This ball 502 replaces a 501 (not HDV). A tariff "Flash offers" I decided to bring some changes to my equipment.
Seeing the original carton, which is just huge, I had a moment of stress, wondering if the 502 still be back in my bag for tripod (Manfrotto). After verification, although in fact larger, all fit again.
Installation is carried out without difficulty, as with all my previous brand kneecaps.
Immediately she needed. Neat aesthetic, quality of materials, smooth movements and an obvious build quality. I have the distinct impression of having made a move upmarket while the 502 is the successor of the 501 of old.
The movements and settings are very progressive, accurate and easy.
Benefits of this new ball 502 vs 501 (not HDV)
- Front-rear tilting of -80 ° / + 90 ° which has been found in fact -90 ° / + 90 ° !!!!! This represents a huge advantage over the -60 ° / + 90 ° of 501. It is no longer necessary to use the ball backwards to point directly overhead.
- The measuring 140mm quick release plate against 90mm for the 501. The balancing amplitude increases significantly with a tray moving from 58mm to 83mm. Essential when constantly advanced to more than 40 °.
- The ball 502 has a spring-balance against given to 4 kg. It was 2.5kg for HDV and 501 missing with 501 non HDV.
- The robustness and accuracy increases. The official carrying capacity from 6 to 7kg and for an increase in the mass of 1kg only. In practice, this added strength is felt. Scoring is a little easier and precise despite a load of about 5kg (Astro glasses equipped with a 80mm binocular head). Warning on many sites, the description of 502 leaves appear confusion (translation?) Between the load and the value of the spring against-swing. The burden of 502 is 7 kg rather than 4.
- The lever has a better grip.
- The panoramic rotation setting is much more fluid and the setting can be adjusted with gloves something impossible with the 501.
- The operating temperature of -20 ° C against 10 ° C. This remains very theoretical because I have never faulted the 501.
Small regret:
- Blocking the panoramic rotation is less accessible but is unused 99% of the time.
- The glossy burgundy ... I'd rather find the sober matt black
- The presence of creaking noises when the inclination is changed (the presence of the spring against-swinging?)
- The position of the safety button to remove the quick release plate goes on the side at the back of the kneecap. It loses its red color much more identifiable to black.
Otherwise, no complaints. Manfrotto offers the 502 with a superlative ball with all the modern refinements. In the end it has a quality / performance / size / excellent price.