BENRO S8 video head - Limitations and hints (PLUS: Alternative heads mentioned!)

[@MattMolnar10]

Great review! Thanks! I hope they've ironed out the BV6 issues because I just ordered one from B&H. On paper it looks to be a great head. I'm getting it on the Benro 373 CF sticks. Perhaps I'll put up a quick review once I receive it.

[@rumorscameras]

youcan turn the botton drag ring. just forcibly. it is nit few degrees

[@Nickporter17]

Such great info! And your video description noted are great and helpful. Thank you!

[@MAS-ASSASSIN]

Hi great video , I have a question God you think the S6 is good for the Nikon P1000?

[@Bassmunchkin1]

Excellent tutorial and although it's mainly on the S8, you do include specs on the S6 which is what I really want, because my Canon R6 MKII with RF 100 to 500 L lens only weighs 2200kgs and IF (and I mean IF) I decide to buy the 2x convertor as a maximum added weight, it still only weighs 2540kgs, so I have just ordered the S6 and thank you for helping me to make my mind up after watching so many videos regarding this subject.

[@AustrianGeek]

Hey there. Sry for the late reply. Did you get the S6 already (or the S6 Pro in case you went for the newer model)? Keep in mind: The video is quite old already - There are nowadays way more options on the market regarding fluid heads. With such a payload I would btw. recommend to save some money and go for a "real" fluidhead like the Benro BV4 or BV6 (latter one offers more payload - Drag is the same as on the BV4). Such "real" fluid heads offer way better control over your movements (and they normaly don´t include "play" or sitbacks at the end of a movement). If you are not happy with the S6, try to find a used BV4 kit from Benro. Those are sometimes SUPER cheap on the used market and kind of unbeatable price / performance wise. Or just search for the head alone and go for a good set of sticks / legs to combine it with them. Still have a BV4 here as a 2nd head / tripod (not super high quality head - But the movement performance at that price point is unbeatable). Have a nice day. LG

[@edwardscruggs6555]

Very informative. Thank you! (By the way, I’m from the States, but I lived in the small Austrian village of Schoenberg, near Innsbruck, for several years. A wonderful place!)

[@jamesdavidian8451]

I agree- I just bought an S7- the Tilt drag and counterbalance is too weak. My brother's Ravelli had more stiffness at zero turning of knobs.

[@AustrianGeek]

Yep. The Benro S-heads are nice if you use them with smaller payloads (or if you pan with them primarily). But the tilting / vertical movements are way too limited for higher payloads.

[@YevZakharov]

I wonder the the S7 co pares to this head. I'm quite interesting in it. It's sold from B&H with the tripod for a fair price.

[@AustrianGeek]

+Yev Zakharov Well - It´s the S6 with the panning of the S8. BUT (at least according two feedbacks from users I got) it´s also coming with the higher starting payload on the 1st counterbalance step (just a little bit below the S8). So the S6 is still the better choice (if you want to use more lightweight setups too). Btw.: There are now also the "BV" heads available. BV4 and BV6 (in different kits). At the beginning they had a few quality issues - But if you buy the kit new, it´s not a problem. You can always return it. They are positoined against the Sachtler ACE heads (at least they offer similar features). Especially the WAY bigger counterbalance-step-count is important (and nice to have). Check them out - They are also available with single tube tripods (at a good price in my opinion). ^^

[@RizHail]

i think E-image new heads are best and yet unknown checkout e image gh06 and gh03f. only issue is they dont use manffroto 501pl plates. and gh06 is 75mm ball head.

[@MattSpaugh]

I'm starting to think that a better approach is to buy a lower-series model from a high-end manufacturer (Sachter Ace XL) than to buy a higher-line model from a budget manufacturer (Benro S8, or S9Pro). I made a video comparing the S8Pro to the Manfrotto 502AH singing it's praises, but I spoke too soon and I'm doing a follow up video now.

[@UCMercedLife]

Are you getting the Benro S7 and BV6 to review? I'm interested to see how they compare to the S8.

[@AustrianGeek]

UCMercedLife Maybe the BV6 yes. The S7 isn´t THAT interesting to test out, as it´s basically the S6 + the horizontal / panning dampening of the S8 ^^. So it should be a good "middle way" and a good point to start with (as the S8 is sitback free panning wise too). Though: The S7 is still "friction based" (and I wouldn´t use it over 4 or 5kg payload - With not too high COG / center of gravity of the equipment). In that aspect the BV6 is WAY more interesting. And I could even compare it to a Sachtler ACE L (which I am using actually as my main head). ^^ Though: I have to check again, if it´s already available here in Europe - Wasn´t the case a few weeks ago ...

