We knew about the health benefits of water and it's having particular pH level. Sometimes we would buy higher pH water but sadly came in big plastic bottles. We also believe in that nature has everything we need, and we truly believe a natural water system is the answer we need to have clean, purified, water. Nature has all the answers. Before the zazen water we had a ceramic water holder and filter, which was amazing for so many years we had it, although the ceramic filter did use to break easy when cleaning which got frustrating. After doing some research, zazen was the closest we thought to nature. We absolutely love the idea of how it filters, and also gets a pH level. Just like nature intended. Water tasted different the very first time, but second day in it was fine. Really clean, fresh water. We are on tank water and used to drink out of the tap which we lived the taste of, but now that tastes funky to us as we're used to filtered. We wouldn't go back. Ceramic filter on zazen lasts longer than the others, easier to clean aswell. Stones etc look really pretty through the glass bottom. If I was to change anything, it would be less plastic and more glass/stainless steel etc. has a plastic base and tap- but have to keep costs down somehow, be expensive and heavy. Other than that, highly recommend.