Manfrotto 542ART Pro Video Carbon Fiber RoadRunner Tripod with Squid, 519 Pro Fluid Video Head & Padded Tripod Bag

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 the 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.

519 The first PRO FLUID VIDEO HEAD in the world with an interchangeable and adjustable counterbalance spring! It's a fact that not all video cameras weigh the same; mini DV cameras may weighonly 2 lbs while professional grade DV cameras can weigh upwards of 22 lbs. This means professionals have as many equipment options as they do shooting styles, utilizing a wide range of different cameras including MINI DV, DVCAM, HD, ENG, and 16mm. Combined with numerous accessories, many of these setups can quickly overload video heads.

Understanding the problem that professional videographers face, Manfrotto has developed the 519, a compact yet heavy duty fluid video head capable of counterbalancing payloads anywhere between 3.3 lbs to 20 lbs, and supporting up to 22 lbs.

Combining both features will allow videographers to easily interchange a vast array of cameras of various weights, a well as quickly fine tune the perfect balance point of whatever camera being used, all with just one head! In addition, fluid drag is easily controlled with a large continuous variable numbered knob in seven click-stop increments. Drag can be adjusted from the highest possible setting to nearly zero, allowing for the finest control through 360º pan, and +90º to -90º tilt.