[@AustrianGeek]

UCMercedLife Btw.: The S7 is better than the S8 (as it´s smaller an lighter AND the spring system of the S8 is just too strong / the steps inbetween are too big in my opinion). So the S7 is a good solution if your payload is around 4kg - And the BV6 (IF it´s working well and the dampening is strong enough) if you´re above ^^.

[@UCMercedLife]

AustrianGeek Thanks for the (quick) response! I'm usually using just a DSLR (GH4) + lens, so pretty lightweight. I just want the better head and wouldn't mind spending more on the BV6 over the S7 if it's better (dampening for smoother usage)

[@AustrianGeek]

Hmm. With that low paylod you could also (EASILY) go for the S7 yes. Especially the panning is quite good on the S8 (So also on the S7) - Which is the most important movement. Only the tilting / vertical dampening is not compareable to "real" fluid heads (as the max drag is limited - Which you recognize especially at the higher end of the payload). Well - I asked the local Benro supplier if there are any news about the availability of the BV6 kits ^^.

[@UCMercedLife]

AustrianGeek Well I just got the Benro S7 and I'm a bit disappointed. It's better than the Manfrotto 501HDV, but I would say that at best it's comparable to my Manfrotto 503HDV. I was hoping that it'd be better than the 503HDV.

[@Kazanchev]

Where can I buy that little rosette type plastic pad (on the end of the hadle)? BTW: Benro's support is non-existent (Facebook, e-mails, official sites in different countries - I've tried them all, every message has been ignored)

[@AustrianGeek]

Kazanchev Just contact one of the official BENRO dealers (in your country). Though: Get more than just one - They are dirt cheap (and you maybe need a new one in the future). About the BENRO support: Well. I primarily know the german / europe support. And they react in a few days (+/-). If you have special questions, it´s often better to contact an official dealer directly (or to contact the local support - BENRO USA, Germany and so on). At least that way I (nearly ^^) always got a reply. LG

[@Kazanchev]

AustrianGeek Thank you.

[@Nathancolburn]

great video! i have a issue with my S8. It is new but is from eBay. And my fluid drag control is jammed or locked. The blue control on the bottom. was working 1 second and the next it stopped. I'm am trying to take it apart right now try and see what is wrong with it but the big bolt that is in the center is hard to unscrew because there is noting to grab onto from the other side. there is no video that i can find on this issue or how to disassemble this head. thank you for your help! Anyone please if you have had this issue and know a fix please comment back thank you!

[@AustrianGeek]

Did you buy it from a dealer? Even internationally every dealer at least offer a week or two of replacement warranty. Its maybe a better idea to put it together again (and try to exchange it over the dealer).

[@Nathancolburn]

I got it about a month ago from a online store through eBay. Ill go check if i have any warranty.

[@wildlifesnapper1]

I use the S7 with a Sony NEX EA50 and a Nikon 600mm f/4. Its a great head for this weight of gear.

[@AustrianGeek]

Yep. The S7 is a nice head (a good "middle way" between the S6 and the way too bulky / huge S8 ^^). Btw.: If you want to try out something new in the future: Check out the new Benro BV6. It´s a different class of fluid head (and its still VERY affordable). Especially for your Nikon 600mm it´s a WAY better solution (as its offering a stiffer drag system). You can check out my BV4 review / video. But go for the BV6 (with the higher payload) if you plan to try it out. Just a hint in case youre interested ^^.

[@wildlifesnapper1]

This guy picks up on the "Cons" for this particular tripod and fluid head - kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHWZn51vZrqoaM0

[@AustrianGeek]

Aaah. Now I understand - You meant the whole BV6 dual tube tripod kit(s). I meant just the head(s) directly (which are also available seperately btw.). The dual rod tripods of the BV heads are crap yes - Thats true. Only the bigger models (with 100mm half bowl) are kind of nice ^^. Btw.: The only BV4 / BV6 kit I would go for is the one with the C373 carbon fibre legs. Or even better - Go for a used other tripod together with an BV6. The GC752 legs from E-IMAGE are really nice (those are my main tripod legs with qhick release system like on the SpeedLocks from Sachtler) or even better go for a "good old" used Sachtler CF 75 SpeedLock. Great little tripod(s) - Both (altough I have the older revision of the GC752 - Which is a tick higher than the newest revision). About the BV4 / BV6 heads: Sure. They are not perfect. But at the price point you pay, they are kind of a perfect entry into the "real fluid cartridge fluid head" world ^^. Especially if you also need a good / high drag (for longer focal length). Absolutely no comparison to the Benro S model heads (S6 / S7 / S8 for example).

