amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

Folks, PLEASE look at the item before dissing it.

Manfrotto MHXPRO-BHQ6 XPRO is one of the new, recently introduced models using the Q6 quick release, which IS Arca-Swiss compatible.

Over the past two years both Manfrotto and Gitzo have introduced some heads with QR platforms that are A-S compatible.

The Manfrotto MHXPRO-BHQ6 XPRO is one of those and is rated for 22 lb. capacity, which means it's mid-sized among ballheads. That should be just fine for a 70-200/2.8 and full size DSLR.

I would want a heavier duty ballhead (33-50 lb. rated) if ever planning to use with bigger lenses (200-500mm, 150-600mm and larger), especially if using with a gimbal adapter (Wimberley Sidekick and similar).

But if that's something you never plan to do, the Manfrotto MHXPRO-BHQ6 XPRO would be a more compact, slighlty lighter weight alternative.... and should be just fine for your present kit.

Cdouthitt Loc: Traverse City, MI

Whatever you use...make sure it is arca-Swiss compatible. I prefer my Acratech gp-s.

Haydon

I'd go Arca-Swiss mounting and look at the Markins, RRS or Kirk Ballhead. Arca-Swiss makes it very easy to attach L brackets also to quickly flip from landscape to portrait keeping the weight perfectly centered over the tripod. Don't skimp on the ballhead/tripod. If you buy smartly once, you will never need to buy twice.

mjgoulet

I started with Manfrotto but switched to an Arca-Swiss type. I use a l-bracket for portrait shots and they are only compatible with AS. The AS is also easier to put on and remove. Always had trouble with the Manfrotto type.

mjgoulet

I just checked the B&H site and it is Arca Swiss compatible. Sorry for my ignorance. Looks like a good tripod.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

Thanks, for that - I read it wrong - I looked at the MHXPRO-BHQ2 by mistake, which is RC2. However the BHQ6 does not seem to be compatible with Peak Design's Arca-style plate, but the BHQ2 is compatible with the RC2 plates. Go figure.

For the money, Sirui's K40X and the Feisol CB50D both offer a much larger ball (smoother and locks tighter) and considerably more load capacity - 77 lbs for the Sirui and 41 lbs for the Feisol. Each costs $160 at B and H. Better still go with Haydon's recommendation and buy a ball head once. I've owned an Arca-Swiss Z1 for 11 yrs, and it works as well as it did when i first got it.

jeep_daddy Loc: Prescott AZ

Good ball head but a little expensive. There are a lot of less known brands out there that sell for less and perform just as well.

Notorious T.O.D. Loc: Harrisburg, North Carolina

I have a virtually brand new in the box Sirui K-40 I'll sell you for $140 delivered in the 48 states. It is very nice for the money and rated at 50 plus pounds IIRC.

Best,
Todd Ferguson

Plieku69 Loc: The Gopher State, south end

Dave it depends on what you like. I like Manfrotto as that is the first pro type tripod I bought. But the pan and tilt head was crappy so I replaced it with the head you are looking at a month ago. I like it. Some don't like the Manfrotto QD. Personally I have no problem with it and have converted my brand x tripod to Manfrotto plates.

It supports 22 pounds, has a smooth movement with adjustable friction. It works!

Ken