Universal Leveling Base – A Game-Changer for Photographers and Cinematographers
As a professional photographer and cinematographer, I’ve had the pleasure of working with various leveling bases to ensure that my equipment is perfectly aligned and stable. The Universal Leveling Base, also known as the TA-2U-SC, has been a game-changer in my workflow, and I’m excited to share my experience with you.
Design and Features
The Universal Leveling Base is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store. Its height has been reduced by 30% compared to the original TA-2, allowing for increased packability and easier use on steeper angles. The base features a triple-lobe lock lever that ensures the position of the thumb pads in relation to the legs remains constant, even when using different legs. This design improvement has significantly reduced the effort required for lockup, making it easier to set up and take shots.
The Universal Leveling Base is also equipped with a removable male mounting stud, allowing it to attach to any tripod platform with a male 3/8”-16 stud, a RRS Quick Column tube, or a Series 2 Versa Tripod SureGrip apex. This flexibility makes it easy to adapt to different shooting setups and environments.
Key Features and Benefits
Here are some of the key features and benefits of the Universal Leveling Base:
- Holds up to 25 lbs: The base can hold a significant amount of weight, making it suitable for heavy-duty use.
- Compatible with any tripod platform: The Universal Leveling Base is compatible with a wide range of tripod platforms, including RRS, Series 2, and Versa Tripod.
- Compatible with any RRS 1.5” standard dovetail or Picatinny rail: The base is compatible with a variety of rail systems, making it easy to adapt to different shooting setups.
- Low friction polymer anti-jam plate: The base features a low-friction polymer anti-jam plate that reduces the risk of jamming and makes it easier to set up.
- Removable safety stop screw: The base has a removable safety stop screw that allows for easy disassembly and reassembly.
Pros and Cons
Here are some of the pros and cons of the Universal Leveling Base:
Pros:
- Improved ergonomics and usability: The triple-lobe lock lever and removable safety stop screw make it easier to set up and take shots.
- Increased packability: The reduced height and increased weight capacity make it easier to transport and store.
- Flexibility: The base is compatible with a wide range of tripod platforms and rail systems, making it easy to adapt to different shooting setups.
- Low friction polymer anti-jam plate: The anti-jam plate reduces the risk of jamming and makes it easier to set up.
Cons:
- Higher cost: The Universal Leveling Base is a premium product, and its higher price point may be a barrier for some users.
- Limited compatibility with older tripod platforms: The base may not be compatible with older tripod platforms, which may limit its use in certain situations.
Conclusion
The Universal Leveling Base is a game-changer for photographers and cinematographers who require a high-quality leveling base for their equipment. Its improved ergonomics, increased packability, and flexibility make it an ideal choice for a wide range of shooting setups and environments. While it may be a premium product, its benefits and features make it well worth the investment.
Recommendation
I highly recommend the Universal Leveling Base to anyone who requires a high-quality leveling base for their equipment. Its improved ergonomics, increased packability, and flexibility make it an ideal choice for a wide range of shooting setups and environments. While it may be a premium product, its benefits and features make it well worth the investment.
