Overview : Manfrotto's Fluid Video Monopod w/Head will take you somewhere you might never have been: more than 6 feet off the ground with a monopod. The maximum height of 6.56' (200 cm), minimum height of 2.5' (76.5 cm), and included compact, lightweight fluid head of this 4-section aluminum monopod give you versatility to spare. The head has a long sliding plate, and the ergonomic pan-bar provides smooth panning and tilting. Three mini supports at the base bring added stability. This monopod and head were designed specifically for light prosumer and professional compact HD camcorders plus lightweight spotting scopes (up to 8.8 lbs).
Features :
- The ergonomic pan-bar allows smooth panning and tilting movements
- Maximum height of 6.56' (200 cm)
- Minimum height of 2.5' (76.5 cm)
- The small, compact and lightweight fluid head was developed and designed to specifically to support the latest light prosumer and professional compact HD camcorders plus lightweight spotting scopes up to 8.8 lbs
- Updated controls on the fluid head allow a more solid grip and better fluidity, plus improved performance and ergonomics
- The fluid head's improved internal fluid cartridges, a pan-bar rosette and a bigger sliding plate optimize the position of the camera or spotting scope, relative to its center of gravity
NOTE: This review is based on the monopod only. I purchased Manfrotto 561BHDV-1 monopod through a camera forum and it did not included the 701HDV Fluid Tripod Head.
Quality/Usability : I've owned a tripods and although they do a great job at keeping my camera steady but they don't do a good job at being portable. I browse a few camera forums and usually take a look in the Buy/Sell sections to see if I can find any deals and I happened to stumble upon a seller selling a brand new Manfrotto 561BHDV-1 Monopod but without the fluid head. The price was half of what a complete set would cost and since I already have my own tripod head, I couldn't pass up on the offer.
As you would expect from Manfrotto products, the 561BHDV-1 is sturdy and top quality. The monopod measures 26" inches at its shortest height and just over 6.5 feet at its longest. To extend the monopod, there are three (3) quick flip locks. It weighs just a little over 2lbs (over 4lbs with fluid video head). Remember, that this review is just the monopod without the fluid head.
The top of the monopod houses a 3/8 screw. You can mount any ball head or a video head that you want.
The foot of the monopod has two types of foot. The first foot is the monopod rubber foot. This allows the monopod to stay grounded to the floor without slipping and sliding. The second type of foot is what makes the 561BHDV-1 different from other monopods. Three mini-legs fold down turning it into a "tripod". This keeps the monopod upright without holding it (I wouldn't leave it unattended but now you don't have to use a death grip to keep it standing).
To fold the mini-legs back up, just pull back on the pins and fold them down (when monopod is held upside down).
Within this base is a ball joint that allows the monopod to swivel but still stay grounded. Manfrotto calls this the Fluid Drag System (FDS). This is great if you need to get a steady angled shot. To add additional weight and support to prevent the monopod from moving, you can step on one of the tripod legs. I have read on the internet that the ball joint can get stuck or have a "popping issue". Some have suggested loosening some screws, adding grease or WD-40. If not, you can just call Manfrotto and have it sent to be fixed.
Conclusion : Overall, the Manfrotto 561BHDV-1 Fluid Video Monopod is my most favorite monopod. Not only is it stylish looking but also the ease of use. The best part is the monopod legs. My gear can still stand up-right without me putting a death grip on it to prevent it from falling.
