I have owned the Littmann Cardiology III ($180+) for years and wanted a cheaper one to leave at the office. First I tried two $30 no-name versions of the Cardiology III and they were horrible. So I decided to get a base-model Littmann ($50). I can't believe how good this stethoscope is! Why did I ever even need the Cardiology III? This stethoscope sounds just as good and is much lighter and more comfortable to carry. Plus its $130+ less!