Manfrotto 542ART Pro Video Carbon Fiber RoadRunner Tripod with Squid and 516 Fluid Head, 75mm Ball Leveler & Tripod Case, #516542ART.

Complete with all of the features and practical innovations that have made the Manfrotto 540ART tripod among the most popular video tripod in the world, the carbon fiber 542ART offers the added benefit of a unique squid spreader that delivers even more flexibility for shooting in tight spaces.

This squid spreader offers improved anti-torsion resistance and keeps the legs locked safely in position even in situations where space is at a premium and the tripod's footprint is smaller than usual. Unlike most other spreaders, the squid allows the user to fine tune the spreader brace angle to suit virtually any working position. Use of carbon fiber tubing makes this two-stage video tripod one of the lightest in its class.

The 542 uses our patented A.R.T. (Advanced Release Technology) mechanism for the fastest opening, positioning, and closing of any video tripod -- ideal for news crews filming under pressure. Another feature is the double stainless steel spiked feet which provides unmatched traction on uneven terrain or at odd angles. For shoots on smooth floors or surfaces, these new tripods also offer pull on/off rubber feet which can be quickly and easily installed.

The 542ART comes with a 75mm-100mm bowl adapter for compatibility with all industry-standard half-ball video heads. The A.R.T., or Advanced Release Technology, also allows it to be opened and locked into position as soon as the legs have been spread without any hand-operated buttons or levers. This technology is based on the movement of the mid-level spreader during the opening and closing of the tripod, and operates the locking devices of the top and bottom leg sections.

Specifically designed for the latest DV camcorders, the 516 Pro Video Head is compact, light, and can support cameras up to 22 lbs.

The 516 is a cost effective high performance video head equipped with fluid cartridges that provides continuous adjustable drag control. This system gives quite a wide range of friction control down to "zero drag" and operates on both pan and tilt axis.

Other features include separate pan and tilt locking mechanism, a fixed counter balance spring of 16.5 lbs load capacity at a center of gravity of 5", two telescopic pan handles, and a bubble level.

The 516 can be mounted on a flat base tripod with a 3/8" female thread attachment, or by attaching the 3141BALL to the head base, allowing it to fit a 100mm bowl.