GEAR
MANFROTTO MVG300XM It may have been out a few months now, but Manfrotto’s MVG300XM gimbal is still revolutionary. The party trick here is splitting itself in half. Bottom handle and controls separate from the main gimbal parts by unlocking a lever. This allows use of the handle as a remote- control unit from up to a claimed 180cm/71in, although we managed to go much further. The split-in-half trick is possible thanks to two distinct batteries: one in the gimbal head and one in the handle. They charge together via USB-C, although you can power them separately for even faster recharge. Double batteries make the whole package a bit heavier than others on the market, but do give up to ten hours of operation. This sectionalisation works with new Manfrotto Move quick-release connections. Put the gimbal part of the 300XM on one end of a boom and, using included quick-release plates, fasten the control grip to the other end. This gives complete control at all times. Or fasten the gimbal to a tripod and supervise movements from nearby. You could also use the free app. Seven control cables come with the £643/$699 kit to suit most cameras. With these, you can oversee settings and trigger recording and AF from the handle or app – or even use the separated remote-control handle to manage camera movement with only your hand instead of the joystick. As a conventional motorised gimbal, the 300XM is a cinch to balance, straightforward to use and takes a good payload of 3.4kg/7.5lb. It comes with a second handle that slides on and clamps down firmly. This gives smoother results and takes some of the strain away, especially if you have a weighty camera-and-lens combo on board.
SOLID PERFORMER The Manfrotto gimbal works very well and has a decent payload. It can be split in half (right) for remote operation
there are really simple time-lapse settings, too. A powerful gimbal, the 300XM makes smooth camera movements. Split it in half on the end of a boom and open up a world of motion. manfrotto.com
The unit is controlled by a small touchscreen and combination of joystick and big, smoothly damped wheel. It has all the usual pan, tilt, lock and follow modes. Two buttons – A and B – let you set start and end points for controlled moves. And
NEATLY IN PLACE This light, fitted case is a useful accessory for protecting the equipment in transit
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