Manfrotto 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System (3157N)
by Manfrotto
Our Price: $99.99
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
Category: Digital Camera
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Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: ManfrottoRelease Date: 2006-04-14
Model: 488RC2
Product features:
- Ideal for all medium format, 35mm and digital cameras
- Solid aluminum construction and phenolic resin ball, equipped with a 3157N quick-release camera plate
- Double-groove for rapid side-to-side movement
- Separate fast-action ratchet lever for 360-degree pan
- Easy to grip locking knob for +90 to -90-degree tilt movements
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Manfrotto 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System (3157N)
Customer Review: An excellent value
Summary: 4 Stars
This ball head has really surprised me. I had wanted a 468MG with a better (RRS) quick release system, but I decided to pick one of these up given the relatively low price of admission. While I like the drag adjustment of the 468MG, I found that the adjustment of the 488 is smooth enough that I can loosen the ball to the right spot easily so I can adjust the camera, without it being too floppy. While it would still be nice to have a separate drag adjustment so I could just loosen the ball without worrying about it, the least expensive option (490) is heavy, and the 468MGRC2 is more than twice the price. The ball moves nice and smooth, as does the pan base. I can't detect any sag after tightening, when shooting with my D60 and 70-300VR lens. I would prefer if the drop notches were 90 degrees apart, rather than opposite each other- with the knobs at the sides where they are easy to use, the notches only allow you to shoot straight up or straight down. It's not a huge deal to pan 90 degrees to shoot a portrait, it would just be more convenient the other way.
I hadn't heard much of anything good about the RC2 QR system, but it seems fairly solid. I can lock it nice and tight without using excessive pressure, and attaching and detaching are pretty quick once you get used to the little brass lever lock. It's not up to the same standards as a dovetail type system, but considering the $20 or so cost with a head vs. $150ish for a dovetail QR system, it does pretty good, though it would be nice if the camera plate wasn't cast pot metal. The lack of alternatives such as camera-specific plates or L-brackets is a bummer, but it's at least a good stopgap until I can afford a Really Right Stuff bracket and plate (which each cost more than this head, FWIW). The plate is also small enough that it can be left on the camera, unlike the RC4 and RC0 systems.
All in all, I'm quite satisfied with it for the cost. It does most of what a stratospherically expensive ball head will do, as long as your equipment isn't horribly heavy, for a fraction of the price. If you're looking for a good, solid ball head that isn't made for and priced for a pro photographer, this deserves a look.
More Manfrotto 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System (3157N) reviews:
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Description of Manfrotto 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System (3157N)
Same as the 488 but equipped with a 3157N quick-release camera plate with a secondary safety catch. The 488RC2 features a separate fast action ratchet lever for 360deg. pan and an easy to grip locking knob for +90deg.-90deg. tilt movements.Digital Camera Accessories
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