I have only had this stethoscope for one week so I can’t comment on its durability. My hearing has declined over the last year and I could not continue to use my Littmann cardiology II for auscultation. The Eko CORE 500 has delivered so far. I can hear adventurous heart and lung sounds finally. I am now confident in my cardiopulmonary assessments. I did buy a clip to keep the Eko around my neck since the chest piece is heavy and the tubing is short. If you have hearing impairment and are desperate, give the Eko CORE 500 a try. They have a return policy as long as you don’t get it engraved.