I have done extensive search of this forum and other internet resources before posting this thread about Straubinger pads. I know most people complain about its unrealistic precision requirements but Brannen could make them work (although the cost of their flute is incredible). So I was not considering Straubinger pads at all.
I posted this thread only because I was unsure about Straubinger phoenix pads. Very little information can be found about this pad.
Gordon, I know you have always been very willing to help on this forum. If you have worked with these phoenix pads, could you tell us more about them? How hard are they compared to regular pads? Do they have an unusual dimension to hinder replacements with traditional pads?
I agree, very little info on the phoenix pads. What does astound me is that the changes are all in the direction towards more traditional pads. Changes which to me clearly acknowledge the various deficiencies of the older ones. Give another decade or two and they may evolve completely back to traditional pads!
Just one example:
https://s3.amazonaws.com/instrument...tos/YFL-Straubinger+Phoenix+Pads+Parts-2b.jpg
(Which can be found in context, with more Phoenix detail, by scrolling down at
http://www.instrumentalsavings.com/...sional-Flute-p/yamaha-flute-yfl-677h-lpgp.htm
Straubinger has tried to overcome the issue of pad membrane tearing where it goes over a rather sharp plastic edge that defines the circumference. To do this he has formed a felt-like material over that sharp edge to protect the membrane. my experience of felt-like materials is that if this is done to them, then flatness will be compromised on the pad face and unwanted springiness introduced. And it was this flatness that was perhpas the best practical feature of the original Straubingers. The springiness of the felt substitute(?) that Straubinger uses has always been of concern to me. Fighting springiness to effect a seal, no matter how small the fight, is not good for a player wanting a delicate touch. Hmm.
I don't know whether I have seen and worked with Phoenix pads yet, because I have not disected one, nor probed at my customer's pads edges to check them out.
I recently did work on a Muramatsu with their take on the same concept. I think it is equally disastrous as the original Straubinger. I am not the only one it seems, from earlier pages of the link below.
I just read what I think is a worthy statement by repair technician and player, "jbutky", who to my knowledge attracts respect in the world of repairers second to none.
About the 4th post doen at
http://www.8notes.com/f/25_224149.asp?spage=3