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Meet the TH-X – Libec’s new entry level tripod costs just $239 US

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Tripod maker Libec have just announced a new entry level tripod called the TH-X priced at just $239 US. It replaces the popular TH-650HD, introducing some nice features not previously offered by Libec at this price point.

Libec’s outgoing TH-650HD wasn’t the strongest, biggest or most fluid tripod around, but that didn’t stop it becoming a firm favourite with enthusiasts, businesses, mobile journalists, students, and other budget-conscious shooters. A lot of that was down to the fact that there were very few professional options at its price.

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The tripod can support payloads of up to 4kg. It has a conventional design with 2-stage v-section legs and a mid-level spreader. It weighs just 3.1kg (6.9lb) and has a height range from 75.7 to 159cm (29.5 to 62.5”). The operating temperature range is from -20 to +60 degrees centigrade (-4°F to +140°F). The head has a smaller 65mm sized bowl that allows for rapid levelling.

On top of this basic specification the new TH-X has obvious improvements. Libec say it has increased rigidity over its predecessor and I think it’s got a much better head design. It has a sliding camera plate which snaps on and off, and is compatible with Manfrotto and Sachtler quick releases (although this means it isn’t compatible with Libec’s own ALLEX quick release system).

The new snap-on sliding plate is compatible with some Manfrotto and Sachtler models
The new snap-on sliding plate is compatible with some Manfrotto and Sachtler models

A new ‘Dual Head’ design allows the head to be removed leaving the ball leveller in place, in a similar fashion to Libec’s more expensive ALLEX models. You can then attach your slider or other compatible devices directly to the tripod. The head has a 3/8” screw on the base which means it can then be remounted on top of your slider, jib, monopod, or another tripod.

The head is removable and has fixed drag control
The head is removable and has fixed drag control

The head has fixed counterbalance and drag controls – which is to be expected at the price and should be OK with smaller cameras. If you are planning to do a lot of panning and tilting with your tripod, you may want to look at something more sophisticated from Libec, or their competitors’ ranges.

It has a padded carry case with shoulder strap and should be available this month in limited quantities.

The tripod is suited to smaller cameras like this Olympus OMD EM-1 II
The tripod is suited to smaller cameras like this Olympus OMD EM-1 II

This tripod isn’t really pitched at the working broadcast cameraman – I wouldn’t exactly replace a Sachtler 18P or Miller 25 with it. That’s not its purpose in life. With the updates, the TH-X should prove very popular with the same groups of people that bought the TH-650HD. The upgrades are worthwhile and the specification is very good for the price.

For more details keep an eye on the Libec website.

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