GEAR
BUYERS’ GUIDE
LIBEC TH-Z £333/$379 libec-global.com
supports up to 4.99kg/11lb, but features fixed counterbalance and drag. The TH-Z tripod is rigid and avoids twisting, thanks to its leg configuration, and features a built-in telescopic mid-level spreader. Height span for the head and tripod combined is a respectable 71.5cm/28in up to 161.5cm/63.5in.
The Libec TH-Z tripod system includes the TH-Z H fluid head, TH-Z T legs and a case. It may not have all the high-end technical features of some rivals, but performs well. Its head has an illuminated spirit level and sliding plate, resulting in a one-touch quick-release mechanism. The kit has a 75mm half ball/flat base fluid head, which
Pros: Amazing value for money
Cons: No counterbalance adjustment
MANFROTTO 190X ALUMINIUM £269/$420 manfrotto.com
Fluid cartridges on both the pan and tilt axes provide resistance for smooth, controlled motion. The spring-loaded counterbalance is preset, though. The camera plate has both 1/4in-20 and 3/8in-16 camera screws, while the head has a 3/8in-16 tripod mounting thread and 3/8in-16 Easy Link connector for accessories.
Manfrotto’s 190 tripod got a makeover in recent years. Teamed up with the brand’s 500 fluid head and a self-levelling kit, it makes for a basic system that performs well. And at this low price point – especially in the UK, where it is on sale – is a bargain. The head’s side-lock mounting system enables the plate to click in from above.
Pros: Solid and reliable
Cons: Not super-adjustable
MANFROTTO 645 FAST TWIN ALUMINIUM £1285/$1125 manfrotto.com
along with a 75mm adapter to enable the use of a wider range of heads. It also features a mid-level spreader, but you can get rid of it in place of three-angle selectors. Closure mechanisms between the upper and lower locks allow you to control the entire leg with a single lock – and get to work in record time.
For the quickest set-up time, Manfrotto has created the Fast series. This 645 Fast Twin aluminium tripod has a traditional double-tube leg system and Fast Lever Lock technology for super-rapid construction. On the top is a Manfrotto Nitrotech 608 head. The tripod is provided with a two-in-one half ball. There’s a standard 100mm bowl,
Pros: Quick to set up
Cons: Not as light as carbon
OCONNOR FLOWTECH 100 WITH ULTIMATE 1040 HEAD £8845/$12,559 ocon.com
It has a stepless, ultra-smooth pan and tilt fluid drag – plus the OConnor sinusoidal counterbalance system for accurate balance at any point in the tilt range. The Ultimate 1040 supports payloads up to 20kg/45lb at a 15cm/5in centre of gravity and +/-90° tilt range.
OConnor and Sachtler are sister brands, and therefore the two have similar products. The Flowtech 100 is fast to get going, light to carry and has flat legs to make it easy to shift around. On top is the Ultimate 1040 fluid head, which has a huge range of adjustment, to make it suitable for any weight of camera.
Pros: Simply the best
Cons: Ouch, that price!
78
PRO MOVIEMAKER
Powered by FlippingBook