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Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head

  • Price: $298.99
  • B&H # VAAP284CB100
  • Mfr# ALTA PRO 284CB 100

Product Highlights

  • 18.0 lb Maximum Load
  • Multi-Angle Central Column
  • 5.25' Extended Height
  • 21.12" Folded Height
  • 6X Carbon Fiber
  • Ball Head Is 4.13" Tall
  • Separate Pan and Tilt Locking Knobs
  • +90 ~ -35° Tilts
  • Two Large Built-In Bubble Levels
  • Ball Head Weighs Only 15.9 oz

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Vanguard's Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head is made of 6X carbon fiber to provide a lightweight (3.97 lb) and versatile camera support. The tripod has a maximum load capability of 18 lb, extends to 63", and folds down to only 21.12", which makes it very easy to transport. The SBH-100 Ball Head is an impressive, lightweight (15.9 oz) support that will keep equipment up to 22 lb securely and accurately positioned on your tripod, aided by two built-in bubble levels.

The 4-section legs can be independently positioned at 25, 50 and 80° to allow positioning of the tripod at low and unique angles and are quickly secured into position with one-twist leg locks. The center column has a tilting bracket which also helps to achieve unusual camera positioning and is spring-loaded to provide your equipment with protection against shocks and vibrations.

Vanguard's Single Piece Ball Unit Technology incorporates the ball head's ball and stem into one solid unit which provides a core strength that is resistant to degradation from everyday use. The Advanced Magnesium Housing System couples a rugged magnesium exterior with a hollow interior to provide the precision, fluid-like movements of a standard head minus any extraneous weight. This ball head only weighs 15.9 oz . It comes with two QS-39 quick release plates which make it easy and convenient to remove one camera from the ball head and replace it with another.

The Alta Pro 284 CT is a popular choice for those who need a tripod that is flexible, easy to set up, and meets the needs for landscape, wide angle and macro photography applications.

Central column moves from 0 to 180 degrees
Quarter-twist leg locks
Legs adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles
Advanced Magnesium Housing System
An innovative advanced housing system couples a rugged magnesium exterior with a hollow interior, providing all of the precise, fluid-like movement of a standard fluid ball head without extraneous weight.
Bubble Level
SBH ball heads have two large built-in bubble levels. Combine the head's double vertical and horizontal balance/stability control with your tripod's bubble level and you cannot achieve more stable or more precise positioning.
Double Locking System
SBH ball heads have a double locking system, ensuring maximum security for your equipment. Two separate mechanisms are simultaneously triggered to release the quick release plate; you can be confident that your camera and lenses won't fall.
Panoramic Function
The SBH-100 has a dedicated horizontal control knob that enables you to take incredible panoramic shots with smooth, full 360° movement.

Go To

Maximum Height 63" (160.0cm)
Minimum Height 50.4" (127.9cm) without center column extension
Folded Length 21.12" (53.65cm)
Load Capacity 18.0 lb (8.0 kg)
When central column is tilted: 15.4 lb (7 kg)
Leg Sections 4
Diameter Leg diameter: 1.1" (2.8cm)
Leg Lock Type One-twist
Independent Leg Spread Yes
Spirit Level No
Center Column Sections 1
Center Column Type Sliding
Center Brace No
Spiked Feet Yes, retractable
Head Mount Thread Size 1/4"-20
Weight 3.97 lb (1.8 kg)
Head
Load Capacity Up to 22 lb (10 kg)
Quick Release Yes 2 x QS-39 camera plates (included)
Bubble Level 2
Panning Range 360°
Tilts +90 ~ -35°
Separate Panning Lock Yes
Tripod Mount Thread Size 3/8"-16 (1/4"-20 adapter included)
Camera Mount Thread Size 1/4"-20
Height 4.13" (105mm)
Weight 15.9 oz (450 g)
Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head
  • 2 x QS-39 Quick Release Plates
  • 1/4"-20 to 3/8"-16 Screw Adapter
  • Tripod Bag
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

    by PowerReviews
    VanguardAlta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head
     
    4.5

    (based on 10 reviews)

    Ratings Distribution

    • 5 Stars

       

      (5)

    • 4 Stars

       

      (5)

    • 3 Stars

       

      (0)

    • 2 Stars

       

      (0)

    • 1 Stars

       

      (0)

    100%

    of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

    Pros

    • Stable (9)
    • Lightweight (5)
    • Large range of motion (3)

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Landscape/scenery (7)
      • Night shots (7)
      • Portraits (7)
      • Home (5)
      • Travel (5)
        • Reviewer Profile:
        • Photo enthusiast (5), Semi-pro photographer (3)
        • Was this a gift?:
        • No (9)

      Reviewed by 10 customers

      Sort by

      Displaying reviews 1-10

      Back to top

       
      5.0

      Great tripod, great value

      By Maceo

      from Montclair, NJ

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Folds Small
      • Good Stability
      • Lightweight
      • Unfolds Quickly

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Home
        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Night Shots
        • Portraits

        Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

        I carry this tripod everywhere. It's sturdy and quick to set up and break down.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

         
        4.0

        Very steady and tall

        By Peter

        from Union City, CA

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Good Stability

        Cons

        • Heavy

        Best Uses

          Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

          This tripod stands really stable and it can be extend to a very tall hight. It allows you to do lots of different angles too. But one of the down side is that this tripod is a bit heavy when you need to do some long hour travel with you carrying around.