[@wildlifesnapper1]

As I also shoot stills (which is my mainstay) I use the S7 head with and Induro CT404 carbon Fibre tripod which is very sturdy. It's also easy to remove the S7 head from this tripod and switch for my Benro Gimbal Head, this only takes a few seconds. Thanks for the info though, if I was mainly shooting video then I would probably do as you suggest. Happy shooting my friend :-)

[@AustrianGeek]

Ah. Ok. Makes sense - Just wanted to give you a hint according the BV6 (in case you needed more drag with your longer focal lengths ^^). Have fun shooting (!)

[@Kazanchev]

Do S8 and S6 plates are compatible in any way? And what about Quick Release system? Does Benro have it?

[@AustrianGeek]

+Kazanchev They use the same Manfrotto compatible plates - The S6 is using the Manfrotto 501PL plate and the S8 the longer 501PLONG (aka 504PL how it´s called now). It´s better though, to use the longer version with both heads - As the shorter 501PL mounted to the S8 isn´t very wide adjustable (and the head is designed to be used with the longer 501PLONG / 504PL plates) - PLUS you´re getting more adjustability with the S6 head too ^^. Btw. - An important hint: The original BENRO plates are not the best ones quality wise. They are not sliding as nice (coating isn´t the best one). So I highly recommend to get a 501PLONG or 504PL plate from Ebay. I am using them by myself and they are not that pricey -> Around 20 bucks each. Just search for 501PLONG - I am using btw. two of the 3rd party ones with the numbers printed on at the side. They are working quite well since many months / years ...

[@Kazanchev]

Your answers are the best! Thank you.

[@TechLineHD]

The best fluid head review! I almost bought the Benro S8 but now I won't. I use the Manfrotto 502 head with just a Panasonic G7 with a prime lens (less than 1kg overall weight). Which head would you recommend to me? I'm tired of fighting the fixed counterbalance system of the 502 head. Thanks a lot for the answer!

[@AustrianGeek]

I would go for a used Sachtler ACE L head or kit if you can find one. Still one of the best (more or less affordable) heads on the market. I know that most people think - thats way too expensive - but if you´re honest, you´ll keep a good head or a good tripod kit for many many years - And I guarantee you, that you will never regret such an investment. If it´s too expensive, check out my Benro BV4 review. BV4 model = 4kg max. - BV6 model = 6kg max. - They are like the cheap brothers of the Sachtler ACE M and ACE L models. Quite nice too - Just not as high quality compared to the Sachtler. But also good - And those are "real" fluid heads then (with oil cartdridges - And not grease based and max. drag limited like the S-Series heads from Benro - S4 / S6 / S7 / S8). Hope that helps ^^. LG

[@TechLineHD]

Hey! Thank you so much for a detailed answer. It's really hard to find the Ace L head on ebay but I will keep looking. I prefer investing more rather than living with shortcomings of a lower quality product as I'm shooting videos every day.

[@TechLineHD]

Thanks again for your answer but is it possible to mount the Ace L head on a flat base tripod (I have a top of the line Manfrotto legs). Thanks so much!

[@AustrianGeek]

Hi there again. Well - A side note at the start: The ACE L is btw. only available in a kit. So don´t try to find it seperately (it´s not often the case, that someone only sells the head alone). But also check out your local dealers. It seem like they are stopping to sell the ACE L (because of the new ACE XL model). So it could be also the case, that you get the ACE L kits a little bit cheaper within the next few weeks and months. The ACE L is btw. compatible to flat bases - You just need to remove the stud at the bottom. Sometimes its then fitting perfectly on mid level columns. Just try it out. Though you need a good & stable tripod for that. Especially also check your mid level column if it´s "twist safe" - So if there´s play in the mid level column as soon as you use the highest drag setting. The BENRO mid level column tripods are for example quite problematic there - As they only use a groove to prevent the column from twisting - And as there´s alwas a little bit of play in this groove, the system isn´t perfect for higher drag aka "stiffer" fluid heads ^^.

