p.1 #1 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
Greetings, O wise ones!
I know this is a perennial topic, but, as per the thread subject, I'm looking for the best leveling base specifically for a series 1 tripod (fixed apex). Priorities are weight (lack of), built-in level (obvious, you would think, but some leveling bases do not have one), hold strength and degrees of adjustability.
In the past I've used various leveling bases from RRS, Acratech, Gitzo and Novoflex, but always on larger tripods.
I'm thinking the two main contenders are the RRS TA-2U and the small variant of the Acratech. Any thoughts? Other/better options?
p.1 #2 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
I use an inverted BH-25 with a Varavon FPP-2 damped panning plate, on my GT-0540 CF. The photo below shows my older Mk I version of this, with an undamped Hejnar panning clamp.
p.1 #3 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
there are more than a few "leveling heads" out now. so you, the potential buyer, need to look at your needs. you have stated the basics. now you get down to the priority details.
the RRS TA-2U details/specs are there on the RRS site. i have this one for 6 months now myself. it has enough capability to be easily transferred through many different tripod variations of many makers. it is pretty much baselined for a 2x series RRS either TVC or TFC configuration. it also fits their TFC/TQC 14.
p.1 #4 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
Chris Court wrote:
Greetings, O wise ones!
I know this is a perennial topic, but, as per the thread subject, I'm looking for the best leveling base specifically for a series 1 tripod (fixed apex). Priorities are weight (lack of), built-in level (obvious, you would think, but some leveling bases do not have one), hold strength and degrees of adjustability.
In the past I've used various leveling bases from RRS, Acratech, Gitzo and Novoflex, but always on larger tripods.
I'm thinking the two main contenders are the RRS TA-2U and the small variant of the Acratech. Any thoughts? Other/better options?
p.1 #5 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
lots of quality variables out there and the term "Best" is highly personal. every bodies needs/wants/opinions will be be in alignment or somewhat askew.
i find it rather strange that the Acratech only offers an either or option for its base thread on purchase not a reversible (though it shows a Allen type threaded stud)
p.1 #6 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
I just picked up an Arca-Swiss Monoball p0 and really like it. Required a bit of mental adjustment to get used to, but I like being able to adjust the positioning one-handed, and I don't get confused about which knob to turn . I got it with the classic quick release plate (used off eBay).
p.1 #8 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
Chris Court wrote:
Greetings, O wise ones!
I know this is a perennial topic, but, as per the thread subject, I'm looking for the best leveling base specifically for a series 1 tripod (fixed apex). Priorities are weight (lack of), built-in level (obvious, you would think, but some leveling bases do not have one), hold strength and degrees of adjustability.
In the past I've used various leveling bases from RRS, Acratech, Gitzo and Novoflex, but always on larger tripods.
I'm thinking the two main contenders are the RRS TA-2U and the small variant of the Acratech. Any thoughts? Other/better options?
C
Really depends on how many degrees of adjustment you need. That RSS base might be the all time winner with 40 degrees. That is almost half a ball head. The trouble I've run into with leveling bases is how limited the adjustment range typically is. I think my Sunwayfoto base is 15 degrees. Plus they are generally rather large and heavy. The best minimalist approach I've found is an inverted ball head as others have already recommended.
p.1 #9 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
jcolwell wrote:
I use an inverted BH-25 with a Varavon FPP-2 damped panning plate, on my GT-0540 CF.
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Dagatech wrote:
I just picked up an Arca-Swiss Monoball p0 and really like it.
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jeffbuzz wrote:
The best minimalist approach I've found is an inverted ball head as others have already recommended.
Appreciate the ideas, guys. I should have mentioned, I'm currently using an Acratech GP-S in the inverted configuration on this tripod, giving effectively the same functionality as your suggestions. I'd like the flexibility of not needing to keep the horizon in the middle of my frame when stitching panos, though, hence my search for a leveling base.
The two Kirk options mentioned above look to have potential. Thanks for pointing those out.
p.1 #10 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
Chris Court wrote:
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Appreciate the ideas, guys. I should have mentioned, I'm currently using an Acratech GP-S in the inverted configuration on this tripod, giving effectively the same functionality as your suggestions. I'd like the flexibility of not needing to keep the horizon in the middle of my frame when stitching panos, though, hence my search for a leveling base.
The two Kirk options mentioned above look to have potential. Thanks for pointing those out.
