Product Reviews: Azumi AZ-S2 Flute

I recently returned to playing the flute after a very long gap. I set a rough price range and tried flutes from Yamaha, Trevor James, Pearl and Azumi. From the outset, the Azumi stood out for two main reasons: the strong resonant tone which could be easily obtained, and the quality feel of the mechanism.

Having narrowed it down to Azumi, I tried three different flutes. The AZ-Z1 (silver lip plate & riser, but otherwise silver plated nickel) was a good instrument. But stepping up to the AZ-Z2 with a solid silver head joint made the tone noticeably richer. (I had been sceptical about the difference a silver head joint would make, but found it to be substantial.)

I experimented for some time with the two different embouchure hole cuts available with the AZ2: Z described as free blowing; and S described as offering more resistance. (I didn’t find these descriptions particularly helpful, and trying the flutes is definitely the best way to differentiate the two types.) The Z produces a very strong tone in the lower register, and is very easy to play at this pitch. The S cut requires more precise embouchure in the lower register, but can equal this tone. I found the middle and highest register easier with the S cut. Another advantage of the S cut was that it seemed to offer more variety in tone, with more scope to play sweetly and delicately, or alternatively to blast out a really strong resonant tone. The S cut also could be played more quietly at the higher notes.

Having now played the instrument more at home, I have not been disappointed. I can readily get a variety of tone and dynamics, and can jump easily from one register to another up or down an octave or more. The mechanism works smoothly and reliably. A pleasure to play.

My eyesight isn’t what it used to be ; I ordered this “ accidentally” , I meant to buy the Azumi with the Z cut headjoint but clicked on the wrong thing and have the S instead . Now, Just Flutes were brilliant , they would have changed it for me but after 4 days of just experimenting with where I put my air , I found that the initial “ resistance” I felt in this flute disappeared . Like most things, it’s practice . I’m removing the silicone inserts one by one and training my pinky finger to press down harder ! This flute sounds fabulous and the variety of sounds you can get is astonishing in a flute that’s not actually that expensive . I can see the difference in quality and playability against my older ( very nice ) flute, the keyword is particularly nice , very responsive and much faster than I’ve been playing .
Would recommend highly both the flute and Just Flutes for being patient with an older customer .