I only recommend renting for a student who is just getting started and doesn't know what instrument they really want to play, or rather they even want to stick with it. Even still, you can usually buy a decent used instrument that has been reconditioned, use it for a year or so, and sell it and get your money back. Renting adds up fast! It sounds like your daughter plans on continuing with saxophone through high school and possibly college. I would suggest making the investment now, and buying her a saxophone that she can use through college. A couple questions about the Conn: Do you know roughly how old it is? What's the serial number? Engraving on the bell? Do you have any idea what's wrong with it? Pads? It may be worth repairing. The earlier Conns were great horns (1925-1968), especially the 6M. Some of the 1970's Conns that were made in Mexico are not all that good, but then those made within the last 20 years are pretty good too.