I currently have an Artley student oboe, but as of tomorrow, I'll be playing on a Moennig Philharmonic full conservatory(w/ 3rd octave key) professional oboe.
I've been trying to learn on a Fox Renard oboe after struggling with a Selmer Signet. The Fox is a much easier instrument to learn on. I refuse to make my own reeds though.
Fox 400 Oboe and my own reeds, generally from Rigotti shaped and gouged cane on Sierra and recycled Staples.
The Fox 400 is a really nice instrument I must say. My teacher didn't realize it wasn't a Loree for a while! Granted...A Loree has made my bad reeds sound good lol, I'm happy with the Fox. Working on buying a Linton English Horn from a friend right now.
What a lovely instrument. My wife loved her Howarth English Horn, but not how far she had to stretch her fingers to play it.