What instruments do you violin, viola or cello teachers recommend to your new or developing students?

I started with buying a Hofner student violin (model 2/12 size 4/4) for myself at around US$400. Besides, I immediately replace all 4 strings to Pirastro Obligator strings at about $40.

I'm quite convinced that at this (and lower) price range the strings tends to dominant. (Without replacing the strings... you are wasting >50% of your money )

thanks tannie