[@TechLineHD]

You are a legend! Thanks for the detailed answer. You are literally the best camera supports reviewer as you explain everything in detail. I didn't even know about the ACE L as I consider myself as a Manfrotto fanboy. Also, I didn't know the difference between "real" fluid and just friction heads. Thanks again!

[@RobV523]

hi does this work with the kessler quick release plate?

[@AustrianGeek]

+Rob V Do you mean the Kessler "Kwik" system? As far as I know it´s not compatible to 501PL, 501PLONG aka 504PL Plates (all of the same width) -> Which the Benro S8 is compatible to and using.

[@TheSignOfJonah]

+AustrianGeek Nice reply :)

[@RobV523]

+AustrianGeek Thanks for this. Yes - I do mean the "Kwik" system. Much appreciated.

[@SpinCentralChannel]

In the past few days I had two Benro S7 heads that I tried. With both I noticed that the head moves a bit whenever the pan lock is engaged or disengaged. That renders the lock pretty much useless while filming. I'm expecting to get a third head to see if it also has that problem and am already in contact with the German Benro distributor. Did you notice anything like that on your Benro S8 head as it seems to use a similar technology? Or did you get a chance to try a Benro S7 head yourself?

[@AustrianGeek]

+Spin Central Hmm. Are you sure that it is the whole head which is not locked properly? As it could be also the case that the handle locks (for extension and mounting) are not locked down properly (so the unwanted movement is there). Had such behaviour already with heads - The locks had to be quite tight to prevent a play in the connections. If it is the pan lock on the head directly (the threaded shell where the screw is mounted is moving or loose for example): Had such a head already in my hands (Benro H8 - The old version). But it locked down properly (without any play). But there a grub screw was missing i think (which normaly only prevents that the shell is falling out). Btw.: Are you locking it down tight enough btw.? Sure - It is also possible that there is some mechanical play (so a manufacturing issue). It seems to always take a few weeks / months until BENRO is fixing all the small production issues with new generation heads. It is (and was) the same with the BV heads - BV4 and BV6. They also had quality control issues at the startup (which are hopefully fixed now with the newer generation heads and kits). Btw.: That was maybe the reason why the BV heads were not available in Europe for quite a while (and they are still not that easy to get here). You could also try the BV heads (if you have a 75mm half bowl tripod or if you need legs anyway - At least there you get better features for a few bucks more). P.s.: My S8 was not faulty btw. - Worked fine. (And never had the chance to test out the S7 head til now.)

[@SpinCentralChannel]

+AustrianGeek The head is firmly attached to the tripod. I made a video of the movement of both heads that I had. Currently, I'm waiting for a third and final head and then will post my findings.

[@puddytat62]

I think you are the only person who is smart enough to indicate that the benro is not a real fluid head. Very detailed analysis especially for the small stuff like the plate... which of course is a major deal . Plus your comments on the counterbalance is bang on. 4 stops is just way too few for property counterbalance. Generally a Sachtler is better choice all around. Guess you're not a manfrotto fan ?

[@AustrianGeek]

Thx for the kind words. Well - I don´t like the Manfrotto heads since I had a few "duds" from them. For example the 502 head (which smacked quite alot while moving at certain dampening steps) - Or I also had the new MHXPRO-2W head (which seems to be the successor of the small 128RC head). Also a mess as I had play in the panning and also the counterbalance system didn´t work that well (and failed after a few tries altough it was a new head). Maybe I wasn´t lucky. I still love and use the small 128RC (as my "on the go" head) - Still one of the best super cheap and super lightweight heads I know of - And you can use it basically everywhere (and with all payloads - at least up to 1.5 or maybe even 2kg if you don´t tilt that much). The 504 and 509 heads are also ok - BUT: The same there. WAY too low counterbalance count. They compensate the steps inbetween better than the S8 for example. But still not perfect. Maybe I will try the 502 again. The knob positions are a little bit weird (and I didn´t have luck in the past). But maybe they fixed at least the dampening quality til now (and at least it has a panning control like the S8 and S7 from Benro). Altough again: I think I would miss the counterbalance options ... Btw.: You can also check out the BV4 (BV6) video. Quite ok at the low price point(s). Altough they are also not perfect - But which had is REALLY perfect ^^.

