Manfrotto 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System (3157N) | 
 enlarge | Brand: Bogen
Category: Photography
List Price: $121.00
Buy New: $108.82
You Save: $12.18 (10%)
New (7) from $104.99
Rating:  26 reviews
Media: Electronics
Maximum Weight Recommendation (lbs): 17.4
Shipping Weight (lbs): 3
Dimensions (in): 7 x 4 x 4
MPN: 488RC2
Model: 488RC2
UPC: 719821197904
EAN: 0719821197904
ASIN: B00009R6N0
Release Date: April 14, 2006
Shipping: Eligible for Super Saver Shipping
Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
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| Features:
| • | Ideal for all medium format, 35mm and digital cameras | | • | Solid aluminum construction and phenolic resin ball, equipped with a 3157N quick-release camera plate | | • | Double-groove for rapid side-to-side movement | | • | Separate fast-action ratchet lever for 360-degree pan | | • | Easy to grip locking knob for +90 to -90-degree tilt movements |
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| Accessories:
| • | Adorama Double Bubble Level | | • | Manfrotto BOGEN 3157N Quick Release Connect Plate RC2 | | • | Bogen - Manfrotto Rapid Connect Mounting Plate 3/8" replaces 3157A and 3266A QR Plates. For 3030, 3130, 3130G, 3160, 3229, 3265, 3265G, 3262QR, 3299, 2916QR, 3435QR, 3407, 3413QR, 3437 and 3405 Tripod (Spare) | | • | Pro Optic Right Angle Finder II for Most Film & Digital Interchangeable Lens SLR Cameras. | | • | Manfrotto 200PLARCH-14 RC2 Rapid Connect Architectural Mounting Plate with 1/4-Inch 20 Screw (Gray) |
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| Editorial Reviews:
Product Description
The 488RC2 Midi Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System features a separate fast action ratchet lever for 360? pan and an easy to grip locking knob for +90? -90? tilt movements.
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| Customer Reviews: Read 21 more reviews...
 An excellent value December 27, 2008
This ball head has really surprised me. I had wanted a 468MG with a better (RRS) quick release system, but I decided to pick one of these up given the relatively low price of admission. While I like the drag adjustment of the 468MG, I found that the adjustment of the 488 is smooth enough that I can loosen the ball to the right spot easily so I can adjust the camera, without it being too floppy. While it would still be nice to have a separate drag adjustment so I could just loosen the ball without worrying about it, the least expensive option (490) is heavy, and the 468MGRC2 is more than twice the price. The ball moves nice and smooth, as does the pan base. I can't detect any sag after tightening, when shooting with my D60 and 70-300VR lens. I would prefer if the drop notches were 90 degrees apart, rather than opposite each other- with the knobs at the sides where they are easy to use, the notches only allow you to shoot straight up or straight down. It's not a huge deal to pan 90 degrees to shoot a portrait, it would just be more convenient the other way.
I hadn't heard much of anything good about the RC2 QR system, but it seems fairly solid. I can lock it nice and tight without using excessive pressure, and attaching and detaching are pretty quick once you get used to the little brass lever lock. It's not up to the same standards as a dovetail type system, but considering the $20 or so cost with a head vs. $150ish for a dovetail QR system, it does pretty good, though it would be nice if the camera plate wasn't cast pot metal. The lack of alternatives such as camera-specific plates or L-brackets is a bummer, but it's at least a good stopgap until I can afford a Really Right Stuff bracket and plate (which each cost more than this head, FWIW). The plate is also small enough that it can be left on the camera, unlike the RC4 and RC0 systems.
All in all, I'm quite satisfied with it for the cost. It does most of what a stratospherically expensive ball head will do, as long as your equipment isn't horribly heavy, for a fraction of the price. If you're looking for a good, solid ball head that isn't made for and priced for a pro photographer, this deserves a look.
 Excellent (Preferred this to 322rc2) November 20, 2008
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
I have this on top of a Manfrotto 055cxpro3 tripod, and it's a terrific combination. The head is very steady, easy to adjust, and has a separate pan adjustment (v. useful when doing panoramas). I love the RC2 quick release head (and I have the same one on my monopod, so it's very convenient).
I tried a Manfrotto 322rc2 as well, which people on Amazon really seem to love. I wasn't crazy about it. The effort to adjust it was considerable, and it was freaking huge. Much lighter than it looks, though.
I use the 488rc2 with a Nikon D300 + 18-200mm Nikkor. Word to the wise: get a cable release. You can do wonderful long exposure shots with a tripod and this head, but your finger on the button will add just a little camera shake.
Very good ballhead in this price range October 13, 2008
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
I've been using this ballhead for more than a year now, and really like it for most uses. It is easy to control, no slipping when tightened, and the RC2 is really easy to connect and disconnect.
Apart from obvious use in panning, the separate panning control also allows you to reposition the head so that the knob is at a convenient position after you've placed the tripod down - the ground may dictate where the legs need to go.
It's not ideal for frame filling macros, or when you need to compose exactly what is in the frame and the camera is not very close to upright. There is a slight sag when releasing the camera after tightening the knob. This is not the same as slipping - it sags, then remain stable. You have to learn to compensate for it. I find that wriggling the camera after it has attached to the QR before positioning helps somewhat, indicating some of the fault lies with the QR.
RC2 is inexpensive and quite sturdy, but it is obviously not an Arca Swiss. It's stable enough - just make sure that it is attached properly before letting go - but it is not as confidence inspiring as an Arca Swiss QR. On the other hand, plates are a lot cheaper and it is very easy to attach and remove. I do miss the camera specific normal and L plates that are available for Arca Swiss QR though.
High in quality and value September 2, 2008
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
Excellent value for the dollar on this head. Having a separate pan adjustment solves the "creeping panorama" problem. The head is lightweight and small enough to not overpower your tripod legs. Total keeper.
sold August 26, 2008
This is a really solid ball head. The quick change is quick and has a safety lock that prevents accidental release. Where you lock it is where is stays-- no slack-- as it should be.
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