http://www.forrestrace.com/nickel-plated-3/
What’s the difference between nickel-plated and silver-plated flutes?
I love instruments, and I’m getting a new flute. I want to choose carefully.
(Also, I wasn’t totally sure on what category to put this in.. So.. Sorry if I screwed up.. lol)
Thanks!
(Band Geeks Rule, btw! =D)
There are a few benefits to getting silver plating over nickel plating. First, silver is a better quality material than the nickel alloy, so that’s better for your flute and better for you. The debate still goes on about exactly how different metals such as silver, gold, nickel, etc. affect the sound, but it’s certainly the truth that the more expensive the material used, the better the quality and workmanship in making the instrument, which leads to a better flute overall.
(To give you a run-down on flute materials: a nickel plated flute is the cheapest material, used only on bottom-rung student flutes. Next up is the silver plated flute, which provides a better sound for student level flutes. Then, for intermediate level flutes, the headjoint is usually solid silver, with a silver plated body, or, solid silver body with plated keys, allowing better sound quality without having to go with all silver. Finally, the professional flutes are made of solid silver, silver with gold plating, etc… very pricy! )
I play clarinet! =)
Nickel Plating, Fast and Easy Way !!! www.beckerindustries.com