I have taken the "buy once, cry once" adage to heart and am considering purchasing the Gitzo GT2543L used but haven't found many (if any) reviews of it online. To preempt the inevitable RRS suggestions, RRS TVC-24L would be/is my number one preference, but the used variety is rarer than snow in South Florida.
So, can anyone having experience with the GT2543L chime in with an opinion and/or recommendation (the infamous Gitzo service is definitely a concern of mine)?
Personally, I think Gitzo might upgrade their Systematic line this year (last year they did for the Traveler line, and the year before for the Mountaineer). That would be a more comparable model, especially with what they have done with the 2nd revision of Carbon eXact, HM CF (more rigid). In general, RRS 2 Series is the equivalent of Gitzo 3 Series.
I just got Gitzo latest Traveler: GT0545T, and I'm really amazed by its rigidity given its weight and size. There is no flex whatsoever at its upright position at full height (thanks to the latest Gitzo CF tech), minimal flex at ground level setting when I intentionally push it down.
spooky action wrote:
the infamous Gitzo service is definitely a concern of mine
The Gitzo repair service was outsourced to a company called CRIS in Arizona a couple of years ago. They are excellent. The parts division is run by Manfrotto Distribution and it sucks, and that's where the problem is. Despite all protestations and promises, Manfrotto Distribution have done nothing to improve the situation. So if repair service takes months, don't blame CRIS it's MD that's the culprit. It's a real pity because Gitzo makes good tripods, I really like my 3-series systematic but I have stockpiled parts for it.
I agree with hiepphotog that the eXact CF tubes are really good and I also expect the whole line will ultimately be converted. But since you're buying used it's unlikely that you'll find a 2543L at a decent price with eXact tubing, at least in the near term.
One thing to know about the Mountaineers is that line seems to have suffered more than others in the Gitzo range with the notorious fracturing of the magnesium alloy base. That issue has been generalized to all Gitzos and it's rubbish but it's how the internet works unfortunately. However if you're really interested in the Mountaineer line you should do your due diligence on the issue which has been reported on both here and on the Canon site POTN.
Thank you for your replies. The local deal I have for the GT2543L is $650 (or $700 to include a Sirui K40x head), which is a reasonable price I suppose. That's interesting about the service vs. parts distinction. I was not aware that the issue stems from the parts division. I have read accounts of legs breaking off at the spider and did not know it was confined to the mountaineer series. I will look into that further.
I would prefer a systematic type, leg only w/ no CP set, but the GT2543L height wise looks pretty good without having to raise the CP and it could be useful in a pinch.
It is a good choice if you need the height. I have the Gitzo 2531LVL tripod and also the Oben CT-2491 and the Oben is equal in quality of construction and a very good buy at the price. I use the 2531LVL the most as its quick leveling head is a real timesaver when panning or doing landscapes as I can level the head in 2 seconds and if relocating the tripod can do so again in a couple seconds.
Thanks for the response elkhornsun. I researched the Oben and it is an intriguing option, as most reviews were more than positive. Height, build quality, weight all look good - not a big fan of the CP, but it is good to have around and removable anyway (most of the less positive reviews focused on the CP). Incidentally, my research turned up a refurb at B&H for $298. I was very tempted but before I could decide, someone else decided for me.
I would say only Gitzo is doing something innovative in CF tube design at the moment. My GT0545T weighs less than 2lbs, and under most situations, it would be just as stable as my Jobu Algonquin (Gitzo Series 5 or RRS Series 4 equivalent) and it can fit inside the inner compartment of my Everyday Messenger bag. A light tripod is always a plus since you can always add more weight on, but can't shed any off .
spooky action wrote:
Light is about the only redeemable quality of my current cheapo tripod-ball head kit - total 4.2 lbs. Doesn't dampen vibrations, but it is light!
The carbon eXact tubing is one of the main reasons why I'm considering the pricey GT2543L.
Well, with Gitzo you have both lightness and excellent vibration dampening. Best course of action would be to wait for the new Systematic, however. I also feel that the new Traveler line has a bit more refinements than the Mountaineer line.
Thanks hiep. I haven't looked into the Traveler line too much simply due to the height and I don't travel by plane more than once or twice a year (and won't be for the next few years at least).
.