New Tripod!

[iceman]

I just took delivery of my new Manfrotto 055ProB (http://www.camera-warehouse.com.au/product.asp?pr=MANFROTTO-055PROB) tripod.. Got it off ebay for $250ish, and considering it's practically still brand new (not a mark on it), it's a pretty good discount off the new price. Came with a nice manfrotto carry bag too.

Had a play with it last night, and it's GREAT! I love it already. Very solid, very secure, and I like the removable centre column which can be put in horizontal, and also the legs which can splay right out to get the camera in all sorts of different positions.

I still need to get a head for it, and i'll probably get the 484RC2 (http://db.manfrotto.com/product/templates/templates.php3?sectionid=8&itemid=1950) ball head.

I'm looking forward to giving the tripod its first light!

[Dennis]

Hi Mike

Congratulations on your new acquisition – I’m sure it will bring you more fine entries into the IIS monthly comp!

I have the Manfrotto 410 Junior Geared Head seen here:

http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/cache/off/pid/2344?livid=80|81&idx=85

and it is really nice for composing images in the viewfinder. The X-Y-Z gear movements are nice to have and there are quick releases on each knob/axis for gross rapid adjustments although completely unsuited to rapidly moving objects.

I also fit the WO 80mm refractor on the head and it works really well for panning and cruising star fields. I picked on up in a sale for $149 but they cost more like $300 I think.

Edit: Just thought I would add that when using the head with the WO 80mm refractor, I fit the 'scope 180 deg rotated to allow for full elevation in altitude. This means that the X-Y-Z slo mo controls are placed slightly more awkwardly than when using it in photo config, which only allows for 45 deg elevation up when pointing forwards and 90 deg down towards the body of the operator.

Cheers

Dennis

[acropolite]

A manfrotto tripod is on my wish list too Mike, nice purchase, they are so solid. What's the weight and portability of that model like??

[RB]

Excellent Mike, nice pickup.
I'm sure you'll be wrapped in it's performance.

Dennis I do the same thing with my XYZ Manfrotto head to attach the ED80 onto the tripod.
I turn the head backwards to give me the required elevation.
Also great when I want a quick view of the sun using the solar filter.
Don't have to set up the EQ mount.

They are very strong products and I highly recommend them.

:thumbsup:

[Dennis]

Which head? Yours or the tripod's?

:lol: :lol: :lol:

[RB]

:rofl:
Either/Or but not both !
A XOR B

[TidaLpHasE]

Great choice Mike, i have had my 055b for a while now, and have no complaints at all, it is rock solid and a joy to use.

I have the 029 head that is also rock solid.

Whatever head you end up getting, it's a tripod that will impress with its quality.

Here's a pic of my "late" 350d on the 029 head.

[iceman]

Very nice Trev.. What happened to the lens that was on your 350D when it went "in the drink"? I hope you didn't bust your 10-22??!