The SE304R-P is an ultra-compact stereo microscope designed primarily for students and hobbyists. The microscope is equipped with two pairs of high-quality objective lenses, and can use various eyepieces for multiple levels of magnification. This simplicity and versatility has made it popular among coin collectors and engravers. Younger users will find the instrument easy to use thanks to the modest magnification range, and the stereo optics which provide three-dimensional viewing and upright images. The forward-oriented head places the observation stage closer to the user which is typically beneficial for delicate work using soldering or cutting instruments. The microscope uses a pillar for height-adjustment, allowing free vertical and rotational adjustment. A single light-source is mounted above the stage to provide the necessary illumination for observing opaque objects. Two pairs of objective lenses provide 20X and 40X stereo magnification when used with the included 10X eyepieces. This range is intended for common soldering and mechanical repair, and inspecting larger objects. The objective magnification can be changed by simply rotating the nosecone to switch lenses. The viewing head uses 30.5mm ocular tubes to provide an extra-large field-of-view. One ocular tube has an integrated dioptric adjuster for users with astigmatism, or to fine-tune focus when using a camera in place of the eyepiece. The head can be adjusted for any user using rotating binocular adjustment to guarantee proper alignment with the eyes. Various eyepieces are available to expand the magnification range. Focus can be adjusted by using symmetrical knobs for fine adjustments, or more coarsely by vertically sliding the head along the pillar. The pillar also allows rotation for lateral adjustment, and can accommodate a slightly larger working distance compared to the track-stand model thanks to this free adjustment.