Dan Honemann wrote:
> I just got a Gitzo 1227 (3 section carbon fiber) tripod and a Linhof
> Profi-II ballhead to go with it. Great combination--super
> lightweight, but sturdy. This is a combination that Really Right
> Stuff recommends (still eagerly awaiting my RRS plates in the mail).
Hey Dan, that's the same combo I've been using for about 18 months, and I agree
that it works well (and the Profi II is a nice alternative to the Arca-Swiss B1
if price is a consideration--although once you factor in the cost of a RRS clamp
the savings is less than it looks at first glance). The one thing I would
suggest is that when you're working in breezy conditions or with a heavy lens,
it's a good idea to hang something heavy, like your camera bag, on the
center-column hook. In fact, it the budget permitted I would probably get an
aluminum Gitzo for cases where I didn't need to carry it long distances, since
the rigidity of the carbon fiber legs *seems* to make them somewhat susceptible
to extraneous vibrations--or maybe it's just their light weight making them more
prone to such. I seem to recall reading that carbon fiber is supposed to have
superior damping characteristics, but my non-scientific subjective sense is
that, at least in this case, there is less damping than with an equivalent
aluminum 'pod. I could be wrong on this though. :-)
In any case, I think this is a fine combination, and you will really like the
RRS items, even if they are a bit overpriced (what you get for low-volume items,
I suppose). Indeed, I was just looking at their flash arms and am really tempted
by the one for the 200/2.8L, but at US$186 each it will have to wait until I
next win the lottery.
Enjoy!
Craig
PS: One trick with the Gitzo tripods is to not overtighten the leg locks. They
require much less tightening than you might expect.
*
****
*******
***********************************************************
* For list instructions, including unsubscribe, see:
* http://www.a1.nl/phomepag/markerink/eos_list.htm
***********************************************************
