Manufacturer's Description
The aperture on the ring key cups directly impacts the pitch, leading to the differences in the design and positioning of the tone holes between instruments equipped with ring keys and those with covered keys. The openings on the ring keys mimic the effect of a larger cup opening, thereby generating a higher pitch as opposed to the covered key. To address this, the tone hole of the ring key is intentionally positioned slightly towards the footjoint side to lower the pitch.
In situations where individuals are less familiar with ring key instruments, it is common to observe the practice of padding the holes with the silicon pads. However, completely filling the hole space makes the flute a lot more like one with covered keys, resulting in a lower pitch. This unintentionally disrupts the meticulously designed scale.
The Altus Ring Key Patches provide an innovative solution to this issue. Crafted from thin aluminum tape, it effectively covers the top surface of the key while preserving the necessary space for the hole on the cup. By maintaining this space, the patches enable the player to play in a correct harmonic structure. Additionally, the key patches seamlessly blend with the key's shape, enabling a more natural touch and feel when operating the key.
It is important to note that prior to applying the key patch, it is advised to cleanse the cup surface of any dirt or oil using alcohol or a similar cleaning agent.
Even with the patches covering the open holes, developing the skill to position one's fingers precisely at the center of the key remains crucial for a long-term growth and proficiency in flute playing.
About Altus
Altus flutes are held in the very highest esteem by professional players and technicians the world over. Founded by master flute maker Shuichi Tanaka, each Altus flute reflects his passion to produce the finest playing flutes available.
Altus models offer discerning flautists a choice of harmonically tuned and elegant sounding instruments capable of consistently executing technical passages with ease. The many possible combinations of options enable the player to exact a wide range of tone colours.
At the leading edge of contemporary flute making, Altus have developed and introduced density-sensitive materials to the flute market, including .958 Britannia. All Altus flutes come as standard with the accurate William Bennett (WIBB) scale, a responsive and durable mechanism, and a precisely hand-cut headjoint, customised for each flute. Altus flutes appeal to the player who has a classical approach to tone and wants a unique flute that is different from conventional offerings.
