NAB 2014, Brian shares more information on the latest Induro 75mm Hi Hat and Benro S8 Video Fluid Head that now offers variable drag on both Pan and Tilt for more control over your fluid head when you want the movement to operate very loose to very firm.
The Induro Hi Hat comes with a 75mm Half Bowl adapter which allows you to use any standard flat base Fluid Head. Of course if you are already using a 75mm half bowl head (such as the Benro S8), you can mount this directly to the Induro Hi Hat tripod.
I've been using the 100mm Induro Hi Hat for over a year, (see it in this video) and it's been one of my favorite tools when working with products over tables, but for me personally this new 75mm version at half the weight is probably more suitable. As mentioned in the video, there is currently a rebate on this item found over at B&H (click here).
Induro DR Hi-Hat Tripod Set (75mm Bowl)
The Benro S8 Pro Video Fluid Head is also currently offered with a rebate bringing the price down to just $199 (found here).
That's a competitive price for a video fluid head which can support over 17 pounds (great for supporting sliders), has a built in counter balance, offers Variable Drag on both Pan & Tilt - and yes still compatible with your common Manfrotto 501PL plates. Find this rebate offer via B&H (click here)
Benro S8 Pro Video Fluid Head and Tripod Kits
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Ryan Butt
i'm really confused now.
what should i buy? Benro S8 Pro OR Benro BV4 Video Head??
benro bv4 is flat head with 75mm Half Bowl "Flat Base By Removing Tiedown Stud" is written in description.
Benro S8 Pro https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1026244-REG/benro_s8_pro_video_head.html
Benro BV4 https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1138065-REG/benro_bv4h_bv4_video_head.html
Emm
Post author@Mendel - Sorry i'm confused. What do you mean? Are you talking about a half bowl that levels the video head? That is what's found on the Induro Hi Hat, but not the Benro Head. If you want to add this to the Benro Fluid head (or other heads), you can get an adapter for this so it will sit inside a bowl mount tripod.
Mendel
Hey Emm, im guessing the s8 has the same built in center feature to straighten camera like the other models?
Phen
This looks fairly similar to the 504. How does the S8 head compare size-wise to the Manfrotto?
Emm
Post author@Scott - They are both short tripods, but trust me one is heavier than the other. I have older videos with the larger one, it's a beast compared to the 75mm version. You can see the 'tree stump' I have in this video: httpss://cheesycam.com/listec-pw-04-mobile-portable-teleprompter/
Scott
What's odd is the description between the 2 links is almost identical except one is a pound or 2 heavier and one has a 75mm mount and the other a 100mm. It seems like neither are the big one you are describing. Both appear to be the smaller "tripod" thing but each has a different bowl. Neither appear to be the huge Hhat that is splayed out on the table in your interview video.
Emm
Post author@Scott - You're right it is more expensive. I guess maybe because it's new or maybe it's more in demand? Either way at least there is a rebate. The 100mm version is crazy heavy good for large cameras, but way overkill from what I need. It's very heavy (we call it our tree stump) so i'd like something more lightweight to travel around with.
Scott
Hi Emm,
It's actually just a 24 inch Konova slider. That S8 head has a much heavier weight rating so I may try it.
Another question:
When I click the link for the Hhat... B&H shows 2 different products but the 75mm is more expensive? Seems backwards. Any idea why? The 75mm is the one you said you wanted to get in your video right? I'm thinking to just put a QR base on the ball and use it for low shots. Not even using a head.
Thanks,
Scott
Chris K.
been using a Benro fluid video head for a while. Love it, except for the wing-knob for the plate lock...always takes me 5 minutes to get the plate on and locked properly (and sometimes can't) because the camera blocks the wing. (Anyone know aftermarket replacements for these wing knobs?)
steve
Hey Emm,
The best solution for you in you want a head that is not only super strong and durable but locks out with a locking pin so you can't tilt it then I would recommend the Hercules 2.0 Head by Kessler. I have this and it is solid and can take so much weight on your slider without it slipping back and forth. Here is a link to the head.
https://www.kesslercrane.com/product-p/100075.htm
Hope this helps
Steve
Apostolos
I'm actively on the market fora combination like that Libec kit in that previous post, with a fluid head tripod that can support a slider and a second fluid head, that would come under Libec's price, if possible. I read good things about the Sachtler Ace, which is very competitively price, but it can only support up to 8 or 9 lbs. I'm also looking into a Manfrotto 504/546 combo, which is close to $800 I think. This Benro head is actually not $149 but $199 after the rebate at B&H.
Emm
Post author@Scott - This probably doesn't have a solid lock, but it sounds like you're also working with a long or heavy setup.
Scott
Hi Emm,
When locking this heads tilt does it really lock it? I find the manfrotto heads like the 502, 501 and 503 still are prone to slip when used with even the smallest konova slider. I would live a lock that I don't have to crank with all my strength.