tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post3243074835299398911..comments2024-03-15T15:10:22.193+02:00Comments on S.C.V. Photography Ideas: Triopo GT-3228X8C Carbon Fiber Traveler Tripod ReviewUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-1623766959527160602018-07-03T05:51:38.687+03:002018-07-03T05:51:38.687+03:00Thanks for your help! Yes, you're right. The p...Thanks for your help! Yes, you're right. The plastic insert can't be taken out even though I completely take out the locking nut. I guess that's why the center column can't be moved.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15666695680874315742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-325921621167910622018-07-01T13:02:31.340+03:002018-07-01T13:02:31.340+03:00Welcome. It's impossible to know why, but I su...Welcome. It's impossible to know why, but I suspect the plastic insert is stuck. Check the "Legs Hub & Center Column Stem" section in the review above. Try to release by unscrewing the center column nut completely. Remove the center column and the plastic tube insert and then put back again in reverse order. Maybe it will help.Sotiris C. Vlachoshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17262681544193811712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-29972823771840842072018-06-07T07:09:30.182+03:002018-06-07T07:09:30.182+03:00Thank you for such a detailed instruction! I have ...Thank you for such a detailed instruction! I have a question for this tripod. The center long column of mine can't be moved even though I loosen the locking nut. Do you happen to know why?Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15666695680874315742noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-79842458758702584142016-01-25T09:53:08.035+02:002016-01-25T09:53:08.035+02:00You're welcome.
How did you come to the conclu...You're welcome.<br />How did you come to the conclusion that the folded size is the same?<br />Have a look at this older review from 2010 in the link below:<br />http://susanqy4.typepad.com/blog/2010/10/triopo-gt-3228x8-tripod-review.html<br />It verifies a folded length of 43cm and a max height with ball head of 141cm. If you read again above, I had measured folded length of 44,5cm (with old feet) instead.<br />Sorry, didn't know you are resided in Japan. Otherwise the price of $129 (including the ball head) for the DCF-428 is incredibly low. While the CB-40 ball head is far better than the Triopo NB-2S included in your link.<br />Sotiris C. Vlachoshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17262681544193811712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-73384173461243836592016-01-25T06:31:47.720+02:002016-01-25T06:31:47.720+02:00Thanks a lot for your reply!
So you think it could...Thanks a lot for your reply!<br />So you think it could really be that much different even if the folded size is the same?<br />I wanted to buy this one but the size indicated is 1410 mm...(and Amazon isn't the direct (i.e. Japanese) seller): http://goo.gl/XHjsou<br />I really like the size and weight of the "International" version, but not the theoretical Chinese one... Tried to contact the real seller yesterday, but I guess he wouldn't know there are more versions of the same model anyway.<br /><br />And thank you for the Desmond tip. But it's way too expensive here in Japan. I'm looking for something light and compact when folded for travel purposes, but large and stable enough unfolded, and max USD 130 price-wise. Can't really afford much better. The only other option I've found to be OK in this price range was Manfrotto MK293A4 A0RC2, but it's pretty heavy (1.8 kg) and aluminium. :(Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16087489023639568990noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-12080048020949402142016-01-25T00:58:12.368+02:002016-01-25T00:58:12.368+02:00Hi Denis, it seems that I still do.
Thanks for the...Hi Denis, it seems that I still do.<br />Thanks for the kind comments.<br />Honestly, I've never confirmed the tripod height difference by ordering another tripod from China, for a side by side comparison. But trust me, many products have variations when intended for the internal vast Chinese market and when meant for export. It is very common, especially with brands like Triopo who do not have official distribution channels so each reseller may order or create models according to their own spec.<br />This however does show inconsistencies in production specs of the same model and if combined with a not tops QC too, then the image of the brand is infected.<br />Nevertheless, after all this time I have been involved in the design improvement of quality but really low budget tripods. Therefore, I would urge you to have a look in these articles:<br /><a href="http://www.scvphotoideas.com/2015/07/desmond-to-release-own-brand-carbon.html" rel="nofollow">Desmond to Release own Brand Carbon Fiber Tripods Soon</a><br><br /><a href="http://www.scvphotoideas.com/2015/12/announcement-of-mid-sized-desmond-dcf.html" rel="nofollow">Announcement of mid-sized Desmond DCF-428 Carbon Fiber Traveller Tripod Kit</a><br><br />Regards,<br />Sotiris Sotiris C. Vlachoshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17262681544193811712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-76996353393325879982016-01-24T20:00:39.699+02:002016-01-24T20:00:39.699+02:00I wonder if you still check these messages...?
