Tripod for SL66 System

[Merg Ross]

I am seeking advice on what would be a good tripod and head combination for the Rollei SL66 system. I come from a large format background so am familiar with tripods for heavier cameras. My immediate concern is for legs suitable for international air travel, hence weight and length are a primary concern. Thanks for your help.

 

[Earl Dunbar]

The SL66 is as heavy as some 4X5 cameras, probably heavier than many field cameras. I'd be looking for a carbon fibre tripod given that you want a tripod for travel. I don't have such a need, so I stick to my Zone VI (smaller) wooden tripod.

 

[elekm]

I'm using a Manfrotto carbon fibre with a medium duty ball head. The weak link in my setup is the ball head. I think a heavier duty head would do the trick.

Here's my experience: The camera is prone to vibration with the legs extended to their max -- three extensions. With just one set extended, the camera is stable. Two is a bit dicey in a stiff wind. Three is asking too much.

A cable release is a big help with this camera on a tripod.

 

[Ulrich Drolshagen]

I use a custom built Berlebach 8023 with a FLM Centerball CB58FT-A0. Made to my specification the Berlebach is 6cm shorter in transport length. I am not that tall so I can live with the trade off having a shorter maximum working height. The centerball has a tilt function (it's the only one I know of having this). So it works like a 3D-Head and a ballhead in one. For me an ideal combination, very sturdy. A tripod made of carbon fibre may be lighter though.

cheers

Ulrich

 

[naturephoto1]

Ulrich,

Though they are not wooden or Berlebach tripods, all the Gitzo LVL tripods including my 1257LVL tripods have a leveling center- I believe for about 15 degrees in any directions.

Rich

 

[Ted Harris]

I'll start by notingthat I hate Gitzo's, just have no use for the collar system they use. My main tripod for both 4x5 and 5x7 field cameras is a Linhof 3414 with either an Acratech or Foba mini Superball head. I also used this combo all the time with an SL66 when I had one.

IMO the channelleg construction and flip lock costuction is more stable and sturdier than the tublar leg and collar construction of the Gitzo ... but that is just me and a lot of it is subjective.

 

[Mike Kovacs]

Merg:

I use a heavy aluminum 055 Manfrotto tripod and the new heavy duty 3-way head 329RC4 with my SL66. I haven't had any issues and don't feel the need to get into a heavier rig. (longest lens 150 at the moment)

Now, onto another topic. The SL66 has issues with many tripod heads and quick releases: the tilt motion hits either the head or the plate and you cannot achieve the full 8 degrees of lower tilt. You can get around this if you have the Rollei quick release but it is tall, narrow and has the potential to greatly amplify vibrations IMO, not to mention it is expensive and not so easy to find.

If you are interested, I am looking into machining a small number of aluminum adapter plates to go between the camera and the quick release. Stay tuned for more.

 

[Jeanne]

I use a bogen/manfrotto 3021 pro with a short center post and a 3262 ball head and quick release -- works just fine. I also use the same head & release on an Adorama monopod and an old set of wooden legs that I believe went with a surveyer's transit. All work for the 66. The same set of legs (the bogen, not the old wooden ones) work just fine for an 8x10 Norma. Sturdy, not too heavy, not too pricey.