Blackmagic Forum

Hi guys, I'm in need for a new tripod and I'd love to get some advice. I'm looking between the Manfrotto Nitrotech N8 and Sachtler ACE XL. I hear great things about Sachtler, however, I do like the continues counterbalance of the N8 and the sideload mechanism. Though, I'm curious about the built quality of both and how the panning/tilting and diagonal pans of the N8 compare to the ACE XL.

I'm looking for something around this size (17.6 lbs) and this price range but still a good enough to get work done. Has anyone worked with those heads?

Thanks!

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I'm not terribly impressed with the build quality of the Manfrotto. On mine the release button snapped off pretty early on. I just use a key to release the camera now which is inconvenient but doesn't take much time, while planning on replacing it with a professional head down the road when I have the money for one.

What is the weight of the camera, lens, and rigging do you typically use on a tripod? The N8 is supposed to balance from 0 to 8 Kg so ideal for camcorders and lighter cameras. But if you think your shooting weight will often be at the higher end, consider the N12 and perhaps take advantage of the optional 100mm half bowl.


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rick.lang wrote:What is the weight of the camera, lens, and rigging do you typically use on a tripod? The N8 is supposed to balance from 0 to 8 Kg so ideal for camcorders and lighter cameras. But if you think your shooting weight will often be at the higher end, consider the N12 and perhaps take advantage of the optional 100mm half bowl.

I'm around 10 pounds of weight, so the 17.6 is more than enough for me.

Rakesh Malik wrote:I'm not terribly impressed with the build quality of the Manfrotto. On mine the release button snapped off pretty early on. I just use a key to release the camera now which is inconvenient but doesn't take much time, while planning on replacing it with a professional head down the road when I have the money for one.

Did this happen to the N8 or a different Manfrotto head? Makes me wonder if I should pull the trigger for the Ace XL.

To be honest, in paper, it looks like the N8 has better features and maybe even better built quality than the Ace. BTW, Does anyone know if the Satchler Ace XL head is made out of plastic or aluminum. It looks plastic from the picture (couldn't find any specs about this).

sijiadin wrote:Did this happen to the N8 or a different Manfrotto head? Makes me wonder if I should pull the trigger for the Ace XL.

It was a Nitrotech, the mid-sized model.

Rakesh, I hope Manfrotto’s warranty had your back.


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I would consider going second-hand with tripods/heads. I got a beaten-up Vinten Vision Blue for £400 and it works beautifully. If you don't mind carrying extra weight, some heft in a tripod/head is really useful for smooth shots.

Yes, I am considering getting an old Miller Compus 25 for thst very reason, a larger smoother moving head with some inertia weight to it.
Cheers

Denny Smith wrote:Yes, I am considering getting an old Miller Compus 25 for thst very reason, a larger smoother moving head with some inertia [-enhancing mass as an added benefit] to it .
Cheers

Good mention Denny.
Gratuitous Edits are mine. -Peter



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Yes, I remember John’s shots with a Pocket camera on an O’Connor 1030 Head.
Cheers