[@puddytat62]

Yeah I stumbled across your BV4 video and also like the link for PLong plate although ebay indicates it is just 501Long.. Gotta get two or more for that price. I am going to try out the BV6 but there are two sticks it comes with.. carbon and the aluminum... the whole kit is around 500-699 depending upon what day of the week. The aluminum has very few reviews but at least it has the retractable feet vs having to screw and unscrew with the S8 kit. Sadly those BV6 sticks seem wobbly and of course your E image recommendation is great but the sticks are more money than the whole BV6 kit. Do you still feel the BV 6 is a friction based drag system vs fluid system?

[@AustrianGeek]

michael b About the QR plates: They fit for sure. It´s maybe just a typo (or an internal name) as it´s a 3rd party plate ^^. About the leg options: The BV4 and BV6 are quite stiff drag wise (which is nice to have - BUT also adds the problem, that you need a really stable tripod for them). If you want to go for the kits, then definitely go for carbon fibre. And I would choose the single tube version (as it´s more flexible - They should be also available with clip locks or the screw locks - According your personal preference). You still need to add weight to the kit (otherwise the legs are for sure slipping away because of the higher drag options of the BV heads) - But at least it´s the most stable kit version (I had the C373T already in the past with the older Benro H8 head). And the double rod tripods are not really stable (many people reported that). Yes. The E-IMAGE GC752 tripod is not super cheap - I know. But it´s very very stable (as mentioned in the BV4 video). Overall the most stable 75mm bowl tripod I ever had. And i love the quick lock solution (as there is only one lock per leg - And not two or more). The GC752 are btw. also available cheaper within tripod kits. Maybe you can save a few bucks if you sell the head and just keep the tripod and the bag out of a kit. Cheapest option: E-IMAGE EG03C2 (GC752 leg + GH03 head). It´s REALLY cheap available sometimes ^^. So really think about it (a good tripod is an investment for years up to decades) (!) Btw.: Don´t oversee (in all this information mess ^^) -> You NEED a stable tripod with the BV4 and BV6 heads. Otherwise I guarantee, that you will not be happy with them (especially, if the tripod legs are slipping away or adding alot of bending to the panning all the time). And yes - The BV heads are guaranteed real fluid heads and not friction based. A huge (and noticeable) step up from the Benro S series heads. LG

[@puddytat62]

Yeah I guess the only issue with the BV6 kit with Carbon legs is that they do not have the single lever like the aluminum legs have plus you need to screw in or unscrew the spikes. That is alot of extra flipping in and down. There are quite a few reviews from BH from daily pro users who like the aluminum single lever tripod with the BV6. I think you basically cannot extend the legs past the first section in order for them to remain rigid with stiff pan drag. Tripods should for sure last for decades. I know alot of people who still have Sachtlers with floor spreaders. You cannot break them! Unless you throw them off a cliff maybe! I'll investigate the E Image option .. just a pain to buy a kit then try to sell off the head. I am definitely subscribed to this channel You bring up points most people don't . Must be that Austrian preciseness ... like a Studer recorder!

[@puddytat62]

My local retailer indicated to me... maybe you already know this... but Manfrotto started to ship from China and has since switched back to Italian production and distribution. I guess they had some issues . The 504 still has not tilt drag so it is not a real competitor to Sachtler or Benro BV6 . You're right... nothing is really perfect.

[@loveart8369]

This guy ROCKS!

[@MarcoFabbrispa]

congratulations for the really interesting video unfortunately I do not speak English very well and some concepts are unclear to me .... I'm looking for a video head to make videos with a 600mm and I was interested in this model, would you recommend it to me? do you have other more suitable options?

[@AustrianGeek]

Check out my BV4 test: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rp69ip54raiilbs - They also offer the BV6 version (with more max payload). If your overall setup is not THAT heavy, thats one of the cheapest / best options for super long focal lengths on the market. If you want something better, you need to invest at least 800 or 1000 bucks - So check it out. Just keep in mind that it´s a plastic head (so you need to take care of it way more intense compared to a full metal head). Hope that helps. Have fun shooting (!) LG

[@OptimologyNet-SEO-Glasgow]

To say because this head wouldn't be ideal for a lighter rig is a "huge limitation" is a bit exaggerated. It would be a huge limitation if it couldn't handle a heavier rig since that's what it's primarily designed for. And with lighter rigs around 3kg, it would be easy enough to add weight.

