Overall, this is an ok cello. If you are only a beginner and not sure whether or not you want to invest in a quality instrument, then this is a good cello for what it's worth. If you plan to play for a long time, or if you are of intermediate or advanced standing, then I recommend you do not buy the Knilling. If you are an experienced cellist, then I suggest you do not buy this cello, for the quality of the instrument will force you to work harder than you actually have to, and the sound quality is not that great for playing professional repertoire. If you can afford the extra 1-2000 bucks, then it makes a great training instrument, because the decreased quality makes you work much harder than you otherwise would, thus boosting you skills faster.