I chose this recorder as its made with plant based eco plastic, also I watched a video on you tube by Sarah Jeffery comparing it to a wooden one, her review was very positive for the Ecodear as a stater instrument or for adults returning to recorder playing. As an adult returner, currently unable to afford a wooden one at present her review prompted me to purchase the Ecodear. It looks a feels good quality and has a lovely sound, I am enjoying playing it very much, the only negative observation is that it builds up moisture quite quickly so playing for long periods is not possible without cleaning it out frequently with a cloth using the stick provided. However for my current purposes re-learning recorder, it is perfectly adequate and a pleasure to play. Once I am sufficiently proficient and can afford to I will move on to a wooden recorder. Customer service from the Early Music Shop is excellent and I will certainly buy from them again.