Manfrotto 190XPROB

Orio · Expire: 2012-12-04

I am tired of my old tripods, I would like one that is maybe not professional, but good enough to be used for both photo mode and video mode in case I need to make video.
I was thinking of Manfrotto 190XPROB, which I read can be set horizontal for macro and product shots.
Manfrotto tripods here can be found with decent prices.
I was wondering if anyone has ever used this model, and your opinion. Also I would like to know what head did you choose for it.
Thanks.

SkedAddled · Expire: 2021-08-12

I have no direct experience with the 190XPROB, but I have a 055XPROB.
My understanding is that the 190 series is a bit smaller & shorter overall,
and potentially not quite as stable as the 055 series. If you seek lighter
weight and a smaller collapsed size, the 190 is the winner.

I am very happy with my 055, though it is a somewhat large and heavy
tripod. As a result, it's been rock-steady for me. It extends tall enough
without raising the center column to be perfectly comfortable to use
by tall people. The center column also goes horizontal, and can even
be reversed for low-to-the-ground use, just like the 190. I topped mine
with a Manfrotto 488RC2 ball head, which has been superceded by the
newer 498RC2 head, that includes a separate friction control.

However, a fluid panning head may be more appropriate for video use.
I've been learning that a fluid head offers considerably smoother panning
action, though at the loss of versatlilty offered by ballheads.

Overall, the differences come to weight & size, with the 055 the larger
and heavier; the 190 smaller and lighter.

Orio · Expire: 2012-12-04

Thanks.
I have no experience on those models, so all advice and information is welcome.

Ideally I would like a head that is suited for all photographic situations, but also offers some kind of "friction and damper" (don't know if these are the right words) for smooth panning in videos.
I'm asking too much? Smile

SkedAddled · Expire: 2021-08-12

If it would help you, Orio, I managed to purchase the 055XPROB legset
and 488RC2 ballhead for a total of USD $244 for the pair.
At the time, the cost was almost USD $100 less than the average. I simply got lucky. Wink

I would advise you to look into the 055 instead of the 190, simply because
it's a much more solid and substantial legset. Either of these tripods will
accept any standard-mount head you wish to install to them, and you can
easily spend a pittance all the way up to a small fortune on a head.
However, the combination of the 055XPROB legs with the 498RC2 head
is very often recommended as an exceptional value for an extremely
solid legset and ballhead combination, all at what is considered a bargain
price for such a reliable and sturdy setup.

I will attest that the materials and construction of the Bogen/Manfrotto
products are indeed of very high quality, with fit and finish as I expected
it to be for a $250 tripod/head combo setup. If you're seeking very high
quality without spending your yearly income, then look no further than
Bogen/Manfrotto. They have the decided advantage of being a long-proven
contender in the market, and I am extremely pleased with the two
Bogen/Manfrotto setups I now own.

I will further qualify my remarks by stating that I have no affiliation
whatsoever with Bogen/Manfrotto, other than as a very satisfied customer.

Anu · Joined: 14 Apr 2009 Posts: 879

std · Joined: 09 Feb 2010 Posts: 1826 Location: Bulgaria

Hi Orio,

190 is a nice solid tripod - not very heavy so you can carry it around in your car for some landscapes.

I got it with the 3 axis head (804RC2) which for me felt solid than the ballhead.

For video there is a special head with the panning function.

Paid for both tripod and head about 230 EUR locally 2 years ago
and it was a purchase I'm still happy with Smile

The tripod is good .. nothing to worry about.

The only thing is that you need to tighten the screws holding the head - I lost 2 of them in last 2 years so have to find a replacement.

Can post some pics if you are interested Smile

BR,
Stefan

Anu · Joined: 14 Apr 2009 Posts: 879

Anu · Joined: 14 Apr 2009 Posts: 879

I now remember one issue I have withi this tripod, though your kilometriage (down with imperial system) may wary: the tripod is not tall enough foor me without raising the center bar, and even at maximum heitgh it will still be too short for those medium sized men who want to stand with their back straight while shooting. For them the big brother 055 is a better choise.

SkedAddled · Expire: 2021-08-12

Sounds like everything I already talked about. Wink

Orio · Expire: 2012-12-04

Thank you. I "recorded" all information Wink

THere is a camera fair in Padova next week. I hope there is a Manfrotto stand to take a close look and handle the models.

martinsmith99 · Expire: 2013-11-18

Shiladitya · Joined: 31 May 2008 Posts: 306 Location: New Delhi, India

I use the combo of 055XPROB and 488RC2 for the last two years now and I agree with Craig on his detailed analysis.

On a more personal note this combination is very heavy for carrying all day long. If you are looking for something equally sturdy and lighter in weight then try the carbon fibre series. The legs are also for tall people. I struggle with eye-level viewing with the legs fully extended (I am just a shade under 6' in height). This of course can be solved by partially extending the legs.

There is another thing that I want to highlight. I am not a big fan of the center column, but the CC of the 055XPROB is not removable as with the older model 055PROB (without the X). If one requires the horizontal quick positioning of the CC then the 055X is the way to go. If someone wants to remove the CC then the tripod has to be modified. (055XPROB Modification).

ZoneV · Expire: 2011-12-02

I had a Manfrotto 190 and sold it. Now I do regret that. The 190 series is a bit smaller and lighter than the 055 series. That would be good for some vacations with smaller luggage. I do not have a car and travel with wife, and 2 years old daughter with the train.

I bought a Manfrotto 055B ~ 20 years ago. And I still use it as my main tripod.
I lost a handle, but got it from Manfrotto easily. I lost a bumper of the feet, and got it from Manfrotto / Multiblitz 20 years after I bought the tripod for very small money (3 pieces for I think 5 Euro including shipping).

Because the 055 is a bit heavy, I bought a second one (from Bogen) very cheap used, and that is a my main vacation site Smile

Once, ~15 years ago I fastened the column to much - I am sometimes a bit violent. The Base (?) broke. But with a big hose clamp I repaired that - it is still ok after 15 years!

I reccomend Manfrotto tripods - expect the Manfrotto 785B.