I based my decision partly on other reviews (and the size and color) of this unit. i am very happy with my choice! it was relatively easy to put together by myself (i think i called my teen over to hold on part). the back is actually some sort of wood, not paper like so many put-together products. it feels sturdy enough to hold out 55" flat screen, there's a place for the sound bar, and the middle section fits out dvd player and cable box nicely. i did change out the knobs for stainless steel ones (comes with wood). i haven't painted or stained it yet, since that's not easy in wi in late fall/winter. i might just put on some danish oil, because it's really pretty just like it is. pros: durable, pretty woodcons: the middle board might be warped just a tiny bit; the gap between doors and it are not perfectly straight.