theuerkorn's Full Review: Giottos MT-9360 Aluminum Quadropod
Despite all the innovation in camera technology (i.e. image stabilization and usage high ISO), a tripod is still indispensable for sharp images in difficult lighting or simply the best photo possible under any situation other than bright daylight (aside from action photography). Tripods range from a minor expense to the cost of a prosumer dSLR and it's certainly not the most obvious need at first with all the new image stabilization and high ISO cameras.
BACKGROUND
I use an EOS 5D Mark II and despite the very usable ISO 3200, and even 6400 it's often enough that the shutter speed doesn't exceed 1/15 sec indoors (w/ apertures from f/2.8 to f/4). That's certainly on the cusp of too slow even with IS. Studio lighting can compensate for that but sometimes kills the mood and isn't always an option. At the same time, the increasingly popular HDR photography certainly works best with a rock solid camera so alignment issues between exposures are minimized.
All the reasons for a tripod, and simply going to your local Best Buy or similar consumer retailer will present your with a few choices, all well below $100. They certainly have their place in the budget category, but absolute stability and durability are typically not the attributes to describe them (despite the marketing lingo on the box).
Giotto's: The Italian sounding name is a purely Asian company (Taiwan & China). The innovative design with an articulated center column and a relatively reasonable pricing (for the basic Aluminum grade) made me consider the 9360 which holds my camera in a comfortable height. (I am 6'1".)
DETAILS
Capacity: [****-] The tripod is rated at 17 lbs load capacity, which means the legs are designed to easily hold this weight without structural concerns. Beyond that there may be conditions that result in an unstable and ultimately unsafe support for your camera. My 5D MkII with the largest lens and a flash only weighs about 5 lbs and that's well below the limit.
Height: [****-] The column extends to 1.6 m (63") in height to which the height of the optional heads is still added. So with my 1.86 m in height this is a comfortable working height even with the column retracted (1.4 m). Due to the 4 section legs if stores at a respectable 0.58 m without head. In comparison, the slightly taller 3 segment tripod MT-9361 folds to a relatively long 0.7 m, but of course is slightly sturdier and quicker to deploy with "only" 3 sections to extend.
Setup: [***--] Some assembly is required, and once completed, the tripod is ready to go. The Twist Lock holds the legs secure at any length. However, the choice of round lock nuts may make it a bit difficult to deploy for users with carpal tunnel syndrome who can't grasp hard enough (without hurting). The dirt seals help prevent loose debris from getting between the section and ultimately lock up the legs. Yet, since the round shape doesn't provide any feedback regarding the status of the lock, it's not always clear whether the legs are secured enough to trust it with your camera. The rubber feet cover metal spikes and it's very hard to remove the rubber. A single bubble level helps to assure the tripod is vertical, which is especially important for panning (i.e. panoramas).
Portability: [***--] Folded to 0.58 m the tripod's weight (without head) comes in at 2.3 kg and that's about 0.5 kg (~ 1 lb) heavier than the comparable Carbon fiber version (MT-8360). Nevertheless, the Aluminum version isn't a deal breaker in weight and at the most a bit of an inconvenience as every bit of weight counts once you're hauling the whole equipment around.
Stability: [****-] In this price range, one certainly expects stability and for the load capacity to be less optimistic than consumer grade models. The MT-9360 certainly feels sturdy even with the center column locked down in the extended position (a traditional weak spot for budget tripods). Despite the largest segment measuring 28 mm, the 4 segments naturally turn the smallest segments into a relatively thin tube and therefore it's not rock solid by professional standards but solid enough to warrant the expense along with the portability. (Look for the MT-9371 for the most sturdy design in this series!)
Articulation: [****-] The articulated center column is fixed in normal use and in order to use the articulation one has to completely remove the column and reinsert it once the hinge is set to the angle. Unless removed (via tool) the length of the column interferes with the tripod and prevents usage at steeper angles than about 30 degree (from horizontal). It's highly recommended or even required to use the built-in hook at the bottom of the column to attach a counter weight when the camera is off center. That's both for stability and safety. The angle isn't easy to set in accurate angles, but it allows to place the camera off center and add incredible reach to the camera's position. It really comes in handy when positioning it downward for macro shots.
Value: [****-] There is no doubt that this tripod isn't exactly consumer grade when considering the $175 for the legs alone and typically $70 or more for the needed head. Nevertheless, compared to many professional models it's almost a bargain relative to height and load capacity along with the novelty of an articulated center column. Build quality is nothing short of professional. Portability and absolute rigidity fall a bit short of some professional models, but it's overall a very good compromise when considering the cost.
FYI: Giotto's quietly introduced some design changes in 2009 (?) with the leg locks now sporting a more textured grip along with the center column clamp. The most significant change, however, is the center column. What used to be one piece with a removable column, is now two with a column that does NOT allow to use the lock for panning and a separate head which does not allow to attach the column. Lots more assembly work required should you decide to swap, and I am not sure what the purpose of the change was. It does not appear to be a cost saver. Along with the column change comes the elimination of the clever 2-in-1 threaded stud where the larger thread formed a sleeve around the smaller and both were available. The latest design requires to replace components. So, not all change is good. A minor thing could be a QC issue, but my 2009 model does not have the Lock/Free sticker my other 2008 model has, but the website still shows it (hence QC). Check http://www.giottos.com/ for the current design.
The MT Series Tripods have a unique style and are highly versatile. The legs and column are made from seamless aluminum tubing for lightness, strength...More at Adorama
The MT Series Tripods have a unique style and are highly versatile. The legs and column are made from seamless aluminum tubing for lightness, strength...More at Buy.com Marketplaces
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