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| Click photo for images of the CX Series. |
Manfrotto has introduced a new series of carbon-fiber tripods that implements design elements that were first introduced in 2007 with the company's aluminum X-series models, notably the adjustable Q90° center column. The three new CX-series tripods offer redesigned locking levers that Manfrotto says are easier to operate, new leg angle selectors, and re-engineered magnesium and aluminum castings.
The four-section 190CXPRO4 and three-section 190CXPRO3 feature all carbon fiber tubes, while the simpler three-section 190CX3 has carbon fiber legs paired with an aluminum center column and an aluminum top plate. The two higher-end models implement the Quick Center Column System Q90° center column, which allows the photographer to rotate the center column to a horizontal position without removing the head or disassembling the column. Our experience with that system in the aluminum 190XPROB tripod bears out Manfrotto's claim that it provides a quick and easy way to switch the column from a vertical position to a horizontal one: It is indeed smooth and efficient to use, as opposed to some competing systems that can require a ridiculous amount of tinkering. The 190CXPRO4 and190CXPRO3 also have a redesigned magnesium top plate that is lighter and incorporates a bubble level.
The CX-series legs are made of 100 percent carbon fiber, instead of a hybrid material or epoxied layers. Manfrotto says it uses a pull-winding technology called pultrusion to manufacture the tubes. According to the company, the pultrusion process permits the manufacture of carbon fiber tubes that excel in both flexion resistance and torsion rigidity. In other words, these tripods should be able to provide a high degree of strength and stability.
All three tripods weigh just under 3 pounds and are rated to carry a maximum load of 11 pounds. The 190CXPRO3 and 190CXPRO4 both extend to a maximum height of 48 inches or 57.5 inches with the center column raised, and go down to a minimum height of 3.15 inches. The 190CX3 offers a little less height at a maximum of 46.9 inches or 57.5 inches with the center column raised, but it can get very close to the ground with a 2.36-inch minimum height. When closed, the 190CXPRO3 measures 22.8 inches, the 190CXPRO4 19.7 inches, and the 190CX3 21.7 inches.
The 190CXPRO3 will be priced at $300, the 190CXPRO4 at $325, and the 190CX3 at a more affordable $250. All three new CX tripods will be available in March 2008. For more information, go to Manfrotto's Web site.
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