I expected, given the price, to have an entry-level piece that would say goodbye to me in less than 5 years, and in the end, I am quite happy to have ordered this product. It may be cheaper than other TAMA products, but it's still TAMA in every way! So we have a stand that looks sturdier than in the photos, good stability, and no defects in the adjustments. It's a stand with a simple (thicker) base, which allows for a lighter weight.