Tag Archives: Quick Release

Manfrotto 560B-1 Fluid Video Monopod Review

Manfrotto fluid monopods family is a world’s first product designed to help videographers achieve superior image quality. An innovative fluid cartridge has been incorporated into the base of the monopod for incredibly smooth, jump-free panning actions.

The Manfrotto 560B-1 Fluid Video Monopod with Head and Quick Release is a portable solution for smooth shooting with Mini-DV and HDV cameras in confined spaces. This unique monopod incorporates a fluid cartridge in the base for smooth pans, and has set of retractable feet for a firm footing on uneven ground.

Fold-up feet for compact transport
Fluid cartridge in base for smooth panning
 Manfrotto 560B-1 specification:
 
Maximum Height 65.5″ (166 cm)
Folded Length 26″ (66 cm)
Load Capacity 4.4 lb (2 kg)
Leg Sections 4
Leg Lock Type Rapid-action lever
Male Thread Size 1/4-20
Weight 1.5 lb (700 g)

  customer review of Manfrotto 560B-1 Fluid Video Monopod with Head Replaces 560B

I’ve compared this 560B-1 vs. the 561BHDV-1 and I have to say the 560B-1 is perfect for my liking. It’s more lightweight than the 561BHDV-1, it’s less bulky for moving around, not as thick as the 561BHDV-1, and to me the 561BHDV-1 seems a little like overkill. Another reason I wanted this one instead is because I didn’t need another video head. I already own two 701HDV heads, so I just replaced the head on this with my 701HDV which is basically the same head that comes with the 561BHDV-1. (The only difference between the head on the 561BHDV-1 vs. manfrotto photo video head the 701HDV head is that the 561BHDV-1′s head doesn’t inherently have a pan feature.) By the way, this monopod has a 1/4-20 male screw head on it, but also came with a 3/8-20 adapter. So you can use video heads of either size. So for those of you that already have a video head, this is cheaper than buying the 561BHDV-1. By the way, this monopod doesn’t stand by itself if you leave it alone with a 7D + 24-70 f/2.8L lens. I don’t think it’s necessarily recommended you walk away form your DSLR with the 561BHDV-1 either. Get a tripod for that. However, if you’re looking to stabilize your DSLR video shot, put on a 701HDV or similar head and extend the video head’s bar under your armpit, and it should stabilize your shot well.
Manfrotto 560B-1 Fluid Video Monopod

 

Manfrotto 560B-1 Fluid Video Monopod review

I use this monopod for a little video work. I had a cheap monopod I picked up from a store for 5 dollars. It works for photography I guess but for video work, nope. That’s why I decided to move and try for a “real” monopod.

The 560B-1 has the feet that prevent it from slipping when you pivot on the bottom which is really great. The build is really nice and solid.

I love the fact that you can use the sticking point and just let it go. The only problem I have with it, is that after you initially let go and let the sticking point do, its thing is that it has a tendency to shake a little to get itself stable after you let go. Its very minute but noticeable when you look at the video on the monitor. It’s kind of like the springy door stop when you flick it. It shakes a lot but after a while it stops on its own.

The head is obviously not the fluidhead but it does its job well if you can work with it right. Otherwise if you have the money, I think moving up and getting the model with the fluidhead might work better.

Really like this monopod and would buy it again if I had to.

manfrotto fluid monopod releated products:

Manfrotto 561BHDV Video Monopod with Fluid Head (Black)
Manfrotto Fluid Video Monopod W/Head
Manfrotto 562B-1 Fluid Video Aluminum Monopod w/ Plate
Manfrotto 682B Self Standing Monopod (Black)