GEAR BUYERS’ GUIDE Manfrotto’s 645 Fast Twin Alu tripod has a traditional double-tube leg system and fast-lever-lock tech for quick set-up. On top is one of Manfrotto’s high-end Nitrotech 608 heads that uses a unique pressurised damping system. The tripod is provided with a two- in-one half ball, with a 100mm bowl along with a 75mm adapter to enable fitment of a wider range of heads. It also features a mid-level spreader, but you can remove it and use the three-angle selectors. The closure mechanism is between the upper and lower locks, which allow you to control the entire leg with a single lock and get the tripod set up quickly. MANFROTTO 645 FAST TWIN ALU £1286/$1125 manfrotto.com
SACHTLER FLOWTECH75 MS WITH AKTIV8T HEAD £2797/$3690 sachtler.com
Pros: Speedy set-up Cons: Could be lighter
This is the most award-winning tripod of recent years – and it’s easy to see why. Lightweight carbon-fibre Flowtech75 MS legs and an Aktiv8T head are quick to set up, yet fold flat – so are ideal to carry on the shoulder. The head mounts to the legs using a single lever lock, rather than having to be screwed on and locked down with a safety screw. The camera goes on a quick-release plate that clicks into place. There are 15 steps of counterbalance and seven steps of pan and tilt drag adjustment. Sachtler’s Flowtech75 MS with Aktiv8T head kit weighs 5.7kg/12.6lb and has a maximum payload of 12kg/26.5lb.
MANFROTTO 190X ALUMINIUM £282/$417 manfrotto.com
Manfrotto’s renowned 190 sticks teamed up with the 500 Fluid Video Head and a self-levelling kit, making this a solid yet basic system that performs well for a reasonable price. The head’s side lock mounting system means the camera plate clicks in from above, which is much faster than lining it up to slide in from one end. Fluid cartridges on both pan and tilt movements offer resistance for some lovely, smooth controlled motion. The spring-loaded counterbalance is not adjustable, unfortunately. The camera plate has both 1/4in-20 and 3/8in- 16 camera screws, and the head has a 3/8in-16 tripod mounting thread and a 3/8in-16 Easy Link connector for accessories.
Pros: High-tech and quick Cons: Not the cheapest!
Pros: A solid performer Cons: Not adjustable
62
PRO MOVIEMAKER
Powered by FlippingBook