[@AustrianGeek]

Sure. It´s usable overall. At least in the middle payload range. BUT: It´s kind of "neither fish nor fowl" solution. For higher payloads it´s not really usable because of the limited drag (especially tilting wise it´s limited because of the max. drag and not because of the max counterbalance spring step). And for lower payloads it´s not really usable because of the too high starting counterbalance. It´s like Benro tried to pack everything in one head at a bargain price. And that´s just not working with a grease based drag head (like all S-series heads are). At least now the oil-cartridgeds based BV4 and BV6 heads are available (also in the lower price ranges). They are a WAY better attempt to reach that goal. So overall it´s better to check out the Benro S7 or even the cheaper S6 if you wand to start with a head (as it´s better fitting to lower payloads due to the the grease based drag system limitations) - And for higher payloads it´s WAY better to go for the BV6 for example. Sure - Not a super high max. payload. But at least you get there "real" oil-based cartridges, way more counterbalance steps (so it´s also usable with lower payloads) AND the drag is also stiff enough to shoot with very long focal lengths. Btw.: I even prefer the BV4 / BV6 over the ACE L for example (at least with longer focal lengths they are quite usable). ^^

[@davidp158]

Great review; very detailed in areas most reviewers overlook. I am wondering if the S7 is a substantial improvement over the S6. I'm looking for a second video head, and generally like Benro products. I shoot on the GH4, so I suppose the counter balance probably won't work for me, correct?

[@AustrianGeek]

+Dave Patterson THX for the kind words - About the S6 vs S7: Well - It´s basically a S6 head with S8 panning (so it´s smaller and more lightweight). BUT it seems that it´s also suffering from the same way too high 1st counterbalance step. In that point the S6 is still better. There are now also the BV4 and BV6 heads - Never had the chance to test these out by myself (but features wise it seems like they are positioned against the Sachtler ACE heads - So maybe worth a try). Though buy them only new (locally) so you have the chance to give them back (if they are not working properly). They are quite new (and Benro always needs time to iron out all the issues first ^^).

[@mapioskoloni9784]

What about the H8 head? I think you've reviewed it, or the H10? You can get an H8 kit for about $100 more than the S8.

[@AustrianGeek]

Mapios koloni Hi there. Yes. I had both the H8 and the H10. With the H10 as an better option because of the WAY stronger dampening. Though: They are both also only coming with 4+0 counterbalance steps. (So also not THAT much more - But with these heads it´s at least possible to compensate better because of the WAY better dampening - Compared to the S8). But you´re right: The renewed editions (BV8 and BV10) are not THAT much more expensive (Benro lowered the prices significanty). Maybe also the BV8 (aka H8) got an update according the dampening (so it´s now the same like on the H10) - That I cannot confirm or deny (as I only had the original series heads ^^). So you can try it out if you want to - The quality of the H8 and H10 was REALLY nice - And if you buy locally, you normaly also get the option to send it back for a refund (though don´t buy only to try out the head / tripod kit ^^). On the other hand: If you just need up to 6KG of payload, check out the brand new BV6 head. I think you can calculate again with 50mm COG / center of gravity - Especially to compare it to other heads. It seems to be a good "middle way" features wise (as it´s coming with 7+0 counterbalance steps - AND with real fluid cartdridges - Like the Sachtler ACE L for example). And with around 350 bucks it´s also quite affordable. It´s only not in this video (as an alternative), because I didn´t know of the brand new BV heads while I shot it. The BV heads are coming by the end of May to Europe - And I also don´t know, if they are already available in the US. Hope that helps ^^.

[@mapioskoloni9784]

AustrianGeek Well, this kit www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1008038-REG/benro_c673tmh8_c673tm_dual_stage_3.html H8 head with carbon fiber legs is $569 in the US vs $445 for the S8 with aluminum legs, so it's not that much more. The H8 claims to have 5-step counterblancing. I'm using mostly DSLRs fully rigged right now, with cage, audio recorder, monitor, FF etc, but there might also be an URSA mini in my not too distant future.

