Gitzo Systematic Pdf
Gitzo has introduced a new range of Systematic tripods that it says are more stable and stronger, and which feature new locking mechanisms for the leg sections. The latest models use what the company calls Carbon eXact for the leg tubing, which it claims offers improved ‘balance between rigidity and weight’.
The Systematic range is Gitzo’s top end series and the tripods are designed for heavy cameras and long lenses. Larger feet have been introduced for the new models to prevent slipping and for making uneven ground more easy to rest on, and the twist-lock leg sections have been given G-lock Ultra clamps that Gitzo says are quicker and easier to use.The company has also added a connector for the Manfrotto Easy Link system in a first for the Gitzo line-up. This threaded socket allows accessory arms and clamps to be attached to the casting of the tripod so reflectors, flash units, trays and other accessories can be held in place.The new models will be priced from $799.99/£649.95 and a new range of monopods will start at $319.99/£214.95.For more information see the.Press release. Gitzo introduces:The New Generation of Photography Support SolutionsOctober 2016 - Gitzo, pioneers in developing some of the most advanced and revolutionary technologies for professional camera equipment, proudly introduce the new generation Systematic tripod family and the latest Monopod family, setting new industry standards in premium photography equipment.The iconic Gitzo Systematic tripod family is the high-end choice for exacting professional photographers who use long lenses and heavy cameras and require extreme precision – down to the smallest detail – in their work and equipment. The new Gitzo Systematic tripods leverage the latest innovation for the greatest performance ever: the leg tubes are upgraded to Gitzo’s latest generation Carbon eXact, improving the balance between rigidity and weight. New, 50mm diameter big feet enable ultimate stability, preventing slipping and movement.
The new G-lock Ultra allows even more comfortable operation and protection while the leg angle selectors guarantee a quicker switch between leg angles – further enhancing ergonomics. Moreover, the new Gitzo Systematic models feature the Easy Link attachment, a 3/8” thread through which a rich array of innovative photography accessories can be attached to facilitate the most advanced shooting techniques. The tripods are offered in a new sizing assortment.The new Gitzo Monopods are designed to guarantee unfailing support for the highest quality equipment, enabling professional photographers to comfortably capture the golden moment.
They are the ideal combination of rigidity, light weight, precision, rapid set up speed and ergonomics. Yeah, spikes are the answer in nature, especially on soft ground, where they start sinking and never stop.
Spikes are great on rough rock, but nature isn't that consistent.Also, if you're shooting on a slope often one or two legs have to be a lot longer than the other, so having extra height is sometimes essential, but you don't necessarily want to carry a collapsed tripod that is 4 feet or more long. 5 sections can be the answer.I don't believe you have experience in using tripods nor have you thought this through. Answer to Bing Chow and to Henning W: I worked with Gitzo tripods in the past and they have been very good.
One was a huge, sturdy tripod, we used in studio and on location. We used it up to 8x10 inch. No complaints. (I was photo student at this time).
Private I possess a small AluGitzo with a Linhof ball head since 30 years. No complaints.
Now I'm mostly using other tripods, because Gitzo does not, what they did in the past: Highest quality for long life. They add useless gimmicks and want money for it. So I use now two Berlebachs and one FLM-Carbon.I often take pictures in marshes. I would not like to clean these 'plates' afterwards. Even with spikes the legs sink in not more than 10 cms and that's it.A tripod with more than 3 legs is never really stiff. The lowest legs then are too thin and flimsy.
Sometimes you may want a 4 leg section tripod. But this is already a compromise. 5 leg sections?
Then I would rather use no tripod. Well indeed, if you already own a Gitzo in good working order, that's the whole point of buying a Gitzo in the first place- you should NEVER have to replace it! But at the same time, you can only go so many years manufacturing the.exact. same product before folks start to consider other shiny new things with more bells and whistles.And considering how hard-hitting the cheap knock-off brands have gotten in recent years, I think Gitzo really does need to work on staying on top as the most 'Rolex' name in the tripod world. (Does that makes RRS the Patek Philippe of the tripod world?:-P). The ball-jointed pads have been available as accessories for years. I had a set for a #5 tripod, but put the original tips on once I started to use it regularly.
The flexible pads are bulky and prone to coming off the studs at inopportune moments (e.g., in the carrying case). I think Really Right Stuff has a better idea with the large, non-flexing tips.The G-Loc collars and non-rotating leg sections resolved most of the problems with earlier Gitzo tripods. They are quick to set up and don't slip once tightened, even if the collars back off a bit.Gitzo tripods have served me well over the years. I don't mind the extra cost for consistent reliability. In reality, it's no more than the cost of a good lens (and far less than some lenses).
I purchased an Induro carbon fiber monopod a couple years ago to replace a Manfrotto aluminum model. I did not like the construction detail at the head in comparison to my stuff from RRS and Gitzo. I returned it to B&H in exchange for another Gitzo which has been great. Whether the Induro would hold up as well as the Gitzo I do not know (probably would!). Was the Gitzo worth almost twice the Induro is the subjective question each must decide (for me it was with the $200 vs $300 cost difference). Do I need a new one, no! Amendment: I did more tests on my two same-sized Gitzos and now I have to admit I was wrong.
