Gitzo GT1540 vs GT2540

[atan]

Hi all,

 

I would like to get some inputs from you guys to see which one tripod option

is better for my needs. I am thinking to replace my good old manfrotto

3021BPRO with either Gitzo GT2540 or GT1540.

 

I feel that 3021BPRO is getting heavier as age is catching up :) I like to

travel and I am shooting on digital SLR and Medium Format so with that in mind

I compared the two tripod:

 

GT1540 Specs:

Height with column extended: 159.0 cm / 62.6 in

Section: 4

Weigh: 1.1 kg / 2.5 lbs

Minimum height: 29.0 cm / 11.4 in

Folded length: 54.0 cm / 21.3 in

Height w/o column extended: 138.0 cm / 54.3 in

Load Capacity: 8.0 kg / 17.6 lbs

Price at B&H: USD534.95

 

GT2540 Specs:

Height with column extended: 156.0 cm / 61.4 in

Section: 4

Weigh: 1.4 kg / 3.1 lbs

Minimum height: 29.0 cm / 11.4 in

Folded length: 56.0 cm / 22.0 in

Height w/o column extended: 133.0 cm / 52.4 in

Load Capacity:12.0 kg / 26.5 lbs

Price at B&H: USD589.95

 

I like the weight of Gt1540, but feel that it's a little too small if I am

using 200mm leans or the MF, but it actually hold more load than my current

3021BPRO (max 13.3lbs - 6kg). With GT2540, I will need to take a little more

weight (.6lbs--prob not significant) and also pay a little bit more, but seems

like it is a better choice...can you let me know what you think or if you have

experience with either of these tripods? thanks you.

[Ed_Ingold]

The 2540 is the smallest I'd consider in a Gitzo. In fact, the smallest leg section in a 2540 is hardly larger than a pencil, so the 2530 would be actually the the minimum size, IMO. The smallest section in a 1540 is the size of a soda straw. At that point, it becomes a tripod "impersonator".

 

I have the earlier model of the 2530 - the G-1227. It is sturdy and light, yet stiff enough for 200-300mm lenses most of the time.

[atan]

Thanks Edward. I am kindda leaning toward the 2540 because its folded length is shorter than the 2530 and it;s easier to pack in the bag. I may need to add some weight when I am using it to add some stiffness to the legs...so 2540 probaby enough for 200mm lens or Medium Format with standard lens?

[Ed_Ingold]

Adding weight will keep a tripod from blowing over in the wind, but does not reduce vibrations - the mass is coupled too loosely. You should do OK with a 200mm lens. Gitzo CF tripods are about as stiff as the next larger series in aluminum.

 

Learn how to use Moose Peterson's "Long Lens Technique*" (q.v., http://www.moosepeterson.com). It works even if the wind is enough to blow your hat off :-)

 

* Place your left hand on top of the camera or lens, directly over the center of the tripod, and press straight down. I also use this when I don't care to use a cable release.

[atan]

Hi Edward,

Thanks for your input. Also the moose peterson's website is pretty good too. Thanks for sharing that.

[Landrum Kelly]

While you're checking specs, check B&H for the Gitzo GT-2541L. It weighs 3.3 lbs., holds 26.4 pounds, and is 59.4 inches high w/o column extended. That might be more pod than you need, but at 3.3 pounds, it doesn't sound too bad for the trail. In any case, that is my hope, since I ordered one a couple of days ago and am waiting for it any day now. I want to do some mountain photography in western North Carolina this winter, and I want something stiff in the wind that blows up there.

 

--Lannie