I purchased this stand several years ago, and it has stood the test of time admirably.
I've used it for home practice, rehearsals, gigs and in the recording studio. It is capable of supporting large heavy music books, or computer tablets/laptops safely and securely.
Important pros for this over a lightweight folding stand are increased stability and weight capacity, the top part of the stand has a substantial lip, so it will easily accomodate small items like pencils in addition to any scores/books which makes life a lot easier when you need to make notes on a score during rehearsals. The range of adjustment in terms of height is also much better than most lightweight folding stands.
In terms of drawbacks, the heavy construcion and single piece platform can make storing and transporting this stand a bit of a chore - there isn't a quick easy way to separate the platform from the tripod, so you really have to leave it fully assembled which makes an awkward shape to pack, I've deducted one star from the handling rating for this reason.
The locking adjustment collars on the stand are made of plastic, which is the reason I have deducted a star from the quality rating - my stand hasn't yet failed, but it is always important to be careful about over tightening or excessively adjusting fittings with plastic screwthreads as they tend to wear easily.
Given the price and overall usefullness I would have no hesitation recomending this product to other musicians.
