Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

I got this product because I needed to film the same scene with both my nice camcorder and with a specialty video camera (i.e. a cellphone, an ancient miniDV camcorder). Both cameras mount extremely easily and solidly onto the product. I do not worry at all about one of them falling off. Also, it is very easy to adjust both cameras on the bar such that they record nearly identical images. I give it four stars, though, because it occasionally slips on the tripod head and spins to one side or the other. I believe, however, that this is a function of the screw on my tripod head and is not purely the fault of the product. And, given how much less this costs than a Manfrotto equivalent, I really have no complaints.

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

I have my own studio and I use the utility bar to mount 2 video cameras (for different zoom levels)and two microphones (stereo) onto one tripod.
Each connection point has a nice thumbwheel to tighten the 3/8" fittings together. Once assembled it makes a nice compact unit that keeps everything in position without needing multiple tripods.
I really have nothing bad to say about this device. Great tool!

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

Comes with everything needed to set up and shoot. I use this with my 100 -400 canon lense and a small canon Video Camera. Panning with surfers through my 20D and video tape at the same time. It took a while to get the hang of it. just remember to always stop video recording in between sets.Smooth enough to get the job done. video looks great and photos are in focus.

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

It's half the price of the Manfrotto 131DDB. It looks the part. It's even got two adapters on the inside mounts so you can mount gear with either 3/8" or 1/4" tripod threads upon it.

BUT...there is a huge, gaping open wound of a problem with this unit. The mounting clamps do not hold to the bar tightly. This applies to ALL the clamps, even the center tripod mount. Consequentially, any gear that you attach that isn't light as a feather or needs to be handled will cause the bar to rotate within the mount(s). My mounted camera (Canon 5DMK II on a 70-200mm lens mounted to a Manfrotto 501HDV head) flopped around like a fish when I attached it and tried to pan or tilt with it. This device, as attractively priced as it is, is less than useless to me. I returned this, bit the bullet, and bought the Manfrotto unit instead. I'd recommend others do the same.

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

This mount looks and feels sturdy and well made. The problem is that the bar is slightly undersized (or the clamps are slightly oversized), such that no matter how much force you apply, the clamps cannot be adequately tightened and if you have anything attached to them, it will spin as soon as it is touched. I tried to attach my Manfrotto 501 head and that was an exercise in futility - even the bare head was too much weight for the clamp to hold in one place securely.

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

Exactly what I was looking for, to mount an Atomos Ninja 2 together with my camcorder. Good construction. Good to have adaptors for both screw sizes (which the more expensive Manfrotto alternative didn't have). And a nice bag for carrying it around. Good value.

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

I shoot many video interviews where I don't have a lot of time to set up. I use the Vanguard Multi Mount to mount 2 cameras on my tripod. I also mount a Zoom H4n on the side. This way I can still do a multi-cam shot and set up very quickly.

The Multi-Mount bar is sturdy but not heavy, it ads no significant weight to an already heavy tripod.

The price is very reasonable, and B&H will ship it for free (standard shipping).
You can't beat that.

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

I don't have space for a copy stand anymore so I bought this to extend the usefulness of my old Gitzo Reporter. I can hang my camera over any flat surface to set up my product photos.
I'm impressed with the good design and workmanship of this reasonably-priced item. If I ever needed another tripod I'd check out Vanguard.
I docked the bar one star because the studs at the end of the bar are 3/8" thread. This precludes the use of cameras withe a 1/4" socket.
They could have easily used a 1/4" stud with a 3/8" adapter.

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

Vanguard makes very affordable equipment and durable as well. I bought this bar so I can setup all my audio/video/photo gear on one tripod. I have to lug all this stuff into some very remote locations in Peru. I was shocked at the weight of this thing as well as the length. The one notable downfall is the (2) ends are 3/8" whereas all other mountings on the bar conform to 1/4"-20 (standard tripod/photo threading). If you want to keep with the 1/4"-20, B&H sells adapters to do the conversion for ~$4 ea. Very stable once mounted on the tripod and I can stay concelled in the blind and trigger all my gear remotely all from 1 tripod.

Comments about Vanguard Multi-Mount 6 Tripod Utility Bar:

I ordered this for a carpet shooting job i do every year. The shoot involves shooting straight down from a platform to photograph entire area carpets. This arm feels very secure and has all the adjustments needed. The extra camera mounts are a bonus.