I'm convinced that other reviewers who have experienced splitting issues with the composite wood upright are not properly lining up the fasteners before tightening.

CONCLUSIONI gave these stands 5 stars despite the wood-split issue because the problem does not affect the stand's performance.

I experienced the wood-split issue mentioned by others (wood splits in the two vertical pieces near the base and top plate) in the first two pairs, but came up with a solution to avoid it with the 3rd pair.

I read the reviews prior to purchasing these stands and was aware of the wood splitting issue.

even weeks looking for the best deal and these are it just buy and trust me u wont be disapointed and by the way the only way they crack are if u are an idiot and do not know how to use a screw driver simple installation and remarkable value!!!!