Any...I wonder if you still check these messages...?<br />Anyway, thanks for such a wonderful review?<br />Has it been CONFIRMED that the Chinese version and the "International" version of this tripod differ in size? I mean not on paper/documentation, but in reality. They have the same folded size, and it seems to me that 1410 mm with head is just too small (dumb?) to mass-produce.<br />Thank you!Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16087489023639568990noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-39587002812351129282012-07-28T18:24:12.587+03:002012-07-28T18:24:12.587+03:00Dear Prashanth,
Thanks for the kind comments.
As ...Dear Prashanth,<br />Thanks for the kind comments.<br /><br />As far as I can judge from the short video you have linked, the problem seems to be with the center column locking ring/nut assembly, which doesn't tighten the center column enough so as to immobilize it.<br /><br />My suggestion is that you remove the center column, then unscrew the center column ring/nut completely and check that the plastic inner ring is aligned and sits properly in its groove inside the ring/nut.<br />Next, check that you can screw back the center column ring/nut all the way without a center column. Then unscrew enough to insert the center column, re-tighten and see if there is any change for the better.<br /><br />As I have stated in the review, some issues exist with Triopo products due to insufficient assembly-line quality control.<br />I hope that this solves your problem and enjoy an otherwise stable tripod.<br />You are welcome,<br />SotirisSotiris C. Vlachoshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17262681544193811712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-76022792745324917692012-07-28T16:59:20.009+03:002012-07-28T16:59:20.009+03:00Dear Sotiris,
Thanks for the review & It ind...Dear Sotiris, <br /><br />Thanks for the review & It indeed is the only serious reviews for this tripod I could find over the internet. I went for this tripod after your reviews & few other discussions in forums. My tripod arrived yesterday. However there seems to be a glitch :( otherwise everything seems to be fine!<br /><br />There is significant play in the centre column. I am concerned with this. The video shows you the play/movement I am referring to https://picasaweb.google.com/110706908848376415546/July282012#5770088243384161506<br /><br /><br />I ordered through Linkdelight.com & got it delivered to USA. I didnt have any local seller & hence resorted to Chinese seller. So returning it back will cost me! <br /><br />I am wondering what the issue could be & do you think there is easier solution which I can apply, than shipping it back!<br /><br />Thanks, <br />PrashanthEaglehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01319840505861686801noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-82635842204939010642012-03-11T12:14:23.107+02:002012-03-11T12:14:23.107+02:00You are absolutely right. It may drive you nuts tr...You are absolutely right. It may drive you nuts trying to understand the logic behind Triopo model numbering. Comprehending their web site (www.triopo.cn) is even worse, but there you can find a small discrimination between models, hidden behind "Generation 1,2,3" or for example the newer version of 3228X8C with spikes and an improved B-2 ball head, is labeled TRC-3228X8C instead of GT-3228X8C.<br />However, I may only assume that the problem arises from resellers, who have to order a big quantity and then try to sell old stock when the model changes.<br /><br />Gitzo is a long established market leader, by innovating, following standards, keeping spares for older models, client support etc etc. and that is what we pay for Gitzo products. One may copy a product, but not the mentality.<br /><br />My suggestion if you want to buy Triopo, is better to choose a European seller as by law they have to adhere to the specs of the products they sell, give warranty and supply spares. Since you live outside EU, you may ask for a VAT exempt, compensating for the freight cost.<br /><br />You are welcome!Sotiris C. Vlachoshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17262681544193811712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-32597598783875331062012-03-11T05:03:28.543+02:002012-03-11T05:03:28.543+02:00Thank you Sotiris for taking the time to post addi...Thank you Sotiris for taking the time to post additional info & links about the regular Triopo tripods for me and the warning about the 2 versions of the GT-3228X8C w/ different max height. <br /><br />That's nuts, they should differentiate the model's length variation with letter(s) or number to avoid confusion like Gitzo for example who uses model#, model#LS or model#XLS.<br /><br />Much appreciated!Monteverde Costa Ricahttp://www.monteverde.orgnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-59467020192709936672012-02-16T19:14:17.928+02:002012-02-16T19:14:17.928+02:00Thank you Joe, once again for the great contributi...Thank you Joe, once again for the great contribution of ideas and specs.<br />Finally I managed to open your link for the DIY spikes today, very nice job!<br />Further, the Specifications for the Gitzo Traveler GK2580TQR are very useful for comparison.<br /><br />SotirisSotiris C. Vlachoshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17262681544193811712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-62231321308760804252012-02-16T05:39:14.797+02:002012-02-16T05:39:14.797+02:00You are welcome!
