Apart from the player of course, the head joint is responsible for the greater part of the sound characteristics of any flute. Today the majority of players of all levels are finding that they can improve many aspects of their playing by choosing a head joint that suits their individual needs.
Every head joint maker uses a different compromise of the fourteen different dimensions in the embouchure hole to produce their own unique style. Any player wishing to improve facets of their sound is always advised to try the widest range of head joints possible.
Here is a link that may help you decide on a Headjoint.
http://www.miyazawa.com/articles/other19.htm
Head Joint - this is the part of the flute that incorporates (from top to bottom):
Crown - A cap which is used to protect the tuning cork inside the head joint.
Tuning Cork - A stopper placed inside the head joint which controls some of the intonation of a flute. (Do not fiddle with it!)
Embouchure Hole - What you blow across to make the sound
Lip Plate - The curved piece of metal which rests against your lip when you play.
Riser/Chimney - this is the part of the head-joint where the lip plate is connected to the tube. When playing, the airstream makes contact with the riser, causing the air in the tube to vibrate and the sound to be produced.
The properties of different riser metals directly affect the quality of the sound and response. Here are some general guidelines when considering risers of silver, gold and platinum:
Silver provides a full, fluid sound. Resistance of this metal is moderate, allowing for flexibility and reliable response.
Gold risers made of 14k gold bring a more complex and colorful sound to any headjoint style by expanding the harmonic range. 24k gold risers provide additional texture and warmth. Generally, gold risers offer more resistance, resulting in fullness of tone and rich response.
Platinum risers have a dark, deeply penetrating sound. With noticeably increased resistance, many flutists comment that they can �push� the sound without the worry of cracking notes, and response to articulation is unparalleled.