Do you have a local music store (within, say, 70 miles or so)? It'd certainly be worth your while to visit one and try as many piccs as they've got, different brands and models. Also, a good dealer will be willing to make a good deal--not bare-bones, I mean, people gotta eat, right? Most will even price-match catalog or internet companies, provided that lowest price isn't below their cost. But, even in my small area, my store can offer substantial discounts to our customers, based on our cost, anyway. Merchants like Woodwind-Brasswind, among others, can offer very low prices because they buy dozens or hundreds of each instrument model from the manufacturer. While a low price is a good thing, don't discount the convenience of being able to take your instrument in for an emergency, close-to-home repair (assuming quality work is available) when necessary. The internet isn't a very warm service rep, lol.
