This is a lovely student flute. I wouldn't think twice about getting one as a first flute for an aspiring flautist. I suddenly found myself needing to learn as an adult, and this is my first one. Before this, I learned on a Nuvo Toot and a Yamaha fife.
I am able to get a lovely flute tone out of this instrument. It is not sensitive to moisture and comes out of the box ready to play. Like the Toot, it includes a special, whistle-like lip plate to assist in learning to make the embouchure. The fingerings that I learned on the Toot translate well to this flute; I can already play some simple songs. It can't even be assembled wrong; the foot only fits one way, and an arrow helps you line up the head.
One great thing about this instrument is the value. Flutes are expensive, and can be a big investment for someone who wishes to learn but is unsure of committing. Cheap metal flutes found on Amazon break easily, and second-hand flutes often require service, which can be as expensive as a new instrument. This instrument doesn't rust if not swabbed out, and the silicone pads will not degrade in the same way felt does. I can't speak to its serviceablity yet, but I am optimistic about its durability.
Generally speaking, I really like the Nuvo instrument line. I really appreciate their philosophy of creating durable, practical instruments that are meant to be kept out, handled, picked up and put down, played, and ultimately passed down.
it is well-made and nearly maintenance free But it is much harder to produce a nice tone. It would be nice if they made other snap-on embouchures.
I have converted the other beginner embouchure plate to see if it can be a useful alternative. Answer: yes it can.
My other flute is much, much easier to produce a good tone with.