Sachtler FSB-2 VS Sachtler ACE ?

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deusex

Member
Hello guys :) This is my first thread on the forum, I will appreciate any opinion.

I need a nice tripod system asap. I am shooting with a DSLR rig, which goes around 2-3kg.

I am considering 2 options:

Sachtler FSB-2

Sachtler ACE

(FSB-4 is out of my financial reach)

I know that the FSB-2 was discontinued, maybe because it only holds 2kg (by specs, but I am sure it will do 3kg).

Anyway the FSB series heads are known for really good quality. On the other hand is the ACE head, which is receiving only positive reviews, but its build quality is inferior to FSBs.
I am not considering the legs, because they are alright in both of the systems. One thing though comes in mind - the ACE legs can go about 20cm lower than the FSB kit's legs.

So the verdict here is: the smallest of the FSB heads VS the ACE head?
 
The small head is too small. You need at least an FSB4 because as soon as you add an accessory or a heavy lens you are going to be in trouble.
Since a Sachtler Ace is basically a plastic version of the FSB4 I suppose that would be your wisest choice.
 
Thanks for the advice. That's what I thought, because even if I manage to do the project with the small head, it is sure that in the future I will need support for more weight, so the ACE will be much better investment. I only hope that it is not plastic, but maybe some kind of sturdy alloy.
 
Hello again. I want to report about the Sachtler Ace, I received it today. From the short test I was able to make, everything seem fine, except one actually pretty big problem. The fluid head always gives a slight kickback at the end of the pan movement. It's the moment I let my hand off the handle. I tried all the tension and counterbalance settings, but still there is this kickback.

Does anyone know a way to fix it? Maybe the fluid head needs more usage in order for the fluids to fluctuate properly?
I am in the dark here, because I cannot believe, that Sachtler would made such a mistake.
 
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Update! Answer from Sachtler, regarding the kickback problem:
There is no problem with the head, the problem is that of the low torsional rigidity of the leg, The torsional rigidity is a measure of a body's resistance to twist.
Because of the low torsional rigidity the tripod is not resistant to twisting mechanical influences during pan, thus it is hard to achieve smooth camera movements.
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