The stand is used for a Tivo, PS3, Cinema surround system with a light on the top plinth. We ellected to use just the 4 shelf option and it looks great beside the wall mounted flat screen.
The cable tidy at the back does not fit the 4 shelf arrangment (only the 5 option) but that is of no great concern.
It was easy to assemble - hollow aluminium large bore tubes containing a threaded rod to keep the shelves in tension.
It arrived in a substantial box and the instructions were ok (not great but usable). I managed to assemble it on my own but make sure you assemble it on a carpet (soft surface).
The shelf arrangement is fab, classy and cool and a fraction of the price of contempory units.