About This Flute:
What does "PCM" mean?

PCM is a metal alloy that was used by Miyazawa for about 20 years until 1997 when it was unfortunately discontinued because it was no longer available to the company.  It is 65% silver and copper, along with a mixture of other precious metals.

According to the person who I talked to at  Miyazawa, the PCM model was extremely popular, and they would have loved to continue making it if they had had the materials to do so.

The PCM 300 is most similar to, and has been replaced by, the current Miyazawa 402.  The main differences between the two are that the 402 is sterling silver and has the partial Brogger system.

The following description about PCM is taken from the Miyazawa site:

"After lengthy experimentation and research, Miyazawa created the PCM-Silver alloy. This alloy contains silver, copper and other precious metals. PCM-Silver was developed from a desire to produce a material with a density greater than nickel silver and a hardness greater than sterling silver. Such a combination results in a material with a tonal range more colorful than nickel silver and with a response faster than sterling silver. It is particularly effective when used in lower harmony flutes, such as the Miyazawa Alto flute."