I've attached my guide to purchasing an instrument. There are many fake instruments on the market that are made of painted plywood, and are not intended for students that are learning seriously. If purchasing online, please use Shar Music, Southwest Strings, or Sam Ash Music, where all the instruments meet National Association of Music Education standards. If using Amazon, make sure to e-mail Mr. Shieh the links to what you consider purchasing: many of the instruments do not meet basic standards for manufacturing instruments.