C
Well, the ultimate minimalist leveling base is none at all. Just adjust your tripod leg lengths to level the top of the sticks. I find that is often easier, more accurate and more stable than any leveling base anyway.
p.1 #11 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
If you have an Acratech head you don't need a leveling base. You just remove the clamp from the top of the head and screw it into the base, then screw the ball stem onto the tripod stud.
p.1 #12 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
jeffbuzz wrote:
Well, the ultimate minimalist leveling base is none at all. Just adjust your tripod leg lengths to level the top of the sticks. I find that is often easier, more accurate and more stable than any leveling base anyway.
really now, i can't agree with that except in extreme geometry situations. i've been using leveling via half ball for over 25 years with cinema/video and a little under 15 years for stills. got me level everytime and saved me lots of that time.
p.1 #13 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
sjms wrote:
really now, i can't agree with that except in extreme geometry situations. i've been using leveling via half ball for over 25 years with cinema/video and a little under 15 years for stills. got me level everytime and saved me lots of that time.
With a well damped, 5 pound fluid head I too can find level easily. But the OP is asking about uber-lightweight options for 1 series sticks. None of the small leveling bases or ball heads I have used are that easy to find center level with. Either they are friction tightened and jerk back and forth past bubble level. Or they are open and loose so it is like balancing a pencil on a pencil. That is the whole point of fluid heads. They give you nice smooth movements in multiple axes.
The most accurate leveling bases are the 3-screw type like the Nodal Ninja or Manfrotto 338 where you can adjust each axis independently. Which coincidentally is exactly what you are doing by simply changing your tripod leg length albeit in more gross movements.
p.1 #14 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
Yep the 3 pointers are nice as long as you’re going to be stationary for some time. My 25 year old sachtler ENG fluid head head tripod has a 100mm half bowl too and a few other neat features and is fully functional to this day. My TVC33 has been used with a 75mm and fluid head used for cinema work. It’s real easy to get an accurate level believe me.
Using a 1 series if you have a good one can work. It is not your best option using either method. Still quicker and if you aren’t looking for high precision, usable
p.1 #15 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
peter_n wrote:
If you have an Acratech head you don't need a leveling base. You just remove the clamp from the top of the head and screw it into the base, then screw the ball stem onto the tripod stud.
Yeppers. That's exactly what I'm currently doing. However I'd like the ability to point the camera up or down and still get a level stitch.
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jeffbuzz wrote:
bases are the 3-screw type like the Nodal Ninja or Manfrotto 338 where you can adjust each axis independently. Which coincidentally is exactly what you are doing by simply changing your tripod leg length albeit in more gross movements.
I haven't tried any of the 3-screw gizmos. My impression is that they would be a bit fiddly to get level, but I could be wrong. Tweaking the legs works, too, but also takes somewhat longer than using a leveling base.
I do like the ease of use of the base on my big tripod… twist the handle to unlock the bowl, center the bubble level, tighten the handle again, and start shooting.
p.1 #16 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
With the 3 point level plate set First you gross level the legs Then apply the hi precision level with the screws because they are somewhat limited in adjustment (generally +/- 5deg). If you are a surveyor you're used to it.
if you are willing to pay to play you can pick one up for about $50. i have used them enough.
p.1 #17 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
This is the smallest leveling base I have. Added a panning clamp directly to it to make a minimalist pano head. The combo weighs 490g so it isn't exactly svelte. The base is 60mm so it is slightly smaller than the plethora of "66" type bases that seem to be available lately. Unfortunately, I can't find either the base or clamp for sale anywhere today. The base was branded "Gemtune DY-60i" and I think the panning clamp was "Neewer". The clamp doesn't have any labeling other than "X64". I'm guessing the "Gemtune" base is just being sold under some other name now. I found both on amazon several years ago.
The base is nice because it does not have any protrusions off the edges of the top plate which make it impossible to thread most clamps directly on to them as the panning lock knob hits the protruding bubble level on the base. The base does have a bubble but it is under the clamp as pictured. The clamp has its own bubbles so the one on the base was redundant.
p.1 #18 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
jeffbuzz wrote:
This is the smallest leveling base I have. Added a panning clamp directly to it to make a minimalist pano head. The combo weighs 490g so it isn't exactly svelte. The base is 60mm so it is slightly smaller than the plethora of "66" type bases that seem to be available lately. Unfortunately, I can't find either the base or clamp for sale anywhere today. The base was branded "Gemtune DY-60i" and I think the panning clamp was "Neewer". The clamp doesn't have any labeling other than "X64". I'm guessing the "Gemtune" base is just being sold under some other name now. I found both on amazon several years ago.
The base is nice because it does not have any protrusions off the edges of the top plate which make it impossible to thread most clamps directly on to them as the panning lock knob hits the protruding bubble level on the base. The base does have a bubble but it is under the clamp as pictured. The clamp has its own bubbles so the one on the base was redundant.
p.1 #19 · Best leveling base for a series 1 tripod?
EB-1 wrote:
That looks like a head, not a leveling base, or do you put a head on top of that A-S clamp?
EBH
It is a leveling base with a panning clamp screwed on top. I use it as you see it. Camera / lens mounted directly in the panning clamp. So together it makes a complete "head" so to speak. ~15 degrees of leveling adjustment and 360 panning.
. I got it with the classic quick release plate (used off eBay).
