Bogen Hydrostatic Ball Head

Has anybody used one of the Bogen hydrostatic ball heads? I can't

find almost any opinions on them. And, I'm not going to be able to

get my hands on one (or any other head in the same league) to help me

make my decision. Anything you can tell me about it - good or bad -

would be very helpful.

 

Specifically, I'm considering the 468MGRC2. I really like the idea of

the hydrostatic tension control. I'm not going to pay more than $300

(so an Arca Swiss with a quick release plate is out). So, If I don't

get the Bogen, I'll probably get Kirk BH-3.

The Bogen does not take an Arca-Swiss clamp, which is the only practical QR system IMO. The hydrostatic clamp seems like a marketing gimmick from a company that has never produced a world-class ball head. Ball heads with a large (~2 inch) ball tighten down perfectly well with a mechanical clamp. More important, they move smoothly for fine adjustments prior to locking down.

 

Besides the Kirk, look at the Acratech Ultimate ($280), Markins or Gitzo G-1377 Center ball ($180).

"I'm not going to pay more than $300 (so an Arca Swiss with a quick release plate is out)."

 

Famous last words:)

I wouldn't touch a ball head with RC2 with a 10 foot pole if I were you. The newer design that is in all currently offered bogen ball heads with RC2 and also the RC2 quick release adapter has a little bit of wiggle in the plate after it is mounted most of the time. RC0, the hex plates don't have this problem, but I would not pay $300 for a bogen ballhead when the kirk BH-3 or acratech are no more expensive.