Acra-Swiss or Markins Ballhead System?

[Poindexter]

I'm in the market for a new ballhead and having trouble deciding between the A-Swiss Z1 or the Markins M20. Down the road I plan to add a Wimberly Gimbal-type Head so I would like to keep my plates compatible.

With my two Bogen heads neither plates are compatible, so I can see how it would be an additional hassle to switch plates over and over again.

Thanks in advance for any help :)

[squiress]

The Z-1 is cheaper although a bit heavier. The Markins may be a little smoother, but I say that only because the Q3 is so sweet to use; haven't tried an M20.

Stew

[Poindexter]

The price difference isn't enough to push me in either direction. So the Markins is smoother and maybe lighter......off to get some specs for this thread.

[Poindexter]

Markins:


Model Markins Q-Ball
Camera Connection Quick Shoe (Quick Release Clamp)
Maximum Load 100 lbs (45 kg)
Maximum Torque 190 lbf·in (220 kgf·cm)
Weight 1.25 lbs (568 g) (Including the clamp)
Height 3.98 in (101 mm)
Housing Diameter 2.28 in (58 mm)
Panning Base Diameter 2.68 in (68 mm)
Ball Diameter 1.89 in (48 mm)
Friction Control Bi-Axial Progressive
Panning Yes
Panorama Index Yes
Tripod Lock Hole 3/8" UNC
Color Black (Other colors can be custom ordered.)


Maximum Camera Supported Large format
Load Capacity 130 lb (59 kg)
Height 4" (10.1 cm)
Quick Release Yes
Spirit Level No
Tension Control Yes
Tripod Mount Thread Size 3/8"-16
Weight 1.3 lb (590 g)


Markins: $389 vs. Acra-Swiss being $345

[vkalia]

There really isnt much to choose from between the top ballheads in this price range - they all do what they are supposed to do: viz, keep the gear in place.

If you are interested, I have a comparison between the older B1 and the M20 on my website here:
www.photosafariindia.com/articles.html

Regards,
Vandit

[squiress]

At this level, just about any choice you make is a good one. The B&H price on the Z-1 with knob QR clamp is $328. I think you priced the lever QR clamp. The Markins will come with a knob QR clamp, I believe. Markins makes a point that their locking mechanism will not lock up, a problem that plagued earlier AS B-1 mounts (essentially user error). AS has since redesign their locking mechanism, but still has in their instructions (been reported here) a fix if the knobs lock. These are both professional ball mounts. I own a B-2 and the Q3. Fit and finish is wonderful. Six of one, half dozen of the other.

Stew

[squiress]

There really isnt much to choose from between the top ballheads in this price range - they all do what they are supposed to do: viz, keep the gear in place.

If you are interested, I have a comparison between the older B1 and the M20 on my website here:
www.photosafariindia.com/articles.html (http://www.photosafariindia.com/articles.html)

Regards,
Vandit

There was a very nice ballhead review there but not the M20 against the B1. Still, your problems with the B1 have to give one pause. (And I agree with your ergo comments on the BH-55). Also your tripod article was excellent.

Thanks

Stew

[Poindexter]

There really isnt much to choose from between the top ballheads in this price range - they all do what they are supposed to do: viz, keep the gear in place.



I know....I was hoping someone would come on here and say "_____ does this a little better.....blah blah blah", but I guess they're all pretty evenly matched. I'm leaning towards the Markins M20 for the slightly less weight and size.

squiress - I was looking at the QR AS clamp originally (price stuck in my head), but have since decided to go with a RRS L-Plate and Wimberly lens plates and I think I want the extra assurance from a turn knob.

Thanks for all the help :)

[squiress]

I know....I was hoping someone would come on here and say "_____ does this a little better.....blah blah blah", but I guess they're all pretty evenly matched. I'm leaning towards the Markins M20 for the slightly less weight and size.

It becomes a use thing. If hands on were possible that would be the best way to see which you like better. One possibililty is to see what return policies are and try one or both. I have seven ball heads and like certain aspects of each and every one.

Stew