BUYERS’ GUIDE
4. SACHTLER FLOWTECH75 MS WITHAKTIV8T HEAD £2693/$3258 sachtler.com Right at the top of the pile is the latest high-tech tripod and head combo from Sachtler, with these Flowtech75 MS sticks with Aktiv8T head. The light, carbon fibre legs are quick to set up and fold flat – ideal to carry on the shoulder. The Aktiv8T fluid headmounts to the legs using a single lever lock, rather than having to be screwed on and locked down with a grub screw. The camera goes on a quick-release plate that clicks into place securely. There are 15 steps of counterbalance, and seven steps of pan and tilt drag adjustment. The tripod is available in a range of styles using different spreaders and bowl sizes, and the heads come in three different sizes. The Sachtler Flowtech75 MS with Aktiv8T head kit weighs 5.7kg/12/6lb and has a maximum payload of 12kg/26.5lb.
3. SIRUI BCT 2203 VIDEO TRIPOD KIT £1280/$1099 mtfservices.com
If you want a burly, sturdy tripod for a seriously capable camera, then take a look at the Sirui BCT 2203 carbon fibre kit. This is a premium-quality carbon fibre tripod with a broadcast-quality head, adjustable counterbalance and drag, a spreader for fast set-up and a very smooth pan and tilt head. Using Sirui’s 75mmBCH 20 ball head, it comes in a good-quality carrying case, has two pan handles, and both a mid-level and ground-level spreader to give you the choice on set. The traditional-style three-section legs allow for fast set-up. There’s an illuminated spirit level on the base and a second top level on the head – and it has metal spiked feet to dig into dirt, covered with rubber feet to avoid floor damage. The head has three-step drag adjustment, while all friction can be removed for a resistance-free motion, ideal for the fastest whip pans. To get the camera balanced right, there is a long camera plate and seven-step adjustable counterbalance. A top-quality rival to the prestige brands, but significantly lighter on the wallet.
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