Manfrotto Neotec Tripod feedback?

[chansh]

Anybody here got this tripod? It is any good?

[Snafu]

I'm curious too for a review. I already have the 685B monopod and I think it's great.

[Todd Jacobsen]

I have the 458B Neotec. Got it from B&H in the late fall 2005, came with the 488 head . My other tripod is the Velbon 640 Carbon. I've also owned another velbon (aluminum).

The 458 is much heavier than carbon, as can be expected.

The leg movement is very easy to adjust but can be difficult to control which extension is being adjusted. I've learned to ignore this and just align the target bezel. I am a bit concerned about grit getting on the legs and impacting retraction/extensions. I haven't used this tripod outside a lot to determine impact. Initially, there was noticeable lubricant on the legs when you extend them but I haven't really noticed it lately (ie getting it on your hands).

The 458B comes with a removable center column for nice macro angles. The tripod did not come with a stone apron but does have a weight attachment hook on the center column.

Currently, I use the 458 prior to getting out the Velbon carbon. The 488 head has its pros and cons which some have already discussed in other threads. I prefer the 488 over the Velbon head for now, but the 488 settling issue is a bit of a pain.

[jgjulio]

I have the neotec tripod. It is heavy which is good and bad. It is stable and very easy to set up and use thanks to its weight. It is quick and easy to adjust and collapse. I have no real complaints about it. It would not be good to use when you hike a lot but I think that is obvious.

[Skip Souza]

Todd and Julio pretty much sum up my experience with my 458B. Unless you prize ultra light weight this is a fine, easy to use tripod.

[chansh]

Thanks of the feedbacks.
All I want is an easy to use tripod. Well, I'm off shopping.