Regarding the anti twist island,...You are welcome!<br /><br />Regarding the anti twist island, if you wish to remove it, it is very easy by simply knocking it off its nest. Actually it is a small part with a trapezoid base inserted into a same shape nest at the bottom of the center column tube. (At first convenience I will upload a photo).<br /><br />I do agree with you about the pyramid summit, statics has been a favorite subject among other things, hence the choice of the site background which is not coincidental but a symbol of architecture and statics through the centuries… J<br />Your specific comment justifies exactly why tripods with large diameter spiders are more stable than others, as well as why there is small variation to tripod leg angles (meaning the narrower angle at full hate) trying to keep the top plate within the summit of the pyramid. However, here I have to point out that we are speaking about a traveler tripod with specific attributes in mind and we should judge it as such. Unfortunately compactness and easy of transport are prevailing characteristics for a traveler tripod so its center hub / spider has to be small.<br /><br />About the top plate, your suggestions and links are very useful and thank you for sharing.<br />In regard of suggestion 3. I should point out that there is no problem tightening the head to the top plate but more a problem of tightening the top plate on the center column, since there is no washer or a steel hexagonal nut as usual, the aluminum plate cannot be forced too much and sometimes when you try to unscrew the ball head it comes off altogether with the top plate.<br /><br />For someone that has already acquired the tripod, I would also suggest to change the top plate with something more stable and elaborate with an extra steel nut. <br />Except for the Gitzo top plate there are also available low priced 45-50mm diameter top plates with similar characteristics, as spare parts, from Benro, Sirui or even Triopo ! <br />For someone that intends to buy the tripod, don’t go for the lowest price on the net, as you may end up with old stock. Triopo proves that listens and modifies for the better, since there is already an improved version of the Triopo GT-3228X8C out in the market.<br />The updated version has an improved top plate, a sturdier center column hook and retractable spikes in the leg rubber feet. Please check this link http://bit.ly/yGCPM0 where you can see some of the changes. (However this seller does not provide a short column and the tripod’s max height is 141cm -Chinese version probably). <br /><br />If you are not interested in the reverse folding feature or the monopod function of the GT-3228X8C then maybe new Triopo GX-1328C classic type could better suit your needs.<br />Please check this link http://bit.ly/wSdOuH There you can see that GX-1328 shares the same legs with GT-3228 but with a classic spider where you can fit the Markins tripod base better.<br /><br />As I have mentioned in my review, most Chinese resellers offer the 1410mm version, which is the maximum height WITH center column extended and Triopo B-2 ball head included !<br />You may check this reseller review http://bit.ly/w5kb7r which means that the height with center column retracted and w/o ball head would be only 1060mm !!<br />I can only assume that the European Triopo distributors had special versions made since they offer also GT-3230 and GT-3232 up to 1900mm max height, which you cannot find elsewhere.<br /><br />In regard of the measurements you requested, I will try to update the review appropriately.<br /><br />Although the updated GT-3228X8C has retractable steel spikes, you may find 3/8”-16 thread stainless steel spikes by Benro at very low cost too.<br /><br />Regards<br />SotirisSotiris C. Vlachoshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17262681544193811712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-22117879658133057482012-02-16T05:30:21.776+02:002012-02-16T05:30:21.776+02:00Specifications for the Gitzo Traveler GK2580TQR + ...Specifications for the Gitzo Traveler GK2580TQR + head kit (tripod alone: GT2540T):<br /><br />Max. Height: 154 cm/60.6”----------- w/o head: 144 cm/56.6"<br />Max. Height w/o column ext.: 129,5 cm/51”----------- w/o head: 119,5 cm/47"<br />Min. Height: 32 cm/12.6”----------- w/o head: 22 cm/8.6"<br />Folded Length: 43 cm/16.9”<br />Max leg diameter: 28mm<br />Max Load Capacity: 7 kg/15.4 lbs----------- w/o head: 12 kg/26.4 lbs?