I had one of those Bogen alumunum stands and it literally fell apart on me over a period of time. First a piece would fall out, then another piece, then a leg. Not what I need. I bought a used 15' AEA stand this year and this thing is solid as a rock. I feel much more comfortable with one of these than with anything else. I got mine used for ~$100, but Sonic Sense sells them new as well.