FAQ
How do I ship my flute to Muramatsu America (for trial returns or service of your Muramatsu flute)?
Please address to:
Muramatsu America
915 South Main Street
Royal Oak MI 48067
We recommend using either UPS or Federal Express 2nd day air, as a quick and efficient way of shipping. We are in the office Monday – Thursday noon-5pm and Friday noon-4:30pm; please save yourself the additional expense and hassle and AVOID a request for delivery before noon. Please pack your flute carefully by wrapping each section in a small piece of tissue paper, then replacing each section in the case. Place the case in your case cover, and send your flute in a box that is a bit larger than the instrument (an 18x8x6 box works great!). Make sure there is packing material (bubble wrap, packing peanuts, newspaper, etc.) at the bottom of the box, then your flute, then more packing material on top. Please remember to include your name, address and phone number, along with a brief description of the reason you are shipping the flute to us. If you are sending the flute for service, please include a short description of any concerns and/or the service that you are requesting.
Can I buy my Muramatsu directly from you?
Yes! We will sell direct to many of our customers. Give the office a call (248) 336-2323, and we will be happy to assist you.
Is there a dealer in my area?
We have many authorized dealers throughout the United States and Canada. Please see our MAP of Authorized Muramatsu America Dealers & Repair Technicians. If you prefer, call the office at (248) 336-2323 and we can assist with any questions or concerns.
Are there any unauthorized dealers?
Unfortunately, yes, there are some companies that do not purchase their Muramatsu inventory through the authorized channels. You can often detect an unauthorized company or agent, even when they claim to be authorized, if they do not display the authorized logo (see below), are selling new Muramatsu flutes on Ebay, tell you that you will have to wait for your flute, if they say that you do not have to worry about a factory warranty because their in-house repair staff will provide service, if the flute is not stamped MA on the ribbing (applies to flutes made February 2002-present), or if they do not provide you with a case cover and gold certificate of authenticity (note: it was green before 2020). Please look on our Authorized Dealer MAP and check for the following logo for Authorized Dealers:
How does un-authorized affect me?
Your flute may be pitched sharp for this market, the spring tension may be different, the cut may be different. Customs and duties may not have been paid on these flutes or may have been falsified with customs, you may not receive a paid invoice, appraisal, nor factory warranty from the seller. You may not receive all the items that come with a new flute such as a case cover, etc. We have seen unintentional damage to Muramatsu flutes when service technicians are not trained in proper Muramatsu flute service, and we have seen examples of irreparable damage. Your flute may be subject to a repair surcharge if previous work has been performed by a Repair Technician that is not Authorized by Muramatsu America and has led to damage or work that must be repaired. Repair Techs who have not completed our training and authorization do NOT have access to Muramatsu parts for flutes made after 1995 and may use parts not specific to or appropriate for Muramatsu flutes.
What’s the big deal about authorized importing?
When something is manufactured in a country other than the United States, you are subject to customs and duties charges. Muramatsu America pays all customs and duties charges on every flute we import. This means that all the proper paperwork has been filed with the United States government, and your flute is not in jeopardy of being repossessed.
I placed my order, how long will it take?
If you have ordered with either Muramatsu America or one of our authorized dealers, your flute will likely be shipped within 3 business days. We have a huge inventory, ready for you. We do the waiting, by placing our orders from the Muramatsu, Inc. factory in Japan, well in advance of our customer demands. Please inquire directly with us for special order flutes. The wait time for special order flutes can be 3-18 months, and will vary based upon model, specifications and timing. We can walk you through any questions you have by emailing flute@muramatsu-america.com or calling our office at 248-336-2323.
It has been three months, and still no flute, what’s going on?
Most orders get shipped within 48 hours. If your dealer is stalling you, they are probably an unauthorized agent and you should call us immediately. We have most models in stock at all times. If you have placed a special order instrument through Muramatsu America, the wait times will vary. Please touch base with us and we will answer any questions you might have.
What is a special order item?
Special ordering refers to items we do not usually carry in our inventory, such as closed hole or C foot instruments, along with some of the higher end flutes such as 18k or 24k. Special orders should be placed directly with Muramatsu America, and it could take anywhere from 3-18 months for your flute to arrive. We always let our customers know the status of their special order.
