Review of the Sunpak Ultra 757 Tripod

[Dave Largent]

This is the second review in a series.

Got a chance to take a look at this $89 tripod. It's
twice the tripod as the previously reviewed Sony
top-of-the-line model with built-in Lanc controller.

PROS: Combo rubber and spiked feet. Rubber is grippy
but soft and bouncey. Use the spikes unless you need
vibration protection from say, base beats. Fairly sturdy
"D" channel legs with not much flex. Metal rather than
plastic spreaders. Metal center column with smooth
ratcheting action. Real smooth pans. Quick and easy
to pick up and move. Grippy quick release plate is easy
and fast. Second release plate included for another cam.
Tough plastic head. Variable length handle. Bubble
levels on both head and legs. Non-reflective matte black finish. Tall.

CONS: Even at loosest resistance, tilts are hard to
do smoothly -- a bit sticky action. At max column extension,
head a bit wobbly. At mid extension (average man's viewing
level) is minimal flex. At 1" up (average woman's level)
it's solid. Legs not rigid enough for professional use.
Weight of six pounds is just barely adequate.

CONCLUSION: Much better that the aforementioned
Sony. Not a bad hobbiest tripod, and a good value for
the money. One of the tallest tripods in it's price range.
Main problem for the pro is a bit sticky tilts and lack of
stoutness in the legs. All in all, considering the dual-
action feet, dual levels, adequate legs, tall reach, and
reasonable price, this wouldn't be a bad first tripod for
for that hobbiest on your Christmas list. Couple it with
the Vidpro 35" case ($20). The tripod fits the case
perfectly and is lightly padded, in contradiction to the
"unpadded" description at B&H site.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/cont...=299932&is=REG