Any flute brand experts: Jupiter or Emerson?

I don't know about the Jupiter or Emerson, but I think you definitely should rethnk Gemeinhardt. Granted they cost A LOT, but it is so worth it. It's better to buy a flute of better quality that will last longer than to settle for a cheap one you will have to replace anyhow. I guess it also really depends also on what your playing for and how serious your playing is. If you play outside, I would get whatever is cheapest. I play inside, so I opted for the full sterling silver body with a gold headjoint (another thing to consider, gold headjoints sweeten high notes). But if you still don't want the Gemeinhardt, just go to a store, like Sam Ash or something, and let them test out both flutes, and pick out the one you like best. It really comes down to which flute YOU feel more comfortable with.