Originally posted by Docrwm I went ahead and got him one for $45 for the first 3 months with an option to buy it, but the ability to walk away too.
While I can't help on the specific instrument, I can say with experience that doing the 3 month rental to start is a good thing. Music is a tough thing to learn and really takes discipline. I tried to get my daughter involved when she was in school, and tried a couple instruments, only to be glad that I had that option with the 3 months then walk away.
Hopefully your son will stick with it. With that said it's a good idea that you are doing your proper research on a good instrument now. Just like our camera gear, as one progresses into music, playing a nicely made quality instrument makes (made) a difference to me.
I'm sure we have a lot of musicians here that will help guide you.