Pomona, CA—A maker of tripod heads and camera supports, Acratech developed the award-winning GP ball head. However, not resting on it laurels, the company is moving competitively forward with the new Acratech GXP ball head. The GXP has a wide range of significant new features, and it continues the tradition of Acratech’s quality build.
Moreover, the GXP is designed for the professional as well as the advanced amateur photographer looking for a strong, lightweight, rugged tripod head. The new ball head holds an impressive 50-pound payload (22kg) and weighs just one pound. That represents a 50:1 load ratio.
Acratech GXP Ball Head Features
In addition, its new extra-fine tension control allows photographers to dial in the correct amount of friction on the ball for maximum camera control and smooth camera movements. The device also features a large, high-torque knob that is easy to tighten for maximum holding power—even when wearing heavy winter gloves.
The new GXP is also available with the company’s new locking lever clamp. The clamp provides new safety features. In addition, photographers can quickly and easily lock in its Arca-Swiss style quick-release plates. The level on the quick release clamp is readily visible, even when attached to the clamp. Moreover, the locking lever clamp has a safety zone, so the first 25% of the lever’s motion will not allow a camera to release.
The company highlighted the device’s panoramic adjustable zero pointer. “When shooting stitched panoramic images, you will often need to return to the starting point of your first shot of your sequence. With our unique zero pointer, it is always quick and easy to set a zero point and return right back to it,” the company announced.
Furthermore, the GXP ball head’s black anodized aircraft-grade aluminum body and sculpted design is based on the “less is more” concept. Acratech removed all of the excess material to help achieve the most rigid and light weight design possible.
Three-in-One Functionality
What’s more, the GXP carries on the tradition of the Acratech GP series ball heads with ability to function as a ball head, a gimbal head and also as a leveling panoramic head. The gimbal feature works with any lens, up to 400mm f/4.0, that has a tripod collar. The pin in the bottom of the ball and the sleeve on its stem create a smooth pivot for the gimbal.
In addition, photographers can unscrew the quick-release clamp and put it onto the bottom of the head to use the GXP to create level, single-row panoramas. This eliminates the need to carry a separate leveling base in order to create accurately stitched panoramas; it enables photographers to pan parallel to the horizon even when using atripod on rocky or uneven terrain.
Also, the device’s patented open design allows dirt and moisture to fall through instead of getting trapped inside a socket.
Made in Pomona, California, the Acratech GXP ball head retails for $445. Acratech.net
Acratech
A family-run manufacturer, Acratech is dedicated to producing the finest photography and imaging products. For many years Acratech manufactured parts for the aerospace industry. Now, the company puts their aerospace experience into designing and manufacturing photography and imaging products. To find out about its affiliate program, click here.
