We have updated our product title and description to highlight this difference.
The StellaLyra model includes two 2 lb counterweights.
Other versions of this mount have a counterweight bar but no counterweights. When you consider the cost of counterweights, the StellaLyra price makes a lot of sense.
I am sure it is but I'll ask then confirm.
Yours is nearly identical. I am sure it is from the same factory.
We first encountered the tripod when it was badged by William Optics. Like us, they offered it for use with their Alt-Az mount (the WO EZtouch). When they discontinued the mount, we could no longer source the tripod.
When looking for a tripod for our StellaLyra Alt-Az mount, a colleague found the factory.
HTH