Showing posts with label rjm. Show all posts
Showing posts with label rjm. Show all posts

Manfrotto 128RC Micro Fluid Head with 200PL- 14 RC2 Rapid Connector Plate - Replaces 3130 Review

Manfrotto 128RC Micro Fluid Head with 200PL- 14 RC2 Rapid Connector Plate - Replaces 3130
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have the same head with the older model designation of 3130 (which uses the older non-notched quick-release plates as well as the newer notched 'N' plate).
This head is heavier than similar-sized heads in the model lineup but holds a 9 lb. camera well and the heft dampens vibration from below better than the lighter models (a plus for working with on-camera mic in certain environments). The fluid action is smooth and improves substantially with use. The overall quality of fit and finish is high.
When used with a Manfotto tripod the base attaches firmly with the use of the tripod's base set-screws (which secure via an inner ring of recessed beveled surfaces on the underside of this head). With that proviso, there is no problem with the head loosening as mentioned in the previous review. The size of the 3/8 inch mounting with beveled surface ring is a match for Manfrotto tripods and this unit is best used with that brand of tripod.
Considering the overall quality and modest price it is a good bet for medium-sized cameras (up to 10 lbs. or so). For smaller cameras, I switch to the Manfrotto 700RC2 which is well suiting to the new generation of "pop-can"-sized cameras (like Canon's Vixia/Ivis series). Both heads are low-cost, simple units.

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A lightweight fluid head with pan bar and quick release camera plate with secondary security, ideal for cameras up to 4kg in weight. It has smooth fluid movement, pan and tilt locks. This version is black painted. Optional Plates: 200PL- 38.This replaces the Manfrotto 3130. Attachment (bottom): 3/8- Inch female thread; color: black; - 60Degree / +90Degree tilt range; height: 4.53 in.; independent pan lock; load capacity: 8.82 lbs.; material: aluminum; panoramic rotation: 360 Degree; plate type: quick release - with 1/4- Inch screw + VHS pin; weight: 2.20 lbs.; working height: 4.53 in.

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Sigma 18-50mm F/2.8 EX DC Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras Review

Sigma 18-50mm F/2.8 EX DC Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras
Average Reviews:

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I took a look a this lens almost as a fluke -- I wanted something that gave me quick speed at 2.8 but had more range than than the prime standard 50/1.8...and I was so pleased with the lens I have used it quite a bit more than I thought I would. The quality of the photos is excellent, good colors, good contrast. The lens is relatively light (less than a pound) so it "feels good" on the body. Compare this lens to the Tamron 17-50/2.8 They are virtually identical. This is a supurb replacement for your standard kit lens.

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U) SIGMA 18-50MM F2.8EX DC F/NIKON

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NIKON MC-36 Multi-Function Remote Cord ( 33.5 inches ) Review

NIKON MC-36 Multi-Function Remote Cord ( 33.5 inches )
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I find this remote (MC-36) very useful and well built. I use it mainly for shooting single shots from a tripod to remove my fat fingers from the camera - thus removing camera shake when I would push the shutter release. The shutter button on the unit is large and easy to press. You can lock out all other buttons on the remote except the shutter button, therefore you don't press the Set button by mistake. Battery life seems reasonable. Batteries are not included - you need 2 AAA. Display is fine and has a backlight function. Fits well in your hand.
I wish the cord was a little longer, but it seems acceptable. The cord connects to the camera via the standard 10 pin connector with the bonus of a durable metal screw-in adapater thus holding it in place securely.
For those that want to be crazy, as what is life worth living if you can't be a little crazy, it's programmable for timed shooting where you can program up to 999 shots with 99 hours, 99 minutes and 99 seconds between each shot... of course, I can't think of a reason I would want to do that, but it's cool having the option - and what is life without options? You can get a lot more practical on the timed shooting also, where you can program in any number of shots (up to 999) over the course of any short (1 sec minimum) or long duration with interval times between shots. Programming is straight forward once you decide on frequency and interval times - the decision graph they give you in the manual leaves a little to be desired. The unit will beep when you are 3 seconds from the next timed shot - you can turn it off if you like. Countdown timer to next shot is shown on the display.
I guess if I had a real gripe it would be about the size of the manual. I like to pack manuals in my bag, as I am getting old and I forget. This manual comes in many different languages - all in the same manual. So I ripped out the 9 pages I needed as I didn't want to carry the 60 page thing around due to the weight. If you buy this you will know what I mean when you see the manual. I have no problem with multi-language manuals, but why not include them as seperate by language so I can recycle the ones I don't want and keep only the pages I need.
You want the ultimate captured memories of your kids growing up? Set up the tripod next to the crib and program in a shot every day for the next 999 days and watch your kids grow up on film (or on your hard drive if you are digital). Nice.
Not cheap in price, but very nice in functionality.
Edited 1/12/08: I broke down and bought a D300 (I couldn't resist) and it works just fine on it also. I am still using this remote after 8 months and I am still loving it. I use it anytime I put the camera on a tripod.

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MC-36 Multi-Function Remote Cord (33.5 innikon store acs nikonstoreacces1 Nikon-Accessories-Store Nikon-Accessory-Store

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