[rouxroux]

John, I might add that for a student instrument you might want to check the ones suggested by the MENC (Music Educators National Conference) String Panel. Nothing can turn a kid off (especially in the beginning stages) than having an inferior constructed instrument. The rental/purchase plans that many music shops are great (most have the option of trade-up and sometimes "repair insurance"), plus, if the student decides "it's just not my thing", you can always bail. I know for my double bass students, the Engelhardts have been a good tough (and somewhat musical) beginning instrument. But then, they only make basses and cellos.