Customer Reviews:
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 Excellent ballhead for 35mm DSLR cameras July 12, 2008
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
I am extremely happy with the 488RC4 ballhead. I use it with the Manfrotto 055XPROB tripod, a Nikon D80 DSLR camera, and primarily a Tamron 18-250mm zoom lens. This ballhead has the muscle to handle it all with excellent stability, ease of use, and great adjustability. I thought about going a step down because of cost, but I urge you to get this ballhead. It is definitely worth the extra money. Although I really don't use the two bubble levels, they are there for those that do use them.
Stable with a large plate July 6, 2008
I purchased this ball bead to go with a Manfrotto 055XPROB tripod. This ball head seems very solid for the few times I've used it in the past month. It's my 1st experience with a decent tripod system so I don't have anything similar to compare it to. This head holds my Nikon D300 with 24-70/2.8 lens (about 4-5 lbs. total) rock solid with the tripod's center column vertical or horizontal, and the ball head vertical or horizontal. The 2 bubble levels are a handy addition, although the one on the edge of the plate may not be visible depending on how you flip your camera into the vertical position. The rapid connect system is very sure, and the double locking feature to prevent accidental release is nice. Beware that this plate is large, 2 1/2"W x 3 1/4"L, so be sure your camera and you can accomodate this being left on your camera all the time, if that is what you choose to do. It fits the bottom proportions of the D300 nicely, but 2 1/2" is a bit wide for my Nikon N80 film camera. You will need a coin or screwdriver to mount and unmount this plate from the bottom of your camera, as the 1/4" screw head in it is large and slotted. I carry a very short,stubby screwdriver in my bag for this purpose. I don't have one yet, but I am guessing that the wide plate will be an advantage for mounting a telephoto lens that has a tripod foot. Very satisfied so far.
Everything expected and more April 5, 2008
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
This is a great ballhead, using it with Nikon D200, very smooth, solid, responsive, the two spirit levels very handy. Works great in vertical orientation too. Build like a brick.
The release plate seats solidly and safely, and will not let go by accident. Minor thing: watch out for that release lever it can thwack your finger a little bit if you're not expecting it!
If you're considering it and it seems to be the right size for you, don't hesitate. Any surprises will be pleasant ones.
big freakin' ballhead March 18, 2008
5 out of 5 found this review helpful
this thing is HUGE. it's much bigger than it looks in the picture. if you're looking for a compact b/h for hiking and travel, this ain't it. it's big, heavy, reassuringly stable, and works great. it's a little awkward to use at first, but it becomes more intuitive over time. after just a few hours, i was adjusting the ball lock by feel without looking. very easy to use, just twist the knob, reposition at desired angle, lock. the panning control lock (which has little etched degree markers you can't see in the photo) is a nice touch, and the biggest difference between this and the less expensive model. it also has a bubble spirit level, two, in fact, which allow for smooth calibration of proper angle. the QR plate is also big and solid. it easily holds a d300 with grip and tele lens. the QR mechanism takes some getting used to but once you're used to it, it's easy. used with the manfrotto 190xprob tripod, it makes for a winning combo -- tough enough for big jobs, yet still light enough to carry. biggest con is the weight, but the solidity is reassuring, especially in vertical position, which usually doesn't inspire confidence.
for a ball head, it's pretty stylish. design is great, stability is great, flexibility is great. weight is not so good, but as long as your tripod has enough support, you can manage.
Great ball head February 8, 2008
4 out of 4 found this review helpful
I looked for a good tripod and head for about three months before I made my purchase. I bought this ball head to go on a new Manfrotto 055XPROB tripod. So far I am very happy with both. The ball head is build very well and has a good solid feel. It is easy to adjust and the built-in bubble levels are a very nice feature making it easy to confirm that your frame is straight. The quick release is very secure when in place and even has a locking mechanism to ensure it stays tight. This is my first quality tripod and head and I'm sure I will be using it for years to come. The only down side to this set-up is it is a little heavier than I had hoped but it is very stable and secure. I don't think you'll find a better combination for the money.
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