it depends on what model Oscar Schmidt you're considering as some models get into price points where the field of choices becomes much more vast making the Oscars less appealing. I have owned 3 Oscar Schimdt models and they were all well built and decent values. I gave my OU2 Concert to my son who seems to like it enough to play it often. I still have my "Willie K" OUWK100K 5-String model that was designed by both Wille K and Luthier/Musician Avi Ronen. The finish is plain/understated but is wonderful in it's simple appearance that is backed by a great tone, we'll build and spot on action/intonation out of the box. This turned out to be short production run, but a few do appear around for sale and is a decent solution for a 5-String Tenor Uke. The biggest complaint was the wire harness for the electronics sometimes comes loose and needs to be reattached to the inner sides of the body. So far mine hasn't had the problem, but it looks like an easy fix if the wire clasp should detach. Though if I knew then what I know now, I without any doubt would have purchased a Mainland over the Oscars...