Customer Reviews

Manfrotto Pro 055XPROB Tripod (Black) Outfit with 804RC2 Pan Tilt Head

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I bought this head and tripod mainly to take night pictures. The first opportunity which I had was in Miami in May 2008. The challenge was taking pictures fighting a strong wind, but this Manfrotto tripod came through under those difficult condistions.

Pros:
- highly adjustable (goes from 8.45 to 74.8 inches)
- stable (=heavy)
- precise with 3-way pan head

Cons:
- heavy (but it means stable)
- does not fit the bag with fully mounted head

I definitely recommend this tripod to anybody who needs a stable and highly adjustable tripod, but doesn't mind the weight.

Update: Really love this tripod. I bought a case for it (can't remember what brand at the moment). It is a bit heavy to lug around with a Canon 40D and a few lenses. Walking around Tokyo for two days with all this does make the lower back sore, but that's not surprising. All in all, I'm happy with it. I've used it on numerous occassions, and am still happy with my 5 star rating.


I haven't had a chance to use this yet, as it just came in about an hour ago, but after having set it up, I must say that I am happy with it.

I am 6'3", and with the center column down all the way, I only have to slightly drop my head to look through the viewfinder of my 40D.

The shortest adjustment knob was already attached, and my only complaint is that the rubber gasket had been thread through with the knob, tearing it in half. I don't see this as being a problem, but we'll see.

Granted this is my first tripod, and I haven't carried it around yet, it does not seen excessively heavy, considering it's size.

Once I use it some I'll update my review if there is anything needing mentioning.

I was turned onto Manfrotto tripods by a friend of mine that owns the very similar 190XPROB, with the same head (804RC2 Pan Tilt Head). I did my research, and decided to go with this combo instead for a couple reasons. Much like another reviewer here on Amazon, I'm 6'3" and wanted to make sure that I have the option to NOT slouch over to take a picture. At full extension, the tripod is easily a couple inches taller than me, but still has the option to shoot only inches from the floor. (The horizontal centre column feature is new to me, but VERY easy to use, and pretty cool too.) I am ok with the extra weight the tripod packs on (which honestly isn't that much), for I think it more than makes that up in stability. I shoot real estate with multiple exposures of the same picture, so it's important to me to have a tripod that won't move (even slightly) between shots. The legs, and especially the center column are very easy to use, and slide in and out effortlessly. In my opinion, this tripod is the full package.

I just got this in the mail yesterday. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality. It is very sturdy. Just as other reviewers have mentioned, it is a bit heavy, but it makes up for the weight in stability.

I use it for both my video camera and my DSLR. I was considering going with a ball head, but since I was using it for video too, I opted for the pan - tilt, and I am glad I did.

For me it was worth spending the extra money over purchasing one of the flimsy consumer models. The stability and adjustments are worth it. My brother is a professional photographer and recommended this to me. In my research I came across tripods that were between $300 and $1000. I can't imagine what they do over this model.

Awesome tripod...

I am a professional imaging scientist with many years of experience in difficult assignments. This is an excellent product for studio or field work, with small to medium format cameras. I strongly suggest the use of a carrying sack or even an assistant for extended field work, but the weight and strength of this model more than makes up for the ease of a lesser and lighter unit. There is no substitute for a GOOD TRIPOD. This model is a good tripod.

I'm really amazed with the quality of the Manfrotto Pro 055XPROB with the 804RC2 Head. Really a very well made product, high quality, all the details are careful keep. That's why Manfrotto is the best brand in tripods and other photography products. I fully recommend this product.

I bought this tripod mainly for long exposure photography. I love it, is so stable with heavy lens, let me take moon's pictures without trepidations. The central column and adjustable legs are nice for keep the tripod always vertical. I think it's a bit heavy for long walks, but perfect for studios.
The pan tilt head is awesome, giving complete control in 3 axes. It's solid and reliable, with quick release plate and safe lock.

Most solid tripod I've used so far. I have stepped up my landscape game. Maybe not the most expensive or carbon fiber, but for my hobbyist shots I am more than impressed. Might look for a ball head but I am a pan tilt fan for landscape stuff. Not a great head for trying to follow wildlife, but the tripod is great.

Very good tripod... especially if you are over 6 feet tall like me. The only knock I have on it is that the adjustments on the head are a bit cumbersome at times - when photographings groups, minor adjustments can feel like an eternity if you don't practive ahead of time. Very sturdy and solid.

The bag that Adorama supplies does not fit the equipment that is included in the kit. I ordered this item from Adorama through Amazon. I was very disappointed with the quality of the customer service. First, Adorama will not answer their phone if you select the customer service option. The only way to talk to a human is to select the sales options, and have them transfer you. When I finally got to a person, they were rude, terse, and hung up on me.

I alternatively emailed them, trying to get a resolution. The person on the email said that the bag was only supposed to hold the tripod legs, not the assembled tripod. This has got to be the dumbest thing I have ever heard -- I don't know anyone who carries tripod legs and head in separate cases.

They agreed to refund the cost of the case if I paid to mail it back to them. No apology was offered. I will not be buying from Adorama again.