either foot joint. Flutists are now able to accurately achieve the precise technique required for playing with the right hand pinky finger, no matter if using a C or B foot joint.
Technology
Audio & Video
Product Lineup
Handmade Silver
| Model | Toneholes | Key Types | Key Systems | Split E Mechanism | Material | Finish | Case | Case Bag |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YFL-817 | Soldered and Undercut | Covered Keys | Offset G | Included | Sterling silver | Silver-plated | FLC-87CL | FLB-85Ⅱ |
| YFL-877 | Ring Keys | Included | FLC-87CS | |||||
| YFL-887 | In-line | - | ||||||
| YFL-897 | Included |
All models are available with a B footjoint; add H to the model number when ordering.
Toneholes
Soldered and Undercut
Soldered toneholes with undercut inner edges give a strong sound with a lot of 'life' in the tone.
Key Types
Covered Keys
Ring (French) Keys
Covered or Plateau keys are easy to use. The pad cup is covered so it will seal the tonehole anytime the key is closed. This is especially important for beginners who may not always press the center of the key.
Many advanced players prefer the open feel of Ring keys for subtle control of their tone. Intermediate and Standard model French system flutes come with key plugs to seal the hole until players have become adept at covering the holes with their fingers.
Key Systems
In-line
Offset G
Many players find the Offset G configuration easier to play. Often teachers recommend that beginners start on these flutes, while more and more advanced players are also choosing this naturalfeeling configuration. Many advanced students and professionals, though, still prefer the traditional In-line formation where all the toneholes are in a straight row.
Split E Mechanism
This key helps give more stability and better centered intonation to the high E.
Footjoints
B Footjoint
C Footjoint
The B footjoint has an extra key enabling the player to play 1/2 step lower than the lowest note of the C foot. It also affects the sound; B footjoint enables a darker, stronger sound with good projection, while C footjoint has flexible, warmer tone.
Options
Mechanical Option
-
C# Trill Key
An additional lever and tonehole which are useful for B to C#trills, but can also be used to facilitate a number of other trills and tremolos.
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G/A Trill Key
This aids in trilling from G to A.
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G# Open
Removing G# tonehole enables better intonation of high E, even without a Split E Mechanism.
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Clutch E Mechanism
A switch allowing players to turn on or off the Split E mechanism as desired.
-
C# and D# Rollers
Rollers on the key levers to facilitate finger movements.
Pad
Traditional Pad
Traditional pad, which has been adopted as a standard for many years, is also available instead of Straubinger Pad.
Wall Thickness
Gold
Standard 0.30mm-Flexible, delicate tone
Sterling Silver
Light 0.35mm-Light free tone, easy response
Standard 0.38mm-Well-balanced resistance
Heavy 0.43mm-Heavier weight for powerful sound, increased air resistance
Material
Gold Crown (only available for Gold)
An optional gold crown for C Type flutes is available by special order.
14k Lip Plate and Riser (only available for Silver)
Deeper sound is available with the optional gold lip plate and riser.
Engraving
Yamaha's optional engraving is hand carved with unmatchable skill and care. The traditional Japanese engraving technique used has been passed done from father to son for many generations, making these flutes true works of art.
Crown
Rings
Lip Plate
Keys