My sidearm test was inadequate & hasty because I didn't have the legs or centerpost fully extended. I was also fooled by the sturdier head on my aluminum tripod (Slik heavy duty vs. Linhof lighter). Turns out, the aluminum one 'rings' longer when rapped with my knuckles. Putting a small container of water on the head revealed larger oscillations of the aluminum and longer dampening time. The carbon fiber reinforced plastic tubing wins except for the 'ballast' or weight balancing effect, which can be improved with weight added to hang from the bottom of the centerpost (although not very conveniently and swaying could make things worse). One big difference is in the quality / rigidity of the leg locks which are much better on the newer carbon fiber model.
My bad - sorry if I misled anyone. 'Carbon definitely flexes more' No, it doesn't.
Pound for pound you can make far-stiffer tubes.' Metal is malleable if it bends out of shape you can bend it back, carbon not so much.' Depends on how much you bend that metal.' Longevity currently goes to aluminum as there are no 30 year old carbon tripods or anything for that matter.' You speak as if you little actual history with the material. Carbon composites have come a.long. way from the days when they were failure-prone.
Gitzo Systematic 5 Specs
There's no reason todays CC tripod can't last as long as an alu one.given a little care. I'm learning that the joints play a critical role in overall rigidity. The newer leg locks and centerpost clamps are superior to the old ones. I surmise that makes a bigger difference than the flexion of the tubing material. Still, there seems to be a lower center of gravity advantage with aluminum legs in windy conditions which makes me feel more secure using it outdoors. As for durability, the plastic legs are definitely more vulnerable to damage if they get banged around - which is what happens when I let an assistant handle my gear.
Many moons ago I have advised buddy of mine on a budget to purchase Benro instead of Gitzo. He did and was very impressed by it. But then i tried it myself and not sure i would use it after being spoiled by the real Mccoy, the quality and workmanship on the Gitzo is far better than the Chinese knock-off. It survived years of abuses in tough environment and it's very reliable.Yes, The Chinese are more affordable but not by much. After trying that one time, i don't care much for it but i am sure the quality is getting better than it used to be, and so does the price hike! I've lost count of how many broken, janky and frustration-prone Benro, Oben, Mefoto, Fotopro, Sirui, etc. Tripods I have crossed paths with in my day.
Literally dozens of them, and they all had issues eventually. (I work with a LOT of other photographers.)Take it from someone who destroys camera gear for a living: buy a tripod from a brand that has been around for as long as possible, and makes quality, solid stuff. Induro and Giottos are the only knock-off brands that have been around for long enough to be half-decent, and even they aren't as high-grade as a Gitzo, Slik, Manfrotto, or RRS.As Thom Hogan said, you can either believe me now and save hundreds of dollars in the long run, or you can ignore my advice and eventually waste hundreds of dollars on junk gear that breaks. Unless you absolutely baby your gear. (And I've met plenty of people who.think. they're hard on gear, yet are actually extremely gentle in comparison to others.).
Recently I've been using an FLM tripod and monopod. My Gitzo Explorer developed a fault in the casing and no spare was available - not very impressed.The FLM models are made in Germany with carbon fibre tubes manufactured in Japan.
The quality is a step up from Gitzo - precision tubes that slide out under their own weight and beautifully machined main assembly and collets. Customer service is excellent from this family run company. The price is still a lot more than Chinese tripods but undercuts Gitzo significantly. Very well worth checking out.
Systematic is the choice of exacting professional photographers who use long lenses and heavy cameras. Not only are Systematic Gitzo’s strongest and most stable tripods, they’re also modular, with a top casting element that opens and closes to allow each tripod to be configured with a flat disk, geared or sliding center column, video half-ball adapter, leveling base or other Systematic accessories. The latest range features Carbon eXact tubes, new ultra-stable feet and the Easy Link attachment, making the Systematic even more stable, versatile, and ergonomic. The Easy Link attachment (3/8' thread) allows the user to attach various accessories such as a Manfrotto arm to use lighting accessories.Series 5 (top leg diameter 41.3mm) is the choice of the most demanding professionals, being the most rigid tripods in the whole Gitzo range. The top casting is larger than that of Series 3 & 4 Systematics in order to provide maximum stability.GT5543LS is the 4 section long model, a size very popular for its balance between closed length and sufficient height even without a column.
Gitzo Accessories
It replaces the GT5542LS. Benefits and FeaturesUltimate stability - new tubes and feet:The leg tubes and feet have been updated with latest innovations to make the ultra-stable Systematic Tripod even more stable.Carbon eXact tubes optimise fibre composition for each tube size, to make the narrower tubes stiffer, and the wider tubes lighter compared to the predecessors’ Carbon 6X tubes. New big feet, with 50mm diameter with an integrated ball, realize ultimate stability by preventing slipping and movement. Standard feet (33mm) are included as well.Improved ergonomics – new leg locks and leg angle selectors:G-lock Ultra has even more comfortable operation and reduced risk of dust entering the locking mechanism. Leg angle selectors offer more grip room, and feature a built-in spring to help speed up switches between the 3 leg angles.More versatile - Easy Link attachment:An Easy Link attachment (3/8” thread) is added, allowing the user to attach various accessories, expanding the functionalities of the tripod for advanced shooting techniques.Please see the Specifications tab below for additional information.