About one hour ago I received the package. Thanks for that.
The instrument is securely packed in a compact case. Two backstraps are provided, but I don't think I will use them - such a case can be easily hand-carried. Opening the case, the first thing I noticed was the lack of place for for example valve oil, or a mute, although on the outside there is a zipper with room for sheet music. The instrument comes in a kind of anti-tarnish bag, but I am not quite sure about the quality of anti-tarnishing it gives. That is something to find out in the future.
The flugelhorn has a nice black shine, quite something different than the usual thing. The colour is not entirely dark black, but it is rather a kind of black silver. Very special! A negative thing is that I noticed little spots on the valve caps - I don't know if it are marks in the metal itself, or only dirt spots - a good polish maybe? The overall appearance is basic, but sturdy. Good working springs and waterkeys.
Valve action is surprisingly good and fast. Compression is OK. Intonation is OK ; I mean as one could expect from a flugelhorn. I hope the third slide lever will hold it through time. Nice compressions 'pops'.
When I play the flugelhorn, it gives me the dark and mellow sound as I was looking for. The response is good, heavy blowing is not needed to get to the high notes.
Regarding the finishing details, it is not the samen quality of a top instrument, but as I should say: a good instrument in balance with a good (cheap) price!
