[Metal] I've only had this camera stand about one week, but so far, I absolutely love it. It was an upgrade from another brand, and this is lightyears better than what I had. The stand was shipped in two separate boxes, and the installation was super easy. I read earlier comments about missing parts or smaller bolts from the manufacturer, and it looks like this problem was fixed. I noticed longer bolts were included in the packaging. I think it took me 30 minutes to put the entire thing together. I have multiple shoots in my studio every day, and so far, it works well with everything. The construction is superb. The action is very, very smooth. I would highly recommend this product!

[3/8"-16] Another quality product from Manfrotto. Just can't imagine the studio without it now.

[Wheeled] We use this product for a stationary imaging study of a rotating object (none of us are photographers). For this purpose, it works flawlessly in providing us with stable and repeatable camera positioning. Its heavy base and sturdy mast keep the camera still despite the harsh environment in which it's deployed. We found the stand easy to assemble (full disclosure: we're an engineering firm), even though several of the required fasteners were loose in the box. The assembly instructions left something to be desired, but again, we're an engineering firm and had no trouble. Our only REAL issue was the packaging the stand came in: a triple-walled cardboard box within a triple-walled cardboard box, both secured by monster staples. This was the biggest pain of the setup process. The product itself works exactly as advertised.

[Metal] Used for studio product shots. May not be the most exciting equipment in the studio, but it does a very important job and performs very well. Stable, steady, and easy to adjust with a wide range of motion. Very highly recommended.

[Wheeled] Thursday, May 14, 2009 7:46:52 AM PDT Hello! I had to make a very expensive investment in a high-end Manfrotto tripod before I realized my need for the Salon 230 Camera Stand from Manfrotto. If you do studio photography, and more particularly product and/or table-top photography, this product is an absolute must. Gone will be that third leg of the tripod that is always in the wrong position - either in your gut or the modeling table. Mind you, I have added a lot of 'accessories' to my Salon 230 Camera Stand. To counter-balance the added weight, I have added nine (9) counter weights at 4.4 pounds each to the balance weights in the column. My only 'complaint about the Manfrotto Salon 230 Camera Stand is that the stand is sometimes a bit difficult to roll across the concrete floor of my studio. Trying to get all three wheels pointed in the same direction can be somewhat of a chore; otherwise, I consider the investment to have been a wise one.

[Metal] Great quality and adds just enough counter weight for my needs.

[Wheeled] First time user for pro Camera Stands. I saw the famous Fobas and felt the smooth action of it. Manfrotto is a bit rougher in movments and everything but considering the huge price difference this is an Excellent stand. I didn't find it so heavy to move. I did however adjast a litthe central screw but not sure if that made a noticeble difference. Also got the extension arm, it is quite useful. Would I buy it again: yes Do I recomand it: Yes

[168.5 lb] Worth every penny. Makes shooting a thousand times more efficient... I can't believe we waited so long!

[Metal] I would highly recommend this studio camera stand! I bought this for our professional studio, and it is a perfect fit. I've seen other reviews with bad comments about missing parts, but we were not missing parts. In fact, it was very easy to put together as it obviously didn't not come fully assembled. The only minus with this stand is you need to be careful with moving it with a camera on it. For the most part, it is VERY sturdy for a smaller camera stand. We've had just a few instances where if a heavy camera and lens was attached, and we moved it around the studio a certain way, the center of gravity was a little off and it could have fallen over. It never has fallen, but it is one thing to consider. Having said that, I still give it five stars, because it is very sturdy, fast and professionally constructed.

[Wheeled] I'm very happy. This is a great stand for the price.