Hercules Stands HC-DS-571BB Violin Viola Stand

I play with a busy function band. Hercules have a rep for good sturdy roadworthy products. I know the mic and speaker stands are good from fellow musicians. However, as nice as this violin stand is it hasn't stood the test of time. I have plenty of other boom stands/mic stands/guitar stands that have all been gigged for years and are still working fine. Of course it goes without saying that I look after my gear. This stand is more suited for home use or in a studio where its not going to face the rigours of regular live gigging. It still works but it became unstable and loose within a few months of purchase. I have now retired it to my home studio. Would not recommend for a gigging musician. It would be fine for home use or a teaching studio in my opinion.