AmScope – SM-4NTP 7X-45X Simul-Focal Stereo Lockable Zoom Microscope on Dual Arm Boom Stand

So, the two biggest complaints I have are:1. The packaging reveals only in one tiny spot, the “brand” of the unit, and it’s AmScope. The brand is literally stamped on with an ink stamp! It is not reassuring.2. The instruction manual was not only for the wrong model scope, NO WHERE in the manual is AmScope mentioned! Also, the manual has typical foreign-to-English translation errors, misspellings and overall, a very unprofessional look.So, in the end I had to rely on the photos in the Amazon listing to assemble my kit. First, I tried without reading a manual and got two parts backwards or upside-down… It didn’t take long to fix once I saw photos.I bought a knock-off 0.5 Barlow lens (I mean, the rest of the kit appears “knock-off”, so what the heck, right?https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LB11DK2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1The magnification out of the box is much too powerful for SMD soldering work, so do yourself a huge favor and get a 0.5x reduction lens… this is not AmScope’s fault, however.I also bought a ring light. Many users suggested an alternate version than the more expensive one that is offered as an option. This works very nicely, perfect for my needs. It will eventually scratch the paint on the outer ring.https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UE1PF1Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1My base has AmScope printed on it, so, I assume it’s genuine? Obviously they can print “CanScope” for Canada, right? It’s obvious this stuff is from China and the manufacturer rebrands it for the world. If they could put some more effort into making us feel like we bought the right product, this review would be perfect.Now, here are the good parts:1. The scope is durable. However, The only point of failure that I see is the rear height stem. You have simple set-screw mechanics and gravity to keep the boom at one level. Over time, I see divots being developed if you change the height often, or are using too much force (you don’t need a lot). A gear mechanism, like on the focus racking unit, would have been a QUALITY improvement. I am going to inquire if I can order another rear stem as a backup. My OCD, LOL.2. Using the scope does reveal a level of accuracy and quality improvement over all the cheaper ones on the market, especially the ones with 720p LCD screens fixed on from the factory. There is zero-lag with your eyes, and you have ample room to work on the piece below.3. You can add a camera to this unit. It is a “Simul-Focal” model. If you don’t plan to upgrade to a camera, then a “stereo” microscope is cheaper and works exactly the same, without built-in camera mount and reflection mirror. I definitely plan to add a camera at some point.4. The pan, tilt and position mechanisms are all smooth as butter.5. The scope is pretty solid and I find that if I tighten things a little, the optics barely move then I put my eyeglasses (I wear progressive bifocals, BTW) to the eye cups.6. I happened to get mine on some special deal, 15% off or something. That was another plus. Go to the AmScope store on Amazon, you may find deals.7. You get a dust cover with the unit… USE IT!Conclusion:If you are going to do circuit board surface-mount re-work… this scope can’t be beat for the price. I found a split circuit trace with this unit that I never would have spotted with my “5x” lighted magnifier. Adding the tiniest wire to repair the board was also almost easy, with help from this unit! I am delighted to have precisely cut, affixed, fluxed and soldered the new trace wire, all while under the scope.Time will tell if this unit lives up to it’s purchase price. I have a feeling it will last many years if I treat it right and cover it when not in use. I recommend this unit.

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