Sachtler Debuts New FSB MK II Line of Fluid Heads & Tripods

Written by Matt Kilefner
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Published on September 1, 2021
Sactler FSB MK II Fluid Heads and Tripod Combos
Sactler FSB MK II Fluid Heads and Tripod Combos
Matt Kilefner
Adorama ALC

Sachtler is building on its already impressive selection of tripods and heads with the newly offered FSB MK II line. The FSB 6 MK II and FSB 8 MK II both offer hefty payloads, consistently smooth pan and tilt movement, an illuminated bubble level, and more. 

Sachtler FSB MKII Line Key Features:

  • Redesigned from the Sachtler aktiv fluid head
  • FSB 6 MK II supports payload up to 17.6 lbs
  • FSB 8 MK II supports payload up to 26.5 lbs
  • Consistently smooth pans and tilts with easy starts and stops
  • Balanced and fine-tuned to the payload range for steady movements
  • Illuminated PrismBubble level with clear visibility
  • Crafted with durable and enduring materials no matter the environment or conditions
  • Available in both aluminum and carbon fiber
  • Available as a mid-level spreader system and ground spreader system

Sactler FSB MK II Fluid Heads and Tripod Combos

Smooth, consistent, and precise movements 

The new Sachtler fluid heads are redesigned from the Sachtler aktiv fluid head and carry many of the same features. Creators can enjoy smooth pan and tilt movements due to a finely calibrated drag system that lends itself to insanely smooth starts and stops. Videographers don’t need to worry about abrupt jerking or juddering.

The new Sachtler heads achieve seamless camera movements by calibrating to the current payload. The FSB 6 MK II can adjust to any payload from 0lbs to 17.6lbs, and the FSB 8 MK II can adjust to any payload from 0lbs to 26.5lbs. Users can fine-tune the counterbalance to any payload in those ranges with dials on the tripod to ensure a perfect balance.

Another perk of the new FSB MK II tripod line is the illuminated PrismBubble level. The bubble level is easy to read in any lighting conditions, and at any tripod height. If you’re consistently moving locations and resetting your tripod, the PrismBubble saves a lot of time and frustration.

Durable build and different builds

Not only are the new FSB MK II tripods built with durable materials, but also with precise components that guarantee steady movements. Creators can feel comfortable taking their FSB MK II tripods out into the elements in all kinds of weather. 

There are a few different options when purchasing one of Sachtler’s new tripods. Users have the choice between aluminum and carbon fiber, and carbon fiber is about 10% lighter. The new FSB MK II line also comes as a mid-level spreader system or a ground spreader system. The mid-level spreader is adaptable to more surfaces, but the ground spreader offers more stability on flat surfaces and may go lower. Understanding what your shooting needs are will allow you to choose the best-fitting configuration. Lastly, the FSB 6 MK II offers drag settings 3+0, while the FSB 8 MK II’s drag settings are 7+0, so you’ll find additional control on the latter. 

The Sachtler fluid heads — FSB 6 MK II and FSB 8 MK II — are now available for at Adorama. 

Matt Kilefner
Matt is a director of photography at a creative studio in New York City. Feel free to check out his portfolio at mattkilefner.com and get in touch at mattkilefner@gmail.com.