I bought a Sachtler Flowtech tripod and I love it, but…

Tripods are not a sexy purchase. I think we all would rather get a new lens or a fancy RGBW light, but they are a must-have and worth every penny if you get the right one.

At work, I use a Miller Sprinter II 2-Stage Carbon Fiber Tripod with a Mid-Level Spreader system that retails for $1500, but instead of a 100mm head, I decided to get a 75mm Miller Compass with an adapter. This is because 100mm heads tend to be very heavy and have a minimum weight limit much higher than the C300 MKII setups I use. For the most part, I really like the setup.

My personal set of sticks has always been just good enough. It’s because I’m somewhat cheap when buying tripods, and I know many other people feel the same way. I dont have an Amazon cheapo. I dont think that’s a good idea. I use a Gitzo GT3540LS stills type with a 75mm bowl option. This tripod isn’t available anymore, but they make several new models with the same design. It’s served me well and continues to do so, and I use it for stills as well, making it versatile, but I always wanted something better.

The twist locking tube leg design isn’t my favorite. Yes, they are the least expensive because the design is simple and has fewer parts than a 2-stage tripod. One advantage of this design is the ability to get really low to the ground when the legs are released. The same goes with Sachtler Flotech, but you have to take the spreader off first.

The $309 iFootage Gazelle TC7 Fastbowl Carbon Fiber Tripod is also nice. The only issue I have with it is the locking levers on the leg need to be tighter as they can accidentally be unlocked. This has happened with an audio cable that somehow got under the lever, and when I pulled the cable, it released the lock. Thankfully I was right next to it and caught it before the whole thing could fall over. That reminds me I need to tighten those levers!
These tripods are still a good investment as they are light and inexpensive. The lever type is faster than the twist lock versions but has that issue I mentioned. With a 2-stage, I have never had an accidental unlock. The locks are very tight.

A few months ago, I decided to get a 75mm Sachtler Flowtech. I love this tripod! It’s excellent. Very stable and light. The top collar leg locking system is very fast and secure. No bending over to loosen each section. Just flip the top lever up, and the two leg sections are free to be adjusted. Magical. The legs are wide, so without the handle, it is a little hard to carry. I like how the legs use magnets to hold them in place when folded.

All in all, I’m happy, but these legs are no bargain at $1,496.25. I did say I wanted an upgrade!

Sachtler Flowtech Features

• For 75mm Ball Head
• Two-Stage, Three-Section Standard Legs
• Supports up to 44 Pounds
• Height Range Approximately 24 to 61″
• Carbon Fiber Construction
• Dual Spiked Feet, Removable Rubber Feet
• Removable Mid-Level Spreader
• Independent Leg Movement and Adjustment
• Magnetic Transport Lock

Now I need a new fluid head

Fluid heads are expensive. More so than a tripod. I’ve tried a few different inexpensive brands and models and found the Benro Fluid Head models to be good at a fair price. The only issue is you get what you pay for. I have sent the two I have in for repair under warranty. One issue was the level dried out. This part isn’t user-replaceable. The other issue was the tilt had a click. Also was under warranty. Both are still in service. I will keep them around for those occasions. I need a flat bottom to mount to a deck or slider carriage since the bolt is removable on the bottom, a nice option to have.

I won’t sugarcoat this one, as Manfrotto fluid heads, while popular, are not my favorite budget systems. I dont like how the heads adjust the tension, and the counterbalance is a little hard to get right. I haven’t used the higher-end models before, so maybe they are better.

I’m saving up to get the Sachtler Aktiv 8. I think this model will be the best option for me and will be the last tripod setup I will own. It could easily outlive me. The reason for getting the Sachtler Aktiv 8 is the design is as innovative as the Flotech. No more leveling from underneath! The leveling system on the side of the head makes it so much easier to level. No more sticking your hand underneath and twisting the knob. That is awkward as hell, and it’s been the same forever.

Quick Release or Sideload?

I can’t decide on the camera plate design I want without getting my hands on both. From what I can tell, the Sideload option looks like a Manfrotto design. Will it also accept those camera plates? The Quick Release model looks like a traditional style with a smaller plate. I think that might be the one. I use the Arca Swiss-style clamps, so either will work.

One big advantage to the Sideload is Sachtler has an option that will work with it. The Sachtler aktiv Slider to 75mm Tripod Adapter ($437.00.)

• Adapts Slider to aktiv 75mm Bowl Tripod
• For Tripod with aktiv Bowl Connector
• Includes Sideload Platform
• Bubble Level, Lever, Safety Release

You can easily go to a slider setup with the adapter. It requires a 75mm bowl tripod equipped with an aktiv Bowl Connector that retails for $58, so add that to the shopping list.

One small problem

Using the same brand head and tripod is advisable. Some can be mixed and matched like my Benro heads. They have worked perfectly on all the tripods I have. The 75mm Miller Compass 15 head is another story. It doesn’t work with all my tripods, and very sadly, that includes my new Sachtler Flowtech. The ball design is problematic. I can’t figure out why exactly, only that it doesn’t allow the head to level correctly and hangs up, so the range is much shorter. It also doesn’t lock down correctly. Let’s face it; it just doesn’t work!

This isn’t a surprise but merely a bummer. I took a chance, and it didn’t work. Hence why, I’m looking at buying the Aktiv head. The Benro’s work fine, and Schaller told me all their former models would also work just fine. To that, I was also looking at older 75mm Sachtler heads. Maybe an Ace? or the Sachtler FSB 6 or FSB 8? I was looking at the used market, and those hold their value pretty well, so used isn’t a bargain, and I’m probably better off buying new anyway.

What I look for

Buying one system that will work with all your cameras is important. That can be a tall order if you are a mirrorless shooter that also has a Sony FX9. The weight difference will be substantial and could make balancing impossible.

The first thing to look for is in the range. Some heads only tell you how much it holds but not the minimum. This is important for a light hybrid camera. My Miller Compass 15 is versatile at 4.4 to 19.8 pounds. This head holds every camera I have used, so I feel it is a great range and one I would look for in a new head.

The Sachtler Aktiv 8 goes even further at 0-26.5 pounds. The zero minimum is important as you can practically balance a GoPro on it.
Always get a fluid head with more capacity than your rig. You dont want the camera to tilt if it’s not locked and crash to the ground. A properly balanced camera on a fluid head that can be adjusted for the weight won’t tilt on its own.
Another good feature to look for is multiple adjustment levels for tilt tension and counterbalance. If the head only has a couple, you will find it hard to dial in the camera balance, defeating the purpose of a fluid head for smooth pans and tilts.

These are just a few thoughts I wanted to share as I look to buy a new fluid head. I’m interested in your thoughts, too, as the community always helps everyone.

Lastly, it’s FRIDAY! WHOOT!!! Next week I’ll be taking some time off for a much-needed staycation. I wish I could fly to an island and chill, but I’m not ready to get on a plane just yet. Plus, my beautiful San Diego has plenty to offer a local looking for some R ‘n R.

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Filed in: Featured Post • Production
Tagged with: Benro • Flotech • Fluid Head • Miller Tripod • Schaller • Tripod