1. Different timbres

Xiao: the timbre is relatively simple and rich.

Flute: The sound is crisp, bright and highly penetrating.

Hulusi: The music is soft and harmonious.

2. Different pronunciations

Xiao: pronunciation depends on mouth shape and airflow.

Flute: When playing high notes, the wind is fine and the air flow is fast, while when playing low notes, the air flow is gentle.

Hulusi: Pronunciation is achieved by controlling the air flow.

3. Different structures

Xiao: Generally made of bamboo, with the blowing hole at the upper end.

Flute: Made of a bamboo tube, the inside is hollowed into a hollow chamber and the outside is cylindrical.

Hulusi: Made of a complete natural gourd, three bamboo tubes and three metal reeds.

Xiao:

Flute:

Hulusi:

4. Difficulties vary

Xiao: Blowing holes is special and difficult.

Flute: easier to play than flute.

Hulusi: easier than Xiao and Di.

5. Different uses

Xiao: suitable for playing low and euphemistic tunes.

Flute: often used in Chinese folk music, opera, Chinese folk orchestras, Western symphony orchestras and modern music.

Hulusi: often used to play folk tunes such as folk songs and agricultural songs.