Expensive vs affordable shinobue flutes

Q & A: What is the difference between expensive shinobues and less expensive ones?

Answer: The most noticeable differences between high end bamboo flutes and less expensive ones are tonal quality and pitch accuracy. Generally, less expensive shinobues lack the richness and depth of sound that their more expensive counterparts have. Additionally, they may not be as pitch-accurate and might not be as durable.

If you're on a tight budget, I recommend opting for Suzuki plastic shinobues instead of bamboo flutes. This is because Suzuki shinobues offer consistent quality, while bamboo flutes can vary since they are made from natural materials. Furthermore, plastic shinobues are washable and more durable. You can just throw it in your backpack and take it anywhere without a fuss. You can use the plastic shinobue to learn the basics, and if you truly enjoy playing, consider investing in a high-quality bamboo flute later on.