<br />Tripod + Head Weight: 1,72 kg/3.78 lbs<br />Tripod Weight w/o head: 1,29 kg/2.88 lbs<br />Tripod Weight w/o Column (with the ground set level feature that permits column removal): 1,16 kg/2.59 lbsMonteverde Costa Ricahttp://www.monteverde.orgnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-17632318550934710712012-02-16T00:07:28.454+02:002012-02-16T00:07:28.454+02:00Since my previous post had reached the max length ...Since my previous post had reached the max length limit:<br /><br />The non-removable leg rubber ends is a big minus IMO. While they work on hard surface, one can see the legs spreading in wet grass or muddy or sandy ground when applying vertical downward pressure on the leg hub. This adds a lot of flex and that's where spikes are really useful besides offering much better anchoring when shooting outdoor with buffeting wind conditions. Maybe it's possible to remove those rubber ends with a heat gun and add some taps with 3/8" holes.<br /><br />A photo of cheap DIY spikes on my stolen Gitzo that I made with bolts from the hardware store after cutting the head off: http://www.nikonians.org/dcfp/user_files/129560.jpg<br /><br />JoeMonteverde Costa Ricahttp://www.monteverde.orgnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-82227280828401045052012-02-16T00:02:55.545+02:002012-02-16T00:02:55.545+02:00Thank you for the GT-228 short column with groove ...Thank you for the GT-228 short column with groove tip.<br /><br />Under your http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-egXnhHpaQh4/Ttwvix3-CQI/AAAAAAAABkY/D8s3AEQpBz4/s400/Triopo_GT-3228X8C_29.jpg photo, you wrote: "The interior of the center column stem (tube)... At the bottom of the tube we can see the 5mm anti twist island..." - I don't know if this guide or "island" is made of plastic or metal but I guess it's only glued there so maybe it would be possible to use a heat gun to remove it.<br /><br />As you probably know, imagining a three faced pyramid formed by the three legs, the summit point is the apex. That's the most stable point for the camera and that's why I don't use extended columns for low shutter speeds or long lenses if I want sharp photos.<br /><br />About the top plate on the column, you mentioned that it's made of aluminum and wrote: "This design follows a late trend with tripod top plates as it is more convenient to exchange the top plate between long and short center columns. But care should be taken to tighten the plate as far as possible to avoid any mishapps as it easy to loosen it trying to loosen a ball head attached on top of it."<br /><br />This is an issue, especially if carrying the tripod in the field with the camera & long lens mounted on it. I don't do this on long hikes but when moving around a subject in search of different point of views.<br /><br />Three suggestions:<br />1 - One could buy an extra top plate and 3/8" stud for the short column and use Blue Loctite on both columns to fasten them semi-permanently (RED Loctite is permanent!). Can the top plate be mounted to the short column w/o the plastic part?<br />2 - One could copy Gitzo's solution which is two setscrews in the top plate: one for the ballhead and one for the column. It would not be expensive to have a machine shop or mechanic to do it for you. Search web for images with "Gitzo GS2320D" or check these images: http://www.adorama.com/catlite.tpl?op=large_image&sku=GZGS2320D.jpg http://ai.amisu.net/phobos/assets_c/2012/01/DSCN1310-thumb-480x360-12007.jpg<br />3- If one never swap colums, one can secure the ballhead to the stud of the top plate with Blue Loctite for peace of mind. Heating up the stud from the bottom with a lighter makes it easy to weaken the Blue Loctite for removal.<br /><br />Two caveat: since you mentioned the tap ends of the column are made of plastic and the bottom of some ballheads are pretty thin: don't overtighten the setscrews.<br /><br />About the hook sticking out and preventing from removing quickly the column maybe you could replace it with a 3/4" D-ring (cheap on Fleabay) or a bushing adapter 3/8" - 1/4" so one could use a smaller eyelet or hook available in any hardware store along with a carabiner to hold the weight/backpack.