BENRO B SERIES Ballhead B-0 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Have used the Benro BO-0 ballhead for couple of months. Very happy w/head. Did a lot of research between Dolica, Manfrotto, Vangaurd ballheads, on line and in stores. I had already purchased the Benro A-198EX tripod after a lot of research on the same tripods from the companies mentioned. I chose the Benro tripod even though there were no reviews for it yet & did not see it in any stores, it was a bit of a leap of faith, but based on the feature set & specs I ordered it. (Benro site has more info than amazon) After receiving it and seeing how well the tripod was made as well as how it operated etc, I had no problem w/choosing the Benro head as well (it had no reviews either). The head is smooth as silk through all its movements. The panning is great if needed, although w/the tripod it also has panning capability & it is very smooth and can be adjusted to be as stiff or loose as needed. One reason among others for choosing the Benro over others is that the actual ball is machined metal as opposed to phenolic resin, which is just a fancy name for fiberglass. I am tired of everything made of plastic. Some of the manfrotto heads in the price range of $150.00 had phenolic balls in them. I thought that given compression to lock the ball, that a metal ball would hold up better on clamping loads as opposed to resin. Also read some complaints for the balls as well as some tripods was that they got wet & started to get sticky with the plastic balls and some leg collars. Another complaint of some of the heads or tripods was the different size screws for mounting ballheads to tripod etc. Again Benro did a great job w/a long reversible double thickness screw (meaning it fit either 1/4" or 3/8" thread size setups) to handle any thread diameter head verses tripod. Read of a few people that had their camera's literally fall off tripods because of the bolt or head failure. I shoot w/Nikon 300s, & with 18-200mm zoom for example, and the whole setup mounted w/lens extended, it is easily held by the Benro head in any position. In fact the drag adjustment will hold head firmly even without locking the main lockdown knob. The 3 knobs on head are very comfortable rubber feel & turn w/a precise feel to them. I also prefer Benro's screw lockdown plate setup (swiss arca style) rather than the 2 separate procedures to release camera plate that some use- it just works without issue, when its locked it's not going anywhere, and when you want it off it unscrews as needed. It also has a nice rubber size & feel knob on it as well. Benro claims the Swiss Arca style plate will work as well on their head, but have not tried yet to confirm. If you research the various ways the Benro A-198EX tripod head mount works , you soon see that it can position the ballhead and camera setup in nearly any angle radially and in a 360 degree 3 dimensional sphere of direction if needed which is a very clever design, I thought. In any position the ballhead & camera setup ends up either horizontally, vertically, upside down and anything in between the ballhead holds the camera tight. It is rated by Benro to 17.6 lbs holding capacity. Can not find any downside to head yet.
Great product & design.

Click Here to see more reviews about: BENRO B SERIES Ballhead B-0

BENRO B-0 ballheads offer manual drag control, smooth independent panning control, and positive locking knobs and quick release mounting plates. All housed in a precision-machined black anodized aluminum body. The Benro Universal Quick-Release System is designed to the same specifications as the Arca-Swiss system, and is also compatible with other similarly designed quick-release systems. Accurate 360-degree panoramas can be easily orchestrated using the graduated panning scale for accurate image alignment. The separate lock and drag adjustment knobs help to avoid confusion when working fast. Compatible with 0 series tripods like the Benro A-057M8.

Get 32% OFF

Click here for more information about BENRO B SERIES Ballhead B-0

Gitzo GT3530LS Carbon Fiber Series 3 Long Systematic Tripod (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As a professional nature photographer; what can I say. Gitzo tripods are simply the best! I had used an aluminum Gitzo 1340 for about 30 years and thought it was the perfect fit for me. Then I broke down and purchased the new Gitzo GT3530LS Carbon Fiber. Used with a Nikon D3 with a 500mm f/4 lens and a 1.4x converter; it is all the tripod I need. They are truly more rigid than aluminum. The new anti-twist legs are time saving and far less aggravating. Although expensive, I would and will highly recommend this item to those who ask.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gitzo GT3530LS Carbon Fiber Series 3 Long Systematic Tripod (Black)

