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Peak performance from the pro’s top tripod
Sachtler’s flowtech and aktiv8T combo continues its reign at the top for filmmakers in any terrain F rom rocky peaks to urban streets, news and fast-paced documentaries to pop videos and scripted dramas, the tripod most professionals turn to is the Sachtler flowtech. No other system combines such extraordinary speed of set-up, rock-solid stability and long-term durability. Many tripods promise lots but flowtech delivers without compromise. Sachtler’s flowtech75 MS tripod paired with the aktiv8T fluid head has become the most respected and recognisable support system in professional filmmaking. It has also cemented its status within the industry by winning the Pro Moviemaker Gear of the Year award for best tripod system yet again, as voted by working filmmakers. The flowtech line has taken home an award every single year since 2018. Speed without sacrifice One of the biggest advantages of the flowtech design is how quickly it can be deployed. While traditional tripods require multiple clamp adjustments, awkward bending and time-consuming levelling, flowtech changes that entirely. The two-stage carbon-fibre legs are held together by strong magnets, meaning the tripod can be pulled open in seconds. The brake levers at the top of the tripod allow the legs to be extended and locked at the desired height in one swift motion. This single-detail design choice of top- mounted brakes eliminates the constant bending and handling of individual leg
cine systems. Thanks to the hinge-lock mechanism, it can also be used without a spreader. Remove it, and the tripod’s minimum height drops to just 26cm. The aktiv advantage The flowtech75 is even more capable when paired with the aktiv8T fluid head. This uses Sachtler’s SpeedSwap technology, a mounting system which replaces the traditional screw-on bowl clamp. Instead of rotating a long threaded rod to secure the head, the aktiv system uses a single large lever that fastens the head instantly. This means quick mounting and removal, and instant switching to sliders or dollies. The set-up gives rapid levelling using the illuminated PrismBubble, and once set the head delivers extremely smooth pan and tilt movement, with no bounce back or resistance inconsistencies. With lots of aktiv heads to choose from, you’ll find one that matches your camera perfectly. That’s why the flowtech75 with aktiv8T is the fastest system to set up, stable to operate and tough enough to survive years of continuous use. It’s clear why filmmakers across the world continue to vote for it – in an industry where gear trends come and go quickly, few products remain the gold standard for nearly a decade. flowtech is the exception.
Despite this speed, there’s no trade-off in stability. The large, wide tubes resist torsion more effectively than traditional designs, allowing smooth panning with little twist. Sachtler’s proprietary carbon- fibre manufacturing process gives the legs the ideal balance of lightness and strength. They also sit comfortably on the shoulder, something operators appreciate. Built tough and tested tougher Every flowtech tripod is manufactured to a very high standard with each component subjected to rigorous testing before leaving the factory. During development, the clamp system was tested on an endurance rig 1.5 million times to ensure that it would never slip or wear out. Real-world testing has seen filmmakers deploy flowtech systems in torrential rain, desert heat, arctic cold and high winds – but they still survived accidental damage. Complete reliability is a consistent theme in user reviews. The tripod weighs just 2.9kg yet supports up to 20kg of payload, making it suitable for everything
locks. It accelerates height adjustment dramatically and makes the tripod far more ergonomic.
from smaller cameras right up to fully rigged full-frame
THE LOWDOWN The flowtech75’s legs
can be splayed out to get instant low-angle shots
More information
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PRO MOVIEMAKER
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