The lead in the Lead Balloon consisted of two lead bars that lay on top of the stand. I never used them, figuring my Bright Star sand box added enough mass and damping to the stand. I did fill the stand's hollow legs with a mixture of leadshot, sand, and sawdust. I have since replaced the sand box with a maple butcherblock.
Not having any other stands to compare it to, I can not comment on its sonics. However, I find the stand to be very sturdy - able to withstand hundreds of pounds (granite) placed on its top. I find it a perfectly acceptable base under my TNT-5. YMMV
Not having any other stands to compare it to, I can not comment on its sonics. However, I find the stand to be very sturdy - able to withstand hundreds of pounds (granite) placed on its top. I find it a perfectly acceptable base under my TNT-5. YMMV