[@AustrianGeek]

Oh. It´s on a sale now (at least it seems like so. Maybe, because the BV heads are now coming (which are for sure replacing the older H heads too - BV8 and BV10 instead of H8 and H10). Carbon fibre legs AT THIS PRICE are quite nice yes. Hmm. At this price it´s maybe a good option yes. Though: Don´t expect miracles from the dampening - At least my H8 was way weaker than the H10. BUT: They maybe fixed that too with the newer generations. You can still send it back (if your think it´s too weak). Would be great to know, if the dampening is now strong enough. Just keep in mind: The quick clip on QR plate of the older H heads is optimised for bigger (classical) cameras (as the tripod top-plate which is sliding is limited to front heavy setups - As it´s sliding primarily to the back side - So you need a rig system to move the camera on top to the point where you need it - Especically DSLR rigs / setups). I am more a fan of QR sliding plates (as you can mount your camera / rig at the point which is needed (as the mounting screw is also moveable on the QR plates) - The clip on plates of the H heads are there WAY more limiting. Also important: The better (stepless) balancing Cartoni SmartPro (H548) kit is just 150 bucks more - And you get a stepless counterbalance AND a very nice high quality head (with a clip on QR sliding plate - So the best out of both worlds). So if you want to invest a little bit more, the cartoni is maybe worth the additional price. Btw.: The 5 step counterbalance of the H8 is just 4+0 steps. So you can disable the counterbalance AND you get 4 steps of adjustability. ENOUGH are both heads. The URSA MINI is just around 5 pounds (so around 2.3kg). Even with alot of accessories both heads should be able to carry such a setup (in the future). ^^ IF you go for the H8 setup - Please report your experiences. I just had two used H8 heads in my hand. I think both were of older production batches ^^.

[@mapioskoloni9784]

AustrianGeek You are truly a geek my friend! I've never seen such detailed reviews of tripods as yours. I didn't even know Benro was replacing those heads. I actually thought that the S8 WAS a fluid head, but you're saying it's a friction head. What is the difference? The fluid heads have grease inside the head? (Dumb question, but I didn't know). I'll look into the Cartoni you mentioned, but that's how you end up spending twice as you intended. You'd recommend that Cartoni over the H10, currently at about $849 with carbon fiber legs. It's actually more expensive than the H10 with the aluminum legs, so I'm wondering if they might not be dropping the price of the aluminum kit as well.

[@mapioskoloni9784]

Mapios koloni I just checked the BV heads. Those kits are actually less than the H series heads, the BV10 kit is $799 You are saying they are newer designs and better quality than the H series?

[@KingStivan]

you had me at better alternatives ^^

[@MattSpaugh]

I've been really disappointed with my recent Benro purchases.

[@shawnderavii672]

Great video, seems like there are a lot of issues with the Benro 8, what do you think about Benro 10 is it worth the price $849.00

[@AustrianGeek]

I wouldn´t go for it - No. Well - It depends. The H10 / newer BV10 is ok. But not THAT perfect overall. There are better ones on the market. Also don´t oversee: The H10 / BV10 uses an 100mm half bowl. So you also need a bigger tripod. PLUS: Overall if you want a lower level / more affordable 100mm halb bowl head, then check out the Focus HD from Cartoni (or the Focus 12 - It´s the newer model with a new plate coming). The Focus HD I got about two years ago quite cheap - As a dealer sold off his stock. So if you´re lucky, you can find one cheap. But you need also a tripod then - MPro 536 from Manfrotto for example (or another used one for example). But that only makes sense if you REALLY need the high maximum payload. For which setup are you searching a fluid head? The Benro S8 you can forget more or less - Its maybe ok on paper. But just not equipped to handle such high payloads (especially according the drag system). If you have a smaller payload (and not 8kg or so), then also check out the Benro BV6. Not the most rugged one - But features wise nearly unbeatable in the lower price range. Used the smaller BV4 model for quite a while (for longer focal lengths). The drag system is just GREAT for such purposes - And I know not another head system (below 500 bucks - Even under 1000 bucks its hard to find an alternative), which is working as good with long focal lengths (the drag system is GREAT). But before I write too much - Wha payload / setup do you have? LG

[@shawnderavii672]

HI AustrianGeek, sorry late reply been out of town. Thank you for all the information and your time. I will be using my Canon 5D Mark III and Blackmagic Design Production Camera 4K. Will the BV 6 work or should I go with a Manfrotto, the MPro 536 is out of my range price though?

