I bought a dolphin as my first rig ever. Just off of student status and as a college student with a tight budget, I didn't have a healthy income to work with. This rig has been exceptional. I have had it since 1997 and it is still as good as the day I bought it. Of course, I've taken extra cautious care of it. I highly recommend this rig to those who are looking for a SAFE AFFORDABLE RIG.