I've owned tons of drum hardware including the heaviest and most expensive. If you need a hihat that is easy on the back, eyes and performance this is the one. The only time I would even consider a different stand would be if it's in a permanent fixed position. I have also bought and use the ultralight model (which is incredibly light weight) but it lacks the flexibility and stability of this stand that allows it to perform amazingly with all genres. I saw one review that gave a single star that says it wobbles but there is either a set up issue there with the owner or a faulty stand. I own 4 of these and leave them in different areas where I play frequently and they are all rock solid and some of them serving for many years with so issues. Love it.

I purchased this hi-hat stand a year ago thinking, DW, got to be good quality. It's the absolutely worst piece of percussion hardware I've ever owned or attempted to play. I've been playing for 56 years, so I've had ample opportunity to sample a multitude of various gear from many different vendors. No matter how the stand is positioned, it rocks and is impossible to keep flat on the floor. I've even attempted bending the legs. Save yourself the time and money and look into a Gibraltar stand for similar or less money. It's a much more stable stand.

The DW 6500 Retro Flush-base Hi-hat Stand (made in Taiwan) may be the perfect hi-hat for the thinking musician. Like the flat-base stands of the 1960s, it's sturdy, compact, and lightweight. In addition to professional features found on heavier, more expensive DW hi-hats, the 6500 includes a spring-loaded spur in each rubber foot and a Velcro strip under the heel plate to ensure that the instrument will remain in place. This model is far superior to the DW 6500UL Ultra-light model (made in China), which includes weaker components (pedal connection, spring-tension adjustment, height adjustment, bottom-cymbal table, clutch) and is likely to malfunction during performance.

I never write reviews but had to make an expection for this stand. I bought it on a whim since my 9000 stand was getting too heavy/clunky to constantly gig with. Now this stand isn"t exactly lightweight but is significantly easier to carry around and breakdown than the 9000, and it"s just as sturdy as it too. There is a slight wobble but nothing that could inhibit playing and it actually makes my footwork fill a little more fluid since it has some motion to it. I play with 16" hats and have no issue with stability. Also a plus that it looks cool with my 6000 cymbal stands.