Where's the light?
I bought this lamp and have owned it for all of two days.  When I took it out of the box, it was immediately apparent that the quality of build is exceptional.  This includes not only the plastic stock, the metal pole and the extra stout internal and external power cables, but also the superb packaging.<br /><br />But, unfortunately, when I turn the light on, the issue surfaces: just as the Hawaiian reviewer below notes, the "natural" light is white, dim, and very directed to the area under the lamp.  I am typing this review under the light, and find it uncomfortable to even see the keyboard. And I have perfect, eyeglassless vision. It is unnaturally white and glaring. Although it has two intensity levels, there is an odd, Twilight Zone glare to this light.  I see nothing "natural" about it at all, and frankly, after using it for a couple hours last evening, I had a headache. I have another light by a different manufacturer that looks almost identical, but was 50% the price of this Verilux, and it casts a pleasing yellow glow that I find stellar for reading.  I much prefer that light.<br /><br />I may well use this Verilux in my bedroom reading chair because, admittedly, it will be good for directed light that is less likely to wake my wife than the more general cast of an incandescent bulb.  And perhaps I will grow used to this freakish Verilux beam that makes me feel like I'm in a surgical suite about to have my tonsils out or something.  But for now, high marks for structure, low marks for light. Agree with two stars of reviewer below, but added one star for the great construction and looks good with burl finish and detachable shelf.  But if I can't read by the reading light, what good is it?
Rating: 3 stars