[@AustrianGeek]

Hi there again. Yes - The BV6 should be ok in that case. But keep in mind, that you cannot use a whole bunch of other accessories then (like huge rigs, huge external recorders or other bulky stuff). About the legs you can also go for the cheaper Manfrotto 535 legs - As the BV4 and BV6 heads are 75mm half bowl heads (also the BV8) - But the BV10 / H10 is an 100mm half bowl head - So you would need a more expensive tripod for that head ^^. Btw.: Just search for a used / like new carbon fibre Manfrotto MPro 535 version or the chepaer 535 aluminium version which is called "MVT535AQ" - That way you can save a few bucks additionally in case you need to). OVERALL I would try to keep the load as controlled / low as possible (so the BV6 can still handle your equipment). Why? Because higher loads need WAY bigger, heaver and also WAY more expensive fluid heads. And it´s no fun to carry those around ^^. So don´t overload - Don´t use too much stuff (which you maybe don´t even need). I also had to lean this over the years (as I also started with HUGE rig systems and other stuff - But in the end you get the same quality with smaller / more lightweight setups ^^). Hope that helps. Have fun shooting (!) LG

[@shawnderavii672]

Yes, it helped a lot, thank you for all the information. Gives me a better idea what I need to purchase.

[@MattSpaugh]

Great video. I just had similar experiences with the newer Benro S8-Pro head. Worthless for my work. It went back within 10 days (thankfully for a full credit). The slightest amount of pressure on the handle would allow the head to tilt almost .25" - even when completely locked down. I made a video and sent it to Benro Tech Support - they were somewhat helpful but still have not confirmed for me whether or not my head was defective or whether it was within spec. Sadly, the BV series doesn't look to be much better. I'm looking at the Sachter Ace XL now...

[@user-hp9bg9oq5r]

Everybody says on their reviews that the blue ring has only a few degrees of control. People should really test the equipment before posting videos on youtube as testers. That ring sort of sticks sometimes and indeed lets you turn it only a few degrees. If you bother to pan the head a little left-right with your hand on the ring, and also apply a lttle strength you will see that it becomes "unstuck" and then turns several times left or right. On the matter of maximum load, I would say 6.5 kilos are fine too, even though I think it would work well with 7 too. Getting close to the limit is something not recommended for any head, they can do it, but you lose control. My 2 cents!

[@AustrianGeek]

+Nτινος Σταματιου Thx for the hint. But to set things clear: The few degrees are not mentioned according the head getting stuck. It´s about the control range -> There is quite alot difference inbetween the drag strength if you turn the ring only a few degrees at the higher settings. (So the control is a little bit limmited - At least more compared to other heads. But it´s still working fine ...)

[@user-hp9bg9oq5r]

AustrianGeek It really seems strange to me. Almost every review says it only has a few degrees of control. In my case, I found it takes multiple turns and has very nice control. It's a bummer that it gets stuck but as you said works fine! It's a really nice head for the money, the next Benro that lifts 10 kilos costs around 800$! :)

[@AustrianGeek]

Well - Most of the reviews are quite old already (including mine). Benro is changing quite often some parts in production or they rework / revise the calibration of their heads (without labeling them with a new model number or other indicators like "Mark II" or so). So there´s a high chance that you already got one of the "updated" models ^^. Btw.: Yes - 10kg+ heads are quite expensive. Most of the time it´s better to lower the payload / rebuild your rig if you have a bigger one. I am actually still happy with my ACE L head (and a smaller rig) - The ACE L is not carrying THAT much - But still one of the best heads in the lower price range (and used kits are not that expensive anymore either). ^^ Have a nice day (!)

[@user-hp9bg9oq5r]

Well, turns out you know what you 're doing, and study your subject! The updates that Benro makes without... telling anyone is something I didn't know of. Keep up the good work and good day to you too!

[@AustrianGeek]

^^

[@HomoEconomicusX]

really? 8 minutes spend on: "you CAN'T use the first friction step with lighter weight combinations > HUGE PROBLEM" - while debating about something made for up to 5-6 KG? Hrhrhr ... and the cheapest alternative is almost 3 times the price? Bwh ... whhh .. haha.

[@AustrianGeek]

Check out the quite new Benro BV4 or BV6 - Way better than the S8. (And a good alternative in the lower price ranges now.) Btw.: Keep in mind that most people want to use just ONE head for a wide range of payloads. (So it´s essential that also the first counterbalance step is usable with lower payloads. Especially if you start to shoot and the payload rises over time.) According price differences: Don´t oversee that this head is just a friction based head (with grease as dampening material). The more expensive alternatives mentioned (and also the new Benro BV heads) are oil cartridge based ("real") fludi heads. (Which offer way more drag for longer focal lenghts and higher payloads - AND which are also way easier to control.) It´s a completely different class of fluid heads (so they are also more expensive). But again - As mentioned - Check out the Benro BV4 and BV6. Really nice heads at the low price point.