Carbon Fiber is the ultimate material for extremely light and rigid tripod construction.The longer design of this tripod assures you the perfect height in every set up with a load capacitiy of 39 pounds.Featuring ALR (Anti-Rotation-Leg) and G-Lock on the legs set ups are easier than ever. Load Capacity 39lbs.; Maximum Height 58 inches; Minimum Height 4.3 inches Folded Length 26.4 inches; Weight 4 lbs.; Material 6x Carbon fiber;

Click here for more information about Gitzo GT3530LS Carbon Fiber Series 3 Long Systematic Tripod (Black)

Benro TRAB169 Travel Angel Tripod Kit Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is my review of the A169M8 with B-0 Ballhead. I tested this with a D80, D40, Sigma 10-20, Sigma 50-150, Nikon 18-200, Nikon 18-55 and SB600 flash.
When lock downed properly, the tripod can handle the combined weight of a D80, Sigma 50-150 and Sb600 flash (about 3.8 lbs). I thumped it and do a light tripping motion to the legs and it supported the weight. It feels pretty rigid and subjectively, vibration seems to stop within the second.
I compared it with the Manfrotto 190XDB and I liked it better, the vibration seems less severe. The 190XDB vibrates like a ringing metal, while the A160M8 feels like its damping the vibration.
I do not have a heavier setup, so I do not know if it can hold the 17.5 lbs weight. I did try to slightly lean on the tripod with the camera on and the tripod can handle the weight.
While the tripod legs is pretty good, the ballhead is not very impressive. I have no experience with a ballhead, so my expectation might be too high. I will know better when I get my Markins Q3 traveller.
I have a light setup, my heaviest len, camera and flash combination is 3.8 lbs. With 3.8 lbs the tripod can be tighten so that creeping does not occur. However at this weight the tension control, does not work at all. If you take your hands off the camera, it will slowly creep.
With just the D80 and Sigma 50-150 (3 lbs), tension control works in all but the point down and pointing up position. In those position, creeping will occur.
With a D80 and Nikon 18-200 (2.7 lbs), the tension control works as long as the lens barrel is not full extended. With the lens fully extended creeps starts when you point the lens down.
With a D40 and Nikon 18-200 (2.3 lbs), the tension control works, when lens is fully extended, it will start creeping but not as badly as the above D80 setup.
With a D40 and Nikon 18-55 (1.73 lbs), tension control works in all direction.
With regards to panning, the ballhead does it smoothly with all the setup that I placed on it.
So summary if you want a ballhead that just lockdown your camera then this ballhead will do. Up to about 3 lbs, it was not difficult to position the head. Just remember that you have to lockdown, so that creep will not occur.
So is the $200+ worth the price? Probably not, the Tripod legs work great, and is extremely lightweight and portable, however ballhead is only suitable for the lightest load.
Its a shame that they do not sell just the A169M8, if you can wait I suggest you go for the C169M8 tripod legs and start looking for a better ballhead.
Additional comment on quick release plate for Benro B-0 ballhead. The quick release plate is not compatible with the Markins Q3 traveller. The Markins can hold it down, however when you attached it does not sit well on the head. Kind of scared that with a strong enough bump. The whole things will pull off.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Benro TRAB169 Travel Angel Tripod Kit

The Benro TRAB169 Travel Angel Magnesium Alloy Tripod with B-0 Ballhead is a professional-quality tripod that has lightweight, highest quality aluminum alloy legs for top performance at an economical price. In addition, magnesium is used for all die-cast parts. Despite its lower weight, magnesium is more rigid than aluminum, and has the same strength per volume. Travel Angel tripods are easy-to-carry so you\'ll want them with you at all times. Travel Angel\'s unique 180 degree foldover design allows them to be folded into a compact package that can easily fit into backpacks or luggage. However, when you need quick setup, excellent maximum height and a rigid, stable support, Benro Travel Angels are impressive performers!Travel Angel tripods feature individual leg angle adjustments, anti-rotation leg design, a reversible center column with spring loaded weight hook, anti dust and moisture rubber leg lock grips, and reversible 1/4"-20 to 3/8" mounting threads.LEG SECTIONS 5 MAXIMUM HEIGHT 58.5 NORMAL HEIGHT 51.3 FOLDED HEIGHT 14.1 LOAD CAPACITY 17.6

