Played for over 40 years. I've gone through more Bastaris than I can count. I got a midrange anglo that lasted many years (with a lot of help), but it finally was played out. Bought a Phoenix. In my opinion, it would be a great starter concertina. It is head and shoulders above the Italian & German production models. Good action, and, for the money, great sounding Reeds.
I would steer clear of the lower end models.
I've found that the quality of a concertina can greatly advance or hinder your ability to play. It will be much easier to learn on a good concertina. It's weakness will probably be in the longevity of the mechanics. I've already noticed a little loosening in the action. I suspect that it will need some tightening & tuning much sooner than a non-production, hand made, one at a time instrument. But....if you're just starting, the Phoenix to me, would be a great buy to learn on. If you buy the lower end you will soon be looking for a better box if you've fallen into the grips of concertina madness. With a Phoenix you can probably fight the urge to upgrade for a longer period of time.