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          AFFORDABLE QUALITY!

          By MaxMP1

          from BEAVERTON, OR

          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Good Stability
          • Lightweight

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Portraits
            • Travel

            Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

            LIGHTWEIGHT, STURDY EXCLLENT FOR BACKPACKING AND ON THE GO

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            Strong and light

            By Kal

            from Bronx, NY

            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Good Stability
            • Lightweight

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Home
              • Landscape/Scenery
              • Night Shots
              • Portraits
              • Video

              Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

              Have had this tripod for 2 weeks and I love it! Love the height and multiple angles it can be set to. Extends to about 6'3" with center column extended and ball head attached. Very sturdy. I have tried putting most of my body weight(175lbs)on it and it doesn't budge. Get the stone bag if you plan to have the center column at 90 degrees for extra stability.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              4.0

              A sturdy tripod

              By John C

              from Northern NJ

              About Me Photo Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Good Stability
              • Reasonable Weight Vs Size

              Cons

              • Setting Sbh Bh Precisely

              Best Uses

              • Night Shots
              • Portraits
              • Travel

              Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

              This AP 284 CT tripod was purchased as an upgrade to replace a Vanguard Alta 203 AP. The 203 was purchased to use with a Canon Rebel. Although it is portable and light, the 203 is not sufficient to use with a larger Canon body.
              The AP 284 is sturdy. It holds the larger Canon camera body and macro lens steady even when the center column is elevated. The tripod's weight is reasonable given the size of the tripod. Given the fact that this combo unit includes an SBH 100 Ball Head, it is a very good value.
              A not too obvious disadvantage: While the Ball Head is useful for general photography, it is less than ideal for macro-photography where it is a challenge to position it for level vs composition. To overcome this aspect, I have removed the Ball Head and replaced it with a Vanguard pistol grip. I will see if that is more suitable.
              Vanguard system disadvantage - The Alta pistol grip uses a different size quick detach plate than the plates used by the SBH 100 Ball Head, the 203 AP tripod and a Vanguard monopod.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

               
              4.0

              nice tripod a bit heavy

              By Thor

              from Los Angeles,CA

              About Me Photo Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Good Stability

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Landscape/Scenery
                • Night Shots

                Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

                very beautiful carbon fiber tripod. solid build, a bit heavy for carrying around(when compared to Manfrotto 190cx)

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                5.0

                This is a great tripod!!

                By Roy A.

                from Severn, MD

                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Folds Small
                • Good Stability
                • Lightweight
                • Unfolds Quickly

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Home
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Night Shots
                  • Portraits
                  • Weddings/Events
                  • Wildlife

                  Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

                  Did a lot of reading of reviews, etc. This baby has everything! Lightweight, three level bubbles, fast set up, holds 18 lbs, low to the ground shooting and a case! Best part is that B & H had the best price from anyone!! Highly recommend!!

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber

                  By Rich

                  from Philadelphia PA

                  About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Attaches Firmly
                  • Good Stability
                  • Large Range of Motion
                  • Strong Clamp

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Home
                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Night Shots
                    • Portraits
                    • Sports/Action
                    • Travel
                    • Video
                    • Weddings/Events
                    • Wildlife

                    Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

                    Great for difficult angle shots

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                     
                    4.0

                    Tough and secure

                    By Piolin

                    from Guatemala

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Good Stability
                    • Large Range of Motion

                    Cons

                    • Heavy

                    Best Uses

                    • Home
                    • Landscape/Scenery
                    • Night Shots
                    • Portraits
                    • Sports/Action
                    • Travel
                    • Video
                    • Weddings/Events
                    • Wildlife

                    Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

                    Happy with tripod but not convinced with quick release plate. The screw is not ease to tight to the camera. You need a tool to do it. Others have attached a half ring that makes it handy.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                    (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

                     
                    4.0

                    Works great, if a little pricey

                    By Studio in the South

                    from Suwanee, GA

                    About Me Pro Photographer

                    Pros

                    • Large Range of Motion
                    • Lightweight

                    Cons

                    • Can be unstable at times

                    Best Uses

                    • Travel
                    • Weddings/Events

                    Comments about Vanguard Alta Pro 284 CT Carbon Fiber Tripod With SBH-100 Ball Head:

                    I work at a photography studio and we have been using the AltaPro 284 CT tripod for about 2 months now. Overall, it's been working like a dream. The height is variable through the middle column and it can be moved into a number of different positions and it is SO LIGHT! I highly recommend it.

                    The only con is that when fully extended, the weight of the camera causes the tripod to fall over. It's easily remedied by putting your foot at the base and keeping it balanced. Again, this only happens if the 'crane' is tilted parallel to the ground. This is because the tripod is so light.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                    Displaying reviews 1-10

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