Pearl PF501E

I've said that Pearl PF501E flutes aren't strong, but slight physical weakness is a small price to pay for the quality of the sound you get with one of these flutes. Comparing them to the bench-mark Yamaha 211, these instruments are faster, sweeter and more responsive - maybe with the exception of the highest register. Sure, these are basic flutes and they don't do everything (hence the 7 for sound), but mine has got me from grade 2 to 7 with absolutely no fuss. Only now am I beginning to feel the restrictions of a silver plated head-joint etc., which you find with all student flutes.

If you get a chance, definitely go with the 501 RE (the open holed version). They're usually the same price, and the holes are fantastic for aesthetics and technique.

These flutes won't let you down provided you don't run them over with a tractor, and they provide a more reasonably priced alternative to the bog-standard Yamaha 211.