Guide to Yamaha Flute Model Numbers

Yamaha Flutes have 3-digit model numbers, where each digit indicates something different about the flute. Read on for a guide to Yamaha Flute Model Numbers. Please note, this guide covers current Yamaha flute models. There may be older models that do not fit these conventions.

The first digit indicates the material of the instrument

2xx: all-silver plated
3xx: sterling silver headjoint, silver-plated body and keys
4xx: sterling silver headjoint and body, silver-plated keys
5xx: sterling silver headjoint, silver-plated body and keys
6xx: sterling silver headjoint and body, silver-plated keys
7xx: sterling silver headjoint, body and keys (drawn tone holes)
8xx: wood flute and sterling silver keys (soldered tone holes if not wood)
9xx: 14K/9K gold flute and sterling silver keys

The second digit indicates specifications: if the flute is inline or offset, open hole or closed hole, and with or without split-E mechanism. Note that not all specifications are available for all models (for example, x7x is not available for intermediate flutes.)

x2x: closed hole plateau model with offset G
x6x: open hole French model with offset G
x7x: open hole French model with offset G and split-E mechanism
x8x: open hole French model with inline G
x9x: open hole French model with inline G and split-E mechanism

The third digit indicates the type of flute
xx2: Standard & Intermediate Flutes
xx4: Professional Wood Flutes
xx7: Professional Flutes

Optional letters at the end of the model numbers provide more insight into options.
H: B footjoint 
Without “H”: C footjoint
CT: C# trill key
LPGP: gold-plated lip plate

Let’s “decode” a few popular model numbers:

Yamaha 362H/LPGP
3xx: sterling silver headjoint, silver-plated body and keys
x6x: open hole French model with offset G
xx2: Standard & Intermediate Flutes
H: B footjoint
LPGP: with gold-plated lip plate

Yamaha 462H
4xx: sterling silver headjoint and body, silver-plated keys
x6x: open hole French model with offset G
xx2: Standard & Intermediate Flutes
H: B footjoint

Yamaha 222
2xx: all-silver plated
x2x: closed hole plateau model with offset G
xx2: Standard & Intermediate Flutes

Yamaha 687HCT
6xx: sterling silver headjoint and body, silver-plated keys
x8x: open hole French model with inline G
xx7: Professional Flutes
“H”: B footjoint 
CT: C# trill key

Any questions? Contact a Resident Flutist today - we are happy to help, whether you have a question about model numbers, are ready for a trial, or are curious about which flute may be right for you.