Manfrotto Unveils the Tripod of the Future

July 2004 – Manfrotto, the world’s leading manufacturer of photographic support products, is set to revolutionize photography once again with the introduction of the world’s first fully automatic self-regulating tripod – the NeoTec. The NeoTec line of Pro Photo Supports, currently comprising the 458B tripod and 684B monopod, is built around an innovative self-regulating mechanism inside the leg that delivers unmatched speed, stability and ease-of-use.

This revolutionary new mechanism allows the user to quickly and easily extend each leg to the desired height by simply pulling downwards. There are no locks, knobs or levers of any kind to contend with. Once the leg is extended into position, NeoTec’s patented internal mechanism automatically locks it there by pushing outwards on the tubing, exerting more locking power and further stabilizing the tripod as additional weight is added.

Closing the NeoTec is just as easy. By simply pushing a single release button, the user can disengage the internal mechanism and effortlessly collapse the leg. This ultra-fast, user friendly design is accomplished without the use of external levers, knobs or screws. In addition, the internal locking mechanism actually enhances the stability of the support as more weight is added, making it the ideal support product for virtually any camera or photo application.

458B NeoTec Tripod
The 458B is also equipped with a number of new features, including a new split column with built-in low angle adapter enabling users to set up a camera as low as 3.94 inches off the ground. When the center column height impedes the tripod set up, the adapter allows users to switch from normal to low-angle set-ups without having to remove the camera and head each time they change position. The center column can also be used for horizontal settings for unusual angles and macro work.

Crafted from high quality aluminum most commonly found in the aeronautics industry, the 458B can support payloads up to 17.6 pounds, even at a maximum height of 61.4 inches. In addition, the 458B’s "upside down" waterproof leg construction also stops up to 18" of the worst of mud and water from ending up inside the tripod.

684B NeoTec Monopod
Featuring the same NeoTec opening and closing mechanism as the 458B tripod, the 684B monopod is designed for support with unprecedented speed. The 684B can fully extend to 65.6 inches and collapse to 27.9 inches. Like the 458B, the 684B can support payloads up to 17.6 pounds and features the same "upside down" leg construction, further ensuring its durability and reliability in all environments.

SOURCE Manfrotto