Get 32% OFF

Click here for more information about Benro TRAB169 Travel Angel Tripod Kit

Gitzo GT3541 Series 3 Carbon 6x 4 Section G-Lock Tripod - Replaces GT3540 (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Why spend nearly $800 on a tripod?
First, there are many good sources of tripod reviews. Thom Hogan has an article on his website about tripods and heads where he argues the case to save money and time by simply doing it "right the first time." There are also some good educational points on tripod selection on the Really Right Stuff web site. Both of these sources argue for buying a good quality set of legs.
The general consensus is simply that if you want the best mass market tripod get a Gitzo. Yes, if you are on a budget you can find less expensive options, but if you read the above two sources and do you own observations of the actual tripods you will soon see the validity of their arguments. Manfrotto seems to be the best of the budget tripods. People generally don't like the Chinese made knock-offs over long periods of time.
Carbon Fiber vs. Aluminum
Carbon fiber for anything in the field is better than aluminum. Carbon fiber is much lighter, it doesn't conduct heat and cold as easily as aluminum, and it dampens vibrations faster, and it is very strong for the size of the legs. If you are thinking of aluminum, then stop reading this review and look elsewhere.
Series 2 vs. Series 3
You want to purchase a tripod based on both the weight of your gear and the focal length of your lenses. I have a Nikon D700 with a 24-70 mm lens. I could get by with a Series 2 tripod, but after setting up both a Series 2 and a Series 3 tripod side-by-side I decided to go with the Series 3. The Series 2 has a smaller leg spread and just does not seem nearly as stable especially when there is a big camera sitting on top. Add a little wind and I know I would be holding onto the tripod to calm my nerves. So, Series 3 it is.
Systematic vs. Mountaineer
Gizto makes the Series 3 with a center column (Mountaineer) and one with the column as optional (Systematic.) Many photographers will argue for not using the center column because it reduces stability. They are right and there are tests published to prove it. However, if I want to shoot a macro, the ability to adjust the camera up and down an inch or so at times is very helpful instead of adjusting all three legs. At the same time, the Mountaineer series lets you remove the center column and attach the mounting plate to the hanger bolt on the bottom. This gives you the benefit of the column-free Systematic series. This changeover takes less than two minutes and is done completely without tools. I think this is a great feature. So, the Mountaineer Series gives you support for a column when adjustment this is a priority and the ability to remove the column when stability is paramount.
3 sections vs. 4 sections
No doubt about it a three section tripod has more stable legs than a four section tripod. The last leg is relatively small compared to the other sections. This difference is, obviously, even more pronounced with a four section tripod. The factor that changed my mind was practical over theoretical. A slightly less stable tripod taken along is better than a more stable tripod left at home. The three section tripod with a head on it is too long to fit in a suitcase without dis-assembly and is cumbersome to carry strapped to a backpack. Therefore, I went with the four section tripod that collapses to a nice portable size suitable for airline travel and backpacking.
Cost
Yes, this tripod is expensive. You will have your doubts about spending this much money. I did too. Read Hogan's article again. Read other reviews. Save your lunch money for a few months.
There you have it. This was the logic I used to make my selection for the Gitzo 3541 Mountaineer carbon fiber tripod.
If you buy one, I hope you enjoy as well as I enjoy mine.
Finally, in case you are wondering, I plan to mount a RRS BH-40 LR head on this tripod along with the appropriate L-bracket. The RRS folks said this model was a good match for my gear and tripod. I didn't want the BH-55 because of the extra weight and size. My second choice was one of the Markins head that many people really like. I'm sure either line is a winner.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gitzo GT3541 Series 3 Carbon 6x 4 Section G-Lock Tripod - Replaces GT3540 (Black)

