Gitzo G1378M Magnesium 3 Series PTFE Center Ball Head with Quick Release Plate
by Gitzo
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Digital product summary information
Manufacturer: GitzoModel: G1378M
Product features:
- Made of high quality low weight magnesium.
- Maximum capacity 17.6 lbs, handle up to medium format cameras.
- Spirit level to ensure the head is perfectly level.
- Security locking system for the plate so equipment cannot accidentally fall off the head, even if it has not been locked down. To remove the equipment and plate, simply press the lock release button and slide the plate out.
- Non-keyed square plate. Keeping any side of the mounting plate parallel to the back or front of the camera ensures perfect alignment without having to worry how the plate fits on the adapter.
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Digital camera reviews of Gitzo G1378M Magnesium 3 Series PTFE Center Ball Head with Quick Release Plate
Digital camera Review: Incredible Ball Head
Summary: 5 Stars
First off, I'll confess that this is the only head I've used that's in the same caliber (and price range) so I can't necessarily compare it fairly. I do have a midrange manfrotto head and an older gitzo head though, so I have some comparison, just nothing else this classy.
The build on this is amazing, you can really tell what kind of attention to detail goes into a product in this price range. All the controls work flawlessly and just as expected, which is more than I can say for my other heads. Most importantly, the friction control actually works! With a light to mid-weight set-up (no super-telephotos here) the friction control can actually hold the camera solidly in position while still letting you adjust with minimal effort. Then, when you lock down the separate "locking knob", the hold is solid. This is a great advantage over one-knob designs in my opinion.
The quick release design works pretty well and the hold is solid. Being able to insert any of the 4 sides on the plate in first is a nice feature and I also like the secondary lock mechanism. Gitzo did a good job of making a solid locking without it being too much of a pain to operate. Weight and bulk is about what you'd expect for something of this caliber. It's not light, but not over the top either.
I'd recommend this to anyone needing a high class ball head who can't quite spring for the 400 dollar plus super high end models. A ball head is not a good place to save money, since you'll spend 10x more continually upgrading to get what you want. This is a ball head I'll actually be keeping and using for much much longer than my camera will likely last.
On a last note however, I must admit I picked this up 2nd hand in like-new condition for a lower price than what you'll find new. If you're considering this for full list price, then don't. Spend the extra for Really Right Stuff or Markins and you won't regret it.
Summary of Gitzo G1378M Magnesium 3 Series PTFE Center Ball Head with Quick Release Plate
Smooth movement is what the G1378M is all about. An innovative Teflon coating applied to the ball surface makes camera positioning adjustments smoother than ever before by eliminating all traces of jarring and skipping. In addition, the G1378M features a redesigned quick release adapter system for total locking stability. With the G1378M s ergonomic design, it is easy and intuitive to use, while its advanced precision engineering guarantees high performance locking with a wide range of camera equipment.Accessories
Cameras and Photo
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