I love this recorder. I am not a professional, but as a sound engineer I can say this is a good value for the money. I have even recorded it for some medieval - world music albums, where the recorder was not a solo instrument and it blends well with the arrangement. I am sure a professional would choose another instrument for their solo album, but then again that would cost ten times more. Also, wooden wind instruments are more sensitive. This material may have some more harmonics on top, but it still sounds like it has a full body. So if you want a good instrument for practicing, travelling and even recording with a good sound, I can happily suggest this.