Specifications

04
WHAT DO WE MEAN BY
COUNTERBALANCE?
Counterbalance is achieved using a system of springs inside the head
which helps to keep the camera from rolling forwards or backwards
under its own weight when the video head is tilted. This system allows
the cameraman to achieve smoother tilt movements.
Manfrotto video heads are supplied with fixed or variable counterbalance
springs depending on the model. When fixed, the spring is set to a
specific counterbalance weight while when variable, the spring can be
adjusted in order to operate from a minimum to a maximum value.
WHY A FLUID HEAD?
Manfrotto’s “pan & tilt movement” technology used for its complete range of semi-professional and professional
video heads is based on a system of cartridges filled with a specific “silicon fluid”.
This technology provides the smooth, constant movement needed to achieve “shake free” images while panning
and tilting during all types of video shooting sessions.
WHAT DO WE MEAN BY LOAD CAPACITY?
This is a technical specification that has sometimes been confused with the counterbalance load capacity of our heads.
The value we claim as the “load capacity” refers to the capability of the head locking brakes to hold the weight of the camera at any tilt or pan angles
needed to lock the camcorder in position.
Number and
Size of CCD
One 1/4” Three 1/3” Three 1/2” or 2/3”
DV
DV cam
DVC Pro
DIGI Beta
Betacam SP
Betacam SX
Mini DV
Micro DV
Mini DV
DVD
Format
From 8.8 to 23.1 lb.
Professional ENG Load Capacity in lb.
4.4
8.8
13.2
17.6
22
Counter Balance
in lb.
Fixed 3.3
Fixed 5.5
Variable
interchangeable
from 2.2 to 19.8
Tilt Range
+90° -75°
+90° -60°
+90° -60°
+90° -60°
+90° -90°
Type of Drag
Fixed
Fixed
Fixed plus variable
Teflon friction
Continuous variable
Continuous variable
Head to Tripod
Attachment
3/8” female thread
3/8” female thread
3/8” female thread
3/8” female thread
75 mm half bowlx
From 4.4 to 17.6 lb.
Professional
x
x
x
From 2.2 to 6.6 lb.
Prosumer
x
x
Camcorder
Weight
End User
700RC2
701RC2
3433
(501)
3460
(503)
519
22
35.3
Fixed 16.5
Variable from
14.3 to 35.3
+90° -60°
+70° -70°
Continuous variable
Fixed
3/8” female thread
100 mm half bowl
x
x
516
316
Head models
Heads specifications
Digital camcorder models
MANFROTTO DRAG SYSTEM
Manfrotto drag technology provides accurate camera control in all conditions.
Depending on the model of the head, it is possible to choose between fixed and continuous adjustment.
The fixed drag provides a constant friction action. The continuous drag adjustment allows you to select the level of drag you need and to work the way
you choose, rather than having to select from predetermined levels as with stepped drag systems.
This solution enables you to set-up rapidly and repeatedly, helping you achieve perfect framing and control.
MANFROTTO INTERCHANGEABLE SLIDING PLATES
All Manfrotto heads are equipped with sliding and interchangeable camera plates.
The possibility to adjust the camera plate by sliding it allows you to balance the camera on the head and reduce to a minimum the effort required to tilt
it forward and backward. Plate sliding movement ensures that the camera load will be accurately balanced on the head.
The interchangeable mechanism lets you replace the camera with another one very quickly or, after removing it from the head, to hold it in your hands,
mount it on a monopod, a crane or a shoulder mount system by using the universal quick release mount adapter.
VIDEO HEADS
The following chart gives suggestions on how to combine our heads with your camcorder depending on the type/format of camcorder you use.