<br /><br />Check the simple Markins Tripod Hub Loop solution http://www.markinsamerica.com/MA5/TL1.php for DIY ideas.<br /><br />I'm thinking of adding something similar to the following to add mass, vibration absorption & rigidity to the leg hub (spider) while sacrificing the reverse leg folding feature in favor of better image sharpness: http://www.markinsamerica.com/downloads/TB_install_en_v1.pdf<br /><br />I wrote to a big reseller about the max height w/o column extended of the Triopo GT-3228X8C and he replied 1410mm which is 15cm higher than your real 1255mm specifications which is really appreciated!<br /><br />Maybe you could add to your "Measured Specification w/o ball head" section the height & weight of the long column as well as the weight of the bag w/ strap. BTW that strap could be used to carry the tripod in the field w/o the bag by just adding two DIY nooses at both ends.<br /><br />I agree that this tripod cannot be compared to a Gitzo Series 3 because of the top leg diameter & max height w/o column differences. The model to compare with is the Gitzo Traveler GK2580TQR.<br /><br />Maybe you could include de measurements conversion in Imperial for our US friends who did not join the rest of the world to the superior metric system yet. :-)Monteverde Costa Ricahttp://www.monteverde.orgnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-58549451794609422052012-02-15T16:40:01.797+02:002012-02-15T16:40:01.797+02:00Thank you too Joe, for your kind comments and appr...Thank you too Joe, for your kind comments and appreciation of my effort for detailed and meaningful reviews.<br /><br />I’m sorry that your Gitzo was stolen, too bad. There is no comparison of a Gitzo GT3540LS in any way with a traveler tripod like the Triopo GT-3228X8C but…<br /><br />Referring to the leg hub, I would say that it is one of the GT-3228X8C’s strong points. Although it lacks the reinforcing struts to the center column tube, thus resembling a spider, it seems that the technique of forging to shape the alloy into a mold and subsequent CNC finishing produces a much harder and dense center column/leg hub than the common technique of die casting the part.<br />The more dense and compact a material is, the higher its resonating frequency. Therefore, it is less prone to transfer low frequency vibrations.<br /><br />However, if you decide to go for the GT-3228X8C, there is no need to remove the anti-twist island in the center column tube. As I mention in the review there is an optional short center column (at very low price) intended originally for the older GT-228 which does have a grove and could go lower. Another option would be to order a spare carbon fiber center column (also at very low price) which you may cut at desired length. <br /><br />SotirisSotiris C. Vlachoshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/17262681544193811712noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5603072406405307469.post-86769670253036020772012-02-15T10:05:39.205+02:002012-02-15T10:05:39.205+02:00Thank you Sotiris for this thoughtful, detailed, v...Thank you Sotiris for this thoughtful, detailed, very nicely written & illustrated review of the Triopo GT-3228X8C.<br /><br />My beloved Gitzo GT3540LS Systematic (w/o column, 32mm top leg, max height 57.5" - 146cm) was stolen & I'm looking to replace it with a cheaper alternative because of limited funds @ the presents. Your photos of the parts & threads as well as the real specs are very useful for comparison purposes.<br /><br />One can see where they cut corners to reduce the price besides craftsmanship and where they got their ideas from. Nevertheless it seems that it's a good deal price/quality wise. I wish the leg hub (spider) would be thicker with struts, willing to trade-off the reversible leg gimmick for more strength and vibration absorption quality.<br /><br />I agree, it's a pity that the short column does not have a grove preventing from lowering it. If I do buy one, maybe I'll remove the inner island in the hub et trade-off the anti-rotation feature of the long column.<br /><br />- JoeMonteverde Costa Ricahttp://www.monteverde.orgnoreply@blogger.com