I don't think the issues with Sterns are the mechanics or electronics. It's the things that really matter that are lacking. Their printing and clear coating processes, the replacement of metal parts with plastic parts and the use of cheaper wood. If you look closely at any cabinet, playfield or decal art on a Stern it is grainy as heck. I have seen posts rip right out of the playfield from ball hits and powder coated siderails rust from sweaty hands. Someone not too long ago posted major scoop wear already on a Tron. I am not anti-Stern, I have SM and LOTR in my top 10 list, but these are just facts. Stern needed to cut costs.