Yamaha - YFL-997 Handmade Flute

Pictured on the left: YFL-997A (above), YFL-997CH (below)

Models Available

Please refer to below for specs and options

Features

Headjoint

The new Yamaha “Type A” headjoint enables the flutist to produce an easy yet colorful sound and still play using a wide dynamic range. The newly designed lip plate promotes efficient playing technique and provides optimal resistance when paired with the new Handmade flute body. The “Type A” headjoint provides a high degree of freedom for musical expressions and has been praised by many players for its rich and clear sound, which is distinctive even at pianissimo.The wall thickness is slightly increased from other headjoint models (9K Gold: 0.35→0.43mm, 18K Gold: 0.3→0.35mm, 14K Gold: 0.3→0.43mm) to improve the resonance of the headjoint and promote a solid resonance when playing fortissimo, maximizing the tonal colors available for the performer.

Toneholes

The overall weight of the flute was slightly raised by increasing the thickness of the toneholes. Combined with a special undercut tonehole design that is used only in combination with soldered toneholes, the performer is enabled to play with a colorful palette of sounds. An optimal level of resonance provides a wide dynamic range with the volume and presence needed for performing in professional orchestras.

Flat pad cups

The thicker and more durable key arms and machined pad cups provide better stability than more traditional-style pad cups. Pad conditions can be easily 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.

Straubinger pads

Straubingerâ„¢ Pads have been widely adopted as significant components of a high quality handmade flute because of their clear response and optimal resonance. Straubingerâ„¢ Pads are more tolerant of environmental change and remain in top playingcondition for a longer period of time. A Yamaha Handmade flute with Straubingerâ„¢ Pads enables the player to achieve a clear response with a more resonant sound.

Pinless left-hand key system (available for YFL-897/997 only)

The high F-F# key movement is improved and much smoother due to a newly developed and innovative pinless left-hand key system.

Acoustic annealing

A special acoustic annealing process that allows for a more pure transmission of vibration from the player to the flute provides Yamaha Handmade flutes with a deep, mature sound and clear response.

Case

The case is compact for easy travel and durable to protect the flute, and is accompanied by a sophisticated case cover. (Left: Handmade Gold, Right: Handmade Silver)

Specs

All models are available with a B footjoint; add H to the model number when ordering.

Material combinations

14k can be upgraded to 18k as an optional extra.

Yamaha Handmade gold flutes are unplated for a beautiful natural appearance and a full-bodied tonal resonance.

Toneholes

Soldered and Undercut

Soldered toneholes with undercut inner edges give a strong sound with a lot of 'life' in the tone.

Key Type

Covered (or Plateau) keys are easy to use. The pad cup is covered so it will seal the tonehole any time the key is closed. This is common with beginners or others 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 System

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 natural feeling 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.

Footjoint

 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 Options

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.

G/A# TRILL KEY

This aids in trilling from G to A.

G# OPEN

Removing G# tonehole enables better intonation of high E, even without a Split E Mechanism.

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 and Straubinger pads are available

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