First off the delivery was Amazon typically within 2 days. The head is very compact package, and was in perfect Zustang (which I've also expects). The assembly on the tripod (Manfrotto 055XPROB here) was completed within a few minutes, I had to remove only the screw inside, as my tripod the greater uptake had (Please ask me now not to inch sizes).
On the Magic Ball I have the Q = Base mounted quick release plate. This combination is hard to beat in individuality little more.
The camera can be mounted with just one click on the head, lock and all budge.
This is one of the basic obligations Precondition for me, since I as maximum weight, a Nikon D800 with 70-200 2.8 angeseztem use.
When a camera / lens combination is worth several thousand euros, I have to be sure that here everything is 100 percent tight.
Technically, the processing Novoflex Magic Ball is 50 beyond everything, even after 5 months of intensive use (sometimes pictures of lightning in the pouring rain), I can still find no weaknesses, or wear and tear. Dirt or moisture have no chance because the ball's mounted down, and so any adhering dirt simply falls down.
The adjustment of the head is virtually unlimited, since I need at the camera simply offset by 90 ° let snap in the head, and so in any of my previously could focus desired position.
Why so no 5 stars?
As I have already written above, the head is "almost" perfect. Unfortunately, as with all ball heads is a slight sagging when tighten the case. That is, I firmly take my head always slightly higher than the actual focal point because it is pulled by the rotation slightly downwards. However, this is probably a common problem with ball heads. As I know it, it's for me mitlerweile no longer a problem, but at the beginning it was a bit annoying until I get out had the right "rotation".
As recommended, I would recommend the slightly longer handle from Novoflex, the originals is unfortunately a bit too short, especially because I have hands in XXL format. Here Novoflex offers a MB-handle for outrageous 44.85. This is in my opinion a completely plated Price for a handle which should actually belong in my opinion the standard package.
Therefore, I have not bought the handle, for 10 to 20 euros makes one a reasonably skillful spin a good handle of aluminum.
Conclusion:
Technically, the processing Novoflex Magic Ball is 50 beyond all, I think I can grow old with the ball head. With the minimal sagging when tightening I can live (who does not want a gearhead itself must (set hard and slow).
I can recommend the head wholeheartedly to anyone who wants maximum flexibility with the use of the tripod.