When Gitzo launched the Mountaineer tripods in 1994, they were the world's first carbon fiber tripods. Since then, they've set the standard for performance and quality. The main feature of this range is the 6X carbon fiber tube, made of a unique structure of 6 crossed layers that maximizes rigidity, vibration absorption, and lightweight performance. 6X tubes have a high density structure made of top quality ultra-thin carbon fibers (7m or 0.007 mm). Built-in Anti Leg Rotation is now a feature of the whole carbon fiber range. Mountaineer tripods have been further improved with features and details that increase performance, versatility, and quality. G-Lock is a leg locking system that increases system rigidity by 20% and allows quicker and stronger leg locking. Gitzo has added a solid machined aluminum upper disc with a new Safe Lock material that cuts vibration, and improves grip between tripod and head. The upper disc is totally new. The 1/4"-3/8" reversible screw has been redesigned for more reliable functionality. All new Mountaineer tripods come with a convenient anti-dust bag for storage and packing. Scaled for professional equipment, medium format and DSLRs with 300 mm lens, and up to 400 mm maximum, this tripod features high load capacity endurance, and outstanding torsional rigidity. Series 3 Carbon 6X tripods are surprisingly lightweight, and offer a good safety margin that makes them popular alternatives to series 2 tripods Replaces:GT3540.

Click here for more information about Gitzo GT3541 Series 3 Carbon 6x 4 Section G-Lock Tripod - Replaces GT3540 (Black)

BENRO TRA069 Travel Angel TRA Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've amassed around 9-10 tripods, around 6 monopods (Giotto, Manfrotto, Induro, Trek-Pods etc. etc) and a slew of Gimbal and ball head and video pan heads.
I wanted something very small yet sturdy and came across this rig. It's a winner.
Setup is very fast. The legs don't rotate. The single knob head is very sturdy with a smart safety latch design. It handles a gripped Canon 5D with a 100-400L IS in landscape mode mounted to the tripod ring fine. However I would not try that rig in portrait mode. Even with that rig it takes less than a second to settle if you rap one of the legs which considering the size compromise is not bad. If you use a smaller crop body gripped with a smaller zoom it should handle it piece of cake.
After testing the included ball head for a couple of days I swapped that out for a Bogen 484RC2 as I have standardized on the RC2 QR plate for all my heads except the video pan ones. Again...no issues. However the included head and the Bogen 484RC2 is the minimum size head I would use for a rig that size/weight. The specs for the included head/legs is 8.8lbs.
Really...the best tripod is the one you are willing to drag along with you despite having image stabelized lenses and/or bodies. This thing is so small and light I don't really notice it strapped across my back/chest.
Comes with a very nice case with a very nice shoulder strap.
Highly recommend it. The Carbon version is way more bucks with a nicer head and weighs a whopping 2.9 lbs vs. this one which weighs in at whopping 3.3 lbs.
My shoes weigh more. I like this tripod better than my shoes.
:-)

Click Here to see more reviews about: BENRO TRA069 Travel Angel TRA

The Benro TRA069 Travel Angel Aluminum Tripod with BH-00 Ballhead is a professional-quality tripod that has lightweight, highest quality aluminum alloy legs for top performance at an economical price. In addition, magnesium is used for all die-cast parts. Despite its lower weight, magnesium is more rigid than aluminum, and has the same strength per volume. Travel Angel tripods are easy-to-carry so you’ll want them with you at all times. Travel Angel’s unique 180 degree foldover design allows them to be folded into a compact package that can easily fit into backpacks or luggage. However, when you need quick setup, excellent maximum height and a rigid, stable support, Benro Travel Angels are impressive performers! Travel Angel tripods feature individual leg angle adjustments, anti-rotation leg design, a reversible center column with spring loaded weight hook, anti dust and moisture rubber leg lock grips, and reversible 1/4"-20 to 3/8" mounting threads. LEG SECTIONS 5 MAXIMUM HEIGHT55. NORMAL HEIGHT 48 FOLDED HEIGHT 14.2 LOAD CAPACITY 5.5

