AWARDS GEAR OF THE YEAR
SUPPORT It’s time for the award for best
Monopod Manfrotto XPro Four-Section Video
Rig Vocas Production Kit for Sony Burano
and makes much-needed handling improvements to the camera. Dutch company Vocas makes all sorts of accessories that work well together, including universal and camera- specific options. The Production Kit adds everything you need to get shooting with the Burano, while also using a whole ecosystem of high- quality accessories. Most filmmakers use motorised gimbals, and there are plenty of options available. It can pay to not always look at just the biggest brands, as this year’s winner proves: the Zhiyun Crane 4. Although Zhiyun doesn’t specify maximum payloads, as a guideline it’s suitable for around 6kg/13.2lb. That means it handles set-ups like the Sony FX6 with a small lens, a Blackmagic Pocket Camera with a larger optic or a mirrorless camera with cine glass. The Crane 4 features a
supporting role – and this year, it goes to the Libec HS-150M, which brings great quality and features to smaller cameras. Libec’s HS system uses a simple counterbalance, which works for light cameras as well as larger set- ups, ensuring quick assembly. The kit includes the HS-150 tripod and the new H15 head. The legs feature a mid-level spreader as well as a bowl-style adjuster. Simply click the standard, Manfrotto-fit plate onto the head before adjusting the counterbalance knob until the camera stays still. While the Libec is new, the winner of the monopod category is proof that once a product is right, there’s no need to reinvent it. The winner is the Manfrotto XPro Four-Section Video monopod – which was also the victor in 2023. Practical, stable and affordable, the XPro supports up to 8kg. Its Fluidtech base allows smooth motion, while D-shaped tubes give great resistance to rotation. For rigs and cages, the Vocas Production Kit for the Sony Burano is a clear winner, as it is well-built
Tripod system Libec HS-150M Editor’s Choice: Sachtler Flowtech 75 MS with Aktiv8T head
Monopod Manfrotto XPro Four-Section Video Slider/dolly iFootage Shark Nano II Rig Vocas Production Kit for Sony Burano
Stabiliser/gimbal Zhiyun Crane 4
For precise camera movements, many still swear by a slider, and this year’s winner is the iFootage Shark Nano II. Building on the success of the original, this version is now developed in collaboration with DJI for seamless compatibility with its full range of gimbals. It features AI facial and object recognition tracking at a rapid response speed. A single USB-C cable can power up the slider and any attached DJI gimbal, too. With DJI’s input, the Shark Nano II is ideal for livestreaming or podcasting.
second handle – which can be adjusted for length, angle and side-to-side tilt – along with a wrist rest to help take the strain. The powerful motors of the Crane 4 mean all the moves are instant, smooth, well-damped and easy to control. You can adjust the speed in the menu, too.
OLD BUT GOLD The Manfrotto XPro is the winner of its
category once again, as a proven product that always delivers at a great price EDITOR’S CHOICE: SACHTLER FLOWTECH 75 MS
Stabiliser/gimbal Zhiyun Crane 4
WITH AKTIV8T HEAD It’s impossible to omit the incredibly popular Sachtler Flowtech 75 in any awards, as this is the tripod most production companies and freelancers either have or want to own. It’s the most award-winning tripod of recent years, and is our editor’s choice for 2024. The lightweight, carbon-fibre Flowtech 75 MS legs and Aktiv8T head are quick to set up, yet fold flat for easy shoulder carrying. The head mounts to the legs using a single lever lock for speedy set-up, and the camera attaches via a quick-release plate. With 15 steps of counterbalance and seven levels of pan-and-tilt drag adjustment, it’s the go-to high-end tripod for serious professionals.
Tripod system Libec HS-150M
Slider/dolly iFootage Shark Nano II
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