Great beginner viola. I will say that the A string broke as soon as I got it in tune, but having replaced all the strings (which I expected to have to do anyhow) this viola sounds warm and round. Considering it's an unflamed body, the color is very nice--doesn't look cheap. It isn't a perfect instrument, but for less than $200 USD it was a real bargain. Oh, and the case isn't top-notch but it's good for such a low price. Extra padding to prevent the instrument from moving at all and places to put sheet music and my mute, rosin, and shoulder rest. Very pleased with this purchase.