Get 50% OFF

Click here for more information about BENRO TRA069 Travel Angel TRA

Gitzo GT2541EX Series 2 Carbon 6x 4 Section G-Lock Explorer Tripod - Replaces GT2540EX (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased this tripod after reading the other two reviews here and seeing this tripod at a local camera shop. I did lots of research before choosing the 2541EX, but ultimately decided to purchase this tripod for the following reasons:
1. The build quality of the tripod is fantastic (which you would expect for a Gitzo)
2. The flexibility that the center column provides
3. It is quite light, but very sturdy (love that carbon fiber!)
4. It compacts down to just over 20 inches-- it will fit inside my carry-on.
I have a Really Right Stuff BH-55 ball head paired with this tripod, and I doubt that there is ANY shooting situation that this tripod combined with that head cannot handle. My research told me that there might be a better match for my RRS head (one that can support more weight), but this tripod was listed as suitable, and I have found it to be rock solid with all my lenses (I have used it with the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 IS and the Canon 100-400mm and had no issues with stability or performance).
Operating this tripod quickly becomes second-nature. The knobs are well designed and big enough for virtually any size hand. The center column rotation uses a "gear"-like mechanism, so it locks in place very securely. That said, the teeth of the gear do slightly limit the number of positions in which the center column can be set (although this can be easily compensated for by changing the position of the legs).
Speaking of the legs, I love the manner in which the legs spread out, although those who are used to having predefined "stops" might find the 2541EX takes a bit to get used to. That is, you are not likely to open each leg the same degree, so getting the tripod level is a bit more challenging. However, when combined with a ball head, this really is a non-issue. The flexibility that is provided by the ability to open each leg to any degree far outweighs the challenge to get it level by using predefined stops. After all, unless you are shooting on completely level ground, those predefined stops become very inflexible.
Initially I was worried a bit about the G-Lock feature of this tripod, as I have another tripod that uses a similar approach to leg extension which sometimes gets tightened to the point that I need a wrench to loosen it again. However, after using this tripod, I no longer have those worries. The G-Lock system works extremely well.
Another feature that I appreciate is the replaceable rubber feet of the tripod. While I haven't had to do that yet, it is comforting to know that if one gets damaged or I need to use spikes instead, the 2541EX can accommodate replacement with ease.
All of this quality, flexibility, and performance definitely come at a cost, however. The current going rate for the 2541EX seems to be $675, which is daunting to say the least. However, a solid tripod is invaluable for achieving tack sharp photos. After working with this tripod, I believe that it will satisfy me for the rest of my life, so given that, the high cost isn't so bad. That said, I did only give 4 stars for price vs. quality because of the hefty price tag. Still, I have absolutely no regrets about purchasing this tripod.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gitzo GT2541EX Series 2 Carbon 6x 4 Section G-Lock Explorer Tripod - Replaces GT2540EX (Black)

The Explorer is another of Gitzo's tripods for special applications - a versatile support that opens up new shooting perspectives. Thanks to its unconventional design, the legs can be set at any angle and moved independently, while the center column tilts and rotates freely to any position. The Explorer unleashes its potential when used with a Gitzo off-center ball head, a combination that makes it the ideal tripod for creative photographers looking for unconventional shots: close to ground, upside down, or in tight or awkward spaces. Ideal applications are outdoor macro and nature photography, still life and architectural. Explorer tripods in both Carbon 6X and Basalt, feature G-Lock - Gitzo's leg locking system that increases system rigidity by 20%, and allows quicker and stronger leg locking. Carbon 6X Explorers feature a solid machined aluminum upper disc with a new Safe Lock material. Explorer tripods also come with a convenient anti-dust bag for storage and packing. This is the best choice for DSLR or for lightweight camcorders. This series is recommended for lenses ranging from 200mm to 300mm. Series 2 offers excellent load capacity endurance, and very good torsional rigidity. Series 2 is the ideal solution for photographers looking for a solid, and yet lightweight tripod. This replaces the Gitzo GT2540EX.

Click here for more information about Gitzo GT2541EX Series 2 Carbon 6x 4 Section G-Lock Explorer Tripod - Replaces GT2540EX (Black)

Gitzo GT1541T Series 1 6X 4S G-Lock Traveler - Replaces GT1540T (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Lightweight carbon fiber tripod, folds extremely small. I normally use a bigger stronger carbon fiber Gitzo tripod with an Acratech head for my Nikon D2X. I got the 1541T (with a lightweight Really Right Stuff head) for travelling light with hand luggage only. Certainly, my normal tripod better suits the weight of the Nikon with a decent lens, and the 1541 cannot match its strength and stability. However, the 1541 scores so highly on portability that it is well worth considering for situations where saving weight and space is paramount. And for a lighter camera such as the D700 it could be a first choice, as it has all the usual Gitzo virtues of versatility, speed of adjustment, high rigidity-to-weight ratio and high build quality.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gitzo GT1541T Series 1 6X 4S G-Lock Traveler - Replaces GT1540T (Black)

With such a good ratio of compact folded length to extended open height, the Traveler is the ideal tripod to carry with you around the world. Gitzos unique patented 180 folding mechanism accommodates the head inside the folded tripod legs and makes this the smallest folded tripod for its open size and number of sections. Matching this compactness with the sturdiness of lightweight carbon fiber and good speed in setup makes the Travelers the ultimate tripods. FEATURES: GROUND LEVEL SET - This feature allows you to remove the center column to save weight and get the camera closer to the ground. Uses existing components: the upper disc with reversible 1/4 - 3/8 bolt and the column hook assembly: Remove column and fix the disk directly to the upper casting using the column hook. No tools needed. RAPID COLUMN - The center column locking collar above the tripod shoulder makes it easier to adjust the column quickly. Series 1 and above are built with an anti-rotation grooved center column for improved stability. REVERSIBLE COLUMN - The rapid column can easily be inverted for an alternative shooting angle or low level macro work.

Click here for more information about Gitzo GT1541T Series 1 6X 4S G-Lock Traveler - Replaces GT1540T (Black)

Gitzo GT3541LS Series 3 Long 6X Carbon Fiber 4-Section Systematic Tripod with G-Lock - Replaces GT3540LS Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)UPDATED and corrected 27 Jan 2011: I needed a tripod that would give steady support for my pro body + 500mm + Wimberley head -- and still be lightweight and compact enough to fit in a 25" suitcase. The Gitzo 3541LS fit the bill (Closed length = 21.7", weight 3.7 lb). The max extended height is 57.5". If you are over 6 ft tall* it may give you a backache, especially if you're doing a lot of bird flight photography. The 3541XLS extends to 78" max, but only collapses to 27.6" and weighs 4.0 lb and won't fit into a 25" suitcase. If you're over 6 ft, you may want to consider the XLS. These are very expensive tripods, but for the serious photographer, they're worth every penny.
[*I mistakenly wrote 'If you're over 58"' in my original version of this post, and have now corrected it to "If you're over 6 ft".... I apologize for the goof.]
I do like my G3541LS, and prefer it to the XLS because its smaller collapsed length/weight is better for air travel and the torsional flex in shorter tripod legs is somewhat less. Even at my shortish 68" height, the occasional long, intensive high-angle shoot with a 500mm on the LS can be tough on the back and neck, but I'm willing to live with it -- and so is my chiropractor :)). High-angle is not the best steadiness practice anyway.
By the way, a year or two ago, it was reported that the Gitzo Systematic Series tripod platform can pull out of its mounting ring if the tightening bolt loosens. This could cause a bad crash while you're shouldering your rig. Aftermarket safety retainer plates are now available for about $65. I made one from 3/16" marine ply and a stainless bolt, and it works fine.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Gitzo GT3541LS Series 3 Long 6X Carbon Fiber 4-Section Systematic Tripod with G-Lock - Replaces GT3540LS

Systematic tripods are the strongest and most stable available, and they also offer unsurpassed flexibility. This modular system can be quickly transformed between different configurations depending on the specific needs of a shoot. Choosing the carbon fiber version means you always have the ideal base model for both indoor and outdoor shooting, to which you can add a range of interchangeable center columns for normal use, heavy cameras or video work. Attachment: 3/8'' screw; bubble spirit level; closed length: 21.65 in.; leg angles: 24°. 55°; 4 leg sections; load capacity: 39.68 lbs.; material: carbon fiber 6X; maximum height: 57.48 in.; minimum height: 3.94 in.; series: 3; weight: 3.79 lbs.

Click here for more information about Gitzo GT3541LS Series 3 Long 6X Carbon Fiber 4-Section Systematic Tripod with G-Lock - Replaces GT3540LS