Top positive review
5.0 out of 5 starsGreat quality, excellent for entry to mid-level cinematographer
Reviewed in the United States on September 6, 2012
As expected, Manfrotto has built a high-quality, reasonably priced tripod with fluid head. I've only been using this for a few weeks, but it has exceeded my expectations. If you take the time to learn the controls and what everything is for, you'll definitely appreciate this product. The tripod is very sturdy. The leg extensions are easy to use, and can be extended with one hand if needed (although I always suggest using two hands to prevent from dropping your gear!). It has a bubble level which can be lit by the push of a button and the included battery. The feet articulate so you can create a level base for your camera on the most uneven of surfaces. My only gripe with it is that you should be able to lock down the center of the mid-section support so all of the legs move evenly, but even so you get used to it. With the two-stage legs, there are plenty of places to mount accessory brackets to hold your monitors and sound equipment.
The fluid head is smooth and easy to use. It does take time getting used to! No one should expect to pull this thing out of the box and be a pro, there is a learning curve. You've got to learn how to set your counter-balance and drag to efficiently operate this thing. The counter-balance and drag settings work well, although the panning drag adjustment is in an awkward place that makes it difficult to adjust (it's underneath the tripod head, so you've got to have small fingers to make fast adjustments). I've got it loaded up with a 5dmk3, RedRock Micro Cinema kit w/cage and follow focus, and anything from a 18mm to a heavy 70-200mmL lens. Although this thing is rated for around 17lbs, I've had over 20lbs on it without any hesitation from the head. I feel safe with $15k+ of gear loaded on this thing.
All in all, I highly recommend this piece of gear. Ours is being used in a high-end commercial photography/cinematography studio, and so far we are very confident in it's abilities to keep up with our demands.