Do you receive shipments often?
Muramatsu America places and receives orders from our parent company, Muramatsu Inc., every month, so we always have a good supply of the various models and options available for our customers.
Do you ever run out of flutes?
This has happened on occasion when the demand for a certain model has exceeded our anticipated sales. We try very hard to keep everything in stock either here in our office, or with our dealers. Backorders are rare, and we ship as soon as possible.
How much do Muramatsu Flutes cost?
In North America, the Silver EX Model starts at $4700. Please see our Pricelist here for detailed information to assist in your decisions. If you find new Muramatsu Flutes on sale or discounted from these prices, it would be wise to contact us to confirm that they are authentic and authorized instruments (see above “What’s the big deal about authorized importing?”).
Do you service flutes?
Yes, our Muramatsu-trained Repair Technicians at Muramatsu America have studied with Master Technicians at the Muramatsu factory in Japan and are regularly updating techniques and procedures with the Chief Engineers and Repair Technicians in Japan. We are available during our business hours (Monday -Thursday noon-5p EST and Friday noon – 4:30pm) to help you with any questions or concerns you may have about Muramatsu flutes or repairs.
How long does a repair take?
It depends on the repair. Minor repairs and adjustments take 7-10 days, but overhauls take longer. Muramatsu America has one of the quickest repair turn-around times of any major professional flute maker.
What about my older Muramatsu?
We love vintage flutes! We offer clean, oil and adjust services on all Muramatsu flutes. At this time, however, we are no longer able to provide felt pad overhauls on older Muramatsu instruments. We are happy to provide overhaul services on all Muramatsu flutes that use the current Lotus pad system. Also, some vintage instruments can receive a “conversion overhaul,” which means that the felt pads system can be updated to the current Lotus pad system. Please contact us by phone or email for further information and to determine if your vintage Muramatsu flute is compatible with the lotus system.
Can I buy parts from you for my flute?
Sorry, only authorized Repair Technicians can purchase Muramatsu parts such as pads, screws, washers, etc. This is simply due to the fact that the Muramatsu flute requires precision repair techniques. You can obtain key oil, cases, and case covers from Muramatsu America.
I currently own a C foot or B foot instrument, and I would like to purchase a new foot joint. Are they available as extra parts?
Yes and no. Every component of every Muramatsu flute is made to order. Older flutes (pre-1981) cannot have a new foot joint or headjoint made since these items are no longer in production. Newer solid silver flutes may be eligible for the manufacturing of new parts, please contact us to check availability, price, and timing for each individual flute.
What is the C♯ trill option?
The C♯ trill consists of an added tone hole above the thumb key on the left hand. This tone hole is the actual C♯ tone hole for the flute. It is operated (opened) by the first finger on the right hand, which presses on a lever just above the B-flat lever. In addition to producing a true C♯ when placing down the first finger in the left hand, this lever allows the flutist to produce numerous trills more accurately.
What is an E mechanism option?
This is a mechanism which actually splits the two keys operated by the third finger in the left hand which produces G. The split E allows the second of these two keys to close independently when playing a high E and makes the high E speak more easily. This mechanism could be called a split G, but its purpose is solely for producing the high E, hence the name split E mechanism.
What is a D♯ roller?
It is an added roller on the E♭/D♯ key of the footjoint. This roller allows the pinkie finger to slide smoothly to the lower keys on the footjoint, namely, the C♯ spatula and the C and B rollers.
What is a Tsubasa headjoint option?
The tsubasa “wing” head joint is a design with subtle risers running out each side of the front of the embouchure hole. These tiny bumpers enhance clarity and depth of the sound for some players and are offered as an option to the traditional Muramatsu head joint to meet the personal preferences of performers.
Can I have different options added to my Muramatsu flute after purchase?
No. After the flute has been manufactured, neither a C# trill key nor a Split E mechanism can be added to the flute. However, a high E facilitator (also known as E ring, or donut), can be installed on your Muramatsu flute.
Do you offer a trial period?
Yes. You can call to schedule a trial with the Muramatsu model and options you wish to try. We will need your name, address, phone number and a payment method for security. Trial period is 7 days from receipt of the flute.
After the trial, do I wait for my flute to be made?
No. Every flute sent for trial is brand new (unless you request a used flute), and that flute is available for sale. So, if you test the flute and like it, you may keep the flute by completing the purchase.
What if I don’t like my trial flute?
Simply pack it up and return ship it to us. You are only responsible for shipping one way. Visit the contact page for instructions.
How can I pay for my purchase?
We accept checks, bank transfer, VISA, MasterCard, and American Express.
Can I buy a flute at a trade show?
Yes, when in-person trade-shows resume, you can trial and purchase Muramatsu Flutes from us or our authorized dealers. A trade show is just like an in-home trial. If you like the flute, you can make your purchase with our trade show representative.
Can I come to try flutes at your location?
Please reach out to us for in-person testing by appointment! Please call our office at (248) 336-2323 or email us at flute@muramatsu-america.com to discuss the options with us that may include in-person testing, local pick up or shipping for trial with our staff.
Where was my Muramatsu flute made?
All Muramatsu flutes are made in the factory located in Tokorozawa, japan.
Who has information about my Muramatsu flute?
Flutes manufactured after April 1995 are all registered in the Muramatsu America database, as long as your flute was purchased through a legitimate dealer or agent, of course. If your flute was manufactured before April 1995, we will be able to contact the factory on your behalf to obtain information about your flute.
What does “North American specifications” mean?
North American specifications refer to pitch, spring tension, headjoint, cut, etc. Also, if you are purchasing a DS, Platinum Clad, Gold or Solid Platinum flute, the D# roller is a standard feature on these flutes. Over the years our staff has worked closely with the engineers at Muramatsu Inc. to ensure that the flutes we import have the features desired by the American flutist.
How do I ship my flute to Muramatsu America?
Please address to:
Muramatsu America
915 South Main Street
Royal Oak MI 48067
We recommend using either UPS or Federal Express 2nd day air, as a quick and efficient way of shipping. We are in the office Monday – Thursday noon-5p EST and Friday noon – 4:30pm; please save yourself the additional expense and hassle and AVOID a request for delivery before noon. Please pack your flute carefully by wrapping each section in a small piece of tissue paper, then replacing each section in the case. Place the case in your case cover, and send your flute in a box that is a bit larger than the instrument (an 18x8x6 box works great!). Make sure there is packing material (bubble wrap, packing peanuts, newspaper, etc.) at the bottom of the box, then your flute, then more packing material on top. Please remember to include your name, address and phone number, along with a brief description of the reason you are shipping the flute to us. If you are sending the flute for service, please include a short description of any concerns and/or the service that you are requesting.
Is there a warranty with my Muramatsu flute?
A Muramatsu Inc. one-year warranty is offered on all structural components. All Muramatsu Flutes made for Muramatsu America are stamped MA on the ribbing, assuring our customers that their flute was made in Japan for Muramatsu America and legally imported.
Flutes purchased directly from Muramatsu America are provided with a new owner kit as well as a one-year warranty on service and adjustments. Please refer to the warranty page for details.
I keep seeing flutes on eBay, is this a good deal?
Authorized Dealers do NOT sell new Muramatsu flutes on ebay. You may find used Muramatsu flutes on ebay; they may or may not be a good deal. They may be flutes that have not entered the country through legitimate means or be counterfeits. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call us. We will help you to the best of our ability.
I don’t live in the United States, can I buy a flute from you?
In-person sales at our showroom in Royal Oak, Michigan, or at a trade show within the US, are always welcome. We also ship flutes to addresses within the US and Canada. Email us at flute@muramatsu-america.com for more information.
What should I do if my Muramatsu is stolen?
After making a police report, CALL US! Our web site is the one people hit for information about Muramatsu flutes. When pawn brokers or wary internet buyers want more information about the value of a vintage Muramatsu, they often contact us. We keep a record of serial numbers and are quickly able to tell them all we know about the flute. If we can’t help get your Muramatsu rescued, we’ll help get it replaced. We can work with your insurance company.