I am a novice so this is from an average person's pov based on what I've researched as well. I haven't gotten to practice on it as much as I'd like ever since receiving a few days ago, however the sound I've been able to produce is lovely and the craftsmanship looks decent - no extra glue or chips or cracks. I was worried about the complaints over this site's shipping and people receiving damaged instruments, but the violin came safe and sound. There is also space in the case for two bows which I assume is standard, but to clarify only one is provided. Also, in my research for a violin, I've seen people complain that the neck is not varnished like the body. It's SUPPOSED to be like that because paint over time gets sticky and that prevents the player to seamlessly use their left hand as intended to slide up and down. Now, for some of the cons. I have been having to make some investments into some basic things that aren't included or are unfit for me. I am quite short (4'11) and have a short neck, so the chinrest is painful for my jaw. I measured it and it sits about 0.5" high from the violin and is not very shapely so it stabs into the corner of my jaw. I am currently awaiting a new one to come in the mail to try. There is a provided rosin in the case, but based on my usage and other reviews I've read on that specific rosin, it's fairly average and will do the job, but there are higher quality rosins to be had if you're picky. I'm investing in a higher quality rosin and keeping the provided one as backup. There is no provided cloth to wipe down the violin, so you will have to research and invest in one. I broke a string trying to tune it because the pegs required greater force to push in and enact the friction required to keep it in place. The person at the music shop I went to confirmed the pegs were a bit more difficult than on the average violin, but doable nonetheless as it is now tuned perfectly, so just make sure to push the pegs firmly in as you tune.

This is a great violin.