I'm tickled to report that this piano bench is exactly as represented, very well made, and should provide years of service. I feel that I got a geat deal in a professional concert bench, and while I don't think I would have paid $699 (the seller's suggested retail), I'm convinced that $229, plus a shipping cost of less than $5, is a spectacular value.The bench comes very securely packed from the manufacturer (China) with the legs individually wrapped and boxed and stowed in the compartment underneath the upholstered seat. They are easy to attach with the included stamped metal wrench and fit seamlessly. (Flip the bench upside-down, then you will need to expand the lift mechanism to maximum height in order to slide each leg bolt into its bracket and tighten.) The finish is a super high gloss, brilliant white.I was very impressed with the quality and heft of the leather upholstery. It is thick with a textured surface which promises durability. A sample of the material is attached as a hang tag to one of the lift knobs. Nice touch! The color of the leather is a "soft" white, rather than a pure white like the rest of the bench. It's all quite harmonious. The upholstered top provides a firm, comfortable seat. I could not describe it as "cushy," but the generous surface area of the seat, the adjustability, will suit an wide range of players, from children to an tall/oversized adult.Although there was no "weight maximum" specified by the seller, I expect to use this bench with players in the 250-275 lb. range with no problem, as long as they don't get Jerry-Lee-Lewis-wild-and-crazy in performance style. The lift mechanism appears to be sturdy and securely installed. It does take more than a few knob turns to adjust the seat from lowest to highest, but this gives infinite adjustment within the range and (I feel) insures that the bench height will stay in place and protects the mechanism itself from unintentional abuse. "Slow, but steady...," etc., or as the description in the text states "silent micro adjustment." Works for me.There is a very generous under-seat compartment which will hold a large amount of music books, my Wittner Taktell Piccolo metronome (I've written a review on it if you're sourcing a modestly-priced, mechanical metronome which will last for decades), and other musician's paraphernalia.I do love the fact that the lift mechanics are completely invisible. The "gap" between seat and bench in some very pricey, and I'm sure, perfectly serviceable and comfortable adjustable benches is (to me) unnecessarily unsightly from a cosmetic/design standpoint. I also like the 18"-23" height range, which is optimal for my purposes.My bench was shipped quickly and arrived on the sixth day after placing my order. A fine bench, well constructed, aethestically pleasing, and at a terrific price point. Who could ask for more?