stain or paint wooden stand?

I would stain in black ash it it were me, but i like the look of wood and not a fan of painted wood, personally.
 
I think both stain and paint have their applications. A lot depends on your personal tatse or who ever else is involved in the decision of where the stand sits.

I prefer stains with heavy coats of clear coat.
 
Second that Bob, stains and 3 to 4 layers of clear coat on top to finish it. No other way for me to go as well.
 
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