The SR1500 was recommended by multiple sources both online and offline and I can see why.
It's not expensive and delivers both a great sound and feeling, it's a perfect violin for someone buying their first or second instrument that will last years.
The fingerboard stain did leave some discoloration on the fingers the first few times but that wore of quickly and with no color change to the fingerboard. (This is common among lower priced guitars as well)
I have a few friends that's played a long time that was impressed with the quality and sound of the instrument and even though I can't